Driving From Pittsburgh To New Jersey? Check Out These Surprises

Driving From Pittsburgh To New Jersey? Check Out These Surprises

Staff

If you are in a hurry to beat the clock on your drive to arrive in New Jersey, the following surprises won’t attract your interest. However, if you enjoy music and love nothing more than an outdoor concert, prefer unique adventures, or if you want to relax and stretch your legs along the way, the wonders between Pittsburgh and New Jersey hold some attractive surprises for you. Come with us as we explore your short journey and the rewarding destinations waiting for you. 

Stage AE

The incredible concert and event venue, The Stage AE, in Pittsburgh is your starting place for entertainment and it is an outstanding way to start any journey. Stay overnight at a nearby resort and enjoy music of all genres in the 5,500 seat outdoor amphitheater, the indoor music hall that holds 2,400 music lovers, the indoor club which holds 90 patrons, or an indoor lounge where you will enjoy an intimate setting with musical stylings from known artists. 

One of the nicest features of Stage AE is the stress-free process for ticket purchases and there are a variety of options for the seating you choose. There are several amenities offered in the amphitheater and concert hall, and the information for parking, food, travel information and other items guarantee concert-goers will return. Whether you live in Pittsburgh or are simply driving by, check out all that Stage AE offers and stack up some musical vibes of your choice. 

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

This is a national draw for visitors and the reason why is that most, if not all, of us understand the price paid by so many individuals for the nation that survived. It is a must-visit museum and visitor center for both the invaluable exhibits and artifacts and the the outstanding marked trails that lead to the battle sites themselves. While young children may not understand the significance of this museum, they will translate the quiet observations and emotions that surface as a result of visiting this museum and visitor center. It is a must-see experience for us all. 

Strasburg Rail Road

The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continuously operating railroad in the US. A shiny black steam-driven train  operates daily on regular runs, but there are also adventurous offerings for those of you who want to leave the safety of your vehicle and venture into the unknown. For example, you may prefer the Elegant Experience, where a lavish dinner is served for you in the posh surroundings of the dining car. 

For those who are willing to take a dare, there is the Long John Limited. Simply put, this means you’ll don your longjohn winter underwear and board the Open Air Car for a freezing, eye-watering trek through often snowy weather. Those of us who prefer warm climates and a soothing libation will enjoy the Whiskey On The Rails experience, where whiskey lovers can sample whiskey and take naps throughout the remainder of the train ride. Whatever you choose, the Strasburg Rail Road will undoubtedly be memorable.   

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park 

The Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is a refreshing stop for any family tired of riding in the car. Everyone can walk, run or skip through the petting zoo, reptile exhibits and the safari ride in the 150-acre wildlife park. Children will especially enjoy the interaction with the animals and the environment is friendly for parents who want to slowly stroll while their children run ahead in anticipation of the next exhibit.

The Hershey Story Museum 

In Hershey, Pennsylvania there are numerous attractions related to the Hershey family, the epic and ever-popular chocolate, and the people who continue to drive the Hershey name with a high degree of business acumen. The Hershey Story Museum is the place to start if you don’t know much about the background of the family and the business. Inside, you’ll find a wide variety of exhibits and collections that demonstrate the life of the Hersheys and the history of the company. 

FirstEnergy Stadium (formerly Municipal Memorial Stadium) 

Located in Reading, Pennsylvania, this classic stadium is much like your grandmother’s sweet home. It holds 10,000 ballpark fans and comfortably allows families to enjoy warm summer evenings and corn dogs while watching minor league teams try to beat the records born in this ballpark. Check local listings for games and entry details. 

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom 

Take a walk on the adventure-side of life at two parks, each with numerous attractions inside. At Dorney Park, you’ll find gentle, child-friendly rides like the Antique Carousel and Charlie Brown’s Wind-Up, which guarantee a positive and happy ending. However, you’ll also be invited to ride the Dominator and The Possessed, which may give you pause before you jump aboard. Whichever side attracts you, there are roller coasters, thrill rides, and gentle slow-moving experiences to keep you occupied. 

The Wildwater Kingdom offers the Python Plummet and the Snake Pit, both of which offer a hint of ominous water-action to follow. As is true throughout the park, however, the venue offers kiddie splash parks and gentle coasters through water slides for the little ones and those of us scared of anything named, “The Snake Pit.” 

Peddler’s Village

This little enclave of shops is the perfect way to end your road trip. The village welcomes families with little ones and offers entertainment and events throughout the year. In the summer, Stories in the Sand, a collection of sand sculptures related to traditional storybook characters, are the highlight of the stunning summer shop and market offerings.

Whether you drive the road between Pittsburgh and New Jersey in six hours or take a long, leisurely adventure, we hope you enjoy the beauty of the land and all it has to offer.

The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.