Road Trip from Big Beaver to Monaca: Top Places to See

One of the best ways to explore Pennsylvania is by hitting the road. With its picturesque countryside and charming small towns, driving from Big Beaver to Monaca is an adventure waiting to happen. This route is filled with attractions, scenic routes, and hidden gems that you would not want to miss. Here are some of the top things you can see when driving from Big Beaver to Monaca.

Beaver Creek State Park

Start your day at Beaver Creek State Park, located just across the Ohio border near the town of East Liverpool. This beautiful state park boasts more than 2,700 acres of natural beauty, including streams, ponds, historical sites, and forested trails — perfect for hiking and birdwatching. One of its standout features is the Little Beaver Creek, which is a designated National Wild and Scenic River.

From the entrance of the state park, drive along the Little Beaver Creek Scenic River. You will experience an Appalachian wonderland and breathtaking views of the terrain, which is a mixture of hardwood forest and winding valleys. Don't forget to stop at one of the pull-offs to snap some Instagram-worthy pictures.

The Apple Castle

Continue your journey east on PA-51, where the next must-see is The Apple Castle. This specialty store in the town of New Wilmington has an extensive selection of apples, homemade pies, jams, jellies, relishes, and other locally sourced products. It's a delightful stop for anyone with a sweet tooth or who wants to take home a piece of Pennsylvania's culinary heritage.

The Apple Castle also sells a range of other fruits and vegetables that you can pick yourself when in season, such as cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and peaches. The farm's store is open year-round, but if you visit during autumn, you can enjoy apple cider, hayrides, and other fall-themed activities.

Volant Village Shops

A few minutes' drive from the Apple Castle is the Volant Village Shops. This small town's charming main street is lined with unique shops and restaurants, offering a blend of antiques, fashion, art, and jewelry. In its specialty shops, you can purchase handmade wooden toys, locally produced honey, and even Alpaca clothing.

One of the top shops to visit in Volant is the Scottish Treasures, where you will find an extensive collection of tartan items, kilts, and bagpipes. Even if you don't have Scottish ancestry, the shop is worth a stop to see the beautifully made and intricate designs that represent the country's rich culture.

Brady's Run Park

Head south from Volant to Brady's Run Park, a 2,000-acre recreational area that features trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, a wave pool, and a sports complex. Brady's Run's hub is the Lake Tomahawk, which is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park is also home to a nature center and an amphitheater, which hosts concerts and public events.

For the more adventurous types, Brady's Run also has a disc golf course, a boulder climbing area, and a bike trail. It's also an excellent place for birdwatching during migration seasons if you're into ornithology.

Old Economy Village

Finish your journey at Old Economy Village in Ambridge, a National Historic Landmark that was home to a group of German immigrants known as the Harmony Society. This religious commune lived in the village from 1824 until 1905, showcasing a unique way of life with their communal living, innovative technology, and religious beliefs.

Visitors can walk through the vintage homes, workshops, and gardens, and learn about the society's history through displays and guided tours. Also, watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as glassblowing and blacksmithing. It's a great experience for history buffs, curiosity seekers, and anyone interested in 19th-century life.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania is a beautiful state with many different attractions to explore. Driving from Big Beaver to Monaca offers an exciting and unique experience. Whether it's outdoor activities, culinary delights, or historical landmarks, there's plenty to see and do on this road trip. So buckle up, grab some snacks, and embark on a journey through some of Pennsylvania's most scenic and historic areas. You won't regret it!