Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bellefontaine, Ohio to Virginia Beach, Virginia

If you're embarking on a road trip from Bellefontaine, Ohio to Virginia Beach, Virginia, you're in for a treat. This scenic route takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of eastern United States. The journey lasts about 10 hours, which includes a halfway point in White Sulphur Springs, WV. There are plenty of places to stop and explore along the way, so take your time and enjoy the ride.

Halfway Point: White Sulphur Springs, WV

Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop on this route, we must mention the halfway point: White Sulphur Springs, WV. If you need to stretch your legs, this is a great place to do it. Stop by the Greenbrier, a historic luxury hotel and resort that has been entertaining guests since the late 1700s. Take a tour of the hotel's underground bunker, which was built during the Cold War to house Congress in the event of a nuclear attack. Don't miss the chance to grab lunch at the hotel's on-site restaurant, The Forum.

1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

Located just outside of Cleveland, this national park is a hidden gem that's perfect for nature lovers. Take a hike along the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which takes you through the valley and over the Cuyahoga River. Make sure you stop at Brandywine Falls, a stunning 65-foot waterfall that's one of the park's highlights. For lunch, get a sandwich from Fisher's Cafe and Pub in Peninsula, OH, a cozy spot in the heart of the park.

2. Fallingwater, PA

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this architectural masterpiece is a must-see for anyone who loves design or history. The house is built over a waterfall and was designed to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings. Take a tour of the house and learn about how Wright's ideas about architecture evolved over the course of his career. If you're hungry, grab a bite to eat at the nearby Treetops Restaurant, which has stunning views of the surrounding forest.

3. Skyline Drive, VA

This stunning drive takes you through Shenandoah National Park and offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The route is 105 miles long, but you can choose to start and end wherever you'd like. Along the way, stop at one of the many overlooks to take in the stunning scenery. For lunch, pack a picnic and stop at one of the park's picnic areas.

4. Luray Caverns, VA

These underground caves are a natural wonder that are not to be missed. Take a guided tour of the caves to see the stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Make sure you don't miss the Great Stalacpipe Organ, a one-of-a-kind instrument that uses the stalactites themselves to create music. For lunch, grab a meal at The Speakeasy Restaurant, which is attached to the caverns.

5. Chincoteague Island, VA

This charming island is located just off the coast of Virginia and is famous for its wild ponies. Take a eco-tour of the island to see the ponies up close and learn about the island's history. Don't miss the chance to grab a meal at Bill's Seafood Restaurant, which has been a staple of the island's local food scene for over 60 years.

Conclusion

This road trip from Bellefontaine, Ohio to Virginia Beach, Virginia offers a wealth of unexpected stops that are perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike. From the natural wonder of Luray Caverns to the stunning views of Skyline Drive, there's something for everyone on this trip. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey.