Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Wexford, Pennsylvania

Driving from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Wexford, Pennsylvania, offers a picturesque view of the eastern United States. The 700-mile trip is worth embarking on, with several towns and cities on the way worth a stopover. This trip can take around 11 hours on the road. But in between your origin and destination, here are five unexpected places to stop, relax, and explore the scenic landscapes.

The Halfway Point - Bluefield, WV (make this bold)

Before unveiling the must-visit stopovers on this route, let's talk about Bluefield, WV, the midway point of your journey. If you're traveling for long distances, then a little break-in can be refreshing, and Bluefield is a perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. Located in the calm hills of southern West Virginia, Bluefield is a famous destination for adventure seekers. The city is home to lots of outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The landmark 'East River Mountain Scenic Overlook' offers breathtaking views of the Virginian countryside and is highly recommended.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg, TN)

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers over 500,000 acres of old-growth forests, ample wildlife, and numerous hiking trails. Gatlinburg, TN, which is just a few miles north of the park entrance, epitomizes southern hospitality and is worthy of a stopover. Gatlinburg is a bustling town that offers many local attractions, including Clingmans Dome, the Space Needle, and Ober Gatlinburg. Taste the famous 'moonshine' at Sugarlands Distilling Company or indulge in a savory pancake breakfast at Pancake Pantry.

2. Lexington, VA

On your way north from Bluefield, take a detour to Lexington, VA, to experience a quiet and cozy atmosphere. Historical places like Virginia Military Institute, Washington, and Lee University provide a window to the past. As you stroll down Main Street, don't miss out on the famous homemade ice-cream shop 'Sweet Things' or the southern-style pizzeria 'Macados.'

3. Amish Country (Lancaster, PA)

Pristine countryside, old-time charm, and hardworking people are what you can expect to find in Amish Country. This is also home to the Pennsylvania Dutch Amish, America's oldest Amish settlement, with timeless farm steads, horse-drawn buggies, and windmills. The countryside roads offer picturesque views of rolling hills. Try some homemade sweets such as whoopie pie and shoofly pie, or grab a hearty meal at the Bird-In-Hand Family Restaurant.

4. Hershey, PA

Hershey, also known as "Chocolate Town, USA," is home to Hershey's Chocolate World - a unique shopping and entertainment complex where you can learn about the entire chocolate-making process. From making your candy bar to sampling freshly made chocolate, the entire place is a chocoholic's paradise. Hershey Park Amusement Park is also nearby, offering numerous rides for all ages. Try the delicious Hershey's chocolate and peanut butter milkshake at the Hershey Pantry.

5. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (Pittsburgh, PA)

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are a great stop for nature lovers visiting Pittsburgh. The location offers 15 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, including a tropical rainforest, a desert oasis, and an outdoor edible garden. The gardens are a perfect place to stretch your legs and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Try local cuisine with an Italian twist at Il Pizzaiolo.

Don't miss the chance to create some unforgettable memories and complete your journey by experiencing the five recommended stopovers. Between discovering new sights and local cuisine, you will understand why road trips are a great way to explore unseen places.