#Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Center Township, PA to Mars, PA
If you are looking for a drive that offers scenic views, small-town charm, and a chance to explore new places, look no further than a trip from Center Township, PA to Mars, PA. This 30-mile drive will take approximately 40 minutes without traffic, making it the perfect day trip. Along the way, there are plenty of places to stop, each offering its unique attractions. Here, we will highlight five unexpected places to stop on this drive.
##Halfway Point: Cranberry Township, PA
Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop, we must mention the halfway point of this drive, Cranberry Township. Located halfway between Center Township and Mars, this bustling town offers plenty of things to see and do. Visitors can shop at the many stores in the Cranberry Mall, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants, or explore the Cranberry Community Park. Cranberry Township is an excellent place to take a break before embarking on the remainder of the journey.
##1. Harmonist Cemetery
The Harmonist Cemetery is a historical burial ground located in Harmony, PA, about a 15-minute drive from the halfway point. This beautiful and peaceful cemetery is part of the Harmony Society Historic District, which is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can walk through the cemetery and see the final resting place of members of the Harmony Society, a religious group that lived in the area in the early 1800s.
Harmonist Cemetery is the perfect place to take a break and connect with history. For those feeling peckish after spending some time in the cemetery, a stop at Della Terra’s Wood-Fired Pizza is a must. This Italian restaurant, located in the heart of Harmony, serves delicious wood-fired pizza perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
##2. Moraine State Park
About a 20-minute drive from the halfway point, Moraine State Park is an excellent place to visit for nature lovers. The park covers over 16,000 acres and features a 3,225-acre lake. Visitors can go boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake, as well as hike and bike on the many trails. Moraine State Park is also home to several campgrounds.
For a bite to eat at Moraine State Park, visitors can stop at the Lakeview Beach House. This restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, all with stunning views of the lake.
##3. The Strand Theater
A trip to the Strand Theater is a must for fans of the arts. This historic theater, located in Zelienople, PA, offers a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, and movies. The Strand Theater is a community hub, and visitors will be sure to find something to their liking on the performance schedule.
A visit to the Strand Theater isn't complete without grabbing a bite at the Harmony Inn. This historic inn, located just a few minutes away from the theater, serves delicious comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and pasta.
##4. Mars Station
A trip to Mars, PA would not be complete without a stop at Mars Station. This historic train station was built in 1894 and was in use until the 1960s. Today, visitors can explore the station and learn about the history of Mars, as well as view exhibits about space exploration. Mars Station is a unique and unexpected stop on this road trip, and a great place to stretch your legs.
After exploring Mars Station, visitors can stop into the Mars Brew House for a cold beverage and a snack. This craft brewery and taproom is the perfect spot to grab a local beer and chat with some locals.
##5. Sarris Candies
Last but not least, a trip to Sarris Candies is a must. This famous chocolatier, located in Canonsburg, PA, offers a variety of chocolates and candies, including its famous chocolate-covered pretzels. Visitors can take a tour of the chocolate factory and watch as the chocolatiers handcraft each tasty treat.
Before leaving Sarris Candies, visitors must stop into the Chocolate Cafe. This cafe offers a variety of desserts and drinks, all made with Sarris Candies' chocolate.
##Conclusion
A drive from Center Township, PA to Mars, PA is the perfect day trip for anyone looking to explore new places and get a taste of small-town charm. With five unexpected places to stop along the way, visitors will find plenty to see and do. From exploring a historic cemetery to indulging in some chocolate-covered pretzels, this trip has something for everyone.