Scenic Pennsylvania Turnpike Route Avoiding Tunnels

Day 1: Turnpike Tunnel Avoidance

Valley Forge to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Creperie

Start your day with a light, delicious crepe breakfast conveniently located near Valley Forge. Their fresh ingredients and cozy atmosphere make for a great morning meal.
USD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive using alternate routes to avoid Turnpike tunnels

Use US-422 and PA-283 as detours to bypass tunnels such as the Allegheny Mountain Tunnel. These state roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views of Pennsylvania countryside.
USD0, 3h00m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Millworks, Harrisburg

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at The Millworks, known for locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes in a vibrant setting.
USD25, 1h15m

2:00pm

Walk along the Susquehanna River Trail

Stretch your legs with a gentle walk along the scenic Susquehanna River Trail, offering peaceful river views and a refreshing break from driving.
USD0, 1h00m

3:30pm

Continue west using US-30 to avoid tunnels

Take US-30 west, a historic route known as the Lincoln Highway, as an alternative to sections of the Turnpike with tunnels, passing through charming small towns along the way.
USD0, 2h30m

6:15pm

Dinner at Somerset Breakfast and Lunch

Stop at Somerset for dinner at this highly-rated local spot offering hearty American fare in a family-friendly environment.
USD20, 1h00m

7:30pm

Overnight stay in Somerset

Check in to a comfortable hotel in Somerset for rest and relaxation before continuing your journey the next day.
USD100, Overnight
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Day 2: Final Leg to Pittsburgh

Somerset to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the hotel or local cafe

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel or at a nearby cafe to fuel up for the drive to Pittsburgh.
USD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive using US-22 and PA-60 to Pittsburgh

Continue avoiding tunnels by taking US-22 west, connecting to PA-60 into Pittsburgh, enjoying smooth roads with minimal traffic and scenic views of western Pennsylvania.
USD0, 2h00m

11:30am

Visit Point State Park

Explore Point State Park at the confluence of three rivers in downtown Pittsburgh, an ideal spot for photography and history fans.
USD0, 1h00m

12:30pm

Lunch at Primanti Bros.

Try the iconic Pittsburgh sandwich with fries and slaw stuffed inside at Primanti Bros., a local favorite open daily from 11am to 10pm.
USD18, 1h00m

2:00pm

Visit PNC Park or walk along the riverfront

If interested in sports, tour or view the outside of PNC Park. Otherwise, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverfront trails nearby.
USD25 for tour, free for walking, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore the Strip District

Wander through Pittsburgh’s famous Strip District market area with shops, specialty food vendors, and eclectic boutiques.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Church Brew Works

Dine in a unique restored church turned brewery and restaurant known for craft beer and hearty meals, open until 10pm.
USD30, 1h30m

7:45pm

Stay overnight in Pittsburgh

Choose a downtown hotel to relax after a full day of travel and exploration.
USD150, Overnight
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