Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carlisle, PA to Leesburg, VA

Have you ever taken a scenic drive through the countryside and stumbled upon unexpected treasures along the way? That's exactly what happened to the author on a recent road trip from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Leesburg, Virginia. The winding 100-mile route, which took just under two hours, offered breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains, charming small towns, and historic landmarks. And along the way, they discovered five unexpected places that are worth a stop.

The Halfway Point: Thurmont, MD

Before we dive into the five unexpected places to visit on this drive, let's talk about the halfway point: Thurmont, Maryland. This small town offers a quaint Main Street lined with shops, cafes, and historical landmarks. Take a stroll through the Thurmont Historic District, which boasts 40 buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. For a more active experience, head to the nearby Catoctin Mountain Park for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

Now, let's explore the five unexpected places to stop on this drive.

1. Mr. Ed's Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium, Orrtanna, PA

Just a short detour off the main route, Mr. Ed's Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium is a quirky and fun stop for all ages. This roadside attraction boasts over 12,000 elephant figurines, as well as a large collection of old-fashioned candies and ice cream. Take a selfie with the giant elephant statue outside, and don't leave without trying their famous elephant-shaped pretzels.

Favorite food: Elephant-shaped pretzels with mustard.

2. Cowans Gap State Park, Fort Loudon, PA

For a nature break, head to Cowans Gap State Park in Fort Loudon, Pennsylvania. This hidden gem offers hiking trails, swimming, fishing, and boating on the 42-acre lake. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Favorite food: A picnic with sandwiches, fruit, and cheese.

3. The Renfrew Museum and Park, Waynesboro, PA

History buffs will appreciate a visit to The Renfrew Museum and Park in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. This 107-acre park is home to a restored 1812 mansion, which offers guided tours showcasing the lifestyle of a wealthy Pennsylvania family during the 19th century. The park also features walking trails, gardens, and a museum showcasing local history.

Favorite food: A slice of homemade apple pie from the Renfrew's Museum Shop.

4. The Coal Bucket Deli, Hedgesville, WV

For a delicious lunch stop, pull off the highway to the Coal Bucket Deli in Hedgesville, West Virginia. This deli offers made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and soups using locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss their signature sandwich, The Bucket, which features roast beef, bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and horseradish sauce on a freshly baked roll.

Favorite food: The Bucket sandwich with a side of homemade potato salad.

5. The National Sporting Library and Museum, Middleburg, VA

For a cultural stop, head to the National Sporting Library and Museum in Middleburg, Virginia. This unique museum showcases art, literature, and artifacts related to equestrian and field sports, including foxhunting, polo, and fly-fishing. Take a guided tour or explore the exhibits at your own pace.

Favorite food: A classic English afternoon tea at the museum's Cafe 25.

Conclusion

Traveling by car offers a unique opportunity to discover unexpected gems along the way. The drive from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Leesburg, Virginia is no exception, with beautiful vistas, charming towns, and historic landmarks along the way. By visiting the five unexpected places suggested in this article, you'll get a taste of local flavors, outdoor recreation, history, and culture. So buckle up, hit the road, and embark on an adventure full of surprises.