Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip Between Bristol Township, Pennsylvania and Somerset, Kentucky
Looking for an exciting road trip experience between Pennsylvania and Kentucky? Here are five must-see destinations that offer a perfect mix of history, adventure, and fun.
Halfway Point: Jane Lew, WV
If you want to take a break and relax in the middle of your journey, Jane Lew is a great place to stop. This small town offers several cozy cafes and restaurants where you can indulge in delicious food and drinks. You can also explore the town's history at the West Virginia Museum of American Glass, which showcases various glass artifacts and artworks depicting the state's cultural heritage. Moreover, you can visit the nearby Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park, which offers various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.
Stop 1: Shenandoah National Park, VA
If you are a nature lover, you must visit the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. This scenic park stretches along the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. You can explore the park's many hiking trails, such as the 8.8-mile Old Rag Trail, which offers a challenging but rewarding climb. You can also drive along the Skyline Drive, which offers stunning views of the park's natural beauty. Moreover, the park is home to various wildlife species such as black bears, whitetail deer, and red foxes.
Stop 2: Gatlinburg, TN
If you want to experience a lively and exciting town, you must visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This tourist destination offers a plethora of attractions, starting from the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle, which offers panoramic views of the town and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can also visit the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, which houses various aquatic species and offers interactive exhibits such as a shark tunnel and a penguin exhibit. Moreover, you can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, rafting, and zip-lining, in the nearby Smoky Mountains.
Stop 3: Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
If you are interested in natural wonders, you must visit the Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. This park is home to the world's longest known cave system with over 400 miles of explored passageways. You can explore the cave's various chambers and formations, such as the Frozen Niagara and the Rotunda, through guided tours that cater to different levels of difficulty. You can also enjoy the park's many hiking trails, such as the Cedar Sink Trail, which offers a glimpse of the park's unique flora and fauna.
Stop 4: Bourbon Trail, KY
If you are a whiskey enthusiast, you must visit the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky. This trail stretches for 200 miles and includes various distilleries that produce some of the world's best bourbons. You can visit the famous Maker's Mark distillery, which offers informative tours that allow you to witness the bourbon making process. You can also visit the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, which offers a glimpse of the Beam family's bourbon-making legacy. Moreover, you can visit the town of Bardstown, which is known as the Bourbon Capital of the World and offers various bourbon-related attractions such as the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a road trip between Bristol Township, Pennsylvania and Somerset, Kentucky, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. From the scenic Shenandoah National Park to the bustling Gatlinburg, the serene Jane Lew, and the natural wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park, there's something for everyone. Moreover, the Bourbon Trail is a must-visit destination for whiskey enthusiasts. So, pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable journey.