Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chino Valley, Arizona and Elk Grove, California

Driving from Chino Valley, Arizona to Elk Grove, California is a long drive that takes about 13 hours if you take the most direct route. However, if you take some time to explore along the way, you can find some unexpected treasures. Here are five places that are worth a stop on your drive from Chino Valley to Elk Grove.

Halfway Point: Boron, CA

Let's start with the halfway point of the journey, which is Boron, CA. Boron is a small desert town that has some unique attractions to offer. Visitors can stop by the Borax Visitor Center to learn about the history of the mining industry in Boron. They can also visit the 20 Mule Team Museum to see the giant wagons that were used to transport borax in the early 1900s. Another attraction in Boron is the Rio Tinto Boron Mine, which is one of the largest open-pit mines in California.

Food Recommendation: If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, stop by a local favorite, the Hot Rock Cafe. The restaurant has a diverse menu, but their burgers and homemade fries are a must-try.

1. Red Rock State Park, CA

Red Rock State Park is located just off the highway in Mojave, CA, and it offers some stunning views of the desert landscape. The park has hiking trails and picnic areas, but the main attraction is the red rock formations that give the park its name. Visitors can take a short walk to the top of a hill to get a panoramic view of the park and the surrounding area.

Food Recommendation: Before you leave Mojave, stop by Domingo's Mexican Grill for some authentic Mexican cuisine. Their enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser, and their chips and salsa are a perfect snack for the road.

2. The Cliffton House, CA

The Cliffton House is a historic hotel in Torrance, CA, that has been restored to maintain its original charm. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar, but the main attraction is the rooftop bar that offers a great view of the city. Visitors can relax on the rooftop while sipping on a cocktail and watching the sunset.

Food Recommendation: While at The Cliffton House, try their signature drink, The Cliffton Mule, and order some of their famous truffle fries.

3. Antique Row, CA

Antique Row is a cluster of antique shops in Downtown Sacramento, CA. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the unique items in each store and finding hidden treasures. The shops have a wide range of items, from furniture to vintage clothing to rare books.

Food Recommendation: Grab a bite to eat at The Rind, a cheese-focused restaurant that offers a variety of artisan cheeses and charcuterie boards. Pair your cheese with a glass of wine or an ice-cold beer.

4. Sutter Creek, CA

Sutter Creek is a small town in the Sierra Foothills, and it is known for its historic downtown area. Visitors can take a walk down Main Street to see the well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The town also has a variety of shops and restaurants, and visitors can take a tour of the Knight Foundry, which is an 1873 water-powered foundry.

Food Recommendation: If you're in the mood for some Italian food, stop by Cavana's Pub & Grub. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and their pizza and pasta dishes are delicious.

Conclusion

Driving from Chino Valley, Arizona, to Elk Grove, California, is a long journey, but it doesn't have to be a boring one. By taking the time to explore some unexpected places along the way, visitors can create some unforgettable memories. From learning about the history of mining in Boron to sipping cocktails on a rooftop bar in Torrance, there is something for everyone on this road trip. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an adventure you won't forget.