Buckle up, roll down your windows, and prepare your camera because it is time for a road trip! Autumn is here, and the foliage of the state makes for a breathtaking sight. In North Carolina, there is no better way to spend your weekend than a road trip for a closer look at the fall weather.
Just like our vehicles, we need the energy to get going. Start your day with a cup of joe at Sola Coffee Café. Located in Raleigh, Sola Coffee Café offers coffee and espresso to wake you up as early as 6:30 a.m. If a passenger or two is not a coffee fan, Sola Coffee Café also serves teas, juices, and smoothies. For breakfast, grab an egg sandwich, doughnuts, omelets, or a baked good from the bakery.
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Open at 8 a.m., stop by the Historic Yates Mill County Park that serves as a wildlife park. Also, this historic site served as a water-powered gristmill in the 18th century. A hidden gem to Raleigh, travel the hiking trails to stretch your legs before the car ride or tour the mill for a small admission fee.
To fill your belly after the journey to Asheboro, stop in CJ’s Olde Towne Restaurant for a bite. The relaxed atmosphere, the quick service, and the delicious options are what makes CJ’s the lunch spot of Asheboro. The casual atmosphere makes for a relaxed dining experience after being on the road, and the staff members are quick to serve your food so you can get back on the road sooner than later. The food portions are large, ensuring you recharge and ready to make it to the next leg of your road trip.
To stretch your legs and enjoy a peaceful, scenic walk, Twin Trestle, also known as First Broad River Trail, is a great stop to take a break. The trail is an easy three-mile trail that is well maintained and includes a waterfall, suspension bridge, and trestle.
Stepp’s Hill Crest Orchard is a pick your own apple orchard in Hendersonville. To celebrate the arrival of fall, take the time to pick from a great variety of apples. Before hitting the road again, explore the corn maze, apple cannon or travel the beautiful nature trail of the orchard.
Head a few minutes down the road to get into the Halloween spirit and catch a little fright! The Haunted Farm, one of “North Carolina’s Best Haunted Attractions,” dedicates over 3,200 square-feet of housing in the attempt to scare guests. Enter the Haunted Farmhouse and enjoy a night of scares and heart jumping moments.
The premier bar of Asheville, unwind and have a drink after a day of travel and activities. Thirsty Monk has many beer options on tap that aim to please every beer enthusiast. The casual environment of the pub makes it easy to chill, have a beer or two and even has a food menu if you are feeling a little hungry.
Rest in a warm, cozy bed after the first day of road tripping is complete at the Beaufort House Inn. Located near the Thirsty Monk, this small inn offers guests with free wireless Internet and a hot tub. The owners of the Beaufort House Inn are both welcoming and friendly. The rooms in the inn are beautifully decorated to give guests a homey feel. If you are not quite ready to settle down for the evening, explore the historic grounds of the Inn.
After you are well-rested, stop by the Sunny Point Café for breakfast before getting back on the road. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and this café of Asheville has plenty of breakfast options to fulfill any craving. Embrace the comfort of the southern style foods including biscuits and gravy, and hot buttermilk French toast.
The best part of fall is the beautiful North Carolina foliage. Blue Ridge Parkway’s foliage brings people from all over to view and capture the beauty. “Experience America’s favorite drive” through varying elevation levels and if you are just in time, view the fall colors of Blue Ridge Parkway. The last leg of your road trip journey, it will not disappoint. Rather walk and take in the view on foot? There’s a variety of trails throughout Blue Ridge with different lengths and levels of difficulty so everyone can enjoy.
