The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cecil Township, Pennsylvania and Mantua, Virginia
If you are looking for a road trip that's packed with scenic beauty and unique experiences, then a route from Cecil Township, Pennsylvania, to Mantua, Virginia, might be just what you're looking for. The trip passes through rolling hills, colorful valleys, and quaint towns, making it a feast for the eyes. One of the major highlights of this journey is the halfway point of Little Orleans, MD, a charming town that's full of stories from the bygone era.
The Top 5 Things to do on the Road Trip
1. Visit Fallingwater
Fallingwater, located just outside Pittsburgh, is considered one of the greatest works of American architecture. Designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this iconic building seamlessly integrates with nature, as it appears to hover above a waterfall. If you are an architecture or design enthusiast, visiting this legendary site is an absolute must.
Interesting Fact: The iconic design of Fallingwater was a last-minute inspiration by Wright, who chose to build the house on the waterfall after he had already submitted his initial plan.
2. Take a Hike in Ohiopyle State Park
If you love outdoor adventures, Ohiopyle State Park is a dream destination. The park boasts more than 20,000 acres of forests, rivers, and waterfalls, and is perfect for hiking, boating, fishing, and sightseeing. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Ohiopyle Falls, a natural wonder that's sure to take your breath away.
Interesting Fact: During the Civil War, Ohiopyle State Park was a busy center of activity, as it was used to supply coal and other resources to Union troops.
3. Discover Antietam National Battlefield
Located near the town of Sharpsburg in Maryland, Antietam National Battlefield preserves the site where one of the bloodiest battles of the American Civil War took place. Take a self-guided tour of the battlefield, which includes the Dunker Church, Bloody Lane, and Burnside Bridge. History buffs and anyone interested in military history will find this visit fascinating.
Interesting Fact: The Battle of Antietam resulted in over 23,000 casualties, making it one of the deadliest single-day battles in American history.
4. Explore Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet and form a spectacular natural wonder. Apart from the breathtaking scenery, visitors can explore the restored 19th-century town, which features museums, shops, and galleries. Anyone interested in early American history, the Civil War, or industrialization will find this park is worth visiting.
Interesting Fact: Harpers Ferry was the site of a failed slave rebellion led by abolitionist John Brown in 1859, which was one of the key events that led to the Civil War.
5. Take a Ghost Tour of the Strother Mansion
Mantua, Virginia, is home to the historic Strother Mansion, which is known to be one of the most haunted buildings in the state. The house, built in 1785, has a long and fascinating history, including surviving the Civil War. Take a guided tour of this eerie building and learn about its past, which includes a former owner who is rumored to still haunt the premises.
Interesting Fact: The Strother Mansion was once used as a field hospital during the Civil War, treating soldiers from both sides. Today, the bloodstains on the floorboards allegedly still remain.
Conclusion
This road trip from Cecil Township, Pennsylvania, to Mantua, Virginia, is a fantastic journey through American history, filled with diverse experiences and stunning natural beauty. With stops at Fallingwater, Ohiopyle State Park, Antietam National Battlefield, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, and the Strother Mansion, visitors can immerse themselves in the past while enjoying modern comfort and convenience. Overall, the trip is about 227 miles long, and can take around five hours to complete, depending on traffic and how long visitors spend at each location. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to hit the road!