Road Trip from Ithaca, NY to Harrisburg, PA: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit
Road trips are an excellent way to experience the great outdoors and discover new places. If you're looking for a road trip that offers a mix of history, nature, and culture, look no further than the scenic route from Ithaca, NY to Harrisburg, PA. This road trip of approximately 200 miles will take you through picturesque towns and charming countryside, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.
Did you know that the route from Ithaca, NY to Harrisburg, PA was once a trail used by the Native Americans and later utilized by early settlers for trading? Traveling on this route is a journey through history, and you might even spot some historical markers while you're on the road.
At about the halfway point of Trout Run, PA, you will enter Lycoming County, which is known for having over a thousand bat caves. Lycoming County is an ideal place for nature lovers to explore, so be sure to bring your hiking boots and maybe even a flashlight.
The road trip from Ithaca, NY to Harrisburg, PA is around four hours long, depending on how many stops you make. We recommend planning for a full day trip as there is so much to see and do along the way.
Here are our top five places to visit on this road trip:
1. Watkins Glen State Park
Located just outside of Ithaca, Watkins Glen State Park boasts stunning waterfalls, unique rock formations, and lush scenery. The park is also home to several hiking trails, which range in difficulty from easy to challenging. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, and swimming, making Watkins Glen State Park a must-visit destination.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Be sure to take the Gorge Trail, which takes you on a journey through 19 breathtaking waterfalls and stone steps of natural steps carved in the gorges.
2. Corning Museum of Glass
The Corning Museum of Glass is a world-renowned museum where you can learn about the history and science of glass. Visitors can see breathtaking glass sculptures, watch live glass blowing demonstrations, and even make their glass creations. If you're interested in science or art, the Corning Museum of Glass should be on your list of places to visit.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't forget to check out the Stunning Glass Collection and the Contemporary Art Glass Galleries.
3. Pine Creek Gorge
Also known as the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania," Pine Creek Gorge is 47 miles long and over 1,000 feet deep, making it a popular spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, kayak, and even take a scenic train ride along the rails of Pine Creek Gorge.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Stop at Leonard Harrison State Park overlook to see the most breathtaking views of the canyon.
4. The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon
Located in the Tioga State Forest, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon offers stunning views, hiking trails, and recreational opportunities. The canyon stretches for more than 45 miles and provides the perfect escape for those looking to get lost in nature.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take the West Rim Trail for unrivaled vantage points and a moderately challenging hike with shaded sections and breathtaking views.
5. Hershey's Chocolate World
If you have a sweet tooth, you can't miss Hershey's Chocolate World. This interactive museum is a dream come true for chocolate lovers, featuring exhibits on the history of chocolate, interactive experiences, and even a ride where visitors can virtually tour the chocolate making process. And of course, visitors can taste various Hershey's chocolate products.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't forget to take the Hershey's Chocolate Tour and the famous tasting experience.
In conclusion, this road trip from Ithaca, NY to Harrisburg, PA is a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, and it's worth every mile. From hiking in lush nature parks to learning about the science of glass, there's an experience for everyone. The journey might take a full day, but it's worth every minute spent exploring and discovering.