Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chino Hills, California to Montclair, New Jersey

Are you planning a cross-country drive and looking for unique and exciting places to stop along the way? Look no further than this article! The author recently drove from Chino Hills, California to Montclair, New Jersey and discovered some unexpected gems along the way. The drive took approximately five days, with a halfway point in Catoosa, Oklahoma. Read on to discover five unexpected places to add to your next road trip itinerary.

Halfway Point: Catoosa, OK

Catoosa, Oklahoma, located just outside of Tulsa, makes for a perfect halfway point on this cross-country drive. The main attraction here is the famous Blue Whale of Catoosa. Visitors can take a dip in the pond, relax on the sandy beach, and marvel at the 80-foot-long blue concrete whale structure. This quirky roadside attraction is a must-visit for anyone passing through Oklahoma.

Favorite Food to Eat in Catoosa: BBQ at Clanton's Cafe

1. Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque, New Mexico is a unique and stunning city with a rich culture and history. Visitors can explore the Old Town, where Spanish settlers first established Albuquerque in 1706. The city is also known for its hot air balloon festivals and breathtaking views of the nearby Sandia Mountains. Art enthusiasts can also check out the impressive collection of works at the Albuquerque Museum.

Favorite Food to Eat in Albuquerque: Green Chile Stew at Frontier Restaurant

2. St. Louis, MO

As you cross the Mississippi River into Missouri, consider stopping in St. Louis. The Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction, towering at 630 feet in the air and providing breathtaking views of the city. Foodies can indulge in local specialties like the St. Louis-style pizza and toasted ravioli.

Favorite Food to Eat in St. Louis: Toasted Ravioli at Charlie Gitto's

3. Hershey, PA

For anyone with a sweet tooth, Hershey, Pennsylvania is a can't-miss stop on this drive. The town is famously known for its chocolate factory, and visitors can take a tour to learn about the history of chocolate-making. There's also a theme park, Hersheypark, with plenty of rides and attractions for all ages.

Favorite Food to Eat in Hershey: Chocolate Milkshake at Hershey Pantry

4. Rehoboth Beach, DE

As you near the east coast, consider taking a relaxing break in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. The town boasts a beautiful boardwalk with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore. Visitors can also take a dip in the ocean or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coast.

Favorite Food to Eat in Rehoboth Beach: Boardwalk Fries at Thrasher's

5. Princeton, NJ

Finally, the trip concludes in Montclair, New Jersey. But before reaching the final destination, make a pit stop in Princeton. This charming college town is home to Ivy League institution Princeton University. Visitors can take a stroll through the picturesque campus and enjoy the town's many restaurants and shops.

Favorite Food to Eat in Princeton: Bahn Mi Sandwich at Nomad Pizza

Conclusion

While this cross-country drive may seem daunting, the author encourages readers to take the plunge and embark on this incredible journey. By stopping at these unexpected places, road trippers can break up the long drive and experience some unique and exciting attractions along the way. From the Blue Whale of Catoosa to the charming town of Princeton, there's something for everyone on this drive. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore these must-visit destinations.