The Best Places to Stop When Driving From Arlington, Virginia to Orlando, Florida
Are you planning a road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Orlando, Florida? The journey is about 850 miles long, so you have plenty of time to explore some amazing places along the way. From charming small towns to stunning natural sights, there's no shortage of things to see and do. In this blog post, we'll highlight some of the best places to stop and visit on your drive to Orlando.
Visit historic towns
One of the best things about a road trip is the ability to stop and explore small towns you might have otherwise missed. Here are a few historic towns to check out along your journey.
1. Fredericksburg, Virginia
As you head south on Interstate 95, Fredericksburg makes a great first stop. Located about 50 miles south of Arlington, this charming town has a rich history dating back to colonial times. Wander through the historic downtown and check out the Mary Washington House, the childhood home of George Washington's mother. If you're a Civil War buff, don't miss visiting the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.
2. Savanna, Georgia
Savannah is one of the most charming cities in the south, filled with beautiful streets and squares lined with live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss. The historic downtown district is where you'll find some of the city's most popular attractions, including the Mercer Williams House and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. For a unique experience, consider taking a ghost tour of the city after dark.
Take in the natural beauty
Driving through Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida means you'll have plenty of opportunities to see some stunning natural sights along the way. Here are a few highlights that are worth stopping for.
3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
If you love the outdoors, don't miss the opportunity to drive through Shenandoah National Park. The scenic Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles through the park, offers breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley. If you have time, park your car and take a hike on one of the many trails throughout the park.
4. Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains are a must-visit on any road trip through the south. You'll find stunning views of rolling hills, waterfalls, and forests. Be sure to take the Blue Ridge Parkway for a leisurely drive through the mountains. If you're in the area in the fall, you'll be treated to beautiful fall foliage.
5. St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, Florida
Located in St. Augustine, the Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a highlight for nature lovers. The park is home to over 90 species of animals, including hundreds of alligators and crocodiles. You can get up close and personal with some of the animals in the park's exhibits. Don't miss the boardwalk through the park's bird rookery, where you can see a variety of birds nesting in the trees.
Unwind and Relax
After a long day of driving, sometimes all you want to do is relax and unwind. Here are a few places to do just that.
6. Jacksonville Beach, Florida
Located just outside of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach is a laid-back beach town that's perfect for relaxing. With a wide sandy beach and plenty of restaurants and bars, this is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. Be sure to catch the sunset over the water.
7. Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
No trip to Orlando would be complete without a visit to Walt Disney World Resort. Plan to spend at least a couple of days exploring the various parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom. If you're looking to unwind, consider a round of golf at one of Disney's many courses or some relaxation time at one of the resort's spas.
Conclusion
From historic towns and natural wonders to relaxing beach towns and world-famous theme parks, the drive from Arlington, Virginia to Orlando, Florida is filled with amazing sights and experiences. We hope this list has given you some inspiration for places to stop and visit along the way. Happy driving!