Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to City of Albany, New York

Are you planning a road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Albany, New York? The journey can be long and tiring, with approximately 10 hours of driving time. But wait, don't just buckle up and hit the road as we have some unexpected places to make your journey more interesting. From historical sites to mouth-watering food stops, this trip has plenty to offer. Here are five unexpected places that you should consider stopping at during your journey.

Penns Grove, NJ (Halfway Point)

As you cross the Delaware Memorial Bridge, you will reach Penns Grove, NJ, which is the halfway point of your journey. It is a small town with a population of around 4,900 people and has a rich history. One of the notable places to visit in this town is the Penns Grove-Carney's Point Historical Society Museum. The museum boasts various exhibits showcasing the town's rich history, including artifacts, photographs, and paintings.

Foodies should check out the BBQ Joint, which serves delicious and juicy BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. The Chicken Sandwich is made with a homemade sauce that has the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor. The restaurant also has other dishes like pulled pork, brisket, and ribs that are equally delicious.

1. Gettysburg, PA

Your trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Albany, New York will take you through the picturesque countryside of Pennsylvania. You should stop at Gettysburg, a small town that played a significant role in the American Civil War. The Battle of Gettysburg in 1863 marked a turning point in the war. The town is home to Gettysburg National Military Park, where you can witness the battlefields and learn about the battle's history.

For food, head to the Appalachian Brewing Company. The brewery offers a wide range of craft beers that are made on-site. You can also try their delicious pub food, including the signature crab cakes and the Brewmaster Burger.

2. Hershey, PA

If you have a sweet tooth, then Hershey, PA, is a place for you. The town is famous for chocolate, and there is no shortage of chocolate-themed attractions. You can visit Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can learn about the chocolate-making process and try some samples. Hershey's also offers amusement parks with rides and experiences like ZooAmerica and Hershey Gardens.

For food, try the Hershey Pantry, known for its breakfast menu. They serve homemade dishes, including specialty pancakes and the "good-thyme garlic chicken." They have a bakery on site, where you can purchase homemade bread, pies, and cakes.

3. Seneca Falls, NY

As you get closer to Albany, consider stopping in Seneca Falls, NY. Seneca Falls is a small town with an essential place in history. The town played a crucial role in the Women's Rights Movement, and the Women's Rights National Historical Park commemorates this history. The park includes the old Wesleyan Chapel, where the famous Seneca Falls Convention was held in 1848.

When it comes to food, the Gould Hotel has a restaurant that serves contemporary cuisine with a farm-to-table focus. The menu features dishes inspired by local flavors and ingredients like the duck breast with cherry gastrique or the grilled pork chop with bacon and potato hash.

4. The Catskills, NY

The Catskills region is an excellent place to explore nature's beauty and enjoy outdoor activities. The area has scenic drives, camping sites, and hiking trails. The Catskills are known for their picturesque landscapes and natural beauty, with waterfalls, forests, and wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby places like Hunter Mountain, Kaaterskill Falls, or Windham Mountain.

When it comes to food, there are various excellent farm-to-table restaurants in the area. One of the notable ones is Peekamoose Restaurant, situated in Big Indian. Their menu features dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients like grass-fed beef and farm-raised lamb.

5. Beacon, NY

As you approach Albany, you can make a stop at Beacon, NY. The town has a vibrant art scene, and it is best known for Dia: Beacon, a contemporary art museum that features minimalist art from the 1960s to the present. The museum's massive galleries have light-filled spaces that showcase art installations and sculptures.

For food, head to the Dogwood Bar & Kitchen, known for sourcing their seasonal produce and meats from local farms. They have an extensive menu with dishes like fried chicken sandwiches, mac and cheese, and squash blossom ravioli.

Conclusion

A road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Albany, New York, can be long and tiring, but it provides a unique opportunity to explore the countryside and discover unexpected places that offer something for everyone. From exploring history to enjoying nature's beauty, there is plenty to see and do along the way. So, plan a fun journey, try delicious food along the way, and enjoy the adventure.