Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, to Chesapeake, Virginia
If you're looking for an adventure that takes you through charming towns, historic sites, and gorgeous landscapes, look no further than a drive from Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania to Chesapeake, Virginia. The journey takes about five hours, but that's only if you don't make any stops along the way. To make this trip even more memorable, we've rounded up five unexpected places to visit.
Halfway Point: Berlin, MD
Before we dive into the unexpected stops on this trip, let's talk about the halfway point: Berlin, Maryland. This charming town is the perfect place to stretch your legs and explore. Downtown Berlin is home to over 50 locally-owned shops, boutiques, and eateries. The streets are lined with colorful buildings, flower boxes, and banners. Berlin is also home to the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, a historic 1832 home-turned-museum, and the Burley Oak Brewery, inspired by its Eastern Shore heritage and modern brewing techniques.
Now, let's explore the unexpected stops on this drive.
1. The Mason-Dixon Marker - Newark, DE
The Mason-Dixon Line is a demarcation line between four U.S. states, forming part of the borders of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and West Virginia. The line was surveyed between 1763 and 1767 by Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon in the resolution of a border dispute involving Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Located on state line Road, at the corner of Old Baltimore Pike in Newark, Delaware, The Mason-Dixon Marker is a fascinating and significant historical landmark. Visitors can learn about the history of the Mason-Dixon Line that divided the north and south of the country during the Civil War.
Don't miss: Stop for a meal at The Delaware Provision Company. This small, family-owned restaurant is the perfect place to grab a sandwich or some delicious smoked meats.
2. The American Helicopter Museum - West Chester, PA
The American Helicopter Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. The museum houses a large collection of rotorcraft, including some of the earliest helicopters, tilt-rotor aircraft, and others used in combat, rescue missions, and space exploration. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the evolution of rotary-wing aircraft and the industry that grew up around it.
Don't miss: Pop over to nearby Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant to enjoy award-winning beer and pub fare.
3. Eastern State Penitentiary - Philadelphia, PA
Eastern State Penitentiary, once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, now stands as a ruin with tours of the cells open to the public. It was considered one of the most progressive prisons in the country at its opening in 1829, with running water and central heating in every cell, but was shuttered in 1971. Today, visitors can learn about the various famous inmates that served time there, including Al Capone, and explore the abandoned cell blocks.
Don't miss: Grab a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich at Pat's King of Steaks, in South Philly, within 15 minutes of the penitentiary.
4. Chincoteague Bay Field Station - Wallops Island, VA
Chincoteague Bay Field Station is a nonprofit environmental education center that sits on the edge of the Eastern Shore and directly on the Intracoastal Waterway. The center offers a variety of programs, from teacher training and student field trips to summer camps for all ages. Visitors can wander the beautiful natural surroundings of the center, enjoy daily green living lessons like beekeeping, and even rent kayaks to explore the surrounding waterways.
Don't miss: Head to Russo's Seafood for fresh seafood and stunning sunset views over the bay.
5. One Fish, Two Fish - Virginia Beach, VA
One Fish, Two Fish is a farm-to-table seafood house that is sure to delight. The menu offers a wide range of options, from oysters to sushi, to homemade pasta, all made with the freshest ingredients available. One Fish, Two Fish is committed to sustainability, utilizing environmentally friendly packaging, recycling everything possible, and working directly with local producers.
Don't miss: After dinner, head to the nearby Virginia Beach Boardwalk to take a stroll on the iconic 3-mile stretch of oceanfront.
Conclusion
There you have it, five unexpected stops on a drive from Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania to Chesapeake, Virginia. From historic landmarks to beautiful natural surroundings, this trip offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff or a foodie, this trip is sure to be a memorable one. So, pack your bags and hit the road, you won't regret it!