Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Buffalo, New York and Southern Shores, North Carolina
Traveling from Buffalo, New York, to Southern Shores, North Carolina is like embarking on a journey of a lifetime. With over 700 miles of road to cover, one can discover a plethora of scenic views, places to explore, and mesmerizing sights to behold. This road trip is not only a feast for the senses but also a worthwhile travel experience that presents travelers with a diverse range of adventures, including cultural, historic, and natural wonders. The halfway point of this road trip is Frederick, MD, which is situated at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and is a great place to rest and explore before continuing the journey south.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Explore Letchworth State Park, New York
Letchworth State Park, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East, is an excellent place to start the road trip. It is home to magnificent gorges and waterfalls that cascade over 550 feet down to the Genesee River below. Apart from sightseeing, visitors can also indulge in activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and even hot air balloon rides. The park spans over 14,000 acres with over 66 miles of hiking trails, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Interesting fact:
Letchworth State Park is the largest state park in New York, covering an area of over 17 square miles.
2. Visit Washington D.C., District of Columbia
Washington D.C. needs no introduction when it comes to U.S. historic landmarks and monuments. The nation's capital is filled with many attractions, such as the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, White House, and Smithsonian Museums. Visitors can learn about American history and politics while exploring one of the most iconic cities in the world. Besides sightseeing, the city offers several dining and entertainment options, such as experiencing jazz music at the famous Blues Alley.
Interesting fact:
Washington D.C. was founded on July 16, 1790, as the capital of the United States.
3. Stop at the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia
Located in the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of the natural beauty of the eastern US. The rolling mountains are an inviting paradise for hikers and bikers, while the scenic drives along Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway offer stunning views of the valley below. Stop to stroll the streets of Roanoke, and indulge in their craft breweries and farm-to-table food.
Interesting fact:
The Blue Ridge Mountains are some of the oldest mountains in existence, dating back to over 1 billion years ago.
4. Visit Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is a city filled with thriving art and culture and an excellent reputation for sweet treats due to boutique chocolate shops and bakeries. Asheville is a hub for craft breweries such as the famous Sierra Nevada Brewery, one of the most environmentally sustainable breweries in the country. Visitors can explore the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned home in the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Interesting fact:
Asheville is known as the "Paris of the South" due to the unique architecture and street life.
5. Relax on the Beaches of Outer Banks, North Carolina
Outer Banks, North Carolina, is a must-visit destination once on the Southern shores. It is famous for its many miles of unspoiled beaches, rugged dunes, and a never-ending list of water activities. There are several lighthouses to visit, but the most popular is Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, which is the tallest one on the eastern coast. Visitors can also take a boat tour to see some of the local dolphin pods, go fishing, or even go horseback riding on the beach.
Interesting fact:
The Wright Brothers, known as the inventors of the airplane, made their first powered flight in December 1903 at Kill Devil Hills Beach in the Outer Banks.
Conclusion
Overall, the road trip from Buffalo, New York, to Southern Shores, North Carolina, is an exhilarating adventure filled with diverse landscapes, several landmarks, and endless opportunities for exploration. The journey takes approximately 13 hours with almost 15 hours of driving time, so travelers should plan for overnight stops to take in all the sights. Whether traveling alone, with friends, or family, this road trip is guaranteed to leave any explorer breathless and fascinated.