Listen to the rhythm of the train's wheels traveling along the tracks but don't get lost in your thoughts. Otherwise, you might miss a skilled storyteller weaving tales or become the "victim" of an old-fashioned train heist. Embark on an unforgettable adventure into the past when you climb aboard this old-fashioned steam train in Pennsylvania.
Watch history unfold when you join one of Steam Into History's historical train rides on the Northern Central Railway.
Your journey begins as soon as you enter the train station where you just might run into friendly locals working on their craft and eager to answer your questions.
Climb aboard the old-fashioned steam train and embark on the one-hour Glen Rock Express or the 2.5 hour Hanover Junction Limited ride, the latter of which includes a half an hour stop in Hanover Junction.
Take the same journey aboard this 1860's replica locomotive that mimics the one that first carried President Abraham Lincoln to the Gettysburg Address and later held his body as he traveled to his final resting place in Springfield, Illinois.
Feel yourself transported to the Civil War-era as seasoned historians share stories of York County's role in the Civil War while the rolling scenery passes by.
Steam Into History hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including a Murder Mystery, Rock 'N Roll Express starring Elvis, The Great Southern Train Raid, and Steam into Christmas.
No matter how long we've lived in Pennsylvania, we've probably come to just take its natural beauty for granted. We don't do it on purpose, but we're so used to it that sometimes we forget to stop and appreciate just how beautiful the place in which we live is. Fall in love with our beautiful state all over again when you visit these scenic Pennsylvania road trip stops. They are some of the most beautiful spots in the state.
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Before you hit the road, there are a few things you'll want to do. You definitely want to make sure you pack everything you'll need during your journey; check out this Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide to make sure you don't forget anything.
Then tap or click on the Pennsylvania Road Trip map below for directions or navigation assistance in Google Maps for this Pennsylvania scenic drive. You can easily customize the road trip to your timeframe and interests. Ready? Let's go!
Let's kick off our road trip at Ricketts Glen State Park, a natural wonder that's brimming with beauty and waterfalls. That's right. If you're up for a challenge, follow the Falls Trail, which measures just over seven miles and gives you an up-close view of 21 waterfalls. Pretty impressive, right? The park also features a sandy beach, boating, and camping. It's picture-perfect in all four seasons. Find out why Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful places in Pennsylvania.
Feel as though you've stepped into a fairy tale at Chanticleer Garden, our next stop. The seasonal gardens offer the perfect opportunity to stop and smell the flowers and to enjoy the fresh air. Explore such pretty gardens as the pond garden, Bell's Woodland, and the Asian Woods. Read more about this hidden gem in Pennsylvania in our previous article.
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Find days, hours, and more information on the official website of Chanticleer Garden.
Our next stop takes us to a rare hidden gem. The White Cliffs of Conoy were formed from waste from nearby quarries over many years. Today, it's accessible (wait until you see the views!) via a picturesque hiking trail. If the name sounds familiar, that's because it's named after the White Cliffs of Dover in England. Read more about this unique Pennsylvania hidden gem and the trail that will take you there.
Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to America's only all-water cave? Yep, and it's the next stop on our road trip. Join a guided boat tour of the all-water cave for a one-of-a-kind adventure. When you're back above ground, do a little gemstone mining, find your way out of a maze, and join a Farm-Nature-Wildlife Tour. See why this Pennsylvania cave is worthy of a spot on your bucket list.
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Stop by the official website of Penn's Cave for days, hours, and more information.
If you love seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, you will absolutely love the charming town of Benezette. You'll see elk just about everywhere you go. Start your visit at the Elk Country Visitor Center, where you can learn a bit about the elk and watch them from viewing areas. Even if you just want to drive through town, you're sure to see a whole lot of elk as you pass through. Discover why Benezette is a prime day trip destination in Pennsylvania by reading our previous article.
Our next stop takes us to the most remote spot in Pennsylvania, Hammersley Wild Area. The area is so remote you won't have cell service, and motorized vehicles are not allowed in the area. However, you can explore on one of the hiking trails, like the Twin Sisters Trail. Read more about this natural wonder in Pennsylvania.
Are you falling in love with Pennsylvania all over again? If you haven't yet, you surely will at our next stop. Susquehannock State Forest spans a quarter of a million acres. It's brimming with pure natural beauty and a ton to do for the whole family. Plan to spend at least a night - maybe even camp overnight - at this natural wonder that offers hiking, biking, ATV riding, picnicking, and horseback riding. Visit the official website of Susquehannock State Forest for more information.
What other Pennsylvania road trip stops would you add? Let us know in the comments! Up for another road trip? This family-friendly road trip in Pennsylvania will take you to whimsical attractions, themed restaurants, and more.
We all need a little bit of spontaneity in our lives, but actually being spontaneous? Well, that's a little harder sometimes, especially when it comes to getting away. We all lead such busy lives that taking off for a weekend road trip through Pennsylvania on a whim might be a bit difficult. Maybe this will help. Take a peek at the following road trip; customize it, and put it aside. Next time you've got some free time, hit the road for a spontaneous adventure.
Easily customize the Google Maps road trip through Pennsylvania. Add or remove stops; start at another point, or follow the road trip as it is. Whatever you do, hit the road and have fun.
Let's start our road trip in the darling tiny village of Eagles Mere, home to around 151 year-round residents. Stroll around the adorable village, stopping to visit the quaint shops, the Eagles Mere Auto Museum, and the Eagles Mere Air Museum. In the winter, when the temperatures permit, zip down Lake Avenue on the toboggan slide, a village tradition for more than a century.
Our next stop brings us to Street of Shops, an old-fashioned shopping village that boasts more than 500 shops. Stroll through the indoor shopping center, where you'll find a little bit of everything, from home decor to candles. If you enjoy hunting for treasures, head to the flea market in the basement. Save time, too, to grab a homecooked meal from The Restaurant. If you're in a hurry, take it to go. You'll need plenty of energy for our next stop.
Weekends are a time to relax and have fun. A ton of fun and activities await at The Works of Wyomissing. Play your favorite arcade games; zip down slides; try your hand at laser tag, and race around the go-kart track. The entertainment center also has several restaurants, making it easy to fuel up for your next adventure.
Let's slow things down with a visit to The Arboretum at Penn State, an idyllic spot for a leisurely walk. The kid-friendly attraction is open all year and features gardens, fountains, and a lotus pool.
We'll be treated to some of the best views in Pennsylvania at Hyner View State Park. At just six acres, the state park promises some high-flying fun if you're a bit of a daredevil. Hang gliding is a popular activity but, if you're not up for the adrenaline rush, enjoy a picnic and take time to admire those stunning views.
Sink your teeth into one of Pennsylvania's best cheesesteak sandwiches at Forksville’s Big Mike’s Steaks & Hoagies. Pair your award-winning sandwich with a hearty helping of Dirty Jersey Fries. If you're visiting on a lovely day, claim one of the picnic tables on the front lawn and enjoy the fresh air and the views. The picnic area overlooks an enchanting covered bridge and Loyalsock Creek.
Our final stop brings us to Worlds End State Park, a nearly 800-acre state park that offers a full menu of activities. Marvel at a beautiful waterfall on the Double Run Nature Trail; swim in the cold water of Loyalsock Creek in the summer, and cast a line for a bit of fishing. If a day doesn't seem long enough, spend the night. Cabins are available for rent, or you can pitch a tent or park your RV.
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Where are your favorite places to visit on a weekend road trip through Pennsylvania? Were any included in this road trip in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! If this weekend journey hasn't cured your wanderlust, get out there and explore some more. Start with another of the best road trips in Pennsylvania. Before heading out on any road trip, check out the OIYS road trip essentials packing list.
