Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Burlington City, NJ to Ridley Township, PA
If you are planning a road trip through the quaint towns and cities of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, there's a lot to check out along the way. From museums to parks, and landmarks to small eateries, every stop on this journey is worth your time. This blog post will guide you through some of the top places you should visit on your way from Burlington City, NJ, to Ridley Township, PA.
One of the best parts of this trip is that it takes you through highways and small roads, letting you enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. Did you know that Pennsylvania has over 83,000 miles of river and stream watersheds? And that many of these flow into the Delaware River, which is the largest river on the East Coast? Keep an eye out for some winding roads that hug these rivers and streams for some stunning views.
At around half-way of your journey, you'll find yourself in Philadelphia, PA, one of the most historic cities in America. Philadelphia is nicknamed the "City of Brotherly Love" and is known for its rich history, famous sandwiches, and beautiful architecture. If you are on a tight schedule, you can come back to Philadelphia later since this blog post will focus on the road trip itself and what lies between Burlington City and Ridley Township.
The distance between Burlington City and Ridley Township is only 30 miles or a 45-minute drive. However, you can stretch it out to a whole day's activity, depending on how many stops you make. The trip is best enjoyed at a slow pace, taking one location at a time. The list below highlights five places that stand out and must be on your itinerary.
1. Washington Crossing Historic Park
Start your trip at the Washington Crossing Historic Park. This park is a top-rated historic site that preserves the original 18th-century buildings that George Washington and his troops used during the American Revolutionary War. You can spend a few hours touring the various sites, including the Thompson-Neely House, the McConkey Ferry Inn, and Bowman's Hill Tower. The park offers guided tours to ensure you get the best out of your visit.
Point of Interest: Take a tour to the Johnson Ferry House, located on the riverbank and overlooking the Delaware River. It is the only building that has survived since the time of the crossing and offers a glimpse of what life was like at the time of the Revolutionary War.
2. Grounds For Sculpture
Experience the beauty of contemporary art with a visit to Grounds For Sculpture. This museum in Hamilton Township, NJ, is home to over 270 sculptures, made by renowned artists from around the world. The sculptures are scattered over 42 acres of land that have been transformed into a beautifully landscaped park. The Grounds For Sculpture is an ideal place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or take in the beauty of art.
Point of Interest: Don't miss the 25-foot-tall sculpture of a headless, armless goddess by the artist Magdalena Abakanowicz. This bronze sculpture, known as "Space of Stone," is a must-see at the park.
3. Valley Forge National Historical Park
Step back into history with a visit to Valley Forge National Historical Park. This park is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the American soldiers who spent a harsh winter at Valley Forge during the Revolutionary War. The park covers over 3,500 acres of land and offers a range of activities like hiking, biking, and birdwatching. You can also tour the various monuments and statues at the park, including the Washington Memorial Chapel and the National Memorial Arch.
Point of Interest: Take a guided tour of the Muhlenberg Brigade to learn more about the regiment's role in the Revolutionary War. The tour covers the brigade's deployment at Valley Forge and their contributions to the war effort.
4. Longwood Gardens
Take a break from the history and visit the Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA. These gardens are considered some of the best botanical gardens in the world, with over 1,077 acres of land and over 11,000 species of plants and trees. You can take a walk through the gardens, attend various concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Point of Interest: Take a stroll through the Italian Water Garden and see its fountains, waterfalls, and reflecting pools. You can also visit the popular Conservatory to see indoor gardens and displays of plants from around the world.
5. Ridley Creek State Park
End your trip at Ridley Creek State Park. This park covers over 2,600 acres of land and offers various activities like fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The park's highlight is the Colonial Plantation, a living history museum where you can see firsthand how the early Quaker farmers lived in the area. You can also tour the Hunting Hill Mansion, a Colonial Revival mansion that stands out for its grandeur and beautiful architecture.
Point of Interest: Go to the multi-use trail for an easy walk that offers stunning views of the park's forests, fields, and meadows. You can also take the paved trail that meanders along Ridley Creek.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Burlington City to Ridley Township road trip is a great way to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the area. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out or an educational experience, this trip has got you covered. Don't miss the Washington Crossing Historic Park, Grounds For Sculpture, Valley Forge National Historical Park, Longwood Gardens, and Ridley Creek State Park. With this list, you are guaranteed a great time on your road trip, which should take you a whole day, with some planning. Happy road-tripping!