Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Geneva, NY to Orono, ME
Driving from Geneva, NY to Orono, ME is a long journey of around 600 miles that can take up to 10 hours or more depending on traffic and stops. However, this road trip is a great way to explore the Northeast's scenic beauty and small town charm. Along the way, there are several unexpected places to stop and explore that can make the journey more exciting and memorable. Here are five such places that you should include on your next road trip itinerary.
1. Ithaca, NY
Ithaca is a picturesque college town located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, just a short drive from Geneva. It is known for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent food scene, making it an ideal stopover for any traveler. You can hike to see stunning waterfalls and gorges at the Robert H. Treman State Park or Buttermilk Falls State Park, explore the botanical gardens at Cornell University, or stroll through the charming downtown area lined with unique shops, galleries, and cafes.
Foodie Alert: Ithaca's famous Moosewood Restaurant offers delicious vegetarian and vegan options using fresh local ingredients.
2. Lenox, MA
Lenox is a charming town in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, known for its rich history, fine arts, and cultural offerings. It is home to several renowned cultural institutions such as the Tanglewood Music Festival, the Shakespeare & Company Theatre, and the Norman Rockwell Museum. You can also visit the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, go on a scenic train ride with the Berkshire Scenic Railway, or explore the charming downtown area filled with unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Foodie Alert: Lenox's Haven Cafe & Bakery offers a wide variety of fresh-baked goods and sandwiches using locally sourced ingredients.
3. Northampton, MA
Northampton is a vibrant college town located in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, just a short drive from Lenox. It is known for its diverse community, liberal politics, and thriving arts and music scene. You can visit the Smith College Museum of Art, explore the historic Calvin Theatre, or walk around the lively downtown area that is filled with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
Foodie Alert: Northampton's Paul and Elizabeth's Restaurant offers healthy and hearty vegetarian fare that is sure to impress.
4. Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth is a charming coastal town in southeastern New Hampshire, known for its colonial-era architecture, historic sites, and scenic harbor views. You can visit the Strawbery Banke Museum to learn about the town's history, take a harbor cruise, or simply stroll around the downtown area that is filled with unique boutiques, shops, and restaurants.
Foodie Alert: Portsmouth's The Wellington Room offers upscale seafood dishes and creative cocktails in an elegant setting.
5. Kennebunkport, ME
Kennebunkport is a picturesque coastal town in southern Maine, known for its historic homes, scenic views, and seafood delicacies. You can visit the Walker's Point Estate, the summer home of former President George H.W. Bush, go on a lobster boat tour, or simply relax on the sandy beaches.
Foodie Alert: Kennebunkport's The Clam Shack is a must-visit for its famous lobster rolls, fried clams, and other seafood specialties.
As you can see, there are plenty of exciting places to stop and explore on your road trip from Geneva, NY to Orono, ME. Each of these stops offers a unique blend of history, culture, food, and natural beauty that will make your journey more fun and entertaining. So why not plan your next road trip to include these five unexpected places, and discover the hidden gems of the Northeast for yourself?