Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bourne, MA, to Avis, PA

If you love hitting the open road or simply enjoy short getaways, taking a road trip can be one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have. This is something that Sarah and Andrew realized when they embarked on a journey from Bourne, Massachusetts, to Avis, Pennsylvania, a little over two months ago. The trip took them through scenic routes, with breathtaking views of mountain ranges, ridges, and vast farmland. It's a journey that would, without a doubt, leave you with unforgettable memories to cherish for a lifetime. This article explores the five unexpected places to stop between these two towns, so be sure to read on!

Halfway Point: West Nyack, NY

First on our list is West Nyack, a small town in Rockland County, New York, nestled in the Hudson Valley. Getting there from Bourne, you'll pass through the prosperous city of Worcester, Massachusetts, and enter a section of Route 84 towards Fishkill, where you'll then transfer onto the Palisades Parkway, taking in the stunning views of the Hudson River. West Nyack makes the halfway point of the 325 miles journey, and there are plenty of fun things to do and see here.

1. The Palisades Center

The Palisades Center is one of the largest shopping and entertainment centers in the United States, boasting four floors of over 200 stores and restaurants, an ice rink, movie theaters, and indoor skydiving. It's a perfect place to stretch your legs after a long haul on the road. You could grab some cinammon pretzels from Auntie Anne's or a cappuccino from Starbucks before checking out the latest trends in fashion from H&M or Abercrombie & Fitch. And if you're traveling with the kids, make sure to check out Billy Beez, a family playground that offers an indoor obstacle course and a giant slide.

Food tip: For an appetizing meal, don't look any further than Yard House, an American Sports Bar that serves up amazing pub fare and brews.

2. The Forest Park Carousel

The high-pitched screams of excitement and the carnival music will be your cue that you’ve arrived at the Forest Park Carousel, located on Woodhaven Boulevard, Queens, New York. This is the second-hand painted, wooden-carved, and the only carousel in New York City to be designated as a New York City Landmark. It has been in continuous operation since 1903, and though it can be quite a bit of a drive from West Nyack, it's definitely worth it. You’ll be spinning into a world of imagination and beauty as the horses gallop up and down and the colorful lights dance on the ceiling. There's just something magical about the old-fashioned charm of a carousel, so don't miss out on a ride!

Food tip: You could grab some ice cream from Ralph's Italian Ices, located just a few walks down from Forest Park.

3. The Historic Huguenot Street

Huguenot Street is a perfect historic place to visit, dating back to the early eighteenth century. This small street will take you back in time, featuring seven stone houses constructed by French Huguenots who settled in New Paltz, New York. The street has some of the oldest and best-preserved stone houses in America, with buildings that still retain their original beauty, charm and, character. Plan your trip in late September, and you could catch the annual Fall Harvest Street Fair, which features a wide range of activities like apple cider pressing, butter churning, and corn shucking.

Food tip: For some fantastic lunch or dinner options, try out La Charla, just a few blocks from Huguenot Street.

4. The American Museum of Natural History

As you begin to near your final stop, Avis, Pennsylvania, you'll want to make one last stop at the American Museum of Natural History located on 79th Street in Central Park West, New York City. This is undoubtedly one of the most famous museums in the world, with over 30 million specimens and artifacts from the world over. There are four stories of exhibitions, including fossils, dinosaur bones, and space-related history—don’t forget to check out the planetarium and the Butterfly Conservatory. Whether you're a science buff or a casual visitor, there's something at this museum that will undoubtedly intrigue and delight you. It's an excellent way to break up a long drive, and by the time you are done, you'll be refreshed and energized to continue the remaining journey.

Food tip: The Museum's food court has a wide range of options, from burgers and fries to salads and coffee.

5. The Hershey's Chocolate World

Last but certainly not least is Hershey's Chocolate World, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It's a truly immersive experience that lets you explore and taste the world of chocolate. From the interactive factory tour to the "create your candy bar" attraction, you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. Guests can experience a 4D Chocolate Mystery show, sample delicious chocolate drinks, and even take home some chocolate-making skills. It's essentially a chocolate lover's paradise, and even those who aren't die-hard chocoholics will find this stop a blast.

Food tip: You can't leave Hershey's Chocolate World without trying some of their famous chocolate bars, so don't forget to grab a few!

Conclusion

The road trip from Bourne, Massachusetts, to Avis, Pennsylvania, is undoubtedly one of the most scenic routes in the Northeast, and making stops at these five unexpected places along the way only enhances the experience. From exploring abandoned mansions, feasting on sweet things, checking out old carousels, and diving deep into history, this trip is filled with adventures that will keep you and the family entertained. Let this article be an inspiration for your next journey, and we guarantee it'll be an unforgettable one.