Top Places to See When Driving From Allentown, Pennsylvania to Dallas, Texas
Are you planning a road trip from Allentown, Pennsylvania to Dallas, Texas? This long-distance drive will take you through some breathtaking natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and bustling cities. If you're looking for some great stops along the way to break up the journey, you're in luck. We've put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to Dallas, Texas.
So buckle up, hit the open road, and explore these amazing destinations as you make your way down south.
1. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Your first stop on your journey to Dallas is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. This quaint town is situated where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, making it one of the most picturesque towns in the state. Harpers Ferry is steeped in history, and you can see it in the architecture of the buildings that line the streets here.
One of the most popular attractions in Harpers Ferry is the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, which tells the story of the town's role in the Civil War. The park is home to several hiking trails, including the Maryland Heights trail, which boasts stunning views of the town from above. You can also check out John Brown's Fort, the home of famed abolitionist John Brown during his raid on the federal arsenal in 1859.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
No road trip is complete without a visit to a national park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best. This park straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, and it is home to some of the most gorgeous natural scenery in America.
Take a drive on the Newfound Gap Road, which offers some of the most stunning views in the park. You can also go hiking on one of the many trails in the park, some of which lead to pristine waterfalls like Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls. Don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife - the park is home to elk, black bears, and more.
3. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park is one of the most unique national parks in the country, as it is the only one that is located within a city. The park is situated in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas, and it is known for its therapeutic hot springs.
Take a walk down Bathhouse Row, which is home to eight historic bathhouses that have been in use since the early 1900s. You can also hike one of the many trails in the park, like the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, which leads to the top of Hot Springs Mountain and offers breathtaking views of the city below. And of course, make sure to take a dip in the hot springs themselves - it's a one-of-a-kind experience you won't forget.
4. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City was the site of one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in American history, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives on that tragic day. The memorial and museum provide a moving and educational experience for anyone who visits.
The outdoor memorial includes a reflecting pool, 168 empty chairs representing those who died in the attack, and a Survivor Tree that was damaged but survived the bombing. Inside the museum, you can learn about the events of the day and the aftermath through exhibits and artifacts. It's a sobering yet important stop on your journey to Dallas.
5. Fort Worth Stockyards, Texas
Your final destination on your road trip to Dallas is Fort Worth, and the Fort Worth Stockyards are a must-see when you're in town. This National Historic District is a tribute to Texas' cattle industry, and it offers visitors a glimpse into the state's cowboy culture.
You can watch a cattle drive, take a guided tour of the area, and even visit a rodeo if you're lucky enough to be in town during one of the rodeo events. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, and you can pick up some authentic Texas souvenirs and cuisine while you're here.
Conclusion
Driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to Dallas, Texas is a long journey, but it's also an opportunity to see some of the best that the eastern United States and the southern United States have to offer. From the historical charm of Harpers Ferry to the natural beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to the poignant memorial in Oklahoma City, there are plenty of places to explore on this road trip. And of course, you can't forget about the Fort Worth Stockyards, which offer a taste of authentic Texas culture. So hit the road and happy travels!