Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, NC to Brackenridge, PA

If you are planning a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, there are a number of interesting places to stop along the way. This trip is approximately 540 miles long and takes around 9 hours to complete, excluding breaks. The route takes you through the states of North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

Halfway through the journey is Fayetteville, WV, which is a great place to take a break and stretch your legs. This small town is located in the heart of West Virginia and offers visitors a mix of history, nature, and outdoor activities.

1. Smith Mountain Lake, VA

Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It is a popular destination for fishing, water sports, and boating, as well as hiking and camping. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Favorite food: Fried fish tacos at Jake's Place.

2. New River Gorge Bridge, WV

The New River Gorge Bridge is a steel arch bridge that spans the New River Gorge near Fayetteville, West Virginia. It is one of the highest and longest steel arch bridges in the world, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can walk across the bridge or take part in a number of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and white-water rafting.

Favorite food: Smoked brisket sandwich at Smokey's on the Gorge.

3. Gettysburg National Military Park, PA

Gettysburg National Military Park is a 6,000-acre park located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It is the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, which was fought during the American Civil War. The park includes a museum, visitor center, and a number of monuments and memorials to those who fought in the battle. Visitors can take guided tours of the park, as well as explore the battlefield on their own.

Favorite food: Apple dumplings at Gettysburg Eddie's.

4. Hershey's Chocolate World, PA

Hershey's Chocolate World is a popular tourist attraction located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It is a theme park dedicated to all things chocolate, and features a number of chocolate-related rides and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take a tour of the Hershey's factory, where they can learn about the history of chocolate making and see how chocolate is made.

Favorite food: Hot fudge sundae at the Hershey's Chocolate World Cafe.

5. Fallingwater, PA

Fallingwater is a house designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s. It is located in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, and is considered one of Wright's most famous works. The house was built over a waterfall, and features a number of unique design elements including cantilevered balconies and a series of terraces that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Favorite food: Grilled cheese with bacon and avocado at the Fallingwater Cafe.

Conclusion

A road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Brackenridge, Pennsylvania is a great way to explore the eastern United States and take in some of the region's most beautiful and historic sites. From the serene beauty of Smith Mountain Lake to the awe-inspiring New River Gorge Bridge and the chocolate-themed fun of Hershey's Chocolate World, this trip offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the unexpected beauty and fun along the way.