Coastal Highway Route 17

Getting to this quaint Shenandoah Valley town, the northern terminus of Highway 17, is an easy 67-kilometer drive from Washington Dulles International Airport. Winchester’s biggest event, the Apple Blossom Festival in late April and early May, is a celebration of the star crop and features concerts and a parade. If you’re not in town then, there’s still plenty to do. Stroll the brick and cobblestone pedestrian downtown mall of Old Town Winchester. Known as the artistic hub of the region, a town highlight is the First Fridays Art Walk. While downtown, browse craft and antique stores and relax over a meal at a local restaurant. Your last stop should be the impressive Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, where you can learn about the history of this beautiful region. On your way to the next destination, stop at Sky Meadows State Park in Paris, Virginia, and step onto the famous Appalachian Trail in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Continue south along 17 through the beautiful Virginia countryside and you’ll arrive in the charming town of The Plains with distinctive historic architecture. If you’re visiting The Plains in mid-September, you’re in for a treat at the annual Virginia Wine Festival. No matter the season, you’ll love the drive through beautiful horse country. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch to sample local fare, and make a stop to pick up provisions for the road trip ahead to North Carolina. To experience what The Plains is really about, take a horseback riding lesson at MadCap Farm, where you can also shop the selection of vintage clothing, jewelry and collectibles in the farm’s 350-year-old chateau. Extend your stay by taking a trail ride or watching polo matches at The Great Meadow Equestrian Center. A fall visit isn’t complete without a stop at the Corn Maze; the design and shape changes each year. Enjoy a local organic burger, a sweet ear of corn and pumpkins galore as you wind your way through the maze.

Cross over into North Carolina to Little Washington, a quaint coastal town with a beautiful waterfront area that is a popular Inner Banks stop for sailors and power boats. Take a walking tour of the historic downtown district, founded in 1776 and named after General George Washington, the first U.S. president. Stroll the boardwalk and wander by stately homes and into boutiques before indulging in tasty Southern seafood. One of the biggest draws is the North Carolina Estuarium, showcasing the second-largest estuary in North America. The attraction features movies and more than 200 exhibits detailing where the fresh water and sea water meet. This area acts as a nursery for various fish, crabs, birds and specialized animals. If the season is right, enjoy a guided river cruise to take in the natural landscape. A few steps away from the waterfront, visit the charming Turnage Theater, which pre-dates World War I and is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of community events, movies and concerts.

After passing through Bridgeton on Route 17 and heading toward New Bern, cross the Neuse River Bridge. Stop and look around for the best panoramic view of historic downtown New Bern. At its mouth, the Neuse is the widest river in America. You'll want to stop at two of New Bern's major downtown attractions: Tryon Palace, where you can participate in living history experiences, and the Birthplace of Pepsi, where you can relax and enjoy a Pepsi cola drink at the recreated soda fountain. You can find art and antiques downtown at places like Baxter's Gallery and Carolina Creations. At Peacock's Plume, browse women's designer boutique clothing and shoe selections. As you leave downtown, stop to eat at a local restaurant. Local tip: Choose one that serves Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue with the meat slow-cooked over oak coals, then chopped and served with a vinegar-based sauce.

If you didn’t stop to eat on the way out of Bern, pull over in Pollocksville and try Southern fare like fried catfish, fried okra and peach cobbler. Once you're in Wilmington, shop and enjoy lovely views while strolling the Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk downtown along the Cape Fear River. While you’re downtown, tour the historic Bellamy Mansion to learn more about antebellum architectural mastery. Just across the river from downtown is the USS North Carolina Battleship, the most decorated battleship of World War II. Step aboard to see the crew quarters, engine rooms and museum. History buffs might also want to stop at Fort Fisher, a key battle spot during the Civil War. Drive east toward Wrightsville Beach on the Atlantic Ocean, and you’ll find Airlie Gardens, a perfect spot to enjoy a summer concert, beautiful gardens, wildlife and walking trails. Speaking of gorgeous flora, stop at the New Hanover County Arboretum to see what's in bloom for the season before leaving North Carolina.

On the way to Pawleys Island, visit beautiful Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark on Highway 17 in Murrells Inlet, and stroll among 3,642 hectares to see a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. This sets the scene for the laid-back Pawleys Island with its 40 kph speed limit, gorgeous beaches and attractions on and off of the water. Twelve hous