Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Atlanta, Georgia to Aberdeen, Maryland
Driving from Atlanta, Georgia to Aberdeen, Maryland is a long and tiring journey, but it doesn't have to be boring. With so many interesting and unique places to visit along the way, the trip can be packed with adventure and excitement. The 770-mile drive takes approximately 12 hours, but it's worth taking your time to explore the hidden gems along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop and explore during your road trip.
Halfway Point: Mebane, NC
Before diving into each of the five unique destinations, let's first talk about the halfway point: Mebane, NC. Located just off Interstate 40, Mebane is a quaint little town that offers plenty of things to see and do. It's the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore some of the local attractions.
1. Tanger Outlets, Mebane, NC
Tanger Outlets is a shopping paradise in Mebane, NC, with more than 80 stores to explore. With various brand name stores and designer outlets, you can find great deals on clothes, accessories, and housewares. The shopping center is very well maintained, with clean restrooms, a playground for kids, and many places to sit and relax. Make sure to stop by the Customer Service Center to get a coupon book that has additional discounts on top of the already low prices.
Favorite Food: For a quick snack after all that shopping, try the pepperoni roll from Auntie Anne's or the pretzel bites from Wetzel's Pretzels.
2. Körner's Folly, Kernersville, NC
Built-in 1880 by the eccentric Jule Körner, Körner's Folly is an unusual yet remarkable structure. The 22-room house has seven different levels, each with its own unique design. Körner, a famous portrait artist, designed and named each room after a famous painting. The house was used for artist studios, shops, and as a backdrop for a 1956 movie. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the house and learn about its history and architectural details.
Favorite Food: For a delicious cup of coffee and a tasty pastry, head to Hot Shots Coffeehouse in downtown Kernersville.
3. Virginia Safari Park, Natural Bridge, VA
Get up close and personal with exotic animals at the Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge. The 180-acre drive-thru park lets you see more than 1,000 animals from six different continents. Lions, tigers, bear, giraffes, and zebras are just a few of the creatures you'll encounter as you drive through the park. You can also walk around the park to visit the petting zoo and see some small animals like kangaroos, lemurs, and sloths.
Favorite Food: Satisfy your hunger with a classic burger and fries from the Safari Grill inside the park.
4. Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas, VA
History buffs will appreciate a stop at Manassas National Battlefield Park, the site of two significant Civil War battles. The park offers guided tours that take you through different parts of the park, and you can walk the trails and read the informative signs to learn more about the battles that took place here. The park is also home to a visitor center with exhibits and a gift shop.
Favorite Food: Enjoy a Southern-style meal at Dixie Bones BBQ, located just a few miles from the park. Try the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mac and cheese.
5. Knoebels Amusement Park, Elysburg, PA
Knoebels Amusement Resort is a throwback to a simpler time, with classic rides, family-friendly attractions, and a vintage feel. The park is free to enter, and visitors pay for rides as they go, making it an affordable option for families. The park has a variety of attractions, including a wooden roller coaster, a haunted mansion, a carousel, and many kiddie rides. The park also features a water park, a golf course, and a campground, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend stay.
Favorite Food: Knoebels is famous for its potato cakes, which are basically deep-fried mashed potato balls seasoned with garlic and onion.
Conclusion
This 770-mile road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Aberdeen, Maryland can be an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, history, and unexpected surprises. From shopping and sightseeing to museum and amusement park stops, there's something for everyone along the way. So pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and embark on this incredible journey that will take you through five unique and unexpected destinations.