Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charleston, WV to Chantilly, VA

Charleston, West Virginia to Chantilly, Virginia is a beautiful drive that will take about 5 hours. Take the time to stop at these five unexpected places along the way.

1. Tamarack - Beckley, West Virginia

Tamarack is a cultural center and marketplace located in Beckley, West Virginia. This stop is a must-visit for anyone who loves art, handcrafted items, and West Virginia culture. Tamarack is one of the most unique places in the state, with regional food, music, and crafts all under one roof. Visitors can find everything here, from traditional pottery and furniture to handmade jewelry and blown glass. There are also a few restaurants in Tamarack, offering genuine Appalachian cuisine: try the famous pepperoni rolls, the official snack of West Virginia.

2. Green Bank Observatory - Green Bank, West Virginia

The Green Bank Observatory is a unique and exciting place to stop on your drive. Green Bank is home to the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope and is a mecca for "quiet zone" enthusiasts. A visit to Green Bank will give you a chance to experience the mountainous scenery of West Virginia while learning about some of the most fascinating topics in physics. You can learn about radio astronomy, black holes, and the origins of the universe while exploring the grounds of the observatory.

3. Blackwater Falls State Park - Davis, West Virginia

Blackwater Falls State Park is a must-see stop in West Virginia. It is home to a stunning waterfall that descends 62 feet and is surrounded by the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains. The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, so it's a great place to stretch your legs and get some exercise. Visitors can also rent kayaks or take a scenic drive through the park. Enjoy a black bean burger and sweet potato fries on the patio at Blackwater Brewing Company while taking in the scenery.

4. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park - Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry is an iconic stop in West Virginia, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. This is the site of John Brown's famous abolitionist raid and the beginning and end of the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the town's many shops, eateries, and historical museums, and take a hike up to Jefferson Rock for a stunning view of the landscape. The highlight of Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is the interactive John Brown Museum, which presents a gripping portrayal of that time period. Don't leave Harpers Ferry without grabbing a late lunch of fresh crab cakes.

5. Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets - Leesburg, Virginia

Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets is the perfect place to stop for some retail therapy before reaching Chantilly. Here you can find stores like J.Crew, Kate Spade, and Nike, and save up to 65% off the retail prices. This outdoor mall has over 100 shops, perfect for picking up souvenirs and last-minute gifts for friends and family. Jojo's Mediterranean Grill is a great stop for a light dinner before heading to your final destination.

A drive from Charleston, West Virginia to Chantilly, Virginia is an affordable and fun way to experience some of the best sites in the country. Don't forget to stop and explore these five unexpected places and enjoy some of the best foods the region has to offer along the way.