The Best Road Trip Ever: From Abington Township, Pennsylvania to Quincy, Massachusetts
Are you ready for the best road trip you’ve ever had? Buckle up because we’ve got the ultimate list of must-see destinations for your journey from Abington Township, Pennsylvania to Quincy, Massachusetts.
This drive takes you through the heart of the Northeast region of the United States and offers breathtaking scenic views along the way. Regardless of whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or family, you’ll find numerous fun and interesting places to visit. So, let’s get started!
Stop 1: Lancaster, Pennsylvania - Hidden Gem of Amish Country
Start your journey with a visit to Lancaster, a lovely small city in Pennsylvania known for its Amish culture, which is nestled in the heart of Lancaster County. The drive to Lancaster from Abington Township, Pennsylvania, takes approximately one and a half hours.
Lancaster has a reputation for being one of the best street-food scenes in the country, so we recommend that you indulge in some regional specialties. Plus, this city has many farmer's markets selling the freshest produce, handmade crafts, and baked goods.
Stop 2: New York City - The City That Never Sleeps
From Lancaster, drive for a little less than three hours to reach New York City, a city that needs no introduction. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or not, New York City has countless iconic attractions to keep you entertained.
Here are some must-sees that won’t disappoint:
The Statue of Liberty
No visit to New York City is complete without a visit to the Statue of Liberty. This iconic landmark is an emblem of freedom and a symbol of hope. Take a ferry ride from Battery Park to Liberty Island, and climb to the top of the statue's pedestal to enjoy stunning views of the city.
Times Square
After visiting the Statue of Liberty, Times Square is the perfect place to visit, particularly at night. The towering billboards and neon lights illuminate the city, creating an immersive experience. Don’t forget to take a selfie with the famous "I love NY" signage.
Central Park
Central Park is New York's backyard, a haven of nature in the heart of the city. Spanning 840 acres, this park has plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and relax in one of the city's busiest areas. Check out the John Lennon memorial, the Bethesda Fountain, and the park's beautiful seasonal botanical displays.
Stop 3: Salem, Massachusetts - A Hauntingly Beautiful City
Salem is a town north of Boston that offers a wealth of history and culture. It's approximately a three-hour drive from New York City to Salem.
The town underwent a witch hunt in the late 1600s, which has led to a permanent mark on the city's history and has given it a haunting reputation. But aside from the witchcraft past, Salem boasts an abundance of charming streets, interesting museums, galleries, and impressive architecture that are worth a visit.
The Witch House
The Witch House is famous worldwide, and it’s one of the few remaining physical artifacts from the infamous Salem Witch Trials of the 1600s. The house was owned by one of the judges, Jonathan Corwin, who spent his days investigating suspected witches.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site
The Salem Maritime National Historic Site serves as a reminder of Salem's seafaring history. This park features several tall ships that you can explore, along with exhibits that detail the area's claims to prominence in the world of shipping.
Stop 4: Plymouth, Massachusetts - Birthplace of America
Plymouth has historically been a significant site in America’s history and is approximately an hour’s drive from Salem.
Plymouth Rock
As you enter Plymouth, take a few minutes to check out Plymouth Rock, a site widely recognized as the place where the first pilgrims landed. The rock itself sits under a beautiful portico that offers views of the harbor.
Plimoth Plantation
Plimoth Plantation is an outdoor museum that brings America's earliest European settlement to life. Visitors walk through detailed exhibits and reconstructions of the town where the Pilgrims first settled, stepping back in time to understand what life was like in the early seventeenth century.
Stop 5: Quincy, Massachusetts - Home to John Quincy Adams
Quincy is the last stop on our trip from Abington Township, representing the second-half of our journey that started in Massachusetts. Quincy is famous for being the birthplace and home of John Quincy Adams, the sixth President of the United States.
United First Parish Church
One of Quincy's most iconic landmarks is the United First Parish Church, which is the final resting place of both John Quincy Adams and his wife. The church, constructed in the early 1800s, stands out for its stunning architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and detailed woodwork.
Adams National Historical Park
The John Adams birthplace is part of the Adams National Historical Park and is a historical site that offers insight into the life of the great statesman. Here, you can visit the home where John Adams was born and raised, in addition to the homes where his son, John Quincy Adams, spent his early life.
Conclusion
With breathtaking views, iconic landmarks, and wealthy cultural and historical significance, driving from Abington Township, Pennsylvania to Quincy, Massachusetts, is an exciting and unforgettable experience. You'll discover the hidden gems of Amish Country, be charmed by Salem's haunting beauty, and learn more about America’s historical past.
Plymouth and Quincy add revolutionary historical significance to the drive, offering an opportunity to learn about the history of these two great cities. What are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!