Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Annandale, Virginia

If you are planning a trip from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Annandale, Virginia, you might be tempted to take a direct route that will get you to your destination as quickly as possible. But what if we told you that by taking a scenic route, you will discover unexpected and unique places? After all, the journey is just as important as the destination. On this road trip, you will drive more than 420 miles, and it should take you around eight hours. We suggest several places that we believe are worth a visit, from historical landmarks to quirky architectural gems, and local hotspots.

The Halfway Point: Linden, NJ

Before diving into the five unexpected places to visit on your trip, we would like to mention the halfway point— Linden, New Jersey. Linden is an industrial city with a population of approximately 42,000 people. Founded in 1925, Linden is a hub for transportation, manufacturing, and warehousing. As you cruise through this city, you cannot miss the huge bayway refinery, one of the largest refineries on the East Coast. We suggest you take a 15-minute detour off the main road to visit Wheeler Park. This serene park is situated on the east side of Linden and covers over 300 acres, featuring an archery range, a pond, and several hiking trails.

1. Hoosick Falls, NY

Hoosick Falls is a charming village situated in the northeastern corner of New York, approximately 45 minutes east of Albany. With a population of a little over 3,000 people, this small town packs a lot of punch. Hoosick Falls is famously known for the historic Walter A. Wood Mowing and Reaping Machine Company. Though the factory has been closed since 1924, you can still see the wooden water tower, which provided water to the town's factories. Another must-see attraction is the magnificent covered wooden bridge, which was built in 1853. The bridge is 152 feet long and spans the Hoosick River. Visitors can walk through the bridge and explore the meadow on the other side.

**Local Delicacy: **Tourists and locals alike flock to the Depot Deli & Cafe to enjoy its gourmet sandwiches and homemade soups.

2. Hershey, PA

Who doesn't love chocolate? If you are a chocolate lover, then a stop at Hershey, Pennsylvania is a must. Known as the "Sweetest Place on Earth," Hershey is the home to Hershey's Chocolate World, Hershey's theme park and the Hershey Story Museum. There's also a butterfly atrium, a zoo, and many other attractions that children will enjoy. If you are short on time, don't miss the Hershey Gardens, which features the world's largest rose garden, a beautiful Japanese garden, and a butterfly house.

**Local Delicacy: **At the Cocoa Beanery, visitors can sample chocolate truffles and indulge in fresh roasted coffee.

3. New Market, VA

New Market is a small town in Shenandoah County, Virginia, and it played an essential role in the Civil War. New Market was the site of the Battle of New Market in 1864 when the Corps of Cadets of the Virginia Military Institute joined the Confederate Army and defeated Union forces. To this day, visitors can tour the Virginia Military Institute and learn about its history and tradition. Another popular attraction in New Market is the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park, which is home to a museum that chronicles the Battle of New Market.

**Local Delicacy: **The Southern Kitchen serves up traditional Southern cooking like country fried steak and fried chicken, along with cornbread and mashed potatoes.

4. Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville is a picturesque city located in Central Virginia. It is home to the University of Virginia, which was founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819. Visitors can tour Jefferson's home, Monticello, explore the Academical Village, and visit the Rotunda, which is the centerpiece of the campus. Another must-see destination in Charlottesville is James Monroe's Highland, which is a National Historic Landmark that was the home of James Monroe, the 5th President of the United States.

**Local Delicacy: **The traditional dish in Charlottesville is the Peanut Soup, which can be found in several local restaurants, including Michie Tavern.

5. Fredericksburg, VA

Fredericksburg is a quaint, historic town located on the Rappahannock River. It played an essential role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and visitors can explore several historic sites and museums. The most famous attraction in Fredericksburg is George Washington's Ferry Farm, which was the boyhood home of George Washington. Visitors can see where Washington grew up and learn about his life as a child. If you enjoy hiking, visit the Rappahannock Canal Trail, which is a 2.5-mile trail that follows the canal's path from the 1800s.

**Local Delicacy: **Head to Foode for some of the best macaroni and cheese you've ever tasted. Made with vermont cheddar and topped with bacon and breadcrumbs, it is pure comfort food.

Conclusion

We hope that our recommendations will inspire you to embark on a road trip from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Annandale, Virginia, and explore the unexpected treasures found on the way. From the charming covered bridge in Hoosick Falls to the home of George Washington in Fredericksburg, there is no shortage of historic sites to visit. Besides, you will be tempted to indulge in local cuisine and try the traditional dishes we suggested. So, pack your suitcase, grab your camera, and hit the road. Who knows what other hidden gems you will discover along the way?