Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bethlehem, PA to Concord Township, PA
If you're looking for a scenic drive through the Pennsylvania countryside, taking Route 309 from Bethlehem to Concord Township is a great option. The drive will take you through rolling hills, charming small towns, and beautiful farmland. It's a distance of approximately 60 miles, and the drive should take around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
The halfway point: Kulpsville, PA
Before we get into the five unexpected places to stop on this drive, we should mention the halfway point: Kulpsville, PA. This small town is located in Montgomery County and is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Kulpsville has several restaurants, cafes, and shops to choose from. It's also home to the Cage Brewing Company, which is definitely worth a visit if you're a fan of craft beer.
1. Hickory Run State Park
Hickory Run State Park is located in White Haven, PA, and it's a beautiful spot to stop and take in some nature. The park has over 40 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Boulder Field trail, which features a field of boulders that were deposited by glaciers. If you're not up for a hike, you can also swim in the park's Sand Spring Lake or have a picnic by the water. Don't miss trying a slice of pie from Country Peddler in nearby Pocono Lake.
2. The Haines Shoe House
The Haines Shoe House is a quirky and unique attraction located in York, PA. The house is shaped like a giant shoe and was built in 1948 by a shoe salesman named Mahlon Haines. Today, the house is open for tours, and visitors can learn about Haines' life and career as well as the history of the shoe industry in Pennsylvania. Don't leave without trying a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream from the shoe house's ice cream stand.
3. Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg National Military Park is located in Gettysburg, PA, and it's an important historical site. The park commemorates the Battle of Gettysburg, which took place during the Civil War in 1863. Visitors can take a tour of the battlefield and learn about the events that took place there. The park also has a museum with exhibits about the war and the people who fought in it. For lunch, grab a famous sandwich from The Pub & Restaurant in nearby East Berlin.
4. Hershey's Chocolate World
Hershey's Chocolate World is located in Hershey, PA, and it's a must-visit spot for chocolate lovers. The attraction includes a tour of a simulated chocolate factory, where visitors can learn about the chocolate-making process and taste some samples. Hershey's Chocolate World also has a shop where you can buy all kinds of Hershey's products, including giant chocolate bars and personalized candy bars. Don't leave without trying a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie from the bakery.
5. Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is located in Kennett Square, PA, and it's a stunning botanical garden that covers over 1,000 acres. The gardens feature thousands of plants, fountains, and sculptures, and visitors can take guided tours or explore on their own. Longwood Gardens also hosts special events throughout the year, including concerts, light shows, and flower shows. For dinner, grab a slice of upscale pizza from La Verona in nearby Avondale.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a fun and unique road trip in Pennsylvania, the drive from Bethlehem to Concord Township is a great choice. With five unexpected stops along the way, you'll get to experience everything from nature to history to chocolate. And with plenty of great restaurants and food options along the route, you'll never go hungry. So pack up the car and hit the road – you won't regret it!