The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See From Ballenger Creek, MD to Penn Township, PA

Are you looking for a fun and scenic drive from Ballenger Creek, Maryland to Penn Township, Pennsylvania? Then buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable road trip! This stretch of interstate offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the Mid-Atlantic region, with charming small towns, historic landmarks, stunning natural wonders, and delicious food and drinks. To help you plan your trip, we have compiled a list of the top places to see on this route. Let's hit the road!

1. Gettysburg National Military Park

The first stop on our list is the Gettysburg National Military Park, just 20 miles north of the Maryland-Pennsylvania border on US-15. This hallowed ground is where one of the most significant battles of the Civil War took place, and it's now a national park that draws over a million visitors every year. You can take a guided tour of the battlefield by car or bicycle, visit the museum and visitor center, and pay your respects at the Soldiers' National Cemetery. The park also hosts reenactments, living history events, and other programs throughout the year.

2. Hershey's Chocolate World

About 70 miles northeast of Gettysburg, off I-76 in Hershey, PA, you'll find a sweet and fun-filled attraction that is sure to delight chocolate lovers of all ages: Hershey's Chocolate World. This interactive museum, factory, and store allows you to learn about the history and production of the world-famous Hershey's chocolate, sample some of the delicious treats, ride a chocolate-themed tour, take photos with Hershey's characters, and shop for souvenirs. Hershey's Chocolate World is open year-round, with special events during holidays and seasons.

3. Lancaster County

As you head east on US-30 from Hershey, you'll enter the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, also known as Lancaster County. This picturesque region is known for its Amish and Mennonite communities, who still live a simple, agricultural lifestyle and follow traditional customs. You can experience the beauty and serenity of Lancaster County by driving on its winding roads, visiting its farms and markets, touring its historic sites and museums, and sampling its hearty cuisine (including shoo-fly pie, chicken pot pie, and whoopie pies). Don't forget to stop at the Sight & Sound Theatres for a live biblical show that brings the stories to life, or at the Dutch Wonderland for a family-friendly amusement park that has been entertaining visitors for over 50 years.

4. Longwood Gardens

About 30 miles southeast of Lancaster, lies one of the most spectacular botanical gardens in the world: Longwood Gardens. This 1,000-acre estate features over 20 indoor and outdoor gardens, including the Italian Water Garden, the Flower Garden Walk, the Conservatory, the Meadow Garden, and the newly opened Fountain Garden. You can stroll, picnic, and relax in the midst of thousands of colorful flowers, trees, and exotic plants, as well as attend concerts, shows, and educational programs. Longwood Gardens is open year-round, with seasonal displays and events.

5. Valley Forge National Historical Park

Our final stop on this road trip is the Valley Forge National Historical Park, located about 40 miles east of Longwood Gardens on I-76. This park commemorates the winter encampment of the Continental Army under General George Washington during the Revolutionary War, and the sacrifices and struggles they endured to secure American independence. You can take a self-guided tour of the park's historic buildings, monuments, and trails, attend ranger-led talks and programs, and hike, bike, or ski on the park's scenic paths. Valley Forge National Historical Park is open year-round, with special events during holidays and summertime.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our list of the top places to see when driving from Ballenger Creek, Maryland to Penn Township, Pennsylvania. Of course, there are many other interesting and beautiful sights along this route, and we encourage you to explore and discover them on your own. Remember to drive safely, respect the local cultures and communities, and have fun! Happy travels!