Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, North Carolina to City of Rochester, New York
Are you looking to take a road trip from the charming city of Charlotte, North Carolina to the delightful City of Rochester, New York? The journey takes around 11 hours and 30 minutes, following I-77 N, I-79 N, and I-90 W. However, long distances do not have to be tedious, and there are plenty of places to stop on the way. Here are five unexpected places to discover that will make your trip more enjoyable.
Halfway Point: Waynesburg, PA
Waynesburg lies right in the middle of the route, making it an excellent place to stop for some relaxation and stretching. This small and peaceful borough is the county seat of Greene County. Visitors can explore its rich coal-mining history by visiting The Greene County Historical Society Museum, which contains artifacts and a collection of genealogy and local history.
1. DuBois, PA: So Much to Offer
Approximately two hours north of Waynesburg, DuBois, PA, is a charming town renowned for its historic landmarks and outdoor recreation. Families can explore the Sandy Lick Creek Waterfalls, the Memorial Park, or the Treasure Lake Ski Area, a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding. The town is home to several restaurants that offer various cuisines, including Bella Italia, which is famous for its authentic Italian pizza.
2. Corning, NY: A Glass Museum and More!
After driving for an hour and 30 minutes, visitors will arrive in Corning, NY, the home of the much-visited Corning Museum of Glass. This wondrous museum offers educational as well as interactive exhibitions, highlighting the evolution of glass. Apart from the world-renowned glass museum, the town is also famous for its vibrant art community, and guests can visit numerous galleries and studios. The village is home to The Cellar, a restaurant well-known for its steak sandwiches.
3. Niagara Falls, NY: Waterfalls and Much More!
No trip from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Rochester, New York, would be complete without a stopover at Niagara Falls. A three-hour drive from Corning, it features some of the planet's most staggering natural wonders. Besides exploring the waterfalls, visitors can experience a helicopter tour, an aquarium, whirlpool jet boat rides, and a bird kingdom. The town's culinary scene is delightful, with the famous Misty Dog Grill and Bakery serving up delicious burgers.
4. Buffalo, NY: An Artistic Hub
After spending some time in Niagara Falls, visitors can head over to Buffalo, NY, which is only a 25-minute drive away. Buffalo is known for its contributions to architecture and the arts. One can visit the Burchfield Penney Art Center or the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, two of the most important artistic institutions in Western New York. Foodies should not miss stopping at Chef’s Restaurant, famous for its Spaghetti Parmesan.
5. Letchworth State Park: A Must-Visit Destination
Two hours east of Buffalo lies Letchworth State Park, nestled within the Genesee River Gorge. It showcases a beautiful natural environment and is also referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East." For outdoor enthusiasts, visitors to the park can hike, bike, climb, camp, and engage in various winter sports. Finally, heading to The Glen Iris Inn for a relaxing and delicious lunch, it overlooks the magnificent Middle Falls.
A road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Rochester, New York, can seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into manageable sections makes it a lot easier. Along the way, visitors can enjoy history, art, culture, and nature by visiting Waynesburg, DuBois, Corning, Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and Letchworth State Park. Not only do these stops add incredible adventure, but they also form memories that will last a lifetime. So, grab your GPS, pack your bags and hit the open road, ready to explore!