The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to Pittston, Pennsylvania
Are you looking for a scenic and unforgettable road trip experience from Allentown to Pittston in Pennsylvania? This 64-mile journey offers the perfect opportunity for adventure seekers to explore some of the state's stunning landscapes, historic sites and quirky attractions. So, buckle up, pack some snacks and let's take a drive to some of the top places to see on this road trip.
Start of the Journey: Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown is located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, and boasts an array of popular attractions such as the Allentown Art Museum, the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, and the Lehigh Valley Zoo. However, we recommend checking out the following places before starting your journey:
Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a collection of nine wineries specializing in premium Pennsylvania wines. The trail offers a beautiful journey through the picturesque vineyards and sampling some of the best wines from the region.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary: If you're a nature enthusiast, you can't miss the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. This sanctuary offers a haven for birds of prey and migratory birds, and bird watchers can witness thousands of hawks and eagles soaring above the mountains. Additionally, the sanctuary boasts 8 miles of hiking trails and breathtaking scenic views of the countryside.
Let's hit the road: Top places to see when driving from Allentown, Pennsylvania to Pittston, Pennsylvania.
1. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Jim Thorpe is a charming historic town located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, named after the famous athlete Jim Thorpe. This town was previously known as Mauch Chunk, and the name was later changed to honor Jim Thorpe, who had no specific connection to the town. However, the town's natural beauty and wealth of historic sites make it worth the stop. Here are a few places to check out:
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway: Interested in a scenic train ride? The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers a panoramic view of the Lehigh River Gorge in one of the most beautiful settings. The train passes through fascinating rock formations, clearings, and some of the region's most magnificent landscapes.
Asa Packer Mansion: The Asa Packer Mansion is one of the town's most significant landmarks and a perfect representation of the Victorian architecture style. The mansion once belonged to Asa Packer, the town's founder and a prominent coal industrialist. The mansion has now been converted into a museum showcasing the history of this iconic figure and the Victorian era.
2. Hickory Run State Park
Hickory Run State Park is a breathtaking natural attraction located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, and it boasts over 16,000 acres of pristine wilderness. The park offers a wealth of outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. This park is a great place to unwind and relax in nature.
Some of the sites to check out include:
Hickory Run Boulder Field: This is a must-see site, designated a national natural landmark. The boulder field features over 16 acres of rocks, making it a popular destination for hikers and visitors alike.
Shades of Death Trail: The Shades of Death Trail is a beautiful hiking trail that leads through dense forests and glistening streams. This trail is perfect for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the natural ecosystem of the park.
3. Steamtown National Historic Site
Located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the Steamtown National Historic Site is a must-see destination for any train enthusiast. The museum houses a broad collection of steam trains, many of which are operational, and visitors can take a ride on a steam train for an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the highlights:
Steamtown Roundhouse: The Steamtown Roundhouse is an impressive building with 37 stalls, housing mainline steam engines, historic locomotives, and freight cars. Visitors can tour the roundhouse to explore the historic vehicles and learn about their contributions to America's transportation industry.
Train Rides: Visitors can take a scenic train ride and experience what it was like to travel across the country by train. The train ride takes you through the valley and allows you to soak up the serene views of the Pocono Mountains.
Conclusion
The road trip from Allentown to Pittston is a journey that will stay with you forever. You'll see the fantastic sights, historic sites and scenic routes that define Pennsylvania. So, if you're ready for an adventure, start packing and hit the road, and explore this beautiful part of the country.