Best Things to do on a Road Trip from City of White Plains, New York and Montville Township, New Jersey
White Plains, New York, and Montville Township, New Jersey, are two bustling cities located in close proximity to each other. A road trip connecting these two vibrant locations allows for an exploration of exciting destinations along the way. This article highlights five must-visit attractions that are perfect for anyone embarking on this road trip. With a midway point at Suffern, NY, travelers can take a break and enjoy the scenic beauty of this small village.
Overview
The road trip from the City of White Plains, New York, to Montville Township, New Jersey, offers a wonderful opportunity to discover numerous fascinating places. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or food lover, this journey has something for everyone. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and captivating landmarks. After approximately 59 miles of travel, the midway point of Suffern, NY, presents a great place to unwind and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty.
Best Things to Do
1. Storm King Art Center
Nestled on a sprawling 500-acre landscape, the Storm King Art Center provides an unmatched experience for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Located in New Windsor, NY, it boasts the largest collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures in the entire United States. Roaming through meadows, fields, and woodlands, visitors can come face-to-face with stunning sculptures created by renowned artists like Roy Lichtenstein and Alexander Calder. This open-air museum perfectly melds art and nature, offering a unique perspective on both.
Interesting fact: The Storm King Art Center attracts over 200,000 visitors each year and has been continuously expanding its collection since its establishment in 1960.
2. Bear Mountain State Park
Situated in Upper Hudson Valley, just a short distance from Suffern, NY, Bear Mountain State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Offering panoramic views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains, this park is an ideal destination for hiking, picnicking, and exploring. Avid hikers can challenge themselves by conquering the famous Appalachian Trail that runs through the park. Visitors can also enjoy boat rentals, fishing, and a visit to the Bear Mountain Zoo. With its breathtaking natural scenery and abundant recreational activities, Bear Mountain State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Interesting fact: The Perkins Memorial Tower, located within Bear Mountain State Park, offers spectacular views of the Hudson River Valley, including an incredible vantage point of the Manhattan skyline.
3. Grounds For Sculpture
Nestled in Hamilton, NJ, the Grounds For Sculpture is an enchanting place where art and nature intertwine. Spanning 42 acres, visitors can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and encounter over 300 contemporary sculptures. The outdoor park is brimming with vibrant colors, intricate art, and peaceful ponds, providing a serene and immersive experience for all visitors. Additionally, galleries within the park showcase rotating exhibitions by both established and emerging artists, ensuring a diverse and captivating artistic journey.
Interesting fact: Grounds For Sculpture was founded by the renowned sculptor J. Seward Johnson Jr., who, apart from his own creations, sought to provide a platform for other artists to display their work.
4. Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Located in West Orange, NJ, the Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a treasure trove for history and science enthusiasts. This site preserves the laboratory and home of Thomas Edison, one of America's greatest inventors. Visitors can witness the very place where Edison developed groundbreaking inventions like the phonograph and incandescent light bulb. The laboratory, workshops, and living quarters offer a glimpse into the life and work of this visionary inventor. A guided tour of the estate and museum enhances the experience, providing deeper insights into Edison's incredible contributions.
Interesting fact: The West Orange laboratory, which is now a part of the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, is where the motion picture industry was truly born, as Edison's team perfected the technology of synchronized sound and motion pictures.
5. High Mountain Park Preserve
For those seeking solitude in nature, the High Mountain Park Preserve in Wayne, NJ, offers a sanctuary of tranquility. Spread over nearly 1,300 acres, this preserve grants visitors the chance to explore diverse ecosystems rich with flora and fauna. Hiking trails wind through forests, meadows, wetlands, and rocky ridges, offering breathtaking vistas along the way. The preserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 160 species of birds, including rare and endangered species. With its serene ambiance and stunning views, High Mountain Park Preserve provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Interesting fact: High Mountain Park Preserve is home to the iconic "Apshawa Arrowhead," a large boulder with an ancient Native American petroglyph carved onto its surface.
Conclusion
This road trip from the City of White Plains, New York, to Montville Township, New Jersey, weaves together an array of captivating destinations. From exploring the magnificent outdoor sculptures at the Storm King Art Center to experiencing the serenity of High Mountain Park Preserve, this journey offers a diverse range of attractions for every traveler. With a midpoint at Suffern, NY, where visitors can rest and bask in the natural beauty, this road trip provides a balance of adventure and relaxation. Covering a distance of approximately 59 miles, this itinerary encourages exploration, discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the wonders found along the way.