Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chattanooga, TN to Shirley, NY
Driving from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Shirley, New York might seem like an extensive journey. However, with some unexpected and fun pit stops along the way, the journey can be just as enjoyable as the destination. It takes about 15 hours to cover the approximately 930-mile journey, but there are numerous places to stop on the way that would help break up the drive.
The Halfway Point: Harrisonburg, VA
Before diving into some fun stops during the drive, Harrisonburg, VA, breaks up the drive right in the middle. Harrisonburg is charming, filled with boutiques, galleries, museums, and cultural venues offering excellent food and drink options.
- Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
Mammoth Cave National Park offers a hidden oasis away from the bustle of everyday life. The park gives visitors an opportunity to explore the world's most extensive known cave system with beautiful foliage and tranquil surroundings. Discover over 400 miles of explored underground tunnels with many strange and breathtaking formations.
Favorite Food: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the many trails around the park.
- Hershey, PA
Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a delightful stop along the way. From the chocolate factory tours to Hersheypark, the famous amusement, and water park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The town also features a rich history with plenty of outdoor adventure, like hiking and biking trails.
Favorite Food: A sweet trip like Hershey would not be complete without trying some delicious chocolates.
- The Flight 93 National Memorial, PA
The Flight 93 National Memorial is a remarkable and moving experience located in Stoystown, PA. This memorial monument serves as a tribute to the brave passengers and crew members who lost their lives in the tragic terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. The memorial holds stories of these heroes who, though on a flight that met a tragic end, displayed exceptional bravery and honor.
Favorite Food: Take a break from the emotions and treat yourself to some classic American cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
- The National Museum of the United States Air Force, OH
The National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, is the oldest and largest military aviation museum. The museum features an array of aircraft along with aviation memorabilia from its beginning to present day. The interactive exhibits make the tour engaging and interesting for kids and adults alike.
Favorite Food: There are numerous cafes and restaurants to choose from at the museum, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of cuisines.
- Niagara Falls, NY
Of course, no trip from Tennessee to New York is complete without a visit to Niagara Falls. This natural wonder is awe-inspiring, and its mist can be felt from miles away. Visitors can explore several viewpoints, taking stunning photos and hearing the roar of the falls in the background.
Favorite Food: Niagara Falls has a lot of delicious food, including restaurants offering local cuisine, so why not try the famous Buffalo wings or a hearty beef on weck sandwich?
Driving from Tennessee to New York may seem like an overwhelming journey, but with these stops, the trip becomes more manageable. From exploring nature's beauty to enjoying cultural experiences or indulging in regional cuisines, this drive has something for everyone. By taking these pit stops, the trip becomes more than an end-point, or destination, and transforms into an unforgettable journey where experiences and memories are made.