19. Pennsylvania - 2 trips

Tuesday, Oct 1st, stopped for a few hours at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, where I went to college. Beautiful campus in the woods with stone buildings. Visited my fraternity and spoke to a couple of brothers who were both studying business/economics, the same major I took.

Late afternoon, drove eastward on the Pa. Turnpike and stayed at Ye Olde Mill Campground in the town of Burnt Cabins, 1 hour West of Harrisburg, in the middle of nowhere.  Next morning drove into Harrisburg and stopped at my paternal grandparents grave.  Then drove into the city and went to the state capital, which is easily the most beautiful of all the ones I have been to so far. Five minutes from there is City Island in the middle of the Susquehanna river, where I parked the RV and went on a wonderful 2 hour bicycle ride, into the city and along the banks of the river.

PA State Capitol Rotunda

Bike path on the Susquehanna River

That evening, drove 20 minutes East and stayed (for free) in the parking lot of Penn National Race Track and Casino.  Next morning drove to nearby Hershey and did the 15 minute chocolate factory tour which was boring. Then drove 2 hours East into New Jersey to the town of Phillipsburg, just so I could have lunch at Joes Steak Shop, the best steak sandwiches anywhere!

Steak, Pierogies and Birch Beer - Mmm, good!

After lunch, drove across the bridge (over the Delaware Rive) back into Pennsylvania to my home town of Easton. Drove the RV all the way up Northampton street (Main street) to our old house.

Later that afternoon, drove 20 minutes west to Bethlehem, where I stayed overnight (yep, again for free) in the Sands Casino parking lot. Did not like the atmosphere in the casino so did not gamble at all.

Next morning, Friday, October 4th, drove 1.5 hours East into New Jersey, where I stayed for 3 1/2 weeks.

During my NJ stay, I took a 2 day trip to Philadelphia. Had a great time walking around Philly for 1 1/2 days; it really lives up to its reputation as being a great walking city.

Liberty Bell

Independence Hall

Pat;s Steak Shop - ate there and also across the street at Gino's

Afternoon of the second day, drove 30 minutes West to Valley Forge National Historic Park, where I saw a good film at the visitor center then drove the loop, visiting the sites.

Recreated winter huts used by soldiers

George Washington's winter headquarters