Charlotte to Baltimore drive: 24 ranked stops, break in Greensboro

Michelin-starred Wharf restaurant showcasing live-fire Levantine cooking and mezze. Order: Whole grilled fish.

Capitol views, the Racing Presidents, and half-smokes along the Anacostia

Lively taqueria near the Boulevard slinging NorCal-style Mexican, fresh guac and creative tacos late into the night. Order: Southern fried fish tacos.

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.

Beloved downtown delicatessen serving traditional Jewish comfort food with a modern spin and colossal sandwiches. Order: Pastrami on rye.

Longtime Arts District corner cafe in a former pharmacy, doing pizza, pasta, steaks and seafood in a bustling room. Order: Brick-oven 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.

Family-run downtown diner serving updated American comfort classics and all-day breakfast in a warm neighborhood setting. Order: All-day breakfast plate.

a historic Virginia distillery behind award-winning bourbons

Buzzing 14th Street brasserie that transports diners to Paris with a famed roast chicken and raw bar. Order: Roast chicken.

This named trailhead just off US-58 opens onto an easy compacted-stone rail-trail through woods and former tobacco country between Brodnax and La Crosse. Travelers can choose a short leg-stretch without committing to the full section.

The area's longest-standing Salvadoran-Mexican spot, an Adams Morgan late-night icon since 1982. Order: Pupusas.

an easy forest loop to a pretty fall near Baltimore