Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brunswick, Maine and Lincoln, Nebraska

Driving from Brunswick, Maine to Lincoln, Nebraska is a journey that covers over 1,700 miles through seven different states. It's a journey that will take approximately 24 hours of driving time, but that doesn't mean it has to be a boring drive filled with fast food and monotonous scenery. Along the way, there are plenty of unique attractions that are worth a stop. Here are five unexpected places worth visiting during the journey.

Halfway Point: Vickery, OH

Before diving into the five unexpected places to stop, let's talk about the halfway point, Vickery, Ohio. This cozy little town with a population of only 284 people is located in the middle of nowhere. But it's worth stopping in to experience the slower pace of life and the friendly locals. You can grab lunch at Vicky's Place, a favorite local diner, and take a stroll around the town. Vickery's only claim to fame is that it's the halfway point between Maine and Nebraska. So why not take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy the peace and quiet?

1. Centralia, PA

Centralia is a virtually abandoned town located in Pennsylvania. This town was once a thriving coal town with a population of over 2,000 people. However, an underground fire ignited in the coal mines underneath the town in 1962, and it has been burning ever since. The fire has caused extreme damage to the town and has led to the evacuation of most of the residents. Today, Centralia is an eerie place to visit, with smoke rising from the ground and abandoned buildings covered in graffiti. It's a unique and haunting experience that shouldn't be missed. If you happen to visit during the fall, make sure to grab a refreshing apple cider from the nearby orchards.

2. Crystal Cave - Kutztown, PA

Crystal Cave is a beautiful cave located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, which was discovered by William Merkel and John Gehret in 1871 while mining limestone. The cave features impressive and intricate formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. Guided tours are available to visitors throughout the year, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, and includes a walk down winding staircases. After the tour, visitors can purchase a piece of jewelry made from the precious stones and fossils found in the cave. Moreover, the locals highly recommend the milkshakes made at the snack bar for an ultimate refreshment.

3. National Museum of the United States Air Force - Dayton, OH

Dayton, Ohio is home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. The museum features over 360 planes and missiles and the history of aviation from the Wright brothers to modern-day aircraft. The museum is impressive, with interactive exhibits, simulators, and a space exhibit. A visit to the National Museum of the United States Air Force is a must-see for flight enthusiasts worldwide. The locals say visitors should try the famous Dayton-style pizza and Buckeye candies available in the museum gift shop.

4. Oz Museum - Wamego, KS

The Oz Museum is located in Wamego, Kansas, and it's a tribute to L. Frank Baum's classic story, The Wizard of Oz. The museum houses original props, costumes, and artifacts from the movie's filming, making it a must-see for movie lovers. The Oz Museum also features interactive exhibits, a kid's play area, and regular events related to the Wizard of Oz. After the tour, visitors can grab a bite at Toto's Tacoz or try some purple ice cream from the nearby ice cream store.

5. Carhenge - Alliance, NE

Carhenge is a unique artwork located in Alliance, Nebraska. It's an automotive replica of Stonehenge, made entirely of vintage cars spray-painted in grey to resemble stones. Carhenge was created in 1987 by Jim Reinders using 38 different vehicles and has since become an iconic piece of American roadside culture. Visitors can walk around the sculpture and even climb on top of the cars for a unique photo op. The locals recommend trying the famous prime rib from the local restaurant "Newberry's Common Cents."

Conclusion:

A long road trip might seem daunting, but with unexpected stops like Centralia, Crystal Cave, National Museum of the United States Air Force, Oz Museum, and Carhenge, it's worth packing your bags and taking off. There is nothing better than hitting the road, exploring unusual hidden gems, and making memories that last a lifetime. At the end of the day, you might be surprised at what a long drive can offer.