Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania and Upper Dublin Township, Pennsylvania
The drive from Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania to Upper Dublin Township, Pennsylvania can be a scenic and adventurous one, with lots of sights to behold along the way. Driving through the state's picturesque countryside, with its sprawling forests, creeks, and rolling hills, the journey takes about an hour and a half, and the town of Willow Grove marks the halfway point. Here are the best things to do on a road trip from Bryn Athyn to Upper Dublin, Pennsylvania.
Visit the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove
The John James Audubon Center is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. As the first American-born ornithologist and naturalist, Audubon lived in the house that's now the center for several years while painting the birds that would become his famous "Birds of America" series. The center offers guided tours that take you through the house and its surrounding gardens and forests. Visitors can see Audubon's personal workspace and extensive collections of natural history art and artifacts.
Fact: The Audubon Center also features a butterfly house and gardens that showcase native Pennsylvania plants.
Go wine tasting at the Blue Mountain Vineyards
The Blue Mountain Vineyards offer a unique experience for anyone who wants to sample some of the best wines in the region. Founded in 1986 and now a family-run business, the vineyard is situated on 50 acres of land, and it produces Cabernet Franc, Chambourcin, Vignoles, and Chardonnay wine varieties that are available for tasting on a daily basis. You can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air while you sample wines and learn about the local culture of winemaking.
Fact: Blue Mountain Vineyards uses French-American hybrid grape varietals that thrive in the Pennsylvania climate.
Hike the Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissahickon Valley Park is a nature lover's paradise, covering over 1,800 acres and offering hiking trails that are perfect for all skill levels, so whether you're an experienced hiker or just beginning, the park offers options for everyone. The park is full of stunning natural scenery, with creeks, valleys, and waterfalls that you can experience while you hike. The wildlife is also abundant, and visitors can expect to see white-tailed deer, birds, and other forms of natural life throughout their hike.
Fact: The park is over 1,000 acres larger than New York's Central Park.
Visit the historical Graeme Park
Graeme Park is a historical mansion that has stood in Montgomery County since the early 18th century and offers a glimpse into history that you won't soon forget. Originally the site of the English colonial estate, the park is now a museum that showcases the life of Elizabeth Graeme Fergusson and her family. Included in the museum is a vast collection of artifacts and documents, highlighting the history of the area and its significance in the American Revolution.
Fact: The park was named after a personal friend of King George III, who was also the wife of the estate's original owner.
Take a hot air balloon ride at United States Hot Air Balloon Team
Forever etched in rich history and culture, taking a hot air balloon ride above the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Montgomery County is a must-do. The ride takes off from the grounds of the Fonthill Castle, a national landmark, and travels across the rolling hills of Bucks County, offering you a spectacular bird's-eye view of the landscape. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and for something a bit more intimate, a private balloon ride can be arranged upon request.
Fact: The United States Hot Air Balloon Team is the most experienced operator of hot air balloon rides in the nation.
Conclusion
The road trip from Bryn Athyn to Upper Dublin is a beautiful and unforgettable experience. The John James Audubon Center, wine tasting at Blue Mountain Vineyards, hiking the Wissahickon Valley Park, visiting the historical Graeme Park, and taking a hot air balloon ride at United States Hot Air Balloon Team are just some of the highlights that can make your trip worthwhile. For those who love the outdoors and exploring history, this route is a perfect fit. The trip takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes, but visitors should plan to spend the day and take their time exploring all the area has to offer.