Top Places to See When Driving From Allentown, Pennsylvania to North Laurel, Maryland

Driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to North Laurel, Maryland can be an enjoyable experience as you get to take in some stunning scenery and explore unique places. The approximately 160-mile drive takes around 3 hours depending on the route you choose. If you are planning to make the trip, you will be glad to know that there are plenty of places worth visiting along the way.

Here are some top destinations you should not miss when driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to North Laurel, Maryland.

Stunning views at Hawk Mountain

The first stop on your drive should be the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located in Kempton, Pennsylvania, and is a 30-minute drive from Allentown. This is a perfect place to stretch your legs and experience some stunning views.

Hawk Mountain is a well-known destination for birdwatchers, as more than 18 species of raptor birds fly overhead throughout the year. The sanctuary has several trails that range in difficulty levels. You can also visit the Visitor's Center and learn about the history of the sanctuary and its conservation efforts.

Revolutionary War history at Valley Forge National Historical Park

Continue your drive for about an hour and stop at Valley Forge National Historical Park. The park is located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and is rich in Revolutionary War history. It was here that George Washington and his troops spent the winter of 1777-1778.

The park has plenty of trails, monuments, and exhibits to explore, making it a must-visit destination. You can take a guided tour or explore the park on your own, and see the soldiers' huts, the Washington Memorial Chapel, and the Muhlenberg Brigade huts, among other attractions.

Antique shopping in Adamstown, Pennsylvania

Head to Adamstown, Pennsylvania, which is a 30-minute drive from Valley Forge National Historical Park. Known as the "Antiques Capital of the USA," Adamstown has more than 20 antique shops, making it the perfect stop for collectors.

You can spend hours browsing through the shops, which offer antiques ranging from furniture to vintage clothing. You can also find unique items that you can't find anywhere else, making it an exciting stop on your drive.

The historical Frederick, Maryland

The next stop on your drive should be the historic city of Frederick, Maryland. The city was established in 1745 and is home to several museums and attractions.

You can visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and learn about the medical practices of the Civil War era. You can also visit the Historic District, which has more than 200 buildings of different architectural styles. You can also take a walk along Carroll Creek Park, which has beautiful landscaping and sculptures.

The charm of Old Ellicott City

Your final stop should be Old Ellicott City in Maryland. The town is located ten miles west of North Laurel and is a charming historic district with unique shops, restaurants, and museums.

You can stroll along the main street, which has several shops selling antiques, specialty products, and unique gifts. You can also visit the Ellicott City Station, which served as a stop on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 19th century. Another attraction is the Patapsco Female Institute, which was a school for girls in the early 19th century.

Conclusion

Driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to North Laurel, Maryland is an exciting journey with plenty of fascinating places to visit along the way. From stunning views to historical sites and unique shopping destinations, you will find something for everyone on this road trip. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or a collector, the stops on this list will not disappoint you. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the scenic drive!