Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, Illinois, to Vanceboro, North Carolina

Chicago, the heart of Illinois, and Vanceboro, the gateway to North Carolina, are two of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States. The drive from Chicago to Vanceboro is approximately 950 miles and takes about 14 hours. The journey is full of awe-inspiring sceneries, great people, and little-known, yet delightful, places to visit. This article highlights five unexpected places to stop along the way.

Winfield, WV - Halfway point

Just before you hit the halfway mark on your journey from Chicago to Vanceboro is Winfield, West Virginia. A beautiful little town that is both a great spot to stretch your legs and home to a few hidden gems. Start your visit at the Winfield Locks and Dam, which offers a serene wildlife habitat and fantastic views. From there, head to the Hometown Stranger's coffee shop, where you can grab a quick cup of coffee and maybe some cheesy biscuits.

1. Caves of Ohio - West Liberty, OH

On the outskirts of West Liberty, Ohio, is a gem of subterranean wonder- The Caves of Ohio. A series of winding underground caves form a natural maze that goes on for more than 4,000 feet and includes a river, waterfalls, and a museum. Visitors can learn about the history of the caves and explore at their own. While in West Liberty, grab a classic burger, shake, or fries from The Spot restaurant.

2. National Corvette Museum - Bowling Green, KY

Few cars can match the iconic status of the Corvette. If cars are your passion, a visit to the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a must-see. The museum has a vast collection of Corvettes from every era, both new and old. Check out the exhibits and displays, learn about the car’s history, and maybe test drive one of the latest models. You can also enjoy a local favorite, a Hot Brown sandwich, at the restaurant inside the museum.

3. Southern Kitchen - New Market, TN

Tennessee is known for its fantastic BBQ, but the Southern Kitchen in New Market, Tennessee, offers a unique twist with its fried chicken and home-cooked meals. The restaurant has been around since the 1950s, and its blue-plate specials of meat, vegetables, and a roll, is incredibly popular. Although the place is often crowded, it’s entirely worth the wait for some of the best soul food you will ever taste.

4. The Pink Cadillac Diner - Natural Bridge, VA

If you are a fan of classic, shiny, automobiles and fantastic food, you cannot miss The Pink Cadillac Diner in Natural Bridge, Virginia. The diner is located in a car museum containing several classic cars, including Elvis Presley’s famous pink Cadillac. Visitors can enjoy the music, cars, and decadent meals, which include sandwiches, homemade pies, and mouth-watering milkshakes.

5. Airlie Gardens - Wilmington, NC

Wilmington is perhaps one of the most beautiful cities in North Carolina. However, one hidden gem that is not well-known is Airlie Gardens. These lush, sprawling gardens, cover more than 67 acres and provide breathtaking scenic views, stunning flowers, and remarkable sculptures. The gardens are perfect for relaxation and reflection, and you can stop at The Schooner Restaurant or The Pilot House Restaurant for a taste of seafood before hitting the road again.

Conclusion

The drive from Chicago to Vanceboro is not the shortest, but with these unexpected stops along the way, it becomes an unforgettable journey. From the underground caves and Corvettes in Kentucky to the fried chicken in Tennessee, classic cars in Virginia, and lush gardens in North Carolina, there is so much to see and do. There are a lot of other places to explore along the way, and everyone will have a different experience. However, the five places highlighted in this article should be at the top of your list. Pack your bags, get your car serviced and hit the road – an adventure awaits!