Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carlisle, Massachusetts to Wheeling, West Virginia
Carlisle, Massachusetts to Wheeling, West Virginia - a journey that spans over 600 miles of open road, picturesque landscapes, and unexpected gems waiting to be discovered. This route offers the perfect opportunity to explore some unexpected places that often get overlooked. The drive took the author and their travel companions about 12 hours, including breaks for sightseeing, food, and rest stops. One of the halfway points chosen was Bath, PA.
1. Salem, Massachusetts
As the author and their travel companions set out on their road trip from Carlisle, they made an unexpected detour to Salem, Massachusetts. Known for its notorious history surrounding the witch trials of the 17th century, Salem offers a diverse mix of culture, history, and artistic expression. Visitors can explore the Salem Witch Museum, which walks them through the events of the trials and how they have since been depicted in popular culture. After a day of exploring, the group stopped at a local seafood restaurant to indulge in a New England staple - fresh lobster rolls, paired with a side of crispy fries and coleslaw.
2. Hudson Valley, New York
Along the drive, the group decided to make a stop in the enchanting Hudson Valley in New York. Known for its historic estates, vibrant arts and culture scene, and breathtaking natural landscapes, the Hudson Valley offers something for every type of traveler. The group couldn't resist a visit to the Storm King Art Center, an open-air museum featuring larger-than-life sculptures set amidst rolling hills and fields. For lunch, they savored a farm-to-table meal at a local bistro, savoring the flavors of the region's fresh produce and meats.
3. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
As the group neared the halfway point of their journey, they stumbled upon the charming town of Jim Thorpe in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The group took a scenic train ride through the Lehigh Gorge to soak in the stunning vistas of the region. Sampling the local cuisine, they couldn't resist devouring a hearty serving of pierogies, a Pennsylvania Dutch delicacy.
4. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, holds significant historical importance as the site of the pivotal Civil War battle. The group decided to pay a visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park, where they embarked on a guided tour of the battlefield, gaining a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded there. For dinner, they indulged in classic American comfort food at a local diner, savoring juicy burgers and hand-cut fries.
5. Ohiopyle State Park, Pennsylvania
Before reaching their final destination in Wheeling, the group made a spontaneous stop at Ohiopyle State Park in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the Laurel Highlands, this picturesque park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The group embarked on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure down the Youghiogheny River, surrounded by the park's lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. To refuel after their adventurous day, they sampled the park's famous jumbo-size chocolate chip cookies, a sweet treat that perfectly capped off their journey.
The road trip from Carlisle, Massachusetts to Wheeling, West Virginia offers a diverse tapestry of experiences for travelers willing to take the scenic route. Each unexpected stop along the way provided the group with unique adventures, delicious food, and memories that will last a lifetime. The author highly recommends this route to anyone seeking to break free from the monotony of highway driving and embrace the joys of exploration. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and embark on a road trip of a lifetime. You never know what unexpected treasures you might find along the way.