The Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Brick Township, New Jersey and Knoxville, Tennessee
Are you planning a road trip from New Jersey to Tennessee? Make your journey even better by stopping at some of the best places along the way. From small towns to historical landmarks, here are the top five best places to visit on a trip between Brick Township, New Jersey, and Knoxville, Tennessee.
The Route and Halfway Point: Staunton, VA
First, let's talk about the route. The most direct way to get from Brick Township, NJ, to Knoxville, TN, is via I-95 S and I-85 S. This trip is about 717 miles and will take about 11 hours and 30 minutes, without stops. However, we don't recommend driving straight through. Instead, make your way to Staunton, VA, which is the halfway point of your journey. Staunton is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of things to do. Here are some of the best places to visit in and around Staunton.
Stop 1: The American Shakespeare Center
A Unique Theater Experience
The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) Blackfriars Playhouse is a unique theater experience located in the heart of downtown Staunton. The theater is modeled after Shakespeare's original indoor theater, the Blackfriars, and uses natural lighting and minimal staging to transport the audience to Shakespeare's time. The ASC offers performances of Shakespeare's plays as well as modern works throughout the year. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the venue also offers tours of the theater and backstage areas.
Stop 2: Frontier Culture Museum
A Journey Through Time
The Frontier Culture Museum is a living history museum located just outside of Staunton. The museum tells the story of the early settlers of the Shenandoah Valley, from the Native Americans to the 19th-century immigrants. The museum has several exhibits and displays featuring authentic buildings and artifacts from different cultures, including an English farm, a German farm, an Irish farm, an American farm, an African village, and a Native American village. The museum also offers tours and activities for all ages.
Stop 3: Natural Bridge State Park
A Natural Wonder
Natural Bridge State Park is located about 20 miles south of Staunton, and it boasts a natural wonder that will take your breath away. The natural bridge is a 215-foot limestone arch that was formed over millions of years by the forces of nature. The park offers several trails that lead to stunning views of the bridge and the surrounding area. The park also has a visitor center that offers information about the bridge and the history of the area.
Stop 4: Asheville, NC
An Artistic Haven
Asheville, NC, is located about 200 miles from Knoxville, TN, and is known for its historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking scenery. Asheville is home to the Biltmore Estate, a magnificent mansion built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, and it offers tours of the estate and gardens. Asheville also has several art galleries and museums, including the Asheville Art Museum and the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center. The city is also surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, which offer plenty of hiking and outdoor activities.
Stop 5: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A Natural Oasis
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Located about 30 miles from Knoxville, TN, the park is home to more than 500,000 acres of wilderness, including forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. The park has several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes, that offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys. The park is also home to several historic structures, including grist mills and cabins, that showcase the area's rich history.
Conclusion
There you have it, the top five best places to visit on a road trip from Brick Township, New Jersey, to Knoxville, Tennessee. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a nature lover, these stops have something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey.