Campus life is inherently immersive, and sometimes it can be easy to forget that we live in a “college bubble.” Try grabbing a few friends and planning a weekend road trip every now and then – it can be a great way to catch a refreshing break from school. It might feel like a weekend away is unrealistic for a full-time student, but it’s more doable than you might think. And road trips are a great way to bond with friends, make new memories, and see a new place. Check out these destination ideas for your next weekend getaway:
Asheville, NC
At just over five hours, Asheville is a bit of a longer trip. But this funky city makes up for it in amazing views, cool local businesses, and a bustling art scene. From rooftop bars to mountain music, Asheville has something for everyone (perfect when travelling with a group of friends). Set in the western tip of North Carolina, Asheville is a place that you might not have an easy opportunity to visit in the future, so don’t miss out now. Grab your flannels, make an extra-long playlist, and hit the road!
Richmond, VA
At just an hour away, Richmond could easily be made into either a weekend endeavor or a day trip. When the weather’s nice, grab a floatie and a cooler and hit the James River, or explore one of their popular bike trails. If you’re more of an indoor person, try a brewery, art gallery, or museum. The Carytown district also has great shopping, cafes, and restaurants. Time spent in Virginia just isn’t complete without a trip to our state’s capital!
Bristol, VA/TN
A unique town, Bristol sits directly on the Virginia/Tennessee border. It’s known as the birthplace of country music, and the town makes sure to celebrate the title. There’s a country music museum downtown, and the city also hosts a “Rhythm and Roots Reunion” festival every September. If you’re not into country music, the city also boasts the “Bristol Motor Speedway,” where you can catch professional races. Bristol also has other standout features, such as a drive-in movie theater. Less than a four hour drive from Charlottesville, this is a super doable and worthwhile weekend trip.
Washington, DC
A must-visit for all non-NOVA students! The nation’s capital has a ton of free museums, historical sites, and outdoor spaces. DC features an array of beautiful architecture, and also has a height restriction on its buildings (so there are no skyscrapers). Add in the fact that it’s a particularly clean city, and it’s easy to see why so many people love this low-key urban environment. Airbnb offers a lot of affordable options in DC, so finding a cool place to stay downtown is reasonable. Or, ask one of your NOVA friends to stay at their place. Make sure to take advantage of the opportunity of living just two hours from the capital!