I like the area a bit to the west of the 95 corridor, closer to 81. Come up through the Blue Ridge, a bit west of the BRP and SLD. At the bottom of VA pick up Rt 220 and take that up through WV and MD, PA and into NY at Waverly. I am in the Ithaca NY area if you need anything.

Rt 13 is a nice ride as mentioned.

Have fun!

Rob