Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bristol, TN and Sanford, NC

Have you ever embarked on a long drive and wanted to break up the monotony with a few interesting stops? Well, if you are driving from Bristol, Tennessee to Sanford, North Carolina, there are several unexpected and exciting places you can stop along the way. This journey is around 330 miles, taking approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, but with these pit stops, your journey will be even more enjoyable.

Halfway Point: Mount Airy, NC

Before diving into the five unexpected places to stop, let’s discuss the midpoint of your journey, Mount Airy. This charming town is famously referred to as the real Mayberry, as it served as the inspiration for The Andy Griffith Show. Explore the town’s main attraction, the Andy Griffith Museum, which houses a vast collection of the show’s artifacts. You can also visit the Andy Griffith Playhouse, catch a show at the Earle Theatre, or take a walk down Main Street and stop by the Snappy Lunch, where Andy would grab a bite to eat.

1. Greensboro, NC

The first stop on our list is Greensboro, home to the International Civil Rights Centre and Museum. This museum, which is located in the former Woolworth building, shares the story of the Greensboro Four’s sit-in protest and the subsequent Civil Rights movement. The museum also offers an interactive experience, including a chance to sit at the original lunch counter where the Greensboro Four sat. Afterward, grab a late lunch and head over to Smith Street Diner for their famous pimento cheeseburger.

2. Saxapahaw, NC

Located in Alamance County, you will find the town of Saxapahaw. This small town is home to the Haw River Ballroom, a former cotton mill-turned-music venue that has hosted artists such as Andrew Bird and The Avett Brothers. After the concert, take a stroll across the street to the Saxapahaw General Store, which offers a variety of artisanal products from local farmers and crafters. Make sure to try their homemade granola for a tasty snack.

3. Lane Motor Museum, Nashville, TN

If you are a car enthusiast, our next stop should excite you. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, the Lane Motor Museum features over 500 cars and motorcycles from around the world. Their collection consists of rare prototypes, military vehicles, and even micro-cars. One of the museum’s most notable cars is the Helicron, a car powered by a helicopter engine. After your visit, make sure to grab some hot chicken from Hattie B’s before hitting the road.

4. Asheville, NC

Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its stunning views, delicious food, and unique culture. For an unexpected experience, make your way to the Asheville Pinball Museum, a museum filled with vintage pinball machines and classic arcade games. After working up an appetite, head over to 12 Bones Smokehouse for some delicious barbeque. Make sure to try their famous blueberry-chipotle ribs.

5. Durham, NC

The final destination on our list is Durham, North Carolina. Home to the American Tobacco Campus, this revitalized district offers several dining options, entertainment options, and even a baseball stadium for the Durham Bulls team. In the heart of the American Tobacco Campus is the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, a must-visit for baseball fans. After the game, head over to Dame’s Chicken and Waffles for their signature dish, chicken and waffles with a side of mac and cheese.

Conclusion

Driving from Bristol, Tennessee to Sanford, North Carolina can be a long ride, but with these five unexpected stops, your road trip will be even more enjoyable. Take a visit to Mount Airy, the halfway point of your journey, and visit the Andy Griffith Museum. Stop by Greensboro and the International Civil Rights Centre and Museum, or visit Saxapahaw and the Haw River Ballroom. Take a drive to Nashville, TN and visit the Lane Motor Museum, or make your way to Asheville for the Asheville Pinball Museum. Finish your journey in Durham with a visit to the American Tobacco Campus, the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, and Dame’s Chicken and Waffles. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, so enjoy the ride with these unexpected stops.