Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Danville, Pennsylvania

If you are looking for a road trip that takes you through rural Pennsylvania, this journey from Carlisle to Danville is worth considering. The drive covers 120 miles, taking you through picturesque farmlands, countryside, and small towns. You can complete the drive in around two and a half hours, depending on how often you feel inclined to stop and enjoy the scenic beauty. Here are five unexpected places worth stopping during the drive.

Halfway Point: Millersburg, PA

Before we start with the five stops, we must mention Millersburg, the halfway point between Carlisle and Danville. The small town is located in the heart of the Susquehanna River Valley. One of the town's most famous attractions is the Millersburg Ferryboat, the only transportation of its kind in Pennsylvania that is still in use. The ferryboat takes you across the Susquehanna River and is an excellent way to enjoy the scenic river valley. There are several places to eat in Millersburg, including the Riverfront Cafe, which offers locally sourced foods and excellent coffee.

Stop 1: Beavertown

Beavertown is a small, charming town known for its history and antique shops. There is no denying that Beavertown is small, but if you are looking for something off the beaten path, this is the place to be. There are some excellent antique stores in the town, including the Old Sled Works Antique Mall, where you can browse through old toys, vintage clothing, and furniture. The Beavertown Diner is one of the popular places to grab a bite, and they serve an excellent hamburger.

Stop 2: Packer's Concessions

Packer's Concessions is located in Sunbury, a small city located along the Susquehanna River. Packer's is a slow-cooked barbecue food truck that serves some of the area's most delicious food. The locals rave about the brisket and pulled pork. They also have a few seating areas next to the food truck. Sunbury has other great dining options, including the Penumbra Fine Crafted Brews, a craft brewery that serves excellent beer with a lovely ambiance.

Stop 3: Knoebels Amusement Resort

If you are a thrill-seeker, Knoebels Amusement Resort is worth the stop. Among the park's attractions is the Phoenix, which was voted the best wooden coaster in the world. The park has over 60 rides, including bumper boats, roller coasters, a haunted house, and kiddie rides. The food stands inside the park serve classic amusement park cuisine, such as funnel cakes, hot dogs, and cotton candy.

Stop 4: Yuengling Brewery

Heading into Danville, you will find the Yuengling Brewery, America's oldest brewery. They offer guided tours that walk you through the brewery's history and beer-making process. Visitors can taste samples in the brewery's tasting room, including the iconic lager for which Yuengling is known. There is also a gift shop to purchase Yuengling merchandise and souvenirs.

Stop 5: Pine Barn Inn

Located in Danville, Pine Barn Inn is a historic hotel that has been in operation since the 1800s. The hotel has rustic charm and elegance and is a perfect place to rest your head after a long drive. If you are looking for a classic dish, their crab cakes and filet mignon are among the fan favorites. They also offer daily specials that include items such as lobster risotto and shrimp scampi.

Why You Should Take This Trip

The drive from Carlisle to Danville is an excellent way to experience small-town Pennsylvania while enjoying scenic views. With the five stops mentioned above, visitors can experience excellent barbecue food, theme park rides, the oldest brewery in America, and so much more. The town's hospitality and charm make the trip even more worthwhile. Be sure to take a moment to enjoy the slow pace and little things that make these small towns worth the trip.