Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from North Tonawanda, NY to Virginia Beach, VA
Driving from North Tonawanda, New York to Virginia Beach, Virginia takes approximately nine hours through great American landscapes. This route takes drivers down the I-79 and I-95, passing through bustling cities, agricultural land, and majestic mountains. The picturesque views and following route are some of the reasons why traveling by car is Americans' favorite way of discovering the country. In this article, we will reveal five unexpected places that drivers should visit, making pit stops on their journey down south.
The Halfway Point: Clear Spring, MD
Before we dive into the roadside attractions to explore, let's highlight the midway point: Clear Spring, Maryland. This small town is located precisely halfway through the journey from North Tonawanda, New York, to Virginia Beach, Virginia. The town is a perfect place to take a break, stretch, and grab some refreshments. There is nothing more comforting than the small-town vibe of Clear Spring.
1. Luray Caverns in Luray, Virginia
The Luray Caverns are a majestic network of underground caves located in the Shenandoah Valley in Northern Virginia. Visitors can stroll through chamber after chamber of spectacular natural wonders: stalactites, stalagmites, crystal-clear pools, and breathtaking stone formations. This underground wonderland provides travelers with an experience they will never forget. Our recommendation is that travelers experience the Great Stalacpipe Organ, an instrument that leans against crystallized stones and plays music, making the cave's formations sing. Besides these incredible sights, on the premises, visitors can find a park to picnic and the Car and Carriage Museum to learn more about the history of transportation.
Favorite food to eat in Luray, VA: Guests can grab a bite at "Brookside Restaurant," where they serve up mouth-watering Southern-style cuisine and are famous for their hearty breakfasts.
2. The Birthplace of Pepsi in New Bern, North Carolina
New Bern, North Carolina is the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, and on the downtown strip, visitors can tour the birthplace of the famous beverage. The museum traces the evolution of the Pepsi brand and quenches visitors' thirst with interactive exhibits. New Bern itself is an ideal place to make a pit stop as it reconnects visitors to the past with magnificent architecture and cultural heritage. The city was a thriving seaport and a center of government for colonial and post-colonial North Carolina, making it an essential place to visit for history buffs.
Favorite food to eat in New Bern, NC: The "Morgan's Tavern & Grill " offers visitors upscale Southern cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Elite restaurant guide "Michelin" has recommended Morgan's as a "Little Gem" in New Bern.
3. Taliaferro County in Crawfordville, Georgia
Driving through Crawfordville, Georgia, visitors, will be surprised by its rolling hills, farms, and small-town charm. However, what may be unexpected is the fact that Taliaferro County has no traffic lights, no fast food joints, and no banks - Chattooga Belle Farm (Summerville, SC), only one of two in Georgia. The county aims to be a place of peacefulness, and after the hustle and bustle of everyday life, visitors can get a taste of simplicity. Crawfordville has beautifully preserved antebellum houses and quaint shops, visitors can engage in long conversations with the locals or enjoy ginger tea from the "Williamson Tea Room" on the square.
Favorite food to eat in Crawfordville, GA: Chattooga Belle Farm (Summerville, SC), the only fast-food joint in the county, is 1 hour drive from Crawfordville. The "Belle" has food service Tuesday through Sunday and gives visitors the chance to take in the beautiful mountain setting while enjoying lunch. The farm features the South's largest peach orchard, making incredible baked goods like pies, bread, and muffins.
4. Big Walker Lookout in Wytheville, Virginia
Traveling through Wytheville, Virginia, visitors come across another top attraction, the Big Walker Lookout. The Lookout towers over Canyon Ridge, providing an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The Lookout is an example of Blue Ridge post-and-beam architecture at its best, making the homey structure a majestic sight to behold.
Favorite food to eat in Wytheville, VA: The "Log House 1776" in Wytheville, Virginia, is a place of history, serving customers since 1776. The restaurant focuses on providing a welcoming atmosphere and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. Their traditional Virginia country ham is a favorite for tourists and locals alike.
5. Chincoteague Island in Accomack County, Virginia
Chincoteague Island is a beautiful place to finish one's journey from North Tonawanda, New York, to Virginia Beach, Virginia. It's only a short distance from Virginia Beach and offers a remote and peaceful retreat to finish the trip. The Island is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, providing the ideal spot for a weekend escape. The Island has long stretches of beaches, clear waters to swim, and natural wildlife, such as the famous Chincoteague ponies. Visitors will feel like they have landed in a whole new world as they explore the Island's picturesque beauty.
Favorite food to eat in Chincoteague Island, VA: "Island Creamery" is a Chincoteague Island classic specializing in homemade ice cream that tastes like real food. Their claim to fame is the fresh butterfat sourced from a nearby family farm, making the ice cream incredibly rich and filling.
A Road Trip to Remember
In conclusion, this road trip from North Tonawanda, New York, to Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers a plethora of activities, places, and people to explore. Traveling by car on this journey will provide an unforgettable experience that highlights America's beauty, history, and culture. A road trip gives you total flexibility to explore at your pace and to enjoy all stops mentioned above. So, if you're feeling brave and adventurous, pack your car, gather some friends or family, and hit the road. There's no time like the present to embark on an adventure.