Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour

Traversing the eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike offers travelers a captivating self-guided driving tour through the stunning landscapes of the Laurel Highlands and Allegheny Mountains. Beginning at Milepost 56.6 in Monroeville, this route showcases a tapestry of scenic vistas, historic towns, and natural wonders that are sure to captivate the senses. With the help of the VoiceMap app, visitors can easily navigate the journey, access engaging audio tours, and uncover local dining options – all while seeing the rich history and breathtaking beauty of this remarkable region. Where this route will lead you, and what remarkable discoveries await, is a journey worth embarking upon.

Key Points

• This self-guided tour covers approximately 125 miles of the eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike, taking 2-3 hours to complete.
• The tour can be started, paused, or restarted at any time, and is accessible 24/7 through the VoiceMap app.
• The route showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands, Allegheny Mountains, and picturesque regions of southwestern Pennsylvania.
• Highlights include the Ohiopyle Falls, Allegheny Tunnel, and scenic overlooks for photography opportunities.
• Travelers should download the VoiceMap app and tour content for offline access to audio, maps, and geodata before starting the journey.

Starting Your Journey

To begin your journey, you’ll want to make your way to the starting point at the PA Turnpike Pittsburgh Interchange Milepost 56.6 in Monroeville, PA.

The tour can be started, paused, or restarted at any time, so don’t worry if you need to take a break.

The VoiceMap app provides the directions to the starting point, and once you arrive, you’ll be able to access the self-guided audio tour.

This tour is available 24/7, so you can start your adventure whenever it’s convenient for you.

Just remember to download the app and the tour content ahead of time to ensure you have offline access to the audio, maps, and geodata throughout your drive.

Exploring the Laurel Highlands

As you drive eastbound along the Pennsylvania Turnpike, you’ll soon reach the Laurel Highlands region, known for its stunning natural beauty.

This area boasts lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. Keep an eye out for landmarks like the iconic Laurel Caverns and Ohiopyle State Park, home to the thrilling Ohiopyle Falls.

Take a break at one of the well-equipped service plazas and explore the local shops and restaurants.

Don’t forget to snap photos of the breathtaking scenery as you continue your journey through this magnificent region of Pennsylvania.

Passing Through Meyersdale

After traversing the Laurel Highlands, the Pennsylvania Turnpike guides travelers through the quaint town of Meyersdale. Known for its historic downtown and picturesque countryside, Meyersdale offers a glimpse into Pennsylvania’s rural charm.

Attractions	Highlights
Meyersdale Train Station	Restored 1912 station featuring railroad exhibits
Amish Country Tours	Explore Amish farms, shops, and bakeries
Historic Downtown	Charming streets lined with local businesses

As drivers cross the Eastern Continental Divide, they’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Allegheny Mountains. The tour continues onward, inviting travelers to discover the next captivating destination along the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Experiencing the Allegheny Mountains

Winding through the Allegheny Mountains, the Pennsylvania Turnpike offers travelers a breathtaking journey showcasing the region’s natural grandeur.

The road ascends through forested peaks, offering expansive vistas of rugged ridges and deep valleys. Drivers will encounter the Allegheny Tunnel, a marvel of engineering that burrows through the heart of the mountains.

Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of the Casselman River, a picturesque waterway carving its path through the landscape.

This section of the Turnpike is truly a highlight, allowing visitors to enjoy the splendor of the Appalachian range.

Prepare to be awed by the sheer scale and beauty of the Allegheny Mountains during this captivating driving experience.

Reaching the Somerset Interchanges

Leaving the dramatic scenery of the Allegheny Mountains behind, the Pennsylvania Turnpike continues its eastward journey towards the Somerset interchanges.

As you approach the Somerset Travel Plaza, you’ll be greeted by the rolling hills and pastoral landscapes of southwestern Pennsylvania.

The Somerset interchange offers access to several major roads, including I-70 and US-219, providing connections to other parts of the state.

This section of the turnpike is relatively flat and straight, allowing you to make good time as you travel towards your final destination.

Be mindful of speed limits and other traffic, and enjoy the scenic drive through this picturesque region of the Commonwealth.

Discovering the Somerset Travel Plaza

As travelers approach the Somerset Travel Plaza, they’ll find a well-equipped rest stop that offers a range of amenities.

The plaza features:

1. Multiple dining options, including fast-food chains and local eateries, catering to various tastes and dietary needs.
2. A large convenience store stocked with snacks, drinks, and travel essentials.
3. Clean and well-maintained restrooms, providing a comfortable break from the road.
4. Ample parking, with designated spaces for trucks and RVs, ensuring easy access and maneuverability.

With its strategic location and comprehensive facilities, the Somerset Travel Plaza serves as a convenient stopping point for those embarking on the eastbound journey along the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Capturing the Scenic Vistas

After taking a well-deserved break at the Somerset Travel Plaza, travelers can look forward to capturing the breathtaking scenic vistas that unfold along the eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike.

The route winds through the rugged Allegheny Mountains, offering panoramic views of rolling hills, lush forests, and distant peaks.

Drivers should keep an eye out for picturesque overlooks and pull-off areas, where they can safely stop and snap photos of the stunning landscape.

The tour provides detailed information on notable sights and the best spots to capture them, ensuring travelers don’t miss any of the Turnpike’s natural wonders.

With ample opportunities for scenic photography, this leg of the journey is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Tips for Your Self-Guided Tour

To make the most of this self-guided tour, travelers should familiarize themselves with the route and plan accordingly. The tour covers approximately 125 miles, taking around 2-3 hours to complete.

Here are some tips to enhance the experience:

1. Download the VoiceMap app and load the tour before departure to ensure offline access to the audio, maps, and geodata.

2. Identify the meeting point at the PA Turnpike Pittsburgh Interchange Milepost 56.6 in Monroeville, PA and plan your route accordingly.

3. Adjust your travel schedule to align with the tour’s operating hours, available from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM, Monday through Sunday.

4. Prepare for the tour’s self-guided nature by bringing any necessary supplies, as there are no guided activities or assistance provided.

Recap

The eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike offers travelers a captivating self-guided driving tour through the Laurel Highlands and Allegheny Mountains. With the VoiceMap app, you can access offline audio tours, discover local dining options, and learn about the natural beauty and rich history of the region. Whether you’re seeking scenic vistas or historic towns, this route promises an unforgettable journey.