Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Center Township, PA to Plymouth, MA
Driving from Center Township, Pennsylvania, to Plymouth, Massachusetts, can be a long and arduous journey. With over 500 miles to cover, it can take around 8 hours, depending on traffic. However, this journey does not have to be monotonous and exhausting; There are hidden gems along the way worth discovering. In this article, we will explore five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Center Township, PA to Plymouth, MA.
Halfway Point: Delaware Water Gap, PA
Before we delve into the five unexpected stops, it is worth mentioning that Delaware Water Gap, PA, is an excellent midpoint for a break; it marks the halfway point between Center Township, PA, and Plymouth, MA. The Delaware Water Gap is a stunning natural passage carved by the Delaware River through the Appalachian Mountains. Visitors can hike, swim, kayak or canoe, and enjoy the picturesque views. With so much to offer, the Delaware Water Gap is a must-visit on this long drive.
1. Lititz, PA - The Coolest Small Town in America
Lititz, PA, is a charming small town in Lancaster County, known for its rich history and heritage. The town boasts beautiful architecture, 18th-century-style homes, and charming shops. The Sturgis Pretzel House offers visitors an opportunity to see how America's first commercial pretzel bakery operated in 1861. It is also fun to stroll around the Wilbur Chocolate Company, which has been producing chocolates since 1884. Don't forget to try the famous Wilbur Buds - a timeless chocolate classic.
2. Bethlehem, PA - The Christmas City
Bethlehem, PA, is a city located in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania, founded on Christmas Eve in 1741. The city offers visitors a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Visitors can visit Historic Moravian Bethlehem, a National Historic Landmark district, which includes museums, self-guided tours, and historic Bethlehem's Christmas markets. The downtown Bethlehem shopping district offers visitors unique stores and eateries, including the world-famous Bethlehem Dairy Store. The store has been serving homemade ice cream since 1935 - a perfect treat for a hot summer afternoon.
3. Mystic, CT - The Seaport Town
Mystic, CT, a coastal community, is known for its seaport and surprisingly rich maritime history. The Seaport Town features an educational museum that showcases the seafaring past of the region, including a recreation of a 19th-century village and a tall ship. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride on the Mystic River and experience the graceful charm of the local oyster boats. Afterward, grab lunch at Mystic Pizza, a restaurant famous for making the best pizza in New England. Mystic Pizza was the inspiration behind the 1988 film of the same name.
4. Providence, RI - The City of Art
Providence, RI, is a thriving city, with a lively and vibrant arts community. The RISD Museum of Art, which celebrates 140 years of art, is one of the city's main attractions. The museum displays more than 100,000 works of art, including ancient Egyptian art, Medieval European art, and contemporary art. City visitors can also stroll through the Federal Hill neighborhood with its unique culinary offerings. Be sure to try the famous Rhode Island-style calamari. It's crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
5. Salem, MA - The Witches' Place
Salem, MA, is the ultimate Halloween destination but offers visitors something unique year-round and is known for its Puritan history of the 17th century and the infamous witch trials. The Salem Witch Museum is a great place to start your journey. The museum depicts the history of the Salem Witch Trials and its effect on the city. Afterward, visitors can explore the Derby Wharf Light Station and local beaches. For a delicious bite, try the boiled lobster & clam chowder at Turner's Seafood, a local seafood institution since 1954.
Conclusion
On your next journey from Center Township, PA, to Plymouth, MA, take the time to enjoy these unexpected stops. From the historic towns of Lititz and Bethlehem to the seaport charm of Mystic to the arts of Providence and the witch trials of Salem, these stops are a great way to break up a long drive. Don't forget to try the recommended foods—the Wilbur Buds in Lititz, Rhode Island-style calamari in Providence, Mystic pizza in Mystic, and the boiled lobster & clam chowder in Salem. This trip has something for everyone, so why not take a trip into the past and explore the hidden secrets of America's eastern seaboard?