Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ithaca, New York to Jersey City, New Jersey
If you're looking for an impromptu road trip from Ithaca, New York, to Jersey City, New Jersey, there are plenty of options along the way that will make the journey even more special. This 243-mile stretch takes about four hours by car, but feel free to spend more time in the unexpected places to stop that the drive has to offer. Here are five places along the drive that you should consider making pit stops at.
Halfway Point: Covington Twp, PA
Before we dive into specific places to check out along the way, it's important to mention the halfway point on this long drive - Covington Township in Pennsylvania. This location is a great place to take a break and stretch your legs. Take some time to enjoy nature as this area is home to several state parks and forests, including Big Pocono State Park, Frances Slocum State Park, and Gouldsboro State Park.
1. Watkins Glen State Park (Watkins Glen, NY)
Located about an hour and a half into the drive from Ithaca, Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit location. The park's centerpiece is a 400-foot gorge that features 200-foot cliffs, 19 waterfalls, and miles of hike-able trails. The park is open year-round and offers trails for all skill levels, so make sure you take some time to explore it all. After a day of hiking, head to the nearby Seneca Lake and indulge in a glass of wine at one of the many vineyards in the area.
Food to eat: Grab a bite to eat at The Glen Mountain Market, which offers delicious breakfast sandwiches, soups, and sandwiches.
2. Corning Museum of Glass (Corning, NY)
If you're a fan of art and history, the Corning Museum of Glass is a must-visit location about two hours into the drive. It is home to one of the world's most extensive collections of glass art and artifacts - spanning over 35 centuries. The museum allows visitors to engage with the glass-making process, learn about the history of glass, and even make their own glass art to take home as a unique souvenir.
Food to eat: Visit the museum's restaurant, The Café, for lunch. The restaurant offers delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups.
3. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Stroudsburg, PA)
Stretching over 70,000 acres and spanning two states, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is about three hours into the drive and is the perfect place to take a break and reconnect with nature. The park offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming. If you're feeling adventurous, take a kayak or a canoe out on the Delaware River.
Food to eat: For a quick bite to eat, stop by The Charcuterie, a small deli that offers delicious sandwiches and salads.
4. Crayola Experience (Easton, PA)
Located about three and a half hours into the drive, the Crayola Experience in Easton is one stop that is fun for the entire family. The experience offers a variety of engaging activities that allow visitors to explore art and hands-on projects. With 26 attractions, there is something for everyone - from making your own marker to creating digital art.
Food to eat: There are plenty of food options at the Crayola Experience, but if you're looking to explore other options, head over to Stoke Coal Fire Pizza for a mouth-watering pizza.
5. The New Jersey State Botanical Garden (Ringwood, NJ)
The final stop on this drive is the New Jersey State Botanical Garden. Located about four hours into the drive, this beautiful garden offers visitors a chance to relax and reconnect with nature. The garden boasts 96 acres of specialty gardens, woodlands, wetlands, and open space, which are home to over 1,000 types of plants and trees.
Food to eat: The Skylands Manor Restaurant, located inside the gardens, offers delicious meals with a spectacular view of the garden.
Conclusion
For anyone looking to make the drive from Ithaca, New York, to Jersey City, New Jersey, there are plenty of ways to break up the journey. Taking these unexpected detours and visiting these unique locations makes any road trip more exciting and unforgettable. Whether it's exploring a state park, gaining a new appreciation for art, reconnecting with nature, or creating a unique souvenir, these five stops are sure to add some extra excitement to the drive. So pack up the car, get behind the wheel, and create some unforgettable memories along the way.