South - Going to a graduation in RDU June

Myself and BF are going to his nephews' high school graduation second week of June. Closest large city is Raleigh. Staying at the newish Hilton Gardens Inn. TA says its a nice place to stay.

Leaving Thursday early am from PIT, driving all the way. Plan to stay Thursday and Friday nights, leave Sat am. The drive time is like 8 hours, I think from PIT.

The graduation is like late afternoon on Friday the 11th. Time is not on our side. Have to be back in PIT by Sunday evening.

I'm looking for some things to do, not shopping, :(
Only exception:
My wish is to buy a couple of Harley Davidson Tshirts from local dealers to ad to my collection.

Will visit some Civil War battlesites on the way down and back through Virginia. This is what we both want to focus on. He is a professor. I just like history. He mentioned a ton of places to see in Virginia, i.e. Fredericksburg.

Just asking for some suggestions.

Any advice at all?

I knew I could count on you!

The destination forums of FT are hit or miss. In my experience, they are mostly a miss. Just not enough people check them out, unless it's a top destination that attracts a lot of tourists. Good luck with your drive.