Road Trip from Cary, NC to Goldsboro, NC

North Carolina is a state with beautiful scenery, historic sites, and charming towns. A great way to see all of these things is by embarking on a road trip. The drive from Cary to Goldsboro is a scenic one with plenty of must-see attractions along the way. One of the highlights of this drive is Smithfield, NC, which is the perfect halfway point for a quick break.

Top 5 Things to Do on this Road Trip

1. Visit the Ava Gardner Museum

The Ava Gardner Museum is a must-see for anyone who loves classic Hollywood. The museum celebrates the life and career of Ava Gardner, one of the most glamorous actresses of the 20th century. Visitors can see costumes, personal belongings, and film memorabilia. The museum is located in Smithfield, NC, making it the perfect stop for a half-day excursion.

Interesting fact: Ava Gardner was born in Smithfield, and the museum is housed in the building that once served as her high school.

2. Explore Historic Downtown New Bern

New Bern is an enchanting town that was founded in 1710 and is best known for its historic downtown area. Take a stroll down the charming brick sidewalks and check out the shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the Tryon Palace, which was built in the 18th century and was once the residence of the governor of North Carolina.

Interesting fact: New Bern was the first capital of North Carolina.

3. Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum

The North Carolina Maritime Museum is located in Beaufort and is a fascinating attraction for anyone interested in the sea. The museum has exhibits that focus on the coastal life and history of North Carolina, as well as ongoing conservation efforts. Visitors can see everything from a replica of Blackbeard's ship to underwater archaeology displays.

Interesting fact: The museum's collection includes a legendary Civil War submarine called the H.L. Hunley.

4. See the Battleship North Carolina

The Battleship North Carolina is an iconic attraction in Wilmington, NC. The ship was once part of the US Navy and was famously involved in the Pacific War during World War II. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the ship and explore everything from the engine room to the galley.

Interesting fact: The Battleship North Carolina was the first to be hit by an enemy torpedo in WWII.

5. Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is one of the most iconic attractions in North Carolina. Located in Kill Devil Hills, visitors can learn about the history of aviation and the Wright brothers' historic flights. The site also has a museum, several structures, and amazing ocean views.

Interesting fact: The oldest known photograph of the Wright brothers' first flight is on display in the museum.

Conclusion

This road trip from Cary, NC, to Goldsboro, NC, is a perfect route for anyone who loves history, beaches, and charming towns. The trip takes about two hours without stops, but with so many attractions along the way, it's recommended to take a few days to see everything. From visiting the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield to exploring historic downtown New Bern, there's something for everyone on this drive.