Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to explore and discover new places, people, and cultures. If you’re looking for a scenic drive that’s full of unique and unexpected stops along the way, then look no further than the route from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This trip covers approximately 600 miles and takes around 10 to 11 hours, depending on your driving speed and number of stops. The journey is full of picturesque landscapes, small-town charm, and some hidden gems that you wouldn’t expect to find on a typical road trip.
The halfway point of this trip is Colonial Heights, VA, which is a historic town located near Petersburg and Richmond. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and explore some of the town’s attractions before continuing your journey. But, if you’re looking for something more unique, then here are five unexpected places you should stop on your drive from Centre Hall to Myrtle Beach.
1. Crystal Cave – Kutztown, PA
Crystal Cave is a natural wonder located in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Dutch Country. It’s an underground cave system that’s home to some of the most beautiful crystal formations in the world. The cave is open for guided tours, and visitors can marvel at the natural beauty of the glistening stalactites and stalagmites. Plus, the cave’s temperature stays at a comfortable 54 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so it’s a great escape from the summer heat. If you’re feeling peckish, then you can enjoy a picnic at the Cave’s Ivy Lodge picnic area.
Favorite Food: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal in the Cave’s Ivy Lodge picnic area.
2. Flight 93 National Memorial – Shanksville, PA
The Flight 93 National Memorial is a moving tribute to the 40 passengers and crew who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The memorial is located at the crash site of United Airlines Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Visitors can walk the Flight Path Walkway, which takes you along the flight path of the plane, and read the stories of those who were on board. The memorial has a calming and respectful atmosphere, and it’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who died.
Favorite Food: Enjoy a meal at The Shanksville Grill, which offers burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
3. Natural Bridge – Natural Bridge, VA
The Natural Bridge is a geological marvel located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. This 215-foot natural limestone bridge is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the United States, dating back to the 1700s. Visitors can walk through the bridge and explore the many trails that wind through the surrounding park. It’s also home to Virginia’s largest cavern system, the Natural Bridge Caverns, which is a popular tourist attraction in its own right.
Favorite Food: Grab a bite at The Pink Cadillac Diner, a retro-style diner that serves classic American cuisine.
4. South of the Border – Dillon, SC
South of the Border is a kitschy roadside attraction that’s been drawing travelers for over half a century. Located just south of the North Carolina-South Carolina border, it’s a one-of-a-kind destination that’s hard to miss. The attraction is designed as a Mexican-themed village, complete with restaurants, shops, and a 200-foot-tall observation tower, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The attraction is a bit of a nostalgia trip, and it’s perfect for families with children.
Favorite Food: Head to Pedro’s Mexican Restaurant for a selection of Tex-Mex dishes and classic margaritas.
5. Brookgreen Gardens – Murrells Inlet, SC
Brookgreen Gardens is a coastal oasis located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. It’s a sprawling 9,000-acre garden filled with sculpted gardens, a wildlife preserve, and a historical plantation that dates back to the 18th century. The garden is home to over 2,000 sculptures, which range from classical to contemporary. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the garden, stroll along the scenic walking trails, or visit the on-site Lowcountry Zoo.
Favorite Food: Head to The Claw House for some of the freshest seafood in the area.
In conclusion, taking a road trip from Centre Hall, Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is an adventure that you won’t forget anytime soon. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique attractions and landscapes that you wouldn’t expect to find on a typical road trip. So, if you’re looking for a journey that’s full of surprises and hidden gems, then it’s time to embark on this trip and explore all that the East Coast has to offer.