Roadtripping from Broadway, Virginia to Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania
Looking for a memorable road trip experience that combines culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty? This journey takes you from the charming town of Broadway, VA to the vibrant town of Wilkinsburg, PA, covering approximately 250 miles. Along the way, you'll encounter fascinating museums, stunning parks, and iconic landmarks that will leave a lasting impression.
Did you know that Route 220, which connects Broadway and Wilkinsburg, has been designated as a National Scenic Byway? This means that the 9-mile stretch of the route from Altoona to Duncansville has been recognized as an exemplary model of scenic, historic, and recreational qualities.
At the halfway point of La Vale, MD, you’ll find charming historic districts, like the ‘Old Downtown Cumberland’ that will take you on a journey through time with its preserved Victorian and Georgian architecture.
The trip from Broadway to Wilkinsburg takes about five hours, but it’s worth taking your time to savor the places along your route. Here's our pick of top five places to visit along the way:
- The Frontier Culture Museum (Staunton, VA): This interactive open-air museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early immigrants who settled in the Shenandoah Valley. You'll see authentic, reconstructed homesteads from six different countries, including Germany, Ireland, and Africa, among others. The museum’s educational exhibits and demonstrations showcase a unique blend of culture and history that will leave you inspired.
Point of Interest recommendation: Take your time to explore the museum’s pastoral landscape of 18th and 19th-century farms and gardens.
- The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (Harpers Ferry, WV): A visit to this park is like traveling back to the year 1859 when John Brown’s raid on the federal armory fueled the tensions between North and South. The park houses several restored buildings and armory machines, as well as a bookstore packed with educational materials. By walking along the preserved streets, you will experience a sense of what life was like in the mid-19th century.
Point of Interest recommendation: Hike up to Jefferson Rock for a panoramic view of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.
- The Flight 93 National Memorial (Stoystown, PA): Devoted to the memory of the 40 passengers and crew members on board United Airlines Flight 93, this memorial is a testament to the bravery that pervaded in the face of disaster. The visitor center, which houses interactive exhibits and galleries, recounts the events of 9/11. The Tower of Voices stands 93 feet tall and holds 40 wind chimes as a symbolic representation of the 40 lives lost.
Point of Interest recommendation: Take a guided tour and gain a deeper understanding of how the passengers came together to foil the terrorists’ plan.
- Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater (Mill Run, PA): This architectural masterpiece makes our list for its striking design and gorgeous woodland setting. The house is built directly over a waterfall, and it is fed by a nearby natural spring. Visitors can take a guided tour that explores the house’s many intricate details, including cantilevered balconies and contoured stairs.
Point of Interest recommendation: Walk on the scenic trails that take you through the beautiful natural surroundings around the house.
- The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (Pittsburgh, PA): Our final stop is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Pittsburgh. The conservatory houses a diverse collection of plant species that come from around the world. The outdoor garden areas offer stunning views and opportunities to explore.
Point of Interest recommendation: Take one of Phipps' various tours or attend a gardening workshop.
In conclusion, this road trip takes about five hours, but the journeys on Route 220 are worth the time. From homesteads and early immigrants to 9/11 heroes and the beauty of botanical gardens, the route offers a broad range of attractions that cater to almost any interest. Whether you plan for an extended trip along every stop or quick day trips to specific destinations, you will not be disappointed.