Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charles Town, West Virginia and Fishers, Indiana

Traveling from Charles Town, West Virginia to Fishers, Indiana, one might expect a long and boring drive through farm country and small towns. However, there are several stops along the way that are worth exploring. This road trip covers approximately 480 miles and takes around 8 hours of driving time. The halfway point is Cambridge, OH, a great spot to refuel and take a break. Here are five unexpected places to visit on this road trip that will spice up the journey:

1. The Greenbrier Resort - White Sulphur Springs, WV

The Greenbrier Resort located in White Sulphur Springs, WV is a luxurious and historic hotel that was once a top-secret government relocation facility in case of a nuclear war. The main attraction is a tour of the once-secret bunker, which can only be accessed by guided tour. The bunker was built in the late 1950s and was supposed to accommodate the U.S. Congress in the event of a nuclear war. The tour covers the history of the bunker, including its construction and how it would have been used. Also, the resort offers a multitude of activities, such as fishing, hiking, and golfing. The resort's restaurant, Prime 44 West, is the place to indulge in a Wagyu ribeye steak, a house-made pasta dish, or an elegant seafood entrée.

2. The National Museum of the United States Air Force - Dayton, OH

Dayton, Ohio is home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, which is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. Visitors can see more than 350 aircraft and missiles on display, ranging from the earliest days of flight to modern times. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, such as a space shuttle exhibit and a presidential aircraft exhibit. The Valkyrie Café, named after the supersonic North American Aviation XB-70 Valkyrie bomber, serves up casual fare such as burgers, sandwiches, fries, and salads.

3. The Drury Inn & Suites - Columbus, OH

The Drury Inn & Suites in Columbus, OH, is perfect for a night's stay. It has several amenities, including free breakfast, a 5:30 Kickback® for free hot food and cold beverages, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel's heated indoor-outdoor pool and whirlpool are open year-round, and the fitness center features cardio equipment and free weights. Within walking distance are several well-known chain restaurants, including Applebee's and Outback Steakhouse.

4. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum - Indianapolis, IN

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in Indianapolis, IN, is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. The museum is situated inside the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway grounds and is dedicated to telling the story of the Indianapolis 500. It has vintage and modern race cars, memorabilia, race footage, and interactive displays. The Legends Café inside is a perfect spot for a quick bite, including a famous Speedway dog, a grilled, all beef hot dog topped with sautéed onions and peppers.

5. The Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort - Monticello, IN

The Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort in Monticello, IN, is a theme park located on the shores of Lake Shafer. It has several thrill rides, including the Hoosier Hurricane, which is a 2,700-foot wooden rollercoaster spanning the entire park. The resort also has a water park, an arcade, and live entertainment. Stop in for a bite to eat at the resort's Skyroom Restaurant, which allows diners to take in the view of Lake Shafer while enjoying a delicious pizza.

In conclusion, this road trip from Charles Town, WV, to Fishers, IN, is not as mundane as one might expect. The Greenbrier Resort, the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the Drury Inn & Suites in Columbus, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and the Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort are all worthy stops. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a Wagyu ribeye steak at Prime 44 West, a President's Choice hot dog at Legends Café, or a delicious pizza with the view of the lake at Skyroom Restaurant. With so much to see and do, this road trip should not be missed.