A Road Trip from Ithaca to Annapolis: Top Five Popular Attractions to Visit
Are you ready for a road trip filled with scenic vistas, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture? Look no further than a journey from Ithaca, New York to Annapolis, Maryland. The 400-mile drive will take you through the heart of Pennsylvania, passing through charming small towns and rolling hills. And halfway through your adventure, you'll reach the quaint town of Sunbury, which is a perfect place to take a break and explore. But that's not all - there are plenty of sights to see along the way. Here are the top five popular attractions you must visit on your journey from Ithaca to Annapolis:
1. Watkins Glen State Park
You can't miss a visit to Watkins Glen State Park, especially if you're an outdoor enthusiast. This breathtaking park boasts 19 waterfalls, a winding stream, and dramatic cascades, all nestled within a narrow gorge. You can hike along its many trails or simply take in the views from one of several observation areas. The best thing? It's only an hour's drive outside Ithaca.
2. Hershey's Chocolate World
Who wouldn't want to visit the sweetest place on earth? Hershey's Chocolate World is a paradise for chocoholics, offering a variety of chocolate-themed attractions including a factory tour, a 4D movie experience, and a chocolate tasting session. There's even a chance to create your own chocolate bar. This attraction is only an hour and a half from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
3. Gettysburg National Military Park
History buffs will surely appreciate a stop at the Gettysburg National Military Park. This site marks the site of one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War, where Union soldiers fought fiercely against Confederate forces. Today, visitors can explore the park's visitor center, watch a film about the battle, and take a guided tour of the battlegrounds. It's only an hour's drive from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
4. Harper's Ferry
Get ready to step back in time when you visit Harper's Ferry. This picturesque town, situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, was once a vital transportation hub and the site of a failed slave rebellion. Today, visitors can explore its historic district, visit the museums, or take part in a guided tour. The drive to Harper's Ferry takes two hours from Annapolis, Maryland.
5. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
No trip to Annapolis is complete without a visit to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. This museum celebrates the region's maritime heritage, allowing visitors to explore boats and artifacts, participate in hands-on activities, and take a guided tour. You can even take a boat ride to experience the area's natural beauty from the water. The museum is located in Annapolis, so it's a perfect way to wrap up your road trip.
Conclusion
To make the most of your journey from Ithaca to Annapolis, we recommend taking the I-81 South and the I-70 East. This route will take you through some of the most stunning scenery the mid-Atlantic has to offer, and as a bonus, you'll pass through charming towns and historic landmarks aplenty. Make sure to stop at Sunbury to stretch your legs and explore its charming downtown. From there, it's only a few hours' drive to Annapolis, where you can finish your journey by exploring the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and other attractions. Safe travels!