Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Cary, North Carolina

If you are looking for a scenic drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Cary, North Carolina, there are plenty of unexpected places to stop along the way. The drive will take approximately 10 hours and cover a distance of approximately 620 miles. While there are plenty of well-known destinations along the route, taking a detour to explore some hidden gems can make the journey even more exciting.

The halfway point of the trip is Havre de Grace, MD, a charming historic town where you can take a break and stretch your legs. From there, here are five unexpected places to stop on your drive:

1. Elmira, NY - The National Soaring Museum

Stop in Elmira, NY, and head to the National Soaring Museum. The museum houses exhibits on the history of gliding and soaring, including vintage gliders, engines, and aviation artifacts. Visitors can also take a virtual tour of soaring sites around the world. Even if you don't have a passion for flying, the stunning views of the Elmira valley and the surrounding landscape are worth the stop.

Don't leave Elmira without trying the famous spiedies. Spiedies are tender pieces of marinated meat, grilled on a skewer, and served on soft bread. A local delicacy, it has been a tradition in the region for over 80 years.

2. Johnstown, PA - Heritage Discovery Center

If you are a history buff, make a stop at Johnstown, PA, to visit the Heritage Discovery Center. The museum showcases the region's history, from its early days as a center for iron and steel production to the devastating flood of 1889, which left the city in ruins. The museum's exhibits explore the lives of the workers who shaped the region, including the immigrant communities who arrived to work in the mines and mills.

Don't leave Johnstown without trying the pierogies, a staple in the local cuisine. Pierogies are boiled dumplings filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and onions, then fried to form a crispy outer shell.

3. Athens, OH - The Ridges

A stop at Athens, OH, is a must-do for nature lovers. The Ridges, a former state psychiatric hospital turned nature preserve, offer miles of scenic hikes and nature trails. The Ridges are home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including wildflower meadows, wetlands, and deciduous forests. Don't forget your hiking boots!

For a quick bite, try a slice of the delicious pizza served at Avalanche Pizza. Locals say it's the best pizza in Athens, with a wide variety of toppings and crusts to choose from.

4. Blacksburg, VA - The Virginia Tech Campus

Stop in Blacksburg, VA, to explore the beautiful campus of Virginia Tech. Founded in 1872, Virginia Tech is known for its research and teaching in fields such as engineering, agriculture, and computer science. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus, which includes historic buildings, museums, and galleries.

For a taste of southern comfort food, try the fried chicken served at Skeeter's Restaurant. The crispy exterior and juicy meat make for a perfect meal after a long day of driving.

5. Winston-Salem, NC - Old Salem Museums and Gardens

Finally, make a stop at Winston-Salem, NC, to explore the charming Old Salem Museums and Gardens. The museum campus includes over 100 restored buildings, including homes, workshops, and stores from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the daily life of the Moravian settlers who founded the town.

For a sweet treat, head to Dewey's Bakery for a taste of the famous Moravian sugar cake, a soft, sweet bread made with butter, cinnamon, and sugar.

Conclusion

The drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Cary, North Carolina, offers plenty of opportunities to explore new places and try new foods. From soaring over Elmira's beautiful valley to savoring the famous spiedies, pierogies, and Moravian sugar cake, there is no shortage of reasons to make these unexpected stops. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!