Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cary, North Carolina and Ludlow, Massachusetts

If you are looking for a fun road trip, the drive from Cary, North Carolina, to Ludlow, Massachusetts, is a great option. You will drive through beautiful scenery in several states and enjoy some unexpected places that are often overlooked in travel guides. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and is perfect for families and friends who want to explore the United States. Here are five unexpected places to stop along the way.

Halfway Point: Edgewood, MD

The halfway point between Cary and Ludlow is Edgewood, Maryland. This peaceful town is home to plenty of green spaces, parks, and natural areas, making it an ideal spot for relaxing. You can stretch your legs and enjoy nature by visiting the Flying Point Park or the Flying Point Fishing Pier. These places offer stunning water views, picnic areas, and boat launches, perfect for those who love fishing and boating.

1. Stuarts Draft, VA: Visit the Wildlife Center of Virginia

Stuarts Draft is a small town located in Virginia. However, it is home to one of the most impressive wildlife rehabilitation facilities in the country: The Wildlife Center of Virginia. This center's mission is to treat and rehabilitate wild animals to the point of release into their natural habitat. You can take a tour of the facility and see some of the animals up close, including eagles, black bears, and foxes. The facility is open daily, and admission is free. Don't forget to enjoy their famous locally sourced apple cider donuts.

2. Gettysburg, PA: Discover History

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a destination known for its historic significance. The town was the site of one of the most significant battles of the Civil War, The Battle of Gettysburg. You can visit the Gettysburg National Military Park and Museum to learn about the war, see where the battle took place, and pay homage to the soldiers who lost their lives in the fight. After a long day of learning about history, enjoy a slice of classic New York-style pizza at Tommy's Pizza.

3. Danbury, CT: Visit the Military Museum of Southern New England

Located in Danbury, Connecticut, The Military Museum of Southern New England is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The museum is dedicated to preserving the region's military history, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. You can witness the museum's collection of artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, and vehicles. If you're lucky, the museum may have a military reenactment happening in the adjacent field. Before you leave, make sure to try some fresh Connecticut Lobster Rolls at LobsterCraft.

4. Hadley, MA: Stop by the Atkins Farms Country Market

Hadley, Massachusetts, is a small town that is home to the famous Atkins Farms Country Market, which has been operating since 1908. The market offers a plethora of local, fresh meat, baked goods, produce, and prepared foods. Atkins Farms Country Market is also well known for its cider donuts, which are a must-try for anyone stopping by. The market's specialty pies are a hit as well, with Apple Crumb and Chocolate Cream Pie being the go-to choices.

5. Northampton, MA: Take a walk on the Bridge of Flowers

Northampton, Massachusetts, is the final stop on our road trip. Here, you can witness the Bridge of Flowers, a unique and picturesque garden created on an old trolley bridge. The bridge is covered in vibrant, colorful flowers, plants, and shrubs, along with a stunning view of the East Branch of the Swift River below. The Garden is open from May to October every year, and admission is free. Before you end the road trip, make sure to try the farm-to-table sweet potato fries from The Dirty Truth.

Conclusion

The 12-hour drive from Cary, North Carolina, to Ludlow, Massachusetts, is undoubtedly worth the journey. With stops in unexpected places, tourists can discover hidden gems that will provide them with an unforgettable experience. From exploring the history in Gettysburg and the Military Museum of Southern New England to enjoying fresh food from Atkins Farms Country Market and The Dirty Truth, the stops along the way create memories that will last a lifetime. The journey also provides enjoyable stops to stretch your legs, enjoy nature, and take a break from a long road trip. Go ahead and plan your next road trip and explore the unexpected places the United States has to offer.