Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Camden, Delaware and Richmond, Virginia

If you're looking for a scenic road trip through the eastern coast of the United States, look no further than this drive from Camden, Delaware to Richmond, Virginia. The drive takes approximately four hours, though it could vary depending on traffic. Along the way, there are numerous unexpected places to stop and visit. These five locations offer a mix of history, natural beauty, and good food.

Halfway Point: Alexandria, VA

Before we dive into the five unexpected places, let's first mention the halfway point: Alexandria, VA. This historical city was founded in 1749 and played a significant role in the American Civil War. The city's Old Town is a must-see destination, with its brick sidewalks, gas lamps, and more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques. The Torpedo Factory Art Center, located on the waterfront, is home to more than 80 working artists in a former munitions factory.

1. Havre de Grace, MD

Located in Maryland, Havre de Grace is a small town located only a few minutes off of Interstate 95. This town is situated on the mouth of the Susquehanna River, and its maritime history is evident in the numerous lighthouses and museums scattered throughout the town. The Concord Point Lighthouse is a great example of this, and visitors are welcome to climb to the top for great views. Havre de Grace's downtown area is home to many antique shops and art galleries. The Tidewater Grill is a great spot for seafood lovers, with a raw bar and a variety of seafood dishes.

2. North East, MD

North East, MD, is a charming town located on the eastern banks of the North East River. This town, which dates back to 1658, was once a major port town and still has a thriving marine industry. Visitors to North East can stroll along the town's waterfront and enjoy the views or take a cruise down the river on a charter boat. The customer favorite food spot in North East is Woody's Crab House, where visitors can enjoy traditional Chesapeake Bay cuisine such as crab cakes and steamed blue crabs.

3. Constitution Park, Winchester, VA

Constitution Park in Winchester, VA, offers a natural respite from the road trip. This 55-acre park is home to numerous trails and picnic areas, making it ideal for travelers who want to take a break and enjoy the outdoors. The park's Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, held annually in May, is a popular event drawing visitors from around Virginia and beyond. But the real highlight of this location is the traditional southern BBQ served at The Barbecue Exchange, located only minutes from the park.

4. Montpelier, Orange, VA

Montpelier, located in Orange, VA, is the home of former President James Madison. The restored mansion and gardens allow visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like in the early 19th century. Montpelier also offers numerous exhibits and educational programs about Madison and the history of the United States. The on-site restaurant, Exchange Cafe serves lunch and locally made German-style sausages that are so good that locals love it.

5. Colonial Heights, VA

Located just south of Richmond, VA is the quaint city of Colonial Heights, VA. This city is home to the Violet Bank Museum, a historic plantation home turned museum, which houses artifacts that highlight the area's significant role in the Civil War. In addition, the Southpark Mall offers a variety of shopping and dining options. However, the true must-eat stop here is at Nikki's Penne Pasta, which serves up authentic Italian cuisine such as homemade pasta and a variety of sauces made from scratch.

In Conclusion

The trip from Camden, Delaware to Richmond, Virginia is a road trip that offers a little bit of everything, from natural beauty and American history to excellent food experiences. The five unexpected places highlighted here, Havre de Grace, North East, Constitution Park, Montpelier, and Colonial Heights, VA, are just a few of the many locations worth stopping along the way. It's always great to hit the road and discover these unexpected destinations that bring excitement to the trip and enrich our knowledge about the area we travel in.