5-Day Road Trip Itinerary: From Atlanta to DC with One Overnight Stop and 4 Days in DC Area

  1. Day 1: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
    3 hours 45 minutes (225 miles) from Atlanta, GA

    Explore the stunning natural beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. Drive along the scenic routes, hike to the waterfalls, and learn about the park's rich history at the visitor center.

  2. Day 2: Shenandoah National Park, VA
    6 hours 30 minutes (410 miles) from Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Drive along the Skyline Drive and enjoy the spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park. Take a hike to see the waterfalls and wildlife, explore the historic cabins, and watch the sunset from the mountain peak.

  3. Day 3: Charlottesville, VA
    1 hour 30 minutes (90 miles) from Shenandoah National Park

    Visit Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former home of the third US President. Take a tour of the house and the gardens, and learn about Jefferson's life and legacy. Afterwards, explore the charming downtown area of Charlottesville and try some local food and wine.

  4. Day 4: Washington, DC
    2 hours (120 miles) from Charlottesville, VA

    Spend the day exploring the nation's capital, Washington, DC. See the iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the National Mall. Visit the renowned museums such as the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History.

  5. Day 5: Arlington, VA
    20 minutes (6 miles) from Washington, DC

    Visit Arlington National Cemetery, the hallowed ground where many of the nation's heroes are laid to rest. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and pay respects at the graves of the Kennedy family. Afterwards, explore the nearby neighborhoods of Clarendon and Rosslyn, which offer a variety of dining and entertainment options.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (half-day, free)
  • Shenandoah National Park (half-day, $35 per vehicle)
  • Monticello (half-day, $29 per adult)
  • Washington, DC (full-day, free)
  • Arlington National Cemetery (half-day, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $64 per adult
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