Top Places to See When Driving From Athens, Ohio to Blacksburg, Virginia
Are you planning to take a road trip from Athens, Ohio to Blacksburg, Virginia? If so, there are plenty of amazing sights to see on the way that you won't want to miss. From natural beauty to historic landmarks, there's something for everyone along this drive.
In this blog post, we have curated a list of the top places to see when driving from Athens, Ohio to Blacksburg, Virginia. So, buckle up and let's hit the road!
Natural Beauty
New River Gorge, West Virginia
The New River Gorge is a beautiful natural area located in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia. It's characterized by its deep canyons, towering cliffs, and rushing whitewater rapids. The New River Gorge Bridge, which spans the canyon, is one of the most photographed landmarks in the state. You can explore the gorge and its surroundings by hiking, biking, rock climbing, or even whitewater rafting.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The park offers over 500 miles of hiking trails, with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Skyline Drive, a scenic road that runs the length of the park, offers even more opportunities to take in the stunning mountain scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot black bears, white-tailed deer, or even peregrine falcons.
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a natural wonderland with stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and deep gorges. With several hiking trails of varying difficulty, you can explore the park's many features, including Ash Cave, Old Man's Cave, and Cedar Falls. Don't miss the chance to take a zip line canopy tour for a bird's eye view of the park.
Historic Landmarks
Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
Founded in 1804, Ohio University is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Its beautiful campus, nestled in the hills of Athens, Ohio, is home to historic buildings such as Cutler Hall, built in 1816, and Manasseh Cutler Hall, built in 1921. You can take a self-guided tour of the campus to learn about the university's rich history and architecture.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, West Virginia
Learn about the history of coal mining in West Virginia by visiting the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. This tourist attraction includes a guided tour of an actual former mine, with exhibits and artifacts from the industry's past. You can even ride a restored vintage coal train and see hands-on demonstrations of traditional mining techniques.
Monticello, Virginia
Monticello is the former home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. The house, designed by Jefferson himself, is an outstanding example of neoclassical architecture. Guided tours of the house and grounds are available, where you can learn about Jefferson's life and legacy. Don't forget to take in the stunning views of the Virginia countryside from the hilltop location.
Culinary Delights
Tudor's Biscuit World, West Virginia
If you're in the mood for some down-home Southern cooking, stop by Tudor's Biscuit World. This local chain serves up delicious breakfast sandwiches made with fluffy biscuits, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese. Try the popular "West Virginia-style" sandwich, which features a fried egg, country ham, and sausage gravy.
Pies & Pints, West Virginia
Located in Fayetteville, West Virginia, Pies & Pints is a beloved pizza joint with a twist. They specialize in gourmet pizzas with unexpected toppings, such as grape tomatoes, gorgonzola cheese, and arugula. Don't miss the Mambo Italiano pizza, which features marinara sauce, pepperoni, sausage, and meatballs.
In Conclusion
This was our list of the top places to see when driving from Athens, Ohio to Blacksburg, Virginia. From natural wonders to historic landmarks and culinary delights, this road trip has something for everyone. Make sure to include these stops in your itinerary and take home memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!