Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to Appleton, Wisconsin

Driving across the country can be an amazing adventure, filled with hidden gems and unique experiences. A road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Appleton, Wisconsin is no exception. This journey takes you through gorgeous landscapes, charming small towns, and bustling cities. The trip spans 850 miles and can take anywhere from 13-15 hours depending on your route and stops. Buckle up and get ready for five unexpected places to stop on your journey.

Halfway Point: Strongsville, OH

Before diving into the remaining four destinations, it’s worth mentioning Strongsville, OH, the halfway point between Chesapeake and Appleton. This charming town is a great place to stretch your legs, grab some food, and explore. One recommended stop is the Mill Stream Run Reservation, a park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. Strongsville is also home to some great restaurants, like Melt Bar and Grilled which offers delicious grilled cheese sandwiches, and Brew Kettle, a popular local brewery with tasty pub food.

1. Fallingwater - Mill Run, PA

About 5 hours northwest of Strongsville lies Fallingwater, a stunning house built over a waterfall by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Visitors can take guided tours of the property and learn about the innovative design and engineering that went into building this masterpiece. The surrounding nature and views are breathtaking, making this stop a must-see. Don’t skip the café, which serves fresh and local fare, like farm-to-table salads and sandwiches.

2. Madison, WI

About 2 hours west of Appleton, you’ll reach Madison, Wisconsin’s capital city and home to the University of Wisconsin. Madison boasts a vibrant local culture, beautiful parks, and an impressive food scene. Take a stroll around the UW campus, catch a Badgers game, or visit the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. When it comes to food, there are endless options, but a local favorite is State Street Brats, where you can enjoy beer and brats on a patio in the heart of the city.

3. The House on the Rock - Spring Green, WI

Just under an hour southwest of Madison lies the quirky and unusual attraction, The House on the Rock. This attraction is truly one-of-a-kind and includes surreal and bizarre collections from around the world. Visitors can explore the many rooms and exhibits, including the Infinity Room, which appears to extend beyond the house itself. Plan to spend a few hours here to fully experience all that it has to offer. For lunch, grab a sandwich or soup at the café on-site.

4. Cedar Point - Sandusky, OH

Heading east towards Chesapeake, about 4 hours outside of Strongsville, is Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, OH. This park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise with over 70 rides, including some of the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters. If you’re not into rides, there are plenty of other attractions, including shows and water parks. And of course, what’s an amusement park without great food? The park offers countless options for snacks and meals, but the famous cheese-on-a-stick is a must-try.

5. Harpers Ferry, WV

Located about 4 hours east of Chesapeake, Harpers Ferry is a small town with big history. It played a significant role in the Civil War and was the location of John Brown’s raid on the federal armory. Today, it’s a charming historic town with plenty to see and do. Take a walking tour, visit the Civil War Museum, or hike the beautiful trails in the surrounding area. For lunch, stop by The Anvil Restaurant for classic American fare, like burgers and sandwiches.

Conclusion

A road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Appleton, Wisconsin is not just about the destination, but also the journey. By making these five unexpected stops along the way, you’ll experience beautiful nature, unique attractions, and delicious food. Plus, you’ll have the chance to explore parts of the country that you may have overlooked. So pack your bags, map out the route, and get ready for an adventure.