Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carlisle, Pennsylvania and Fairland, Maryland
Have you ever wanted to take a road trip and discover new places along the way? Why not take a drive from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Fairland, Maryland and explore the unexpected gems in between? This approximately 160-mile drive will take you through beautiful scenery, historic landmarks and delicious culinary delights. Grab a map, some snacks, and let's hit the road!
The first leg of your journey will take you through scenic routes like Route 15 and Route 40, making the trip enjoyable and visually appealing. After driving for an hour and a half, you'll hit the halfway point and the first suggested stop on your journey.
Thurmont, MD
Nestled in the northern part of Maryland lies the quaint town of Thurmont. This charming town offers a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides a delightful atmosphere for a few hours of relaxation. Nature lovers will enjoy the Catoctin Mountain Park, offering scenic trails, waterfalls, and wildlife exhibits. For history buffs, the Camp David Museum located at the National Emergency Training Center showcases the history of the Presidential retreat. And lastly, for those who want a little retail therapy, Main Street in Thurmont boasts unique businesses selling antiques, art, and handmade products.
Favorite food to eat: Crab Cake Sandwich from The Shamrock Restaurant.
Now let's continue with the rest of the journey and discover the unexpected side of Maryland.
1. Antietam National Battlefield
Just a short 40-minute drive from Thurmont, the Antietam National Battlefield offers visitors an opportunity to relive the bloodiest one-day battle in American history. The visitor center provides a wealth of knowledge about the battle and the Civil War, and the guided tours of the battlefield offer an in-depth view of the heroic battle that took place on September 17, 1862.
Favorite food to eat: Strawberry rhubarb pie from nearby Coffey's Country Store.
2. C&O Canal National Historical Park
Traveling south from Antietam will lead you to the C&O Canal National Historical Park. This 184.5-mile park stretches from Cumberland, Maryland, to the Georgetown section of Washington, D.C. Visitors can walk or bike the towpath, following the path that mules walked that once pulled barges filled with coal and other goods. Some of the must-see attractions at the park include the Great Falls and the Paw Paw Tunnel, which gives visitors a chance to walk through 3,118 feet of solid rock.
Favorite food to eat: Grilled cheese sandwich from the bakery in Little Orleans.
3. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park offers a complete package of history, scenery, and outdoor activities. This park, located on the southern edge of Maryland, includes an 18th-century town that was the site of John Brown's raid in 1859, which is famous for its impact on the abolitionist movement. Visitors to the park can tour historic buildings, hike on the Appalachian Trail, go tubing or kayaking along the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, or learn about the area's ecology and wildlife.
Favorite food to eat: Maryland crab soup from Secret Six Tavern.
4. Sugarloaf Mountain
Located just a 30-minute drive from Harpers Ferry, Sugarloaf Mountain offers visitors scenic hikes with breathtaking views of Maryland. The mountain's unique geological formation allows rock climbing, and the park has more than 30 miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty. More adventurous visitors can explore the mountain's caves, and all visitors will enjoy the fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.
Favorite food to eat: Fresh apple cider donuts from the Sugarloaf Mountain orchard.
Congratulations! You've completed your journey from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to Fairland, Maryland, and discovered hidden treasures along the way. From charming towns to historic sites to natural wonders, these unexpected places are worth a visit. Don't hesitate; grab your car keys and embark on this exciting journey today!