Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Camden, NJ and Washington, DC

If you're planning a road trip from Camden, NJ to Washington, DC, there are plenty of well-known attractions to hit along the way. But if you're looking for something a little more unique, we've got you covered. Here are five unexpected places to stop that are sure to make your trip even more memorable.

The route from Camden to DC takes approximately three hours and covers around 150 miles. The scenery along the way is mostly urban, but there are some picturesque views of the Chesapeake Bay as you approach the nation's capital.

Halfway Point: Havre de Grace, MD

Before we dive into the individual stops, it's worth mentioning Havre de Grace, MD. This small city is the halfway point between Camden and Washington, DC and serves as an excellent place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Havre de Grace is situated on the Chesapeake Bay, making it an ideal spot to enjoy some seafood or stroll along the waterfront promenade.

1. Paulsboro Refinery

Our first stop takes us just across the Delaware River into Paulsboro, NJ. You might not immediately think of an oil refinery as a tourist attraction, but hear us out. The Paulsboro Refinery has a fascinating history, having played a significant role in the production of aviation fuel during World War II. Today, the refinery is still a vital source of energy for the region. Visitors can join a guided tour to learn more about the refinery's operations and history.

Don't leave without trying: A classic Philly cheesesteak from nearby Hog Island Steaks.

2. Chesapeake City, MD

Chesapeake City is a quaint town on the eastern shore of Maryland that has remained mostly unchanged since the 19th century. The town's centerpiece is the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, which connects the Chesapeake and Delaware Bays and allows ships to bypass the treacherous waters of Cape Henlopen. Visitors can explore the town's historic district, including a variety of well-maintained homes and storefronts from the 1800s.

Don't leave without trying: A soft shell crab sandwich from The Bayard House Restaurant.

3. Brandywine River Museum of Art

If you're an art lover, you won't want to miss the Brandywine River Museum of Art in Chadds Ford, PA. The museum is situated on the banks of the Brandywine River and features an extensive collection of American art, including works by Andrew Wyeth, Jamie Wyeth, and N.C. Wyeth. Visitors can also explore the museum's gardens, which are in bloom throughout the spring and summer months.

Don't leave without trying: A slice of homemade pie from the museum's cafe.

4. National Cryptologic Museum

The National Cryptologic Museum in Annapolis, MD may not be on your radar, but it's one of the most fascinating places to visit in the area. The museum is run by the National Security Agency (NSA) and is dedicated to the history of code-breaking and communications intelligence. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that showcase the various methods of encryption and decryption used throughout history.

Don't leave without trying: The BBQ pork sandwich from nearby Sly Fox Pub.

5. Patuxent River Naval Air Museum

Our final stop takes us to the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum in Lexington Park, MD. The museum was established in 1978 and is dedicated to the history of naval aviation at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Visitors can explore the museum's collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the station's role in developing and testing aircraft for the US Navy.

Don't leave without trying: The crab cakes from nearby Stoney's Seafood House.

In Conclusion

There are plenty of well-known attractions between Camden and Washington, DC, but these five unexpected stops are sure to make your trip even more memorable. From a refinery tour to a code-breaking exhibit, there's something for everyone. Plus, the chance to sample some local treats along the way is an added bonus. So why not take the road less traveled and embark on an adventure you'll never forget?