Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cartersville, Georgia and Mountainside, New Jersey

If you're looking for an adventure-filled road trip, consider embarking on a journey from Cartersville, Georgia to Mountainside, New Jersey. This road trip spans over 800 miles and is estimated to take about 12 hours if you avoid heavy traffic. Along the way, you’ll come across quaint towns, stunning natural landscapes, and places that you never knew existed. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey that are worth a visit.

The Halfway Point – Troutville, VA

As you drive through Virginia along I-81, you'll come across Troutville, which is marked as the halfway point between Georgia and New Jersey. It's a small town with a population of less than 500 people, but it's a peaceful getaway from the chaos of the highway. Stop by the Troutville Park, which offers ample shade and a playground for children. Take a stroll along the walking trails or pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the big oak trees. If you're lucky, you might even spot a few deer grazing nearby.

Food to Eat: Enjoy a delicious homemade burger at Coach and Four (or the vegetarian option!) while sipping on a cold brew.

1. Mayberry's Famous Hotdogs – Wytheville, VA

As you leave Troutville behind, continue driving up North on I-77, and you’ll eventually reach Wytheville, VA. If you're a fan of hot dogs, you must make a pit stop at Mayberry's Famous Hotdogs. They've been in business since 1953 and are known for their extensive menu and customer service. You can select from over a dozen hotdog options and toppings including cheese, chili, slaw, and more. The restaurant is decorated in a 1960s vibe, giving it a fun atmosphere to dine in.

Food to Eat: Try the "Dirty Dog," which comes with chili, bacon, cheese, and onions.

2. Foamhenge – Natural Bridge, VA

Just a short drive from Wytheville is a quirky yet fascinating attraction - Foamhenge. It's a replica of the famous Stonehenge in England, but made entirely out of styrofoam. The founder of Foamhenge, Mark Cline, constructed this masterpiece after being inspired by his wife's love for the original Stonehenge. This replica is 96 feet in diameter and weighs around 400 pounds per stone. It's a unique place to visit and click some snaps, and you'll spend some time scratching your head over the creation.

Food to Eat: As you are close to the Natural Bridge, VA, a stop at the Natural Bridge Hotel would be perfect. Savor their famous southern-style fried chicken and biscuits while taking in the scenic views.

3. Flight 93 National Memorial – Shanksville, PA

As you drive further North on I-76, you'll pass through Shanksville, PA, where the Flight 93 National Memorial is located. It's a place to remember the passengers and crew members of Flight 93 who fought against the hijackers during the 9/11 attacks. The memorial covers an area of 2,200 acres and includes a Wall of Names, where all 40 victims' names are inscribed. Visitors can pay their respects by leaving flowers and tributes. The memorial aims to educate visitors about the courage and bravery of the passengers and crew members and is an emotional but must-visit place.

Food to Eat: Dine at the Lincoln Cafe, located on the main street in Mount Pleasant, PA, known for its homemade pies. Try their Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Pie, an indulgent treat!

4. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – Pennsylvania and New Jersey

As you near the end of your journey, take a scenic detour towards the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. It's a 70,000-acre park that spans across Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is a paradise for nature lovers. The park offers hiking trails, canoeing, fishing, and camping opportunities, among other outdoor activities. The Delaware river separates the park into two recreation areas, each with its unique attractions. The park is also home to several waterfalls, including Dingmans Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Pennsylvania. Take a breather and indulge in some nature therapy before completing your journey.

Food to Eat: Visit the Water Gap Country Club in Delaware Water Gap, PA, for their grilled steaks and burgers and a chilled beer.

Conclusion

The journey from Cartersville, Georgia, to Mountainside, New Jersey, is undoubtedly a long one, but these unexpected places on the way are worth the pit stops. With so much to explore and enjoy, from quirky roadside attractions, national memorials to stunning natural landscapes, this trip is perfect for a family getaway or a solo adventure. Make sure to pack some comfy shoes and a positive attitude, and happy road tripping!