Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Binghamton, NY to Arlington, VA
Road trips are a great way to explore the country and discover new places. From the City of Binghamton, New York, to Arlington, Virginia, there are plenty of exciting and interesting things to see and do. This road trip takes about seven hours, with Jonestown, PA, marking the halfway point. The trip provides a mix of urban and rural settings, allowing for a diverse range of activities. Here are the top five things to do on this scenic route.
Stop 1: Hershey's Chocolate World, Hershey, PA
No road trip is complete without trying out some new foods. Make a pit stop at Hershey's Chocolate World in Hershey, PA, and indulge in chocolate-themed treats. Take a guided tour that includes chocolate-making demonstrations and a glimpse of the famed chocolate factory. Watch the joy on little ones' faces when riding the virtual tour, where you’ll learn about the origins of chocolate and get a taste for the chocolate-making process.
Interesting Fact: The town of Hershey, PA, was built around the Hershey's chocolate factory. Milton Hershey, the founder of Hershey's chocolate, envisioned Hershey as a model town.
Stop 2: Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, PA
Step back in time and visit Gettysburg National Military Park, one of the most significant battlefield sites of the Civil War. Learn about the history of the famous battle and its impact on the outcome of the Civil War. Visitors can take guided tours of the battlefield, watch a historical film, or take a self-guided tour with a map.
Interesting Fact: Gettysburg was the site of the largest Civil War battle in the United States, resulting in over 50,000 casualties.
Stop 3: Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive
For those who love scenic drives, take a drive on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. The 105-mile drive meanders through forests, rolling hills, and awe-inspiring views of the Shenandoah Valley. Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife that call the park home.
Interesting Fact: Shenandoah National Park is home to over 190 bird species, including the Virginia bluebird and the woodpecker.
Stop 4: Montpelier, Orange, VA
Step back in history to the home of James Madison, the fourth U.S. President, and "father of the Constitution." Visitors can take a guided tour of the former president's plantation home, explore the beautifully manicured gardens, or take a self-guided tour of the property. Learn about the lifestyle of Madison, the daily goings-on of life on a plantation, and the history of the Constitution.
Interesting Fact: James Madison was the shortest U.S. president, standing only five feet four inches tall.
Stop 5: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA
No visit to Arlington, VA, is complete without visiting the final resting place of U.S. service members at Arlington National Cemetery. Visitors can take a guided tour or walk the grounds at their own pace. Make sure to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where silent guard performances occur 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Interesting Fact: The first soldier to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery was Private William Henry Christman of Pennsylvania on May 13, 1864.
Conclusion
This road trip is an excellent way to explore the East Coast and discover some of the most iconic landmarks and scenic roadways. Visiting these five stops is an excellent way to explore and learn about the diversity of the United States, from the social, historical, and environmental perspectives. Depending on the speed, travelers can complete this trip in one day or choose to embark on an extended journey over a few days. Make sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the ride!