The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chester, New Jersey, to Hillsboro, Virginia
The allure of the open road is undeniable, especially when it comes to exploring the historic East Coast of the USA. Take a road trip from Chester, New Jersey, to Hillsboro, Virginia, and you'll find yourself venturing through some of America's most scenic landscapes, as well as discovering hidden gems in quaint towns along the way.
One of the highlights of your journey will be the midpoint in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, where you can enjoy a hearty meal in one of many cozy restaurants or visit a charming park to stretch your legs.
Here are five must-visit destinations to add to your itinerary.
The Grounds for Sculpture
The Grounds for Sculpture is a lush 42-acre park, which features over 270 sculptures created by various acclaimed artists. This vast art park is a place where colorful enclaves, picturesque buildings, and breathtaking vistas coexist harmoniously in the most modernly idyllic way. Why visit? For art lovers, there's no better place to take inspiration from the beautiful artistic creations that surround you. And even those who don't think they're particularly interested in the arts will still find themselves in awe of the impressive sculptures.
Fun Fact: You'll find that the park was built on the spot of a former fairground, which explains why the park still hosts many different events and exhibitions.
The Liberty Bell
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Liberty Bell is one of America's most famous and iconic landmarks. The bell has become synonymous with the country's struggle for independence and stands as a reminder of its ever-lasting duty to protect the constitution. Be sure to check out its message "prox xiiix july mdcclxxvi," taken from the Bible verse found in Leviticus 25:10, commonly translated as "Proclaim liberty throughout the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." Why visit? The Liberty Bell is not just a bell, but a symbol of America's independence. Visitors will leave the site with a heightened sense of patriotism and an understanding of the liberties on which the USA was founded.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Liberty Bell is no longer rung for fear of damaging the bell? The last time it was rung was on Washington's Birthday in 1846.
Civil War History
The Gettysburg National Military Park is a historical destination located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The park was established to commemorate the Battle of Gettysburg, which occurred in July of 1863. You can take a guided tour around the battlefield, visit the Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War, and learn more about the soldiers who fought and died in one of the bloodiest battles in American history. Why visit? This site is ideal for history buffs, and those seeking to learn more about America's past. Visitors get to immerse themselves in the stories of the battles, soldiers, and significant events that shaped the nation.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Battle of Gettysburg was the cataclysmic incident that stopped the Confederate Army's 1863 invasion of the North, subsequently leading to the Union victory in the American Civil War?
Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is a breathtaking drive that runs a length of 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The road offers some of America's best scenic views, running along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley. The northern entrance to the drive can be found around 60 miles from Warrenton, Virginia. Why visit? The scenery is beyond spectacular as you drive along the narrow, tranquil route through the mountains, with multiple rest stops that offer fantastic views. Visitors can enjoy an unforgettable driving experience with their friends and family.
Fun Fact: Skyline Drive was the first portion of the comprehensive Appalachian Trail to be completed, which is why it's still known as part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is a must-visit attraction located near Luray, Virginia. The largest and one of the most popular caverns in the Eastern USA feature numerous amazing stalactites, stalagmites, columns, underground lakes, and more. Visitors also get to enjoy a tour of the Singing Tower located onsite, where you can hear the music system, which produces hauntingly beautiful sounds through air pressure techniques. Why visit? Luray Caverns is an underground world that looks like it's from a different planet, offering breathtaking scenery that visitors will never forget.
Fun Fact: The Luray Caverns had been hidden underground for millions of years until discovered in 1878, when cave enthusiasts essentially dug their way down to the caverns.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Chester, New Jersey, to Hillsboro, Virginia opens up a whole new world of adventure and discovery. Along the way, visitors can explore some of America's most historic, beautiful, and interesting destinations. With a midway stop at Lebanon, Pennsylvania, you also give yourself plenty of time to sample each of the best things to do at a leisurely pace. The trip takes approximately seven hours, but it's worth every minute for those seeking to experience everything that this part of America has to offer.