The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Ashburn, VA and Harrisburg, PA

A road trip from Ashburn, Virginia to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a journey packed with history, nature and entertainment. The route is approximately 120 miles long and offers plenty of opportunities to explore. One of the highlights of the journey is the halfway point, Emmitsburg, MD, a small town with big character and a wealth of history. Here are five must-visit places on the journey.

Antietam National Battlefield

The first stop on the trip is Antietam National Battlefield, located just outside Sharpsburg, Maryland. Antietam is one of the most significant battlefields of the Civil War, where the bloodiest single-day battle took place, accounting for 23,000 casualties. Visitors can explore the battlefield, take a guided tour or visit the visitor center to learn more about the battle and its historical significance.

Antietam interesting fact: President Abraham Lincoln used the battlefield as the backdrop for his famous Emancipation Proclamation speech.

Gettysburg National Military Park

Next, is a visit to Gettysburg National Military Park, one of the most important places in American history. Gettysburg is known as the site of the three-day Battle of Gettysburg, which was the turning point of the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the battlefield and take a guided tour to hear about the historical significance of the battle. The park also houses a museum and visitor center that features a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.

Gettysburg interesting fact: The battle saw the participation of almost 170,000 soldiers.

Hersheypark

A visit to Pennsylvania cannot be complete without a visit to Hersheypark. Hersheypark offers endless ride and fun activities for visitors of all ages. The park features roller coasters, water rides, family rides, food and games. With over 70 rides and attractions spread across 121 acres, Hersheypark can easily take up an entire day.

Hersheypark interesting fact: Hershey's Chocolate World is located right next to the amusement park and offers visitors a chance to make their own chocolate bars.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

The Pennsylvania State Capitol building is in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and is regarded as one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the country. The Capitol building features a majestic dome, grand murals, beautiful artwork and stunning architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the building to learn more about its history and see the specific government chambers that function there.

Pennsylvania State Capitol interesting fact: The dome is inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

Indian Echo Caverns

Indian Echo Caverns, located in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, is a unique underground natural wonder. Visitors to the caverns will have the opportunity to go on guided tours of the caverns and admire the stunning limestone formations, crystal-clear lakes, and underground waterfalls. The uniqueness of the Indian Echo Caverns makes it one of the most sought-after underground caverns in the country.

Indian Echo Caverns interesting fact: legend has it that during the war of 1812 British soldiers used the caverns to hide their horses.

After the trip full of fun activities, it is time to head back and reflect on the journey. The journey took a little over two hours. The route offers a blend of history, nature and entertainment and visitors are sure to come away with a greater appreciation for the region and its offerings.