Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Baltimore to West Chester
Planning a road trip can be very exciting. You might already have an idea of where you are headed, but do you know which beautiful places to stop and see along the way? The road from Baltimore, Maryland to West Chester, Pennsylvania is filled with natural and cultural attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, there is something for everyone. Here are the top places to see when driving from Baltimore to West Chester.
Charming Towns and Historical Sites
Havre de Grace: Located in Harford County, Maryland, Havre de Grace, or "Seaport of Opportunity", is a small town that offers visitors an array of activities. It boasts of historic sites such as the Concord Point Lighthouse and the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum, which showcases the rich culture of the Chesapeake Bay. You can also go biking or hiking at the Susquehanna State Park or take a leisurely stroll down the promenade and watch the boats go by.
Kennett Square: A charming town in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Kennett Square is known as the Mushroom Capital of the World. Take a tour of one of the mushroom farms and learn about the industry. For a more historical site, visit the Longwood Gardens, which offers acres of gardens, fountains, and a conservatory. The town also features antique shops and art galleries where you can buy unique souvenirs.
Valley Forge National Historical Park: This park, located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, is steeped in history. It was the site where General George Washington and his troops spent the winter of 1777-1778 during the Revolutionary War. Visit the Visitor Center and learn about the war through the museum's exhibits and orientation film. You can also hike, bike, or take a scenic drive through the park.
Nature and Adventure
Tyler Arboretum: A stunning nature preserve in Media, Pennsylvania, Tyler Arboretum provides over 20 miles of hiking trails through woodlands, meadows, and streams. The arboretum also features various gardens that display a diverse range of plant species, including a historic rose garden and a wetlands garden. There are also hands-on exhibits and activities, including a butterfly house, tree house, and scavenger hunts.
Schuylkill River Trail: This 130-mile trail starts from Philadelphia and goes all the way to Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. It offers breathtaking scenery of the river, parklands, and forests, and opportunities for various activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Take a detour and visit attractions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art or the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum.
Marsh Creek State Park: This state park, located in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors. It features a 535-acre lake with plenty of space for boating, kayaking, and fishing, as well as hiking trails that offer scenic views of the park's rolling hills. You can also rent a picnic pavilion and enjoy a barbeque with family and friends.
Culinary Delights
Woodberry Kitchen: This farm-to-table restaurant, located in Baltimore, Maryland, prides itself on serving local and sustainable ingredients. The menu changes regularly depending on the seasonal harvest, but you can always expect dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Some of their specialties include oysters, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade pastries.
Jacquette's Bakery & Sweet Shop: This bakery, located in West Chester, Pennsylvania, will satisfy your sweet tooth. They offer homemade cookies, cakes, pies, and chocolates, and their French macarons are a fan favorite. The bakery also has a quaint outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your treats.
Conclusion
There are many places to see when driving from Baltimore to West Chester. Whether you are looking for historical sites, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, this route has something for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead and make stops, so you can fully enjoy the beauty and culture of these amazing places. Happy road tripping!