Print Full Itinerary
Itinerary: Subject to change due to local conditions, unforeseen events, or more interesting as yet unplanned awesome experiences that become available
Overview:
Did you ever long to see a true dark sky? Surprisingly, you don’t have to travel far and wide because that sky is right here at Cherry Springs State Park in the mountains of north central Pennsylvania. In an age where light pollution is commonplace, we’ve forgotten what it is to experience true darkness and what magnificence lies hiding behind all that yellow glow. Weather permitting, we’ll have two nights to connect with the night sky in all its essence, immensity and splendor and see what celestial delights are revealed.
During the daylight there are more must things to see including superb organic modern architecture hidden in a mountainside, an engineering marvel overlooking a magnificent vista, and a historic ruin with a story to tell. There are so many unique surprises hidden along the way on this fun and inspiring three day summer getaway, you don’t want to miss out!
Day One: Lunch in Williamsport
Our first destination lies west in central Pennsylvania, the mountain town of Williamsport the former “Lumber Capital of the World” where we’ll make a stop for an included lunch at a great local spot.
After we’ll take a ride to see the magnificent mansions all that lumber wealth brought to the town along Millionaire’s Row as we continue to make our way north through the scenic Pennsylvania mountains.
Pine Creek Gorge:
Our next leg stretching stop is a natural wonder formed by glaciers during the last Ice Age, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon of Pine Creek Gorge.
Enjoy the fresh mountain air and get your camera ready for the panoramic scenery.
Frosty Hollow B&B:
Soon we’ll be at our home for the next two nights among the forest, streams and farmland of Frosty Hollow Bed & Breakfast, the perfect place to sit back and relax.
Once we’re settled in, we can take a short drive to the historic downtown of Coudersport for a wander and some dinner or a snack before our stargazing adventure.
Cherry Springs State Park:
Weather permitting, as the sun begins to set in the sky and twilight approaches, we’ll make our way towards a true dark sky at Cherry Springs State Park.
Bring a comfy blanket to lay on the ground for best viewing, and perhaps one for a cover and if Mother Nature allows as darkness begins, we’ll have an instant view of the Milky Way, a chance to view the Perseids Meteor Shower, and a view of more stars than you ever dreamed you could see!
Day 2: Serenity Glass Park
Today will be filled with surprises! Hidden in the small town of Port Allegheny is a sparkling creative glass artisan park filled color, mosaics, and even a tiny castle.
Take some time to wander Glass Serenity Park and see what treasures you uncover.
Amazing Lynn Hall:
An amazingly spectacular architectural treasure lies straight down historic Route 6, Lynn Hall, a very special place where modernism lies amid the Allegheny Mountains.
Before there was Falling Water, there was Lynn Hall. Carved out of the mountainside and built in an organic modern style using stone quarried from the property and leftover lumber from barns and recycled railroad tracks is the magnificent work and design of Walter Hall.
You will be amazed beyond words as the fabulous owners of this historic piece of architectural genius guide us through the completely restored space done with their own two hands and reveal the storied history of Walter Hall, self-taught as a builder.
Smethport Mansions:
Now is the perfect time to enjoy an included lunch nearby before our next surprising adventure.
Secrets lie in the small town of Smethport, 32 opulent mansions are tucked away throughout the town, so let’s take a drive to catch a glimpse of them.
Kinzua Sky Walk:
Onto the extraordinary Kinzua Skywalk Bridge where we can stroll on what once was the highest and longest viaduct in the world.
An amazing surprise awaits at the end, the aftermath of a tornado leaving heavy steel beams thrown about like toothpicks along the valley.
One More Starry Night:
We’ll stop by downtown Coudersport to pick up some dinner, then relax back at our comfy B&B.
If Mother Nature is willing again tonight, we’ll have another amazing spell of darkness under a sparkling starry sky at Cherry Springs State Park.
Day Three: Coudersport Ice Mine
Along our journey back home, there’s one quirky place we just can’t miss, the mysterious Coudersport Ice Mine, the coolest place in Pennsylvania.
The mine may not be open today, but we’ll still stop by to hear the interesting history see where the mystery lives.
Austin Dam:
Nestled in a narrow valley along the winding stream of Freeman Run lies the ruins of the Bayless Papermill Dam, the site of a surprising tragedy.
Today we can explore the ruins that are an incredible sight after more than a hundred years after the second worst dam break in Pennsylvania history.
Straub Brewery Lunch:
Now let’s fuel up on an included lunch at the Straub Brewery, one of the oldest family owned and operated breweries in the U.S. If you’re up for a taste, enjoy a handcrafted German American style lager or craft brew on our last lunch together.
Now sit back and relax and perhaps take a snooze and soon the New Jersey border will be upon us.
Pricing & Departures:
Departs South Plainfield High School at the end of Lane Ave at 8:00 AM and returns at approximately 9:00 PM
Departs Madison’s Kings Road Parking Lot, 62 Kings Rd. at 8:45 AM and returns at approximately 8:15 PM
Departs Ridgewood’s Graydon Pool South lot (across Linwood Ave) at 9:30 AM and returns at approximately 7:30 PM
Price per person is $1,195 Twin & $1,295 Single. No reservations accepted without a deposit of $150 per person. Make checks payable to Group Tours & Travel and mail to the included address. Final payment is due June 20, 2025. Deposits are fully refundable if cancellation occurs on or before June 20, 2025. There are no refunds if cancellation occurs after June 20, 2025. Travel protection/cancellation coverage is available and highly recommended (approximately 10% of the total cost of the tour) but not included. One piece of luggage per person and one carry-on are permitted. Group Tours is not responsible for any delays, cancellations, injuries or circumstances beyond its control and reserves the right to change this itinerary. All trip components are subject to change in accordance with Government, State and Local guidelines and/or mandates. This tour will run rain or shine.
Upon submitting final payment you are agreeing to our new policy.
Wet Blanket Policy:
Wet blanket
– a person who makes it difficult for other people to enjoy themselves by complaining, acting negatively, creating drama, etc.
– one that quenches or dampens enthusiasm or pleasure
- Our philosophy of travel involves getting out of the ordinary to experience other cultures and places with an open minded attitude and flexibility. Since as in daily life, anything can and will happen, let’s embrace these situations with acceptance and understanding because they will either lead to an unexpected, amazing experience or positive learning experience.
- If anyone brings along excess baggage such as incessant complaining, under the breath rude comments, outward negativity or other such behaviors that infect the entire group or individuals, we have the exclusive right to remove them from the tour at their own cost with no refunds. (yes, this means you)
- If any major concerns arise during a tour, please just come talk to us and we’ll work it out!
The Educated Wanderer
PO Box 35 Henryville, PA 18332
973-513-9001
