Points of Interest between Athens, Tennessee to Carlisle, Pennsylvania

picture of Athens, Tennessee

The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Athens, Tennessee to Carlisle, Pennsylvania

The 636-mile journey from Athens, Tennessee to Carlisle, Pennsylvania is a beautiful and exciting drive that will take you through some of the best parts of the United States. This road trip offers spectacular views, exciting attractions, and a chance to experience the charm of the Appalachian region. The halfway point of this trip is Pembroke, VA which is known for its stunning mountain views and quaint small-town charm.

Top Five Things to Do on a Road Trip from Athens, Tennessee to Carlisle, Pennsylvania

1. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination on your road trip. With over 500,000 acres of land, the park is home to stunning vistas, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife. Visitors can drive along the park's scenic roads, hike some of the park's trails, and enjoy the beautiful landscape. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including black bears, elk, and over 1,600 types of flowering plants.

2. Explore the Virginia Creeper Trail

The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile bike trail that runs from Abingdon, Virginia to the North Carolina state line. This scenic trail takes visitors through some of the most beautiful parts of Virginia's countryside. The trail was named after the steam engine trains that used to "creep" up the tight corridors of the mountains, and is now a popular spot for both hiking and biking. The trail offers beautiful scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains and is perfect for those who love outdoor activities.

3. Tour the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a historic town located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. The town is best known for John Brown's raid on the federal armory in 1859, which helped to ignite the Civil War. Visitors can tour the historic buildings and walk along the streets where Brown and his followers made their final stand. The park also features scenic vistas of the rivers, hiking trails, and historic exhibits that showcase the town's rich history.

4. See the Hershey's Chocolate World

Hershey's Chocolate World is a fun and delicious destination for anyone who loves chocolate. The Hershey's Chocolate Factory Tour takes visitors through the process of chocolate making, from cocoa beans to finished chocolate bars. The tour is interactive and allows visitors to see, smell, and taste chocolate along the way. The attraction also features fun exhibits, such as the 4D Chocolate Mystery show, and a large retail store where visitors can purchase a variety of Hershey's products.

5. Experience the National Civil War Museum

The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history. The museum features over 35,000 artifacts and exhibits that offer an in-depth look at the Civil War. Visitors can learn about the soldiers who fought in the war, as well as the political and social issues that caused the conflict. The museum also features a theater, an outdoor garden, and a gift shop.

Interesting Facts About Each Location

  • The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, with over 11 million visitors per year.
  • The Virginia Creeper Trail was named by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy as one of the best rail-trails in the country.
  • Harpers Ferry is known as the "The Town that Changed America" because of John Brown's raid and its role in the abolitionist movement.
  • Hershey's Chocolate World produces over 70 million Hershey's Kisses per day.
  • The National Civil War Museum features one of the largest collections of Civil War artifacts in the world.

Conclusion

The road trip from Athens, Tennessee to Carlisle, Pennsylvania is a fantastic journey that offers plenty of exciting stops along the way. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or just enjoy a good challenge, this trip has something for everyone. With beautiful mountains, historic towns, and delicious chocolate, there's no shortage of things to see and do. The trip typically takes around 11-12 hours, but with so much to see and do, you may want to take a few extra days to explore all the highlights.