The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlton, Massachusetts and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Charlton, Massachusetts and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware are two great starting points for a road trip that promises an amazing experience. From the charming small towns to historic cities and scenic drives, there are plenty of attractions that make this trip a must-do. The halfway point of this journey is Metuchen, NJ, which is known for its live music scene and vibrant downtown area.
Tour the City of Brotherly Love in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is one of the most historically rich cities in America, which makes it a bucket-list destination for history enthusiasts. Iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art make this city a must-visit for any road trip itinerary. One can relive the American Revolution by visiting the Independence National Historical Park or explore the magnificent examples of modern and contemporary art at the Art Museum. If one is a foodie, taking a tour of Philadelphia's vibrant culinary scene is a must. Philly cheese steak is the most famous delicacy that one cannot miss.
Interesting Fact: Philadelphia was once the capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800, before it was moved to Washington D.C.
Explore the Great Outdoors in Shenandoah National Park
Nestled in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a land of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning vistas. The park's Skyline Drive offers a breathtaking scenic drive through the park, with stops at various lookout points. Visitors can camp or hike in the area, overlooking the valley below and witness amazing sunsets. The route offers spectacular hiking trails such as Old Rag Mountain Trail, considered the toughest hike in the park. The Appalachian Trail, which runs through the park, is heaven for hikers.
Interesting Fact: Shenandoah National Park contains over 200,000 acres of protected wilderness and is home to over 1,300 species of flora and fauna.
Revisit History at Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg is a small town that witnessed one of the bloodiest battles during the U.S. Civil War. The Gettysburg National Military Park offers an immersive experience of the battle that changed the course of history. Guided tours bring to life stories of war heroes and civilians who were caught amidst the conflict. Visitors can marvel at the impressive monuments and memorials erected in honor of the brave soldiers who fought in the battlefield. The visitors must also visit the Gettysburg Visitor Center and Museum, which houses the Cyclorama painting of Pickett's Charge and exhibits of the battle.
Interesting Fact: Gettysburg was the site of the most significant battle of the Civil War, with over 50,000 casualties.
Experience the Charm of Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, is a place of beauty, history, and hospitality. This charming town boasts of the United States Naval Academy, the State House, and the Maryland State Capitol among its many attractions. Visitors can take a stroll through the historic streets of downtown Annapolis, which are lined with charming colonial houses, boutiques, and galleries. Annapolis harbor walk offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and is perfect for sunset lovers. A visit to Annapolis is incomplete without trying the famous Maryland crabcakes from the local stalls.
Interesting Fact: Annapolis is home to the United States Naval Academy, which prepares officers for service in the Navy and the Marine Corps.
Soak up the Sun at the Beaches of Rehoboth, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware is the perfect destination to unwind and relax after a long drive. The town is known for its pristine, award-winning beaches, and a mile-long boardwalk that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can enjoy the beach, sunbathe, or partake in a variety of water sports, including kayaking, SUP, and parasailing. The town is a shopper's paradise, with plenty of quaint shops and boutiques, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to funky apparel. Visit the Funland, an amusement park for kids that offers kiddy rides and arcade games.
Interesting Fact: Rehoboth Beach has been a favorite vacation spot for presidents like Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Joe Biden.
The Route and Time
This road trip covers around 800 miles and generally takes around 14 hours of driving (without factoring in stops), making it a perfect weekend trip, or longer, depending on how much time to one has. Besides the attractions listed above, there are plenty of other things to see and do on the route, including exploring the charming towns of Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, and visiting historic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the George Washington Bridge. The journey guarantees fantastic memories of fun road trips, scenic sites and culturally rich stops along the way.