Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Kingston, NY to Ellicott City, MD

If you love road trips, then taking a drive from Kingston, New York to Ellicott City, Maryland is a great way to explore the East Coast. This trip covers over 300 miles and takes approximately 5 hours without traffic. However, if you’re like most travelers, you’d prefer to take your time and make several stops along the way. Fortunately, there are plenty of charming towns and exciting sights to see on this route. Here are five unexpected places to stop from Kingston to Ellicott City.

The Halfway Point: Hamilton, NJ (Bold this)

Hamilton, New Jersey is located halfway between Kingston and Ellicott City, making it the perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. One of the must-visit places in Hamilton is the Grounds for Sculpture, which is a sprawling sculpture park and museum that boasts over 275 larger-than-life sculptures. While there, take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds or enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant, Rat’s. For a more historical experience, visit the Sayen House and Gardens, a 19th-century estate that now offers guided tours of its lush gardens.

1. Gettysburg, PA (Bold this)

Travelers interested in American history should not miss Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This small town is the site of the famous Civil War battle, which is considered one of the turning points of the war. Visitors can explore the Gettysburg National Military Park and Museum to learn about the battle’s history and view artifacts from the war. Afterward, enjoy a meal at the historic Dobbin House Tavern, which dates back to 1776 and was once a stop on the Underground Railroad.

2. Harper's Ferry, WV (Bold this)

Harper's Ferry is a quaint town located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. This historic town was once home to abolitionist John Brown and was the site of a pivotal battle during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park or take a stroll through the town’s charming streets lined with shops and restaurants. A must-visit restaurant is The Anvil, which is known for serving delicious burgers and craft beer.

3. Shepherdstown, WV (Bold this)

Shepherdstown is a charming college town that is home to Shepherd University. It's a picturesque place, with many 18th and 19th-century buildings and a lovely waterfront. Visitors should not miss the Shepherdstown Opera House, which was built in 1909 and has been restored to its original glory. The Opera House is currently used as a venue for music, theater, and film events. Another must-visit location is the Blue Moon Cafe, which serves up delicious brunch dishes and homemade baked goods.

4. Frederick, MD (Bold this)

Frederick is a mid-sized city that is located about an hour's drive from Ellicott City. This city has a charming downtown area lined with fabulous shops and restaurants. One of the popular attractions in Frederick is the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, which tells the story of how medicine was practiced during wartime. Afterward, visit The Tasting Room, which serves wines made in Maryland and delicious small plates.

5. Savage, MD (Bold this)

Savage, Maryland is a small town located just outside of Ellicott City. This town has a rich history, dating back to the 18th century, and is now home to the Bollman Truss Railroad Bridge, which is the oldest cast-iron bridge in the country. Visitors can take a tour of the bridge and learn about its history. For lunch, grab a delicious sandwich at Savage Mill, a historic cotton mill that has been converted into a shopping and dining destination.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Kingston, New York, to Ellicott City, Maryland, is a great way to explore the East Coast. By making these five stops along the way, you'll get a taste of history, charming small towns, and delicious food. Whether you're a history buff or just love to explore, you're sure to find something of interest on this trip. So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and hit the road!