Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brunswick, Maryland to Lansdowne, Pennsylvania

Driving from Brunswick, Maryland to Lansdowne, Pennsylvania is a beautiful scenic drive that shares some of the best views in the U.S East Coast. This drive takes around three hours, including the time for a pit stop or two. For many, a road trip is all about embarking on a new adventure, exploring the unknown, and embracing the unexpected. In this article, we will mention five unexpected places to stop on this beautiful drive.

Halfway Point: Perry Hall, MD

Perry Hall is a delightful neighborhood in Baltimore County, MD. It makes an excellent halfway point between Brunswick, MD, and Lansdowne, PA, to stretch your legs and re-energize yourself. This part of town is quaint and charming, with many small local businesses that are worth a visit, especially for those who want a taste of local fare.

If you're a pizza lover, we suggest you grab a slice at the Perry Hall Pizza Shack. This pizza joint is well known among locals for serving up some of the best thin-crust pizza in the area. The atmosphere is cozy, and the service is warm and welcoming. They use fresh ingredients to make every pizza from scratch, and it's a great place to get a taste of Baltimore's unique cuisine.

1. Union Mills Homestead: Westminster, MD

Union Mills Homestead is a well-preserved piece of Maryland History that showcases 19th-century living in a way that's both educational and entertaining. It's a working farm that teaches visitors about old-time techniques and methods of farming, weaving, and blacksmithing. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the gristmill, active since 1797, which still grinds flour to this day. There are also many scenic trails to explore around the property, making it a perfect stop for those who love nature.

A perfect lunch spot to check out in Westminster, MD, is a tiny local restaurant called Rafael's Restaurant. Their menu has a selection of delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups that are all reasonably priced. The service is friendly and prompt, making it a great place to stop for a quick bite to eat.

2. Codorus State Park, PA

Codorus State Park is a breathtaking park with many recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and boating. It is a fantastic place to stop and spend a few hours with family and friends. The lake is vast and picturesque, and there are several hiking trails to explore. Additionally, you can rent boats and take in the beautiful scenery from a different angle.

If you're feeling peckish, we recommend a local restaurant called the Front Porch Tea Room. Located in Hallam, PA, this cozy teahouse serves delightful teas and sandwiches with a charming antique decor. Their prices are reasonable, and the service is excellent.

3. Gettysburg Battlefield, PA

No journey is complete without a visit to the historical Gettysburg Battlefield. The battlefield is vast, with many monuments, museums, and visitor centers that showcase the most significant battle of the Civil War. It's an excellent stop for history buffs, families, and anyone who wants to witness first-hand the landmark that changed U.S. history forever.

If you're looking for a delightful dinner experience, we recommend The Pike Restaurant and Tap House. The Pike is a local favorite known for its comfort food, great beer selection, and live music. They serve delicious burgers and wings, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

4. Hershey's Chocolate World, PA

If you've got a sweet tooth, then Hershey's Chocolate World is the perfect place to stop on your journey. This is not your typical chocolate factory tour; this is a whole world dedicated to chocolate, from the making of the chocolate, tasting chocolate, and shopping for chocolate gifts. There's a fantastic 4D chocolate mystery ride, which is a great way to interact with chocolate in a fun and engaging way.

If you're craving something sweet, we recommend stopping at Cafe Arabica in Hershey. This bakery has an impressive selection of cakes, pastries, and dessert items. Their prices are reasonable, and the quality of their baked goods is exceptional.

5. Longwood Gardens, PA

As the final stop on your trip, we recommend visiting Longwood Gardens. This place is a breathtaking combination of nature and art, featuring 1,077 acres of colorful gardens and lavish fountains. There are several gardens to explore, including Italian Water Garden, Flower Garden Walk, and the Student Exhibition Greenhouse. It's a photographer's dream, and the perfect place to experience nature's beauty.

For a fancy dinner experience, we recommend the Farmhouse At Loch Nairn. It's situated in a unique historic venue and serves farm-to-table cuisine in a calm and relaxing atmosphere. They have an extensive wine list, and their staff is exceptional.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a drive from Brunswick, Maryland, and Lansdowne, Pennsylvania is a beautiful scenic ride with many unexpected places to explore. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or just looking for adventure, there's something for everyone on this journey. The five unexpected places mentioned above are only a handful of places to visit and eat. So, if you're planning a road trip and want a unique experience, we highly encourage you to give this drive a chance.