Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Arlington, TX and Boston, MA

Driving from Arlington, Texas to Boston, Massachusetts is certainly a journey. Covering over 1,500 miles, the trip takes approximately 23 hours of driving time alone, with many varied and exciting stops along the way. This article highlights five of the most unexpected and delightful unexpected stops on the route, offering a chance to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of these unique destinations.

Morristown, TN: The Halfway Point

Morristown, Tennessee, is the perfect halfway point between Arlington and Boston. This small town of 30,000 people is located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and offers breathtaking scenery for nature lovers. The town is also home to a vibrant historic district, consisting of over 75 unique buildings, including churches, stores, and schools. For foodies, Morristown offers a range of Southern-inspired cuisine, including pulled pork sandwiches, fried catfish fillets, and traditional cornbread. For the perfect Southern hospitality experience, check out the popular J. Gumbo's restaurant on West Morris Boulevard.

1. Tunica, MS: Delta Blues Heaven

Tunica, Mississippi, is a must-visit destination on the way to Boston. Often called the "Gateway to the Blues," this small town is widely recognized as the birthplace of blues music and is home to the world-famous Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall. The property boasts a beautiful casino, luxury rooms, and suites, and live entertainment every night of the week. However, the real draw for music lovers is the celebrated Blues and Legends Hall of Fame Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of legendary blues performers such as Robert Johnson, B.B. King, and Muddy Waters. For foodies, Tunica is all about deep-fried Southern comfort food, including chicken and waffles and fried catfish. Make sure to stop by the Blue & White Restaurant for their award-winning chili-cheeseburger and onion rings.

2. Louisville, KY: Bourbon and Baseball

Louisville, Kentucky, is a vibrant and exciting addition to any road trip itinerary. The city is home to the Louisville Slugger Museum, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Kentucky Derby Museum. But the real attraction in Louisville is baseball and bourbon - and the city has no shortage of either. Baseball fans can visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and explore the history of baseball's iconic bat, or take in a game at the Louisville Slugger Field. Bourbon lovers can sip on Kentucky's finest whiskey at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience or the Angel's Envy Distillery. Foodies won't want to miss the iconic hot brown at The Brown Hotel, a legendary open-faced sandwich featuring turkey, bacon, Mornay sauce, and Parmesan cheese.

3. Niagara Falls, NY: Natural Wonders

No matter how many photographs or videos you have seen of Niagara Falls, nothing compares to the real-life experience of standing at the top of the observation deck and feeling the full force of the water. Niagara Falls is an awe-inspiring natural wonder, and no trip from Arlington to Boston is complete without a stop here. Visitors can explore the Niagara Gorge, take a Maid of the Mist boat tour across the Niagara River, or visit the Niagara Adventure Theater to learn about the history and geography of the falls. For foodies, Niagara Falls has abundant fresh seafood options, from Cajun-style crawfish at The Red Coach Inn to traditional fish and chips at The Anchor Bar.

4. Burlington, VT: Outdoor Adventure

Burlington, Vermont, may not be the first place you think of for outdoor adventure, but it should be. Known for its rugged natural beauty and breathtaking views, Burlington is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington offers year-round activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and fishing. Visitors can take a scenic boat tour of the lake, stroll through the Burlington Farmer's Market, or learn about local history at the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum. For foodies, Burlington is well-known for its farm-to-table restaurants, including Hen of the Wood, where the menu changes daily based on what is available at local farmers' markets.

5. Salem, MA: Witches and History

No road trip from Arlington to Boston would be complete without a stop in Salem, Massachusetts. The city is known for its witch trials in the late 17th century and is home to numerous museums and walking tours that explore this fascinating chapter of American history. Visitors can explore the Salem Witch Museum, take a walking tour of the city's most haunted sites, or visit the Peabody Essex Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world. For foodies, Salem offers a range of New England seafood favorites, such as lobster rolls and fresh clam chowder, at popular spots like Turner's Seafood and The Lobster Shanty.

Conclusion

A road trip from Arlington to Boston offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most iconic sites and cities in the United States. From the natural beauty of Niagara Falls to the rich history of Salem, there is something for everyone along this route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the unexpected treasures that await you on this unforgettable journey.