Winston-Salem to Kenosha Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive

This 823-mile route from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Kenosha, Wisconsin, follows Interstates 81, 77, 64, 75, 71, 74, and 65 through six states: North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Notably, the road passes within 30 miles of the famous New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. Estimated driving time is 12.5 hours without stops. For tips on finding the best stops and hidden gems between cities, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The most efficient route uses Interstates 81 N, 77 N, 64 W, 75 N, 71 N, 74 W, and 65 N. Major cities along the way include Roanoke, VA; Beckley, WV; Charleston, WV; Columbus, OH; and Indianapolis, IN. Fuel costs are moderate; expect gas prices around $3.50/gallon in the Midwest versus $3.20 in the South, with average fuel stops every 120 miles. Toll roads: I-77 through West Virginia has no tolls, but I-65 from Indiana to Illinois has a $4.50 toll for non-residents. Rest areas are plentiful, with 24-hour services at major exits. Use apps like GasBuddy to find cheap fuel.

• Best fuel stop: Exit 111 on I-77 in Wytheville, VA – multiple stations with low prices.
• Toll alert: I-65 near Gary, IN – electronic toll pass recommended.
• Road quality: Excellent paved roads, but watch for construction on I-75 in Ohio.

The drive transitions from the rolling hills of the Piedmont to the rugged Appalachian Mountains, then to the flat farmlands of the Midwest. Key natural attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway (accessible near Roanoke), New River Gorge National Park (near Beckley), and Indiana Dunes National Park (near Gary, IN). Local commerce is vibrant: stop at the Beckley Flea Market for Appalachian crafts, or visit the Indianapolis City Market for farm-to-table goods. Culinary infrastructure includes classic Southern diners in Virginia, West Virginia pepperoni rolls, and Midwest cheese shops near Kenosha.

• Natural Landscapes: New River Gorge (whitewater rafting), Hocking Hills State Park (OH) for hiking.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Not directly on route, but Serpent Mound (OH) is a 1-hour detour from Columbus.
• Hidden Off-Route Spots: The Mystery Hole in Ansted, WV – a quirky roadside attraction.

Infrastructure safety is high; interstates are well-lit and patrolled. Construction zones on I-75 in Ohio reduce speed limits to 55 mph. Family suitability is excellent: stop at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (ranked #1 in the US) or the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Pet-friendly frameworks include many chain hotels (La Quinta, Red Roof Inn) allowing pets, and rest areas with designated pet exercise areas. Fatigue management: plan to stop every 2 hours or 100 miles. Recommended rest zones: I-77 Rest Area at Mile 60 (VA) and I-65 Rest Area near Lebanon (IN).

• Best family stop: Columbus Zoo, exit 111 on I-71, open 10am-5pm.
• Pet-friendly stop: Bark Park at Lebanon Rest Area (I-65 Mile 139).
• Fatigue tip: Use audio books and caffeine breaks at Sheetz or Wawa gas stations.