Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from California to Vermont

Driving across the country is an excellent way to see the diverse landscapes and cultures that the United States has to offer. From the sunny beaches of California to the bright foliage of Vermont, the journey takes approximately 42 hours of driving time with scenic parks, roadside attractions, and some hidden gems to discover.

The halfway point on this journey falls at 500 NW 27th St, Lincoln, NE 68528, USA. This is approximately a 21-hour drive from either endpoint but serves as an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a quick bite, and explore what this part of the country has to offer.

1. Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis, Missouri

Located in downtown St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park is a must-see for visitors. The iconic arch stands as a symbol of American pioneering spirit, representing Jefferson's vision of a "gateway to the West." Completed in 1965 and designed by architect Eero Saarinen, the monument stands 630 feet tall, overlooking the Mississippi River. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of the westward expansion or take a tram ride to the observation deck for a stunning view of the city. Don't miss out on the famous St. Louis-style ribs at Pappy's Smokehouse, rated among the best BBQ joints in America.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

The Mammoth Cave National Park is the world's longest cave system, with over 400 miles of cave passageways located beneath the rolling hills of Kentucky. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave system to learn about its geological history and its ecological inhabitants, such as bats and cave crickets. This underground world is a surreal experience, dotted with massive chambers and delicate formations. Above ground, the park also offers hiking trails through the surrounding forests and rivers. Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and a visit to Maker's Mark Distillery is a perfect way to experience the region's rich history.

3. Hershey's Chocolate World, Hershey, Pennsylvania

Who doesn't love chocolate? Hershey's Chocolate World is a place where visitors can explore the sweetest place on earth, learn about the chocolate-making process, enjoy various tastings, and take a chocolate-making class. There's even a 4D chocolate Mystery experience for families. With a range of interactive exhibits and attractions, Hershey's Chocolate World is an excellent diversion to break up the long drive. And, of course, don't forget to stock up on some delicious Hershey's chocolate before leaving.

4. Ben & Jerry's Factory, Waterbury, Vermont

Ben & Jerry's is an American ice cream brand that must be on your list when visiting the Northeast. A tour of the factory takes visitors through the fascinating ice cream-making process and the company's commitment to social responsibility. Be sure to visit the tasting room to try some of their most famous flavors like Chunky Monkey or Phish Food. Outside the factory, there are beautiful walking trails through the Vermont countryside, and the Farmers' Market in nearby Montpelier is the perfect spot to buy locally made Vermont products.

5. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

The rugged terrain of Badlands National Park offers visitors a unique and beautiful landscape to explore. With dramatic formations, other-worldly rock spires, and deep canyons, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Visitors can hike to the Notch Trail, which offers stunning views of the White River Valley or explore the Sage Creek Wilderness area's wild prairie. After a day of exploring, stop by Wall Drug, a quirky and fun roadside attraction to enjoy some of their famous donuts and 5-cent coffee.

In conclusion, driving across America provides a unique opportunity to see the country up close and stumble upon unexpected treasures. While the journey from California to Vermont takes a considerable amount of time, breaking it down into smaller chunks and exploring places along the way can be a fun and memorable experience. Whether it's exploring the Mammoth Cave National Park or tasting some of Ben & Jerry's famous ice-cream, this journey can be packed with amazing experiences and moments that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, get in your car, and take on the open road!