Atlanta to Raleigh drive: 20 ranked stops, break in Fair Play

Southern Railway's Spencer Shops with the largest surviving roundhouse in North America; seasonal train rides.

Widely regarded as Atlanta's best Ethiopian, with communal injera platters and vibrant veggie combos. (Briarcliff) Order: Doro wat and veggie combo.

Three hiking miles cross unusual Piedmont habitat to a summit overlook above the Eno River. Travelers can use the short overlook spur or commit to a moderate loop without needing a long mountain hike.

No-frills counter famous for some of the best banh mi in the city, with a near-constant lunch line. (Buford Highway) Order: Banh mi.

Restored Decatur train depot with an oyster-obsessed raw bar, absinthe fountain and French-technique New American cooking behind a landmark bar program. Order: Oysters on the half shell.

wrapped in The Battery — a year-round dining-and-music district that changed the ballpark model

Zoo, aquarium and science museum on one admission, plus a treetop ropes course - a genuine triple-header, not a generic zoo stop.

Lively neighborhood spot known for wood-fired pizzas and seasonal snacks with a bustling bar in downtown Durham. Order: Wood-fired pizza.

An easy 1.5-mile trail follows a shallow, rocky Eno River corridor to foundations of Durham's first water-pumping station. Fish Dam Island, Gebel Rock, and the industrial ruins give the river walk a specific destination.

Cult roadside smokehouse fusing Texas and Korean barbecue traditions. (Cumberland) Order: Korean-style smoked brisket.

Historic civil-rights-era institution (founded 1947) still turning out classic Southern plates near downtown. (Castleberry Hill) Order: Fried chicken and collard greens.