Points of Interest between Appleton, Wisconsin to Norfolk, Virginia

picture of Appleton, Wisconsin

Top Places to See When Driving from Appleton, Wisconsin to Norfolk, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Wisconsin to Virginia? Whether you are on vacation or a business trip, this drive is an excellent opportunity to see some fantastic sights. The 1059 mile journey will take you through 6 states, offering a wide variety of landmarks, scenic beauty, and small-town hospitality. From charming historic districts to awe-inspiring national parks, there are plenty of places to stop and explore. In this blog post, we have created a list of the top places to see when driving from Appleton, Wisconsin to Norfolk, Virginia.

Exploring the Midwest

The first part of your journey will take you through the Midwest, a region known for its vast stretches of farmland and friendly folks. This rural region presents an opportunity to slow down a bit and enjoy the simpler things in life.

  1. Chicago, Illinois: As you drive through the state of Illinois, make sure to stop in the Windy City. Chicago offers a wide variety of attractions, including the Magnificent Mile, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Navy Pier. You can't leave without trying their famous deep-dish pizza at Giordano's.

  2. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana: Just a short drive from Chicago are the Indiana Dunes, a collection of pristine beaches, towering sand dunes, and a diverse ecosystem. Relax on the beach, go hiking along miles of trails, or rent a bicycle to explore the area.

  3. Museums in Columbus, Ohio: Columbus is home to several museums worth checking out, including the Columbus Museum of Art, the Ohio History Connection, and the Center of Science and Industry. If you are traveling with kids, they will love the interactive exhibits at COSI.

Beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains

The second part of your journey will take you through the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. This region is famous for its scenic beauty, changing foliage, and charming small towns.

  1. The Blue Ridge Parkway: This is a 469-mile drive that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Make sure to stop at overlooks, go for a hike, or pack a picnic to enjoy the serene beauty of the area.

  2. Asheville, North Carolina: Asheville is a must-visit town with an artsy vibe, historic architecture and stunning natural beauty. Take a stroll downtown, which is home to a plethora of trendy bars, art galleries, and unique shops. We recommend visiting the famous Biltmore Estate, a French-inspired chateau built in the early 1900s by the Vanderbilt family.

  3. Chincoteague Island, Virginia: If you want to spend some time in nature, we recommend a visit to Chincoteague Island on the coast of Virginia. The island is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and boating, and it's home to several nature reserves and parks.

Virginia's Coastal Charm

The last leg of your road trip takes you through the beautiful state of Virginia. This region features historical landmarks, charming coastal towns, and delicious seafood.

  1. Norfolk Botanical Garden, Norfolk, Virginia: If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature, we recommend a stop at the Norfolk Botanical Garden. The garden features a wide variety of plants from around the world, as well as a butterfly house, a Japanese garden, and several walking paths.

  2. Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Virginia Beach, Virginia: The Virginia Beach boardwalk is a classic coastal attraction, boasting miles of shoreline, bike paths, and amusement parks. Make sure to stop at one of the many seafood restaurants, grab a cold drink, and enjoy the salty breeze.

  3. Historic Jamestown, Virginia: Jamestown is the site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Visitors can tour the living history museum, watch demonstrations, and learn about the challenges faced by early settlers.

Conclusion

The drive from Wisconsin to Virginia is an excellent opportunity to explore some of the Midwest's rural charm and to appreciate the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In Virginia, you can indulge in fresh seafood, historic landmarks, and picturesque coastal towns. We hope this list of top places to see will inspire you to plan your adventure and to explore the many wonders this region has to offer. Happy travels!