The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Bethlehem, PA to Jacksonville, FL

Are you thinking about taking a road trip from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to Jacksonville, Florida? This trip takes you through seven different states and offers plenty of opportunities to explore small towns, historical landmarks, and stunning natural attractions. In this blog post, we’re going to highlight the top places to see on this unforgettable road trip. Whether you're going on a family vacation or a solo adventure, this guide will help you plan your journey and make the most of your time on the road.

Stop 1: Washington, D.C.

The first stop on our journey is the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. This beautiful city offers historic landmarks, famous memorials, and plenty of museums and galleries to explore. The National Mall is the perfect place to start your adventure in D.C. This 1.9-mile stretch includes the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial.

Another must-see attraction is the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. It's filled with exhibits on the country's past and present, including the original Star-Spangled Banner, the first ladies' inaugural gowns, and pop culture artifacts like the original Muppet puppets. You can also explore the National Gallery of Art, the U.S. Capitol, and the White House, all in one day. There's no shortage of things to do and see in our nation's capital!

Stop 2: Charleston, SC

The next stop on the trip is charming Charleston, South Carolina. This charming city offers beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and incredible cuisine. The first thing you should do in Charleston is take a stroll around the historic downtown area. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful homes, lush gardens, and iconic landmarks like the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.

One of the top attractions in Charleston is Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. You can take a ferry ride to the fortress and explore the exhibits, as well as enjoy the stunning views of Charleston Harbor. Don’t forget to indulge in some of the incredible Southern cuisine while you're here, like shrimp and grits or a delicious bowl of gumbo.

Stop 3: Savannah, GA

Continuing on our road trip, we reach charming Savannah, Georgia. This picturesque city is known for its quaint cobblestone streets, beautiful parks, and antebellum architecture. One of the best ways to explore this city is by taking a walking tour or horse-drawn carriage ride.

The city's historic squares are filled with charming boutiques, art galleries, and incredible restaurants. Be sure to check out the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, one of the most stunning churches in the South, and the Mercer Williams House Museum, which was made famous by the book and movie adaptation of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Make sure to sample some of the delicious food that Savannah is known for, like fried green tomatoes, crab cakes, and peach cobbler.

Stop 4: St. Augustine, FL

Next up is St. Augustine, Florida, the nation's oldest city. St. Augustine is famous for its Spanish colonial architecture, historic forts, and beautiful beaches. One of the most iconic landmarks in St. Augustine is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the United States.

Another must-see attraction is the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. This park is said to be the spot where Ponce de Leon discovered the Fountain of Youth. Visitors can taste the park's fresh spring water and explore the exhibits on the area's Native American history. Don’t forget to spend some time on St. Augustine’s beautiful beaches, like the Anastasia State Park.

Stop 5: Jacksonville, FL

Finally, our journey comes to an end in Jacksonville, Florida. Known for its stunning beaches, wonderful weather, and rich cultural heritage, Jacksonville offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The city's beaches are its biggest attraction, and with miles of white sand and crystal-clear water, it's easy to understand why.

For a taste of Jacksonville's culture, head to the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which showcases art from around the world and offers a beautiful riverside garden tour. History buffs will love the Kingsley Plantation, a former slave plantation that includes a museum, a nature trail, and a guided tour of the plantation house. Be sure to leave plenty of time for exploring the local restaurants and shops, which offer everything from fresh seafood to handmade souvenirs.

Conclusion

There you have it – our top picks for the best places to see when driving from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to Jacksonville, Florida. With a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious food, this road trip has something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, these destinations will provide unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!