Welcome to On the Road with Susan
Hi, I’m Susan—and I’m always chasing the next adventure.
This site is all about getting out on the road and discovering the places that make travel so memorable. From scenic back roads and hidden waterfalls to charming small towns, historic hotels, roadside attractions, and local festivals, I share the places that make each journey special.
While Pennsylvania will always feel like home, my travels go beyond the Keystone State as I explore nearby destinations and road trip adventures across the country. Along the way, I’m always looking for those hidden gems—the places you don’t always find in a guidebook but end up being your favorite stops.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a day trip, or a full road trip adventure, I hope my stories, photos, and travel tips inspire you to get out there and explore.
So grab your keys… and let’s hit the road.
— Susan
On the Road with Susan
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USA Travel Guides
Your roadmap to exploring the country—one mile, one memory, and one hidden gem at a time. From scenic road trips and national parks to quirky roadside attractions and small-town charm, these guides will help you plan unforgettable adventures across the USA.
Pennsylvania
From cascading waterfalls and scenic state parks to historic towns and covered bridges, Pennsylvania is full of stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring back roads or visiting iconic landmarks, there’s always something new to uncover in the Keystone State.
West Virginia
Wild, wonderful, and full of adventure—West Virginia is where breathtaking mountain views meet peaceful small towns. From hiking trails and scenic overlooks to the famous Almost Heaven swings, every turn offers a moment worth slowing down for.
Ohio
Ohio is full of unexpected treasures just waiting to be explored. Discover charming small towns, beautiful parks, unique roadside attractions, and hidden spots that make every road trip through the Buckeye State a memorable one.
New York
Beyond the bright lights of the city, New York offers stunning waterfalls, scenic lakes, charming villages, and peaceful countryside escapes. Whether you’re chasing fall colors or exploring along the water, there’s so much more to see across the Empire State.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Explore by Experience~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let the photos guide you—click on any one to explore.
Waterfalls
There’s something magical about chasing waterfalls—the sound, the scenery, and the journey to find them. From hidden forest falls to breathtaking multi-tiered cascades, discover some of the most beautiful and peaceful spots nature has to offer.
Lighthouses
Standing tall against the elements, lighthouses are both beautiful and historic. Explore coastal views, Great Lakes shores, and the stories behind these guiding lights that have helped sailors find their way for generations.
Covered Bridges
Step back in time and explore the charm of historic covered bridges. Scattered across scenic back roads and quiet countryside, these timeless structures tell stories of craftsmanship, community, and a slower way of life.
State Parks
From scenic overlooks and hiking trails to peaceful lakes and hidden natural wonders, state parks are where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you’re exploring for a day or staying longer, these parks offer something for every kind of traveler.
Historic Stays
Spend the night where history lives. From grand historic hotels to charming inns and unique overnight experiences, these stays offer more than just a place to sleep—they’re destinations filled with character, stories, and unforgettable charm.
Women in History
Discover the inspiring stories of women who helped shape our towns, states, and nation. From trailblazers and pioneers to local legends, these stories bring history to life in a meaningful and powerful way.
Roadside Attractions
The best road trips aren’t just about the destination—they’re about the stops along the way. Discover quirky, fun, and sometimes downright unusual roadside attractions that turn an ordinary drive into an unforgettable adventure.
Small Towns in America
Sometimes the best destinations are the ones you’ve never heard of. Explore charming small towns filled with local shops, friendly faces, rich history, and hidden gems that make you want to slow down and stay awhile.
Route 66 Adventures
Experience the nostalgia and adventure of America’s most iconic highway. From classic diners and vintage motels to offbeat attractions and historic landmarks, Route 66 is a journey through time you’ll never forget.
Road Trippin Across the USA
There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road and seeing where it takes you. From scenic highways and cross-country routes to hidden gems and unforgettable roadside stops, road tripping across the USA is all about the journey, the freedom, and the stories you collect along the way.
Camping & Outdoors
Camping
There’s something truly special about slowing down, setting up camp, and waking up surrounded by nature—and that’s exactly what this camping section is all about. Whether you’re pitching a tent in a quiet state park, parking your RV along a scenic river, or discovering hidden free campsites off the beaten path
Camp Cooking
Camp cooking is one of the most rewarding parts of any outdoor adventure—there’s just something about food that tastes better around a campfire. In this section, I’ll share simple, delicious recipes that are perfect for the campsite, along with tips to make cooking outdoors easy and enjoyable.
Camping Gear
Having the right camping gear can make all the difference between a stressful trip and a truly enjoyable adventure. In this section, I’ll share the essentials I rely on, along with honest recommendations for gear that’s practical, durable, and easy to use
Women Camping Groups
Camping doesn’t have to be a solo journey—there’s a whole community of incredible women out there ready to explore, support, and adventure together. In this section, I’ll introduce you to women’s camping groups and communities where you can connect, share experiences, and build confidence in the outdoors.
Latest Adventures & Stores
Every journey tells a story — and here are some of the newest ones! Explore my latest blog posts filled with travel adventures, hidden gems, and a few surprises along the way.
The Historic Hotel Bethlehem in Bethlehem, PA
Tucked into the heart of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Historic Hotel Bethlehem is more than just a luxurious place to stay—it’s a living museum of American history. From Revolutionary War tales to famous celebrity guests, this hotel has stories embedded in every corner. Whether you’re visiting for the elegance, the food, or the rich past, Hotel Bethlehem promises an unforgettable experience.
Discover The Ponce de León Inlet Lighthouse
Rising 175 feet above the coast just south of Daytona Beach, the Ponce de León Inlet Lighthouse has stood watch since 1887. What began as a modest light station at Mosquito Inlet evolved through wars, changing technologies and community rescue into one of the most impressive lighthouse museums in the U.S. Join me as I dig into its story—and why it’s on my travel list.
The Best Christmas Market to Visit in the USA in 2025
If you love twinkle lights, mulled cider, handcrafted ornaments, and that cozy old-world Christmas charm, you’re going to love this list. I’m taking you on a festive road trip across the United States to visit 10 of the very best Christmas markets — from big-city sparkle in New York and Chicago to small-town magic in Bethlehem and Elkhart Lake, and yes, even my hometown holiday market right here in Pittsburgh. Grab a mug of cocoa and let’s go explore!
The 10 Best Christmas Towns in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most enchanting Christmas towns, each offering its own unique holiday magic. From the charming streets of Bethlehem, known as “Christmas City, USA,” to the festive lights of Hershey’s Candyland, these towns are filled with twinkling lights, cozy markets, and joyful celebrations. Discover the best places to experience the holiday spirit in the Keystone State.
St. Augustine Lighthouse History on Florida’s Coast
Long before its black-and-white spiral stripes became a Florida icon, the St. Augustine Lighthouse stood as a lonely watchtower, a protective sentinel over the shifting waters of the Atlantic. From shipwrecks and wartime danger to family tragedies, heroic keepers, and its near-demolition in the 1970s, this lighthouse has survived more than most buildings ever will. Today, it shines not just as a navigational beacon, but as a museum, a classroom, and a piece of living history — especially during the Christmas season, when the lantern room glows above a landscape of twinkling lights.
Amelia Earhart: The Woman Who Dared to Fly
Amelia Earhart broke through the clouds of convention to become one of the most iconic figures in aviation history. From her daring solo flights to her mysterious disappearance, her story continues to inspire generations to follow their dreams — wherever they may lead.
20 Haunted Places in Pennsylvania You Must Visit
Pennsylvania is a state where history and hauntings walk hand in hand. From Gettysburg’s battlefields to Eastern State Penitentiary’s crumbling cells, spirits linger in inns, churches, caves, and asylums. Here are 20 haunted places in Pennsylvania that will give you chills.
The Haunted Covered Bridges of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s covered bridges aren’t just relics of the past—they’re also gateways to ghost stories and lingering legends. From the cries of an infant at Van Sant Bridge to the battlefield echoes at Sachs Bridge, these historic crossings hold more than just history in their timbers. Step inside, and you may hear whispers, footsteps, or even see shadows that refuse to fade with time.
Top Places in Pennsylvania to See The Fall Foliage
Fall in Pennsylvania is magical. From late September through October, the mountains, valleys, and small towns across the Keystone State burst into color. Whether you love hiking, scenic overlooks, or just a peaceful drive, here are my favorite places to experience the beauty of autumn.
The Historic George Washington Hotel in Washington, PA
Opened in 1923, the George Washington Hotel in Washington, Pennsylvania, has welcomed presidents, celebrities, and travelers for more than a century. Its Beaux-Arts architecture, stunning murals, and elegant ballrooms still impress today. And while history is its true calling card, whispers of ghostly encounters add a touch of intrigue to the experience.
Big Tex: The Giant Cowboy of the Texas State Fair
Every October, millions of people flock to Dallas for the Texas State Fair — and towering over it all is Big Tex, the 55-foot cowboy with a booming voice and a welcoming wave. Since 1952, Big Tex has been more than just a mascot; he’s a Texas icon, a symbol of hospitality, and the first “Howdy, folks!” that kicks off the fair each fall. His story is full of transformations, surprises, and resilience — just like Texas itself.
The Muffler Men of New England
Towering roadside giants known as Muffler Men may be most famous along Route 66, but New England has its own collection of these fiberglass legends. From Bangor’s Babe the Blue Ox to Connecticut’s patriotic cowboy Big Bob, and Massachusetts’ quirky Big White Guy with his many disguises, these statues tell stories of creativity, reinvention, and nostalgia. Each one has its own colorful history—some repainted, some relocated, and others still shrouded in mystery—making them must-see stops for anyone who loves roadside Americana.
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