The Stunning Pennsylvania Drive That Is One Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In America
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on April 23, 2024(Originally published June 02, 2022)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Of all the scenic byways that crisscross the state, this scenic drive in Pennsylvania earns distinction as one of America’s best. The Brandywine Valley Scenic Byway, which connects to the Delaware byway of the same name, passes along some of the most beloved attractions in the eastern part of the state. It’s well worth a drive, whether you pass straight through or you stop to explore some of the attractions along the way.
For 25 glorious miles, the Brandywine Valley Scenic Byway travels through Pennsylvania, connecting to the Delaware section of the byway. Delaware’s portion tallies 12.25 miles.
What are the two sweetest words in the English language? Road trip! If you're looking for the perfect PA road trip, we can't stop gushing about this one.
The Pennsylvania portion of the Brandywine Scenic Byway earned status as a National Scenic Byway in 2021. Because both the Pennsylvania and Delaware portions are rather short, you can follow the entire byway in a single day, if you’re up for it.
We're fortunate to have seemingly endless scenic road trips in PA, but if you're short on time, you might want to start with a drive along this scenic byway.
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Longwood Gardens is perhaps the most famous of the attractions along the national byway, and it’s well worth a stop. Offering sensational scenery all year around, the popular destination offers both indoor and outdoor attractions.
Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA
Bring your hiking shoes along for a stop at Stroud Preserve in West Chester. Explore some of the 571 acres of sheer natural beauty along one of the hiking trails, or go kayaking or canoeing.
Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve, 454 N Creek Rd, West Chester, PA 19382, USA
The John Chads House, the Brandywine River Museum of Art, and Brandywine Battlefield Park are also along the scenic byway. However, before heading out, check days and hours to ensure each attraction is open.
Can you see why this is considered one of the best scenic byways in Pennsylvania?
Stop for a bite to eat during your drive, too. Chadds Ford is home to a number of eateries – from the charming steakhouse Brandywine Prime to Antica Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar.
Have you traveled this gorgeous scenic drive in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments, and let us know your favorite scenic byways in Pennsylvania. For more breathtaking scenery, follow one of the best scenic road trips in Pennsylvania. Before you hit the highway, make sure you’ve packed everything you need. Check out OIYS’ road trip essentials packing list for a comprehensive list.
