Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chadds Ford Township, PA to State College, PA
There are few better ways to spend a day than taking a leisurely drive through Pennsylvania's beautiful countryside, passing sprawling farmland and quaint towns. Those making the journey from Chadds Ford Township to State College will get to experience all of that and more. The trip, which takes roughly four hours, winds its way through scenic highways and byways before arriving in the rolling hills of Centre County. Along the way, there are plenty of exciting and unexpected stops worth checking out.
Halfway Point: Harrisburg, PA
Before getting into the other stops on this drive, it's worth mentioning the halfway point: Harrisburg. This capital city is often overlooked, but it packs in a lot of history, culture, and charm. Visitors can visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol and take a tour of its grand hallways, learn about coal mining at the State Museum of Pennsylvania, or contemplate art at the Susquehanna Art Museum. For a quick bite, grab a famous hot dog at Texas Lunch, which has been serving them up since 1929.
1. Boiling Springs, PA
Boiling Springs is a picturesque town that's worth a visit for its natural beauty alone. The town is built around a natural spring that flows from the earth at a constant temperature of 52 degrees, making it an ideal spot for fly fishing. Visitors can take a stroll through Children's Lake, which was once the site of a Native American village, or they can hike the nearby Appalachian Trail and take in the stunning views of the surrounding Cumberland Valley. Lunch should be had at the Boiling Springs Tavern, which has been a staple of the town since 1832, serving up classic pub food in a cozy atmosphere.
2. Bedford, PA
Bedford is a historic town that dates back to the American Revolution. Visitors can take a walk down the charming Main Street and admire the many well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, including the historic Bedford Springs Hotel. Nature lovers will also appreciate the nearby Shawnee State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping. Be sure to indulge in some classic PA Dutch cooking at the Jean Bonnet Tavern, which has been operating in some form since 1762.
3. Huntingdon, PA
Huntingdon is a small college town that's full of surprises. Visitors can explore the campus of Juniata College, which has been consistently ranked as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country, or they can tour the historic Blair County Courthouse, which dates back to 1875. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's Raystown Lake, a 29-mile-long lake that's perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing. Cap off the day with a tasty slice of pizza from Mimi's Restaurant & Pizza, a local favorite since 1982.
4. Bellefonte, PA
Bellefonte is a charming Victorian town that's home to several historic sites, including the Bellefonte Art Museum and the Bellefonte Historical Railroad. Visitors can stroll through its tree-lined streets, admire the many well-preserved historic houses, or take a walk through Talleyrand Park, which sits along the Spring Creek. For lunch, grab a sandwich from the highly-rated Brother's NY Style Pizzeria.
5. State College, PA
Finally, visitors will arrive in State College, home of the Pennsylvania State University. The town is bustling with activity, as it's one of the few college towns that boasts a thriving downtown district. Visitors can shop, dine, and catch live music at local hotspots like The Lion's Den, Local Whiskey, or Zeno's Pub. Those looking for a more cultural experience should check out the Palmer Museum of Art, which has an impressive collection of American and European art. For dinner, indulge in some delicious Korean BBQ at Kooper's Korean Kitchen, a popular local restaurant.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a fun, scenic, and unexpected drive through Pennsylvania, this route from Chadds Ford Township to State College is the perfect choice. Along the way, you'll get to explore charming small towns, appreciate the natural beauty of the Keystone State, and indulge in some delicious food. You never know what you'll discover on a drive like this, so pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road.