Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cape May, New Jersey to Rocheport, Missouri

If you love driving, there's nothing like hopping in a car and hitting the open road, and travelling from Cape May, New Jersey to Rocheport, Missouri is particularly exciting. This route takes you through scenic countryside, bustling towns, and quaint villages that will make for an unforgettable experience. The trip begins in Cape May, New Jersey, and ends in Rocheport, Missouri, covering over 900 miles. It can take approximately 15 hours of non-stop driving, but when you factor in stops along the way, it can take up to several days.

One of the most exciting places to stop along the way to break up the drive is West Jefferson, OH, located halfway. West Jefferson is a small village located about 17 miles west of Columbus, Ohio, and offers a host of attractions that make it a perfect place to take a break of a few hours. From West Jefferson, there are several unexpected places that make great stop-overs as you continue on your journey. Here are five places that we think will help you make the most of your trip, along with some recommendations for unique food experiences at each.

1. Hershey, PA

If you have a sweet tooth, Hershey, PA, is the ultimate destination for you. This charming town is home to one of the most iconic American companies, Hershey's Chocolate, and its legend lives on in the town. The warm smell of chocolate fills the air, and visitors can explore the history of chocolate-making at the Hershey Story Museum, situated on East Chocolate Avenue. You can also visit Hersheypark, an amusement park with thrilling rollercoasters and a water park. With all the activities available in Hershey, you'll also want to check out one of the local restaurants, where Hershey's chocolate sauce is incorporated into most desserts!

2. Louisville, KY

Louisville is another fantastic destination on our list. It's the largest city in Kentucky, full of history and culture and is known for being the birthplace of Muhammad Ali, fried chicken, and bourbon. Visitors here can enjoy the Kentucky Derby Museum, which chronicles the history and traditions of horse racing in Kentucky, and the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, which showcases the craftsmanship of baseball bats. However, the best thing about Louisville is the food, and you have to try the Kentucky Fried Chicken invented by Harland Sanders and enjoy a classic "Hot Brown," a dish invented in Louisville consisting of an open-faced turkey sandwich smothered in Mornay sauce with bacon, tomato, and topped with cheese.

3. Memphis, TN

Memphis is known for being the birthplace of Rock and Roll and the home of the blues. It is a city that is sure to surprise and delight visitors with its mix of modern attractions and Southern charm. Memphis is where you can visit Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion, the Rock and Soul Museum, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Graceland is set over 14 acres, and visitors can see the King's mansion, vintage cars, and plane. The famous Memphis-style barbecue is a must-try in this city, and you shouldn't leave without trying some ribs at Charlie Vergo's Rendezvous BBQ.

4. Wichita, KS

Wichita, Kansas, might not be the first place on your radar for a road trip stop, but it’s worth a visit. The city has a small-town feel with the amenities of a big city, featuring world-class museums, shopping centers, and restaurants. At the Kansas Aviation Museum, visitors can explore the aviation history of the state, while the Old Cowtown Museum allows tourists to go back in time to the 19th century, and located in the heart of the city. The best thing about Wichita is the food - we recommend checking out Connie’s Mexico Cafe for some authentic Tex-Mex.

5. Rocheport, MO

Rocheport, Missouri, is the perfect endpoint for our journey, and a town that is worth spending a few days exploring. This small town is located on the Missouri River, boasting of beautiful scenic views and tons of wineries. You can take a Katy Trail bike ride or indulge in some kayaking on the Missouri River while enjoying the stunning scenery. For a unique food experience in Rocheport, head to Les Bourgeois Vineyards, which offers fantastic wine and features a fantastic menu with delightful dishes like smoked duck with wild rice, baby carrots, and wild berry sauce.

Why You Should Take This Trip

Travelling from Cape May, New Jersey to Rocheport, Missouri, is a fantastic way to explore some of the hidden gems of the United States. Each of the five unexpected places we've highlighted offers unique attractions, making stops along the way that much more enjoyable. Whether you love history, food, or just enjoy seeing different scenery, this road trip has something for everyone. We highly recommend breaking up the trip with several stops as it gives you the chance to explore a bit of the towns/tourist destinations of America. With so many attractions and activities to choose from along this route, you're sure to fall in love with each of these unexpected places.