Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from City of Long Beach, New York to Asheville, North Carolina

Long drives can be an exciting way to embark on an adventure, discover new places, and meet new people. The drive from Long Beach, New York, to Asheville, North Carolina, takes approximately twelve hours and covers approximately 750 miles. Along the way, there are plenty of stunning sights, hidden gems, and unusual spots to explore- that may not be on your usual travel radar. Here are five unexpected places you must stop at during the drive:

1. River Street Market - Troy, New York

River Street Market is a charming food hall showcasing a large array of food vendors offering everything from fresh produce to local wines and spirits. Located minutes off the I-87, this market is the perfect place to fill your bellies before embarking on the long drive. The market features a variety of cuisines and dietary restrictions offerings, including Thai street food, bbq, vegan options, and cheese stands. They also have great coffee and fresh juice options to energize your journey. Don't forget to grab some locally made apple cider donuts at the Krave Cafe.

Food To Try: Chicken Pad Thai Bowls at Thai Street Noodle and a Fresh Juice at The Berry Bar.

2. Mario's Pizza and Pasta - Hagerstown, Maryland

Located off the I-70 at Hagerstown, Maryland, Mario's Pizza and Pasta is a family-owned and operated restaurant. It's a favorite spot among locals and travelers alike due to its delicious homemade pizzas and pastas. Their toppings are always fresh, and they offer numerous signature pies like bacon cheeseburger pizza and chicken Alfredo pizza. Its cozy and relaxed ambiance makes it an ideal place to stretch your legs, catch up with family and friends and enjoy some comforting food before continuing your journey.

Food To Try: Margherita Pizza and Garlic Knots.

3. Old Hill Hard Cider - Winchester, Virginia

Old Hill Hard cider is a family-owned craft cidery that produces ciders made from 100% locally sourced apples. The cidery is nestled in the scenic hills of Winchester, Virginia, and offers tours and tastings of their award-winning ciders in a rustic atmosphere overlooking the cidery's stunning orchard. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and is happy to take you through their brewing process. It's a great place to relax and unwind before you hit the road again.

Food To Try: Handmade Charcuterie Board

4. Rooftop AC - Asheville, North Carolina

Rooftop AC is a rooftop bar located on the top of the AC Hotel in Asheville, North Carolina. It boasts one of the best views of the city and offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy cocktails, beers, and wine. The bar features an extensive drink menu and seasonal small plates. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a long drive and enjoy the stunning vista of the Asheville skyline.

Food To Try: Spicy Tuna Poke and House Made Sangria.

5. Abingdon Vineyards - Abingdon, Virginia

Abingdon Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery set in the picturesque countryside of Virginia. Located off the I-81, it's a peaceful place to relax and have a glass of wine in a beautiful setting. The winery's tasting room overlooks the vineyards and offers a variety of reds, whites, and dessert wines. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and encourages visitors to stroll through the vineyards while sipping on their wine offerings.

Food To Try: Virginia Made Cheeses and Charcuterie Board.

Conclusion

Driving from Long Beach, New York, to Asheville, North Carolina, may seem daunting, but it's an adventure worth taking. Along the way, you'll come across some unexpected gems like River Street Market in Troy, Maryland, Mario's Pizza and Pasta in Hagerstown, Old Hill Hard cider in Winchester, Rooftop AC in Asheville, and Abingdon Vineyards in Abingdon. These foodie spots offer a chance to break up the drive, stretch your legs, and take in some of the stunning scenery that makes this part of the US so unique. So take your time, enjoy the ride, and discover new flavors along the way!