Appalachian Adventures Self Drive Tour

Welcome to Pittsburgh, which is the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s second largest city. The cultural and commercial capital of the region, Pittsburgh is often referred to as the “Paris of Appalachia.” Located at the convergence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers, Pittsburgh is also known as the “City of Bridges” as its uniquely situated status necessitates some 446 bridges. Pittsburgh is perhaps most well known as the “Steel City” for its more than 300 steel-related businesses and its deeply linked history as the center of the American steel industry. Hence, it is home to the famed American Football team the Pittsburgh Steelers, which has won more Super Bowls then any other team in history. The history of steel and the industry that it engendered throughout the region permeates the city. Founded by steel industrialist Andrew Carnegie in 1900, Carnegie Mellon University now one of the top universities in the United States. The city is also the birthplace of famed American Pop artist Andy Warhol as well the irreplaceable Heinz Ketchup recipe.

Seize the day by departing the city and heading Southeast toward one of the most stunning architectural homes of the 20th century, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling water. Built in 1935 and cantilevered over a natural waterfall, the home was designed as a weekend getaway for the Kaufmann family, which owned the then popular Kaufman Department Store. Today it is a museum preserved in its original state and it ranked on the Smithsonian’s Life List of 28 places to visit before you die. The American Institute of Architects has named Fallingwater the best all time work of American Architecture. Continue your journey traversing the scenic hill country of the Maryland panhandle toward one of the most consequential landmarks of American history, Gettysburg. The site of perhaps the most pivotal battle of the American Civil War as well as the subsequent historic address by President Abraham Lincoln, the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg Battlefield have been well preserved and unforgettable.

Driving Distance: 200 MI / 300 KM

Spend the morning at the Gettysburg National Battlefield before heading south across the Mason-Dixon Line passing through Frederick Maryland to one of the most historic towns of the region, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. With a population of less than 300 people, Hapers Ferry is best known as the location of abolitionist John Brown’s raid on the United States Armory in 1859, which one of the events that historians point to starting the Civil War. Located at the intersection of two rivers (Potomac and Shenandoah) and three states, West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia, Harpers Ferry is one of only a few towns to be located on the Appalachian Trail. Tour the National Historic Park and if you are feeling adventurous hike to the top of the Maryland Heights Overlook to view the scenic hamlet from above before heading southeast along the Potomac toward the Nation’s Capital.

Driving Distance: 100 MI / 170 KM

A full day to explore the many sights of Washington, D.C.

Depart D.C. heading south through northern Virginia, which is one of the fastest growing areas of the United States. The huge population influx into the suburbs south of Washington have changed the demographic makeup of the entire state of Virginia, which, once the Capital of the Confederacy, in some places no longer seems to be part of the American south at all. Travel through Fredericksburg, which, located halfway between the capitals of the Union and the Confederacy, played host to several pivotal Civil War battles. Continue on to one of the most charming cities in America, Thomas Jefferson’s hometown of Charlottesville. One of America’s Founding Fathers, our Third President, and the author of our Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson was a man of many talents. His architectural prowess is on full display in Charlottesville, with the University of Virginia, which he founded and designed as a showcase. But it is the masterpiece of Monticello, his home and plantation that cannot be missed. The history of the man is as fascinating and complex as his many inventions, including the dumbwaiter, the predecessor to the modern elevator and which is featured at Monticello.

Driving Distance: 100 MI / 170 KM

Today you will embark on a scenic drive over the Blue Ridge Mountains toward the Allegheny Range, both part of the vast Appalachian Mountain Range. One of the hidden historical treasures of America is located in these mountains near White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The Greenbrier Resort was originally established around the restorative sulphur waters of the area, which had been attracting visitors looking to cure their rheumatism since the 18th century. The resort has hosted 26 American Presidents and its current facilities make it one of the leading Grand hotels of America. Most interestingly, during the Cold War the Greenbrier become the site of a massive underground bunker that was meant to serve as an emergency shelter to Congress in the event of a nuclear attack. Code named “Project Greek Island,” today the bunker can now be toured.

Driving Distance: 350 MI / 480 KM

Having now been well versed in different eras of American history, but particularly the Civil War, it is interesting to note that West Virginia became a state by separating from Virginia during that war. The state is noted for its mountains, rolling hills, and historically significant Coal industry, which has been in decline in recent decades due to changes in energy and technology. In the morning visit the West Virginia State Museum and the beautiful State Capitol building. Peruse the Capitol Market to get a better sense of the local flavors before departing West Virginia by crossing over the mighty Ohio River into the Buckeye state’s capital and largest city Columbus. Upon arrival in Columbus, enjoy the evening in the Short North Arts District, which is the known as “the art and soul of Columbus.”

Driving Distance: 170 MI / 300 KM

This morning experience a little more of what Columbus has to offer exploring the German Village. Columbus’ downtown neighborhood and one of the preeminent historic districts in the United States, there are many notable shops to enjoy, not least of which is the famous Book Loft. The Botanical Gardens and Columbus Zoo are also highlights of this charming city that has certainly hit its stride. In the late afternoon, head north toward Cleveland. Located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland was originally a manufacturing center that was well connected to numerous rail and canal lines. In more recent years as many manufacturers moved offshore, Cleveland’s economy has diversified into financial services, healthcare, and biomedical. Cleveland is home to several major league sports teams, all of which inspire very dedicated fans, as well as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which should not be missed.

Driving Distance: 150 MI / 240 KM

Before departing Cleveland, make sure to explore at least one of the dynamic neighborhoods surround ing downtown. Ohio City, Tremont, and University Circle each exhibit their own local flavor. Heading back toward Pittsburgh, you will travel through Youngstown, which is a city that is emblematic of the declining economic conditions across the region that became known as the Rust Belt. As you may have noticed by now, many of the urban centers across the region have diversified in a way that more rural areas could not. This dynamic and this region are at the center of an ongoing shift within the American economy and play a central role in shaping American politics.

Driving Distance: 150 MI / 240 K

With your remaining time enjoy what you missed on of Pittsburgh when you began this tour. If you have time before departing home, perhaps you can explore one of the charming boroughs surrounding the city, like Sewickley, which will leave you with a lasting impression of “Main Street USA.”

Return your car at the airport before your departure flight.