The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania and Franklin, Kentucky
Taking a road trip is always an adventure. From the stunning scenery on the drive to the exciting destinations along the way, every road trip is unique. If travellers are embarking on a road trip from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, to Franklin, Kentucky, there are numerous must-see stops along the route covering approximately 700 miles. The halfway point of the trip is Columbus, Ohio. Here are some of the trip's highlights and a few top recommendations for things to do on the way.
Trip Overview
Before diving into the top five things to do on a road trip from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, to Franklin, Kentucky, let's take a brief overview of the journey. Starting in Centre Hall, travellers will take a drive southwest on US-322 W, passing through the stunning valleys and charming small towns of Pennsylvania. After driving about 250 miles, they arrive in Columbus, Ohio, the halfway point of the journey. From there, they continue south on I-71 S, passing through the rolling hills of southern Ohio and into Kentucky. The trip concludes in Franklin, Kentucky, after completing a journey of approximately 700 miles.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, located in Cleveland, Ohio, is a must-visit for music lovers travelling through the area. The museum celebrates the history and evolution of rock music, with exhibits featuring iconic artists and bands. Visitors can see artifacts like Elvis Presley's motorcycle and Michael Jackson’s fedora while enjoying interactive displays and live music. It's the perfect stop for anyone who loves rock and roll and the culture surrounding it.
Interesting Fact
The first exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was opened on September 2, 1995, featuring over 100 pieces of iconic rock and roll artifacts.
2. Explore Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the most incredible natural wonders in the United States, and it is located in Kentucky. It's the longest known cave system in the world, stretching over 400 miles, with new chambers discovered every year. Visitors can take guided tours through the caves, exploring breathtaking underground passages and chambers. They can also enjoy hikes, wildlife watching, and camping in the national park.
Interesting Fact
Mammoth Cave National Park's Green River has the largest population of endangered Bigeye Chub found in any U.S. National Park.
3. Experience the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky
The Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, is an engaging and informative museum that explores the creationist perspective of the history of the world. The museum features exhibits on everything from the Garden of Eden to dinosaurs, combining animatronics, dioramas, and interactive displays. Visitors can explore the 75,000-square-foot museum and even take a zip line tour of the surrounding area.
Interesting Fact
The museum's centerpiece is an animatronic display titled "Seven C's Walk Through History," which tells the history of the world according to the Bible's creation story.
4. Visit the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky
The National Corvette Museum is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and offers visitors a chance to explore the history of one of America's most iconic sports cars. The museum features more than 80 Corvettes in permanent and rotating exhibits, detailing the evolution of the car from 1953 to the present. Visitors can also take a tour of the on-site Corvette Assembly Plant, where every Corvette in the world is built.
Interesting Fact
The National Corvette Museum is home to the world-famous "sinkhole" that swallowed eight Corvettes in 2014, but none of the cars were seriously damaged.
5. Explore the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky
The Bourbon Trail in Kentucky is a must-visit for people who enjoy whiskey and want to learn about its history. Travellers can take a tour of the distilleries that make up the trail, each with its unique story and flavors. Visitors can learn about the distilling process, the history of bourbon, and even sample various types of bourbon whiskey.
Interesting Fact
The name "bourbon" comes from Bourbon County, Kentucky, where it was first distilled in the late 18th century.
Conclusion
Travelling from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, to Franklin, Kentucky, is a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the best things that Ohio and Kentucky have to offer. From exploring the natural beauty of Mammoth Cave National Park to learning about the history of rock and roll at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, there is something for everyone. The trip can be completed in a day, but to enjoy everything fully, travellers should consider making it a two-day journey.