Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago to Charlotte
Have you ever taken a road trip from one state to another? The thrill of the open road and the excitement to see new places is always an adventure. On a recent trip from Chicago, Illinois to Charlotte, North Carolina, the author discovered some unexpected locations that are not always on the radar but are definitely worth the visit. This drive took approximately 12 hours with stops and allowed for some unexpected surprises.
As you make your way from the Windy City to the Queen City, it's worth taking a few detours along the way. The halfway point of the journey is Chillicothe, Ohio, where there are several interesting places to stop. Chillicothe is a charming small town with a relaxed vibe where you can really take in the ambiance.
1. The Great Serpent Mound
Make sure you don't miss the Great Serpent Mound - a prehistoric earthwork shaped like a serpent. It is a national historic landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mound is over 1,000 feet long and about 3 feet high, making it a unique place to visit. The site is surrounded by a park with walking trails, perfect for a picnic lunch or for a relaxing break during the road trip.
Must-Try Food
While in Chillicothe, try the famous Buckeye Candy - a delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate. You'll find them in almost any confectionery or candy store in the area.
2. Charleston, West Virginia
Charleston, West Virginia, is another great place to visit on the road trip. The city is the capital of West Virginia and offers a mixture of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. The city is surrounded by panoramic scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains, making it an ideal place to stop and stretch your legs.
Must-Try Food
For a foodie experience, try the famous West Virginian pepperoni roll; it's a soft roll filled with pepperoni, it may sound not that special but locals swear by them!
3. Natural Bridge State Park
South of Lexington, Virginia, lies the Natural Bridge State Park. The park offers a natural bridge that is 20 stories tall and 90 feet wide. The bridge spans over a deep chasm, making it a unique natural wonder that's easily accessible by a short walk on a maintained pathway. The park has a lot of hiking trails and a stunning waterfall that's worth checking out.
Must-Try Food
Virginia is famous for its barbecue, and if you're in the area, make sure to stop by one of the local pit stops, where you'll find some of the best local pork barbecue in the country.
4. Asheboro, North Carolina
Asheboro is a small town located in the heart of North Carolina that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty and small-town charm. The town boasts the North Carolina Zoo, which is home to more than 1,600 animals from around the world. The zoo is spread over 500 acres and offers a unique animal experience that you won't find anywhere else.
Must-Try Food
While in Asheboro, try the local sweet potato pie, made from scratch with locally grown sweet potatoes, it's mouth-watering.
5. Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain is a famous natural landmark in North Carolina. The mountain juts out from the surrounding landscape and offers a dramatic view of the area. The mountain is surrounded by a state park that has several hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a perfect place for a short break during the road trip.
Must-Try Food
Pilot Mountain is known for its local hot dogs, topped with chili, mustard, and onion, or famous Carolina BBQ, served with hushpuppies, coleslaw and BBQ baked beans.
Conclusion
Driving from Chicago to Charlotte can be a long and tiring trip, but by adding in a few unexpected stops along the way, it can turn into an unforgettable adventure. The five locations mentioned above provide a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and food that you won't want to miss. So, next time you plan a road trip, make sure to take the time to explore some of these hidden gems on the way. You won't regret embarking on this journey!