Roadtrip with RVshare Pittsburgh to New York

Nonstop adventure awaits on this road trip from Pittsburgh to New York! You'll experience unforgettable visits to a few of America's most historical cities in Harrisburg, Philadelphia, and Newark. Other Fascinating destinations along the way include the Gettysburg National Historical Park Museum and Visitor Center, the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier, and Independence National Historical Park. On your route, you'll also explore the beautiful waterfalls and geological wonders of Shenandoah National Park and be able to satisfy your sweet tooth at Hersheypark.

Nearby National Parks

This trip from Pittsburgh to New York wouldn't be complete without visits to a few of America's most breathtaking and historical national parks.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is two hours and 20 minutes south of Harrisburg, Virginia. At this beautiful park, you can spend several days exploring more than 500 miles of trails and cruise through the park on the scenic Skyline Drive. You can experience ancient cave systems at Grand and Skyline Caverns, photograph pristine cascades at Dark Hollow and Overall Run Falls, and visit President Herbert Hoover's rustic mountain retreat, Rapidan Camp. The naturally dark skies at Shenandoah are perfect for enjoying a few nights of stargazing, marshmallow roasting, and storytelling next to a campfire. 

Independence National Historical Park

At Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, you'll travel back through U.S. history at monumental locations such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the President's House Site. Check out the famous statue "The Signer," an important symbol of liberty and a tribute to those who contributed to securing America's freedom. The Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank is a must-see that features over 100 historical works of art painted by Charles Wilson Peale. Admission to sites throughout the park is free, and you can grab your tickets at the Independence Hall Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis.

Thomas Edison National Historical Park

Thomas Edison National Historical Park is located just north of Newark, New Jersey, and is a great place to spend the day exploring Edison's laboratory and a 29-room mansion on the sprawling Glenmont Estate. In the mansion, you can take a peek into the life of one of the world's most prolific inventors, then step into Edison's laboratory to learn about a number of his inventions. Self-guided tours of the Queen Anne-style mansion and Laboratory Complex are available Friday through Sunday, in addition to cell phone tours of the grounds. You'll also want to check out the Garden Shop located in the Potting Shed before you leave the estate.

Nearby State Parks

Rest and relax as you enjoy a couple of state parks on your trip.

Caledonia State Park

Caledonia State Parkoffers a variety of relaxing and invigorating activities that include swimming, fishing at Carbaugh Run, golfing an 18-hole course, and hiking 10 miles of wooded trails. Picnic tables and charcoal grills located throughout the park are perfect for barbecuing and roasting marshmallows. Hunting is permitted seasonally, and camping is available throughout the year. This is an excellent state park to include on your road trip, especially if you love getting out and exploring nature. 

Marsh Creek State Park

Marsh Creek State Park in Chester County, PA, has over 1,700 acres of wooded area to explore, with boating, sailing, and swimming available on Marsh Creek Lake. At this park, you can spend a day or two relaxing on the shore, fishing for largemouth bass or channel catfish, horseback riding, hiking, or biking the park's 19.5 miles of trails. Bird-watching is another fun pastime here, so don't forget to pack your binoculars. Winter activities include sledding, ice skating, cross country skiing, and ice fishing.

Clay Pit Ponds State Park

Clay Pit Ponds State Park is located on the shores of Staten Island and features an interpretive center with interactive exhibits, hiking trails, and plenty of local wildlife. You'll walk through wetlands, forests, and meadows on Abraham's Pond and Ellis Swamp Trails with opportunities to see roaming deer and over 170 species of birds. You can also experience the park on horseback through five miles of designated bridle paths.

Along the Way

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is 45 minutes south of Harrisburg and is well worth the extra drive time. At this historical location, you can view a large number of Civil War artifacts and learn about the lives of the soldiers and military leaders who fought at the Battle of Gettysburg. You can also watch the film "A New Birth of Freedom," experience the Gettysburg Cyclorama, and enjoy the entire Museum Experience for a nominal fee.

Hersheypark

Hersheypark is a definite must-see that's just 20 minutes from Harrisburg. Inside the park, you'll experience more than 70 rides that include 14 rollercoasters and two unique, exciting attractions, Hersheytown and Candymonium, the park's longest, tallest, and fastest thrill ride. While you're in the area, check out Hershey's Chocolate World located next to Hersheypark for a number of fun and interactive adventures at the Create Your Own Candy Bar Attraction, Hershey's Unwrapped Chocolate Tasting, and the free Chocolate Tour Ride. 

Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier is located in Washington Square in Philadelphia and is a poignant memorial dedicated to the unidentified soldiers who fought for the freedom and liberty of America. A bronze statue of George Washington gazing toward Independence Hall marks its special location with a flickering eternal flame in front of the grand statue.

Main Cities You Will Pass Through

Harrisburg

On your way through Harrisburg, enjoy a self-guided tour at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex for stunning views of over 470 rooms and four floors of historical art in one of America's most ornate capitol buildings. Picturesque views of the Susquehanna River are available aboard the Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat Cruise, with more to see at the Susquehanna Art Museum, the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park, and the State Museum of Pennsylvania. You can also learn more about the area's Civil War history at the National Civil War Museum and take a self-guided tour of the Governor's Residence. Stay at a campground in Harrisburg to explore more of this city. You can find dump stations nearby for your convenience. 

Philadelphia

A visit to the historical city of Philadelphia is an imperative add-on to your trip itinerary. Here, you'll experience some of the most prominent cultural centers on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the East State Penitentiary, and the Franklin Institute. You can enjoy Philly like a local at the Terminal Market, a foodie hot spot that features a variety of vendors and authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine along with classic Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. Outside, take a rewarding run up the "Rocky Steps," and be sure to snap a selfie with the movie icon's bronze statue before you go. Campgrounds close to the city give you the opportunity to soak up everything that Philadelphia has to offer. Dump stations are also available nearby to help you keep your RV clean. 

Newark

The Gateway City of Newark treats you to a fantastic array of museums, delicious eateries, and breathtaking bayside views. Enjoy an eclectic variety of exhibits at the largest museum in New Jersey at Newark Museum and a luxurious Victorian-style mansion filled with historical and political artifacts at Liberty Hall Museum. You can indulge in the authentic flavors of Newark with a slice of Mercato Tomato Pie's famous thin crust pizza, then hop onto the Staten Island Ferry for a short journey to the borough of Manhattan. A final stop at Nasto's treats you to a sweet variety of Italian desserts. Nearby campgrounds offer numerous amenities, including dump stations, so you can stay sanitary during your trip.

Find Adventure from Pittsburgh to New York

Find your One-Way Rental

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Pittsburgh to New York, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Pittsburgh or New York.