Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlottesville, VA to Pittsburgh, PA
Charlottesville, Virginia, is a historic city with beautiful landmarks and a rich culture that's worth exploring. On the other hand, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is known for its iconic skyline, exciting art and culture scene, and hearty cuisine. Driving from Charlottesville to Pittsburgh via I-77 N and I-79 N will take approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. However, this trip can be a unique and memorable experience if you make a few unexpected stops along the way. Here are five destinations you shouldn't miss while driving from Charlottesville to Pittsburgh.
1. Natural Bridge Caverns, VA
If you've never seen a cave and its wondrous formations, the Natural Bridge Caverns in Virginia should be a must-see destination. Located south of Staunton, VA, the Natural Bridge Caverns offer guided tours that take you on a pathway through chambers that are hundreds of feet underground. The formations and structures inside the cave, including stalactites and rock formations, will leave you in awe. Don't forget to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes as the caves are a constant 54°F. Before embarking on the tour, be sure to refill your water bottles and use the restroom since there are no facilities inside the cave. Once you finish your tour, grab a bite to eat at the Red Fox Cafe, located on the premises, and enjoy a hot meal or a refreshing beverage.
Favorite Food: The Red Fox Cafe's grilled cheese sandwich is a crowd favorite, especially after a chilly tour inside the Natural Bridge Caverns.
2. Hillbilly Hot Dogs, WV
Hillbilly Hot Dogs in Lesage, West Virginia, is a unique destination on a cross-country journey. The restaurant is situated in a converted junkyard, and the decor is eccentric, with vintage signs and quirky features that provide travelers with an experience they won't forget. The hot dogs are served with a variety of toppings, including coleslaw, chopped onions, and even crushed-up chips. The hot dogs are a meal on their own, but you can also try some sides that are equally delicious. Hillbilly Hotdogs offer indoor and outdoor seating that lets you enjoy a stunning view of the Ohio River while satisfying your cravings.
Favorite Food: Don't miss out on the spicy pepperoni and cheese hot dog, a fan favorite, or try the signature deep-fried hot dog.
3. Fallingwater, PA
If you're an architecture enthusiast, Fallingwater should be on your driving itinerary. Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this home in Southwestern Pennsylvania is a stunning feat of engineering. The house is built into a waterfall and overhangs a mountain stream, seamlessly merging nature and architecture. Fallingwater is open for tours year-round, offering visitors a chance to learn about Wright's design philosophy and the history of the home. Most of the home's original furnishings remain intact, providing visitors with a glimpse of the lifestyle of the people living during the 1930s and 1940s.
Favorite Food: Fallingwater doesn't have a dining facility, so pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
4. The Omni Bedford Springs Resort, PA
If you're looking for a luxurious stop on your journey, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort in Bedford, Pennsylvania, won't disappoint. The resort is over 200 years old and has undergone extensive renovations, preserving its grandeur and history while offering modern amenities and comfort. The resort's outdoor activities include golfing, hiking, and swimming, and the hotel has several dining options that satisfy your palate. The Colonnade, one of the resort's restaurants, serves classic dishes with a contemporary twist, using locally sourced ingredients that highlight the flavors of the region.
Favorite Food: The crab cakes at the Colonnade are a local favorite, made with fresh crabs caught from nearby Chesapeake Bay.
5. The Andy Warhol Museum, PA
The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a well-known destination for art enthusiasts worldwide. The museum, located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh, houses the largest collection of Warhol's works, including paintings, prints, and multimedia installations. The museum also features several temporary exhibits, highlighting other contemporary artists' works. Visitors can also enjoy tours, lectures, and workshops, with different themes and age groups. If you're in Pittsburgh over the weekend, don't forget to stop by the museum's cafe and enjoy a cup of coffee, a sandwich, or a sweet pastry.
Favorite Food: The cafe's "Campbell's Soup Can" soup is a nod to one of Warhol's most iconic works and a perfect meal after exploring the museum.
Take the Trip
A drive from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, can be a fun-packed adventure with a few unique stops along the way. The journey takes you through charming small towns, breathtaking natural spots, and historic sites. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, there's something for everyone on this trip. So, pack some snacks, grab some friends or family, and hit the road to experience these fantastic destinations for yourself.