Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Akron, Pennsylvania and Caernarvon Township, Pennsylvania

Overview

Akron, Pennsylvania, and Caernarvon Township, Pennsylvania are two charming towns nestled in the picturesque Lancaster County. If you're planning a road trip from Akron to Caernarvon Township, be prepared to be enthralled by the natural beauty, historical sites, and unique experiences that this region has to offer. With the halfway point of Mohnton, PA, acting as a splendid intermission, this journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

Top Five Things to Do

1. Visit the Ephrata Cloister: Located in Ephrata, just a short distance from Akron, the Ephrata Cloister is a fascinating historic site that was once home to a religious community founded in 1732. Today, visitors can wander through the well-preserved architectural marvels and explore lush gardens replete with original 18th-century plants. The Cloister also offers guided tours, providing insights into the ethereal world of the original residents.

   Interesting Fact: The Ephrata Cloister was the site of America's earliest printing press, which produced intricate illuminated manuscripts and hymnals.

2. Discover the Amish Village in Bird-in-Hand: The Amish Village, nestled in the charming hamlet of Bird-in-Hand, is a must-visit for those curious about the unique Amish way of life. Take a guided tour through authentic Amish homes and learn about their traditions, rural crafts, and thriving agriculture. The village also offers a chance to hop onto an authentic Amish buggy for a leisurely ride through picturesque farmlands.

   Interesting Fact: The Amish Village features a one-room schoolhouse that provides education to Amish children up to the eighth grade.

3. Explore the Charming Village of Intercourse: Just a stone's throw away from Bird-in-Hand lies the quaint village of Intercourse. Known for its Amish heritage and craftsmanship, Intercourse offers a plethora of captivating experiences. Delve into the rich traditions of Amish quilting, woodworking, and pottery by visiting various artisan stores and galleries. Visitors can also indulge in mouth-watering homemade Amish delights, including the famous shoofly pie.

   Interesting Fact: The village of Intercourse got its name from two historic crossroads, one of which was an old racecourse where people would "intercourse" or meet and socialize.

4. Marvel at the Strasburg Rail Road: All aboard! The Strasburg Rail Road, located near Strasburg in the heart of Lancaster County, is an iconic attraction that takes visitors on an enchanting journey through time. The oldest continuously operating railroad in the United States, this historic steam train offers scenic rides through the idyllic Lancaster countryside. Enjoy the nostalgic chug of the locomotive as you pass by picturesque farms and rolling hills.

   Interesting Fact: The Strasburg Rail Road has been operating since 1832 and carries passengers on original 19th-century steam locomotives.

5. Immerse in History at the Cornwall Iron Furnace: Enthusiasts of history and industry will be spellbound by a visit to the Cornwall Iron Furnace, nestled in Cornwall County. This remarkable historic site showcases the preserved remains of a 19th-century charcoal-fueled iron-making furnace, exemplifying the area's booming iron industry during the Industrial Revolution. Take a guided tour to witness the colossal blast furnace and learn about the remarkable techniques employed by ironworkers of yesteryears.

   Interesting Fact: The Cornwall Iron Furnace played a significant role in supplying iron products for American troops during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Akron, Pennsylvania, to Caernarvon Township, Pennsylvania is a journey that guarantees cherished memories and awe-inspiring experiences. The route offers a delightful amalgamation of historical wonders, natural beauty, and encounters with the unique Amish culture. With the halfway point at Mohnton, PA, serving as a captivating pit stop, travelers can anticipate a wonderful sojourn that will leave them enamored with Lancaster County's rich heritage and picturesque landscapes. The entire trip can be completed leisurely in one day, allowing ample time to savor each attraction and create lasting memories. So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through scenic Pennsylvania.