tourist places pennsylvania

50 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Pennsylvania

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: May 20, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, was one of the 13 original colonies of America.

It was named by King James II by combining the Latin word for “woodland”, “Sylvania”, and the surname of Admiral Sir William Penn.

It achieved statehood in 1787 and is a notable area to visit for history buffs thanks to its many significant roles in time.

It is here that the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Liberty Bell first tolled, and it is also home to sites that were central in the American Revolutionary War and American Civil War.

Naturally, all this history means that Pennsylvania is packed with exciting attractions.

From sprawling gardens to ornate feats of architecture and from historical buildings and museums to art galleries and institutes, there’s no shortage of places that you can visit.

There’s even a healthy mix of cheap and free things to do.

So, where to first?

To help you decide, here is our travel guide for 50 fun things to do and places to visit in Pennsylvania!

Table of Contents

1. Eastern State Penitentiary

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The Eastern State Penitentiary is an eerie structure that resembles a castle but held a very different purpose.

An amalgamation of the old and the new, it is a prison and boasts stone construction, fortress-like archways and corridors, industrial-style simplistic watchtowers, and formerly “hi-tech” fixings.

It was built in the year 1829 and closed in 1971, and as of its last days, it was one of America’s leading facilities of its kind.

Before the creation of the Eastern State Penitentiary, most prisons had actually been akin to commercial spots.

There was little order in them, with corrupt officers, prostitutes, lots of alcohol, and a high rate of prisoner death before sentencing.

The Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to combat these “trends”, made by the Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Public Prisons.

The building was one of the world’s most expensive buildings in its time, with an $800,000 price tag.

In its day, the Eastern State Penitentiary was very much a technological marvel.

It had private toilets for prisoners before the President had more than a chamber pot, and there were private exercise spaces, three filling and large daily meals, and beautiful skylights in rooms.

It sounded like a paradise, but that was only on the surface.

Prisoners were not allowed to interact with any other prisoners or speak to any guards.

They exercised, ate, and read the only allowed book – the Bible – alone.

Guards wore shoe covers to keep the entire complex incredibly quiet, creating complete silence and solitude.

The hopeless solitary confinement of the Eastern State Penitentiary would drive many of its prisoners insane.

Its separate prison system and overcrowding would eventually lead to this confinement system being overturned, returning to the “New York System” of incarceration, where social interaction was allowed once more.

Its modernity made it ideal for housing those such as Al Capone (who received a lavish cell) and Willie Sutton.

The Eastern State Penitentiary closed down in 1971 and was narrowly saved for destruction following years of abandonment.

It reopened in 1994 and has become one of Pennsylvania’s famous landmarks, providing tours to interested visitors.

Whether for the historical value, photography opportunities, or macabre exploration, it’s one of the things to do in Pennsylvania you shouldn’t miss.

Address: 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

2. Andy Warhol Museum

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Andy Warhol, the one-and-only famous artist who was a prominent influence in the world of Pop Art, was born in Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania.

The Andy Warhol Museum pays tribute to his long and illustrious career and life, spanning from his birth to his latter years, up until his passing in 1987.

It is the largest in the country that is dedicated to a single artist.

At the Andy Warhol Museum, you’ll gain insight into the artist and his many pieces, including famous works like Tomato Soup Cans and his portraits of Elvis and Marilyn.

Exhibits are dedicated to his life and times.

The museum covers seven floors and houses a large permanent collection featuring his works and an archive packed with relevant documents to the great artist.

Don’t forget to pop into the Factory portion of the Andy Warhol Museum.

Here, you’ll get to learn and try some of Warhol’s own personal techniques for his art.

Art educators lead the way, allowing you to try making acetate collages, silk screenings, and drawings with blotted lines.

Concerts, film screenings, performances, live entertainment, and lectures are also held here.

For art lovers and curious tourists alike, this is one of Pennsylvania’s top 10 hotspots.

Address: 117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

3. Fallingwater

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Fallingwater ‘s unique name is a product of its actual appearance.

Known also as the Kaufmann Residence, it is chiefly recognized as one of the finest private homes designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright – and one of his best designs overall!

It was built in 1935 and features a structure that protrudes over a waterfall in Pennsylvania’s Fayette County, where it sits on Bear Run in the Steward Township as one of the most loved Pennsylvania attractions and vacation places .

Fallingwater cost $155,000 to build.

It mixes the wonders of the natural world with delightful organic architecture in order to create a seamless harmony between the house and the environment surrounding it.

Inside, furnishings are made from walnut wood that cost $4,500 in total.

As soon as it was built, Fallingwater was an architectural icon and was featured in many publications and magazines.

In 1966, it was determined a National Historic Landmark, and in 1991, it was considered the greatest work of American architecture by the American Institute of Architecture.

For a time, the gorgeous Fallingwater home was lived in by the Kauffman family as their summer home.

But the ceiling had over 50 different leaks which Wright refused to fix, telling them to simply put a bucket under the leaks – which now, as an open public attraction since 1964, is advice that those who manage the home follow!

The home is the only major work by Wright that is open for the public, and it boasts many original features and components.

The Kauffmans filled Fallingwater with art pieces and collections of artifacts that remain on display for visitors till now.

Folk crafts, sculptures, and even designer furniture make up the overall aesthetic.

You’ll find a cast-iron Buddha head dating as far back as 906, an 8th-century sculpture of Parvati the Hindu fertility goddess, a Madonna from 1420 of Austrian-Bohemian style, unique ceramics and sculptures, and collections of art by Picasso and Diego Rivera.

Works from Mexico, Africa, and other cultures adorn the house, providing many sights to see on your visit.

Address: 1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464, United States

4. Hersheypark

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Hersheypark is a fun amusement park packed with activities that will amuse people of all ages.

It is located in the famous Pennsylvania town of Hershey , which, as its name may suggest, is very closely related to the popular Hershey’s brand of chocolate.

Spanning 90 acres, Hersheypark is the main attraction of the town.

It was originally built as a recreational site for works of Hershey’s in 1906, but it eventually expanded – and continues to expand!

Among the things to see and do in Hersheypark are a train, Ferris wheel, carousel, roller coasters, a water park, bumper cars, a zoo, an observation tower, midway games, video arcades, and an amphitheater with live entertainment acts.

There are over 70 total attractions here as well as restaurants catering to people of all preferences.

For an exciting day in Pennsylvania, you can’t go wrong with Hersheypark!

Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

5. Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex

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The Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex is a natural choice for what to do in the state.

Spanning 45 acres of land, it is home to multiple tourist destinations within as well as several active government buildings.

It features a huge dome styled after the Cathedral of St. Peter in Rome, which was built here in 1906 and rests on top of the main complex, where it weighs 52 million pounds.

The Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex’s main building is made from Vermont granite and features a huge part of bronze double doors.

Tours inside are available but have to be pre-scheduled.

The gorgeous architecture of the whole area is worth seeing and exploring, and the grounds house many memorials and museums, including the state’s War Veterans Memorial Fountain and the Soldier’s Grove Quadrangle.

Address: 501 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17120, United States

6. Gettysburg National Military Park

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The Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania is the site where, in 1863, the American Civil War’s Battle of Gettysburg took place, taking 51,000 lives approximately in its three-day rage.

Today, it is adamant that visitors never forget those lives, with monuments and markers throughout the location, totaling hundreds, to provide educational information to guests.

Among the best spots to check out at the Gettysburg National Military Park are Cemetery Ridge, where Union lines stood on the last two days, Oak Ridge, which is where the first day’s battle occurred, and Seminary Ridge, where Confederate lines stood on the last two days.

You can also head to the Park Museum and Visitor Center, where you can view one of America’s largest collection of Civil War weapons, uniforms, and personal items in the Rosensteel collection.

There are also programs, events, horseback trails, and reenactments that make this one of the most interesting places to visit in PA for history lovers.

Address: 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, United States

7. Mütter Museum

Mütter Museum

Mütter Museum is situated within the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is definitely among the state’s most fascinating places to visit.

It is a medical museum that opened in 1858 and is a haven of strange, wondrous, curious, and stomach-turning medical displays, body parts, anatomical oddities, and other things weird and gory.

There are many fun things you’ll spot on display at the Mütter Museum, though most of them are more bizarrely fascinating.

For example, there are the bones of Harry Eastlack, who passed away due to a very rare disorder called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva.

The disorder caused his bones to fuse together when his body’s soft connective tissue ossified, freezing him in an unmoving state.

Another example is the Soap Lady, which is a corpse from the 1800s that was exhumed due to the very weird waxy substance that was produced when it started decomposing.

There is also the skeleton of North America’s tallest man to ever live, preserved human fetuses, a collection of 2,000 items removed from the throats of patients from the Chevalier Jackson Foreign Body Collection, extremely detailed wax models, conjoined twin skeletons, a piece from the vertebra of John Wilkes Booth, and a plaster cast of famous Siamese Twins Eng and Chang Bunker.

But the most loved part of the Mütter Museum is a collection of 46 microscope slides that each contain silvers from Albert Einstein’s brain.

Einstein had wanted to be cremated, but pathologist Thomas Harvey saved his brain from the ashes.

After a long fight to keep it, scientists were able to examine it.

In the 1980s, it became clear that Einstein’s brain had a unique structure that may have contributed to or been a result of his genius.

Now, these slides are, in themselves, one of the state’s biggest tourist draws.

Address: 19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States

8. Valley Forge National Historic Park

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Valley Forge National Historic Park of Pennsylvania are a symbol of the sacrifices, successes, suffering, and ultimate victory of the American Revolutionary War.

It is here that the Continental Army bundled up for the winter of 1777 to 1778, where they lived in crude cabins made of logs after British troops destroyed their center for supplies.

Soldiers here were casualties, with 2,000 or so of them struggling from poor conditions, hunger, and disease.

Despite the wind chills, they lived, rested, and tried to survive from December to June.

George Washington’s own house remains here, available to tour, a reminiscent glimpse into the past.

The Valley Forge National Historic Park spans 3,500 acres and boasts multiple tours, a National Memorial Arch, plenty of recreational trails and spaces, and facilities like restrooms and a canteen.

For locals and tourists alike, exploring and sightseeing here is one of the lovely things to do in PA.

Address: 1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406, United States

9. Phipps Conservatory

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Phipps Conservatory is a large complex in Schenley Park of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It spans 15 acres and is a part of the National Register of Historic Places, with 14 rooms within the main conservatory building.

The space was donated to Pittsburgh in 1893 by Henry Phipps, a real estate and steel magnate who built it as a present for the city.

The Phipps Conservatory’s main goal is to educate guests and provide a fun experience for all visitors.

It boasts 23 gardens such as the rooftop edible garden, children’s garden, and Japanese garden, a Center for Sustainable Landscapes, and of course, the conservatory glasshouse, made in a Victorian style.

The 14 rooms of the Phipps Conservatory glasshouse are packed with all sorts of exotic plants.

This includes spices, orchids, palm trees, tropical fruits, ferns, bonsai, and even a Desert Room boasting cacti and a Tropical Forest Conservatory that feels like it’s a world away from the state.

Themed flower shows, special events, and a beautiful chandelier all add to the experience, making this one of the chief places to visit in Pennsylvania for nature-lovers!

Address: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

10. Philadelphia Museum of Art

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The Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to one of the country’s best and biggest art collections, and it’s also iconic in Pennsylvania thanks to its front steps’ feature in the Rocky movies.

More than 227,000 pieces of art rest here, from American to European to Asian art, making it one of the world’s most important artistic institutions.

Permanent collections at the Philadelphia Museum of Art include very varied works of art, including costumes, Asian ceramics, decorative arts, American colonial furniture, paintings, photographs, fashion, prints, armor, drawings, textiles, and a sculpture garden outdoors.

Great artists such as Cézanne, Dali, Chagall, Picasso, Rembrandt, Monet, Manet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Matisse have works here.

As one of Pennsylvania’s most attractive points of interest for art aficionados, you’ll be pleased to know that the Philadelphia Museum of Art features work from the times of French Impressionism, the Renaissance, the Middle Ages, and even the present day.

Don’t miss a trip here if you can help it!

Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

11. Rodin Museum

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The Rodin Museum sits between two prestigious buildings: the Free Library of Philadelphia and the aforementioned Philadelphia Museum of Art, yet another one of this Pennsylvania city’s tourist places.

It is much more specific than the larger Museum of Art, focused only on the exhibition of the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Opened in 1929, it is the biggest collection of his works outside of Paris and was a gift from a philanthropist named Jules Mastbaum.

The Rodin Museum is a beautifully designed building in the Beaux-Arts style, fringed all around by formal French gardens that hold more fun and insightful sculptures by Rodin.

The sculpture right outside of the museum is the incredibly famous work, The Thinker, and visiting to see that in itself is one of the things to do in Pennsylvania.

Inside the Rodin Museum, close to 150 different sculptures representing many different points of Rodin’s life and career are on display.

This includes bronzes, plasters, marbles, prints, and even works in progress.

The museum is managed by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and is a must-see for fans and curious tourists alike.

Address: 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

12. Mount Moriah Cemetery

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Mount Moriah Cemetery has a long history and was almost a forgotten, destroyed portion of Pennsylvania, but following some rescuing, it has become one of Southwest Philadelphia ‘s best unusual spots for sightseeing.

The cemetery originally opened in 1855, boasting gothic mausoleums, a regal and ornate entrance in a Romanesque brick style, and an eventual expansion of 400 acres of land to become the biggest burial site in Pennsylvania.

Interestingly, no one actually owns the cemetery, which is part of why it became abandoned and forgotten.

For a time, it seemed that Mount Moriah Cemetery would simply be reclaimed by nature, as the headstones and monuments within fell and overgrowth overtook even the wealthiest Victorian graves.

That’s when the Friends Of Mount Moriah, a local non-profit group, stepped in to help.

With years of work, more than half of the cemetery has been cleared up and is reopened for eager eyes and fun, if sobering, exploration.

Address: 6201 Kingsessing Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19142, United States

13. Independence National Historical Park and the Liberty Bell

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One of the biggest and most known Pennsylvania attractions is probably Independence National Historical Park and its accompanying Liberty Bell.

An incredibly historic location, it is here in the park that the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the table that George Washington used is still on-site for visitors to ogle.

It is also a World Heritage Site.

The central feature of Independence National Historical Park is Independence Hall, a Georgian building of red brick available for ranger-led tours.

The structure was Pennsylvania’s first legislative building and was built in 1763.

Across the street, the Liberty Bell Center and its famous crack rest, two tons in weight, after its ringing in 1776 to celebrate Independence.

Beyond there, you’ll find Independence Mall, which extends north and has since 1948.

It lays out trails to Carpenter’s Hall, Old City Hall, and Congress Hall, among other historic buildings lining the cobblestone roads.

Address: Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States

14. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

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If you’re choosing the best things to see in the state of Pennsylvania, you simply must take in the stunning site seeing opportunity that is Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens .

The gardens are a nonprofit group, a folk ark center, and a gallery for the works of Isaiah Zagar, a famous mosaicist, on the site of his biggest public installation of art.

In the late 1960s, Zagar began focusing his efforts on beautifying the neighborhood of South Street after moving here with his wife.

The couple helped revive the area by buying and refurbishing buildings that were falling apart, using vibrant mosaics to color the walls and bring life to them.

The first building they did this with was the Eyes Gallery, which remains open and doing well now.

Zagar’s work on the Magic Gardens began in 1994, using a vacant lot that was close to his studio.

For 14 years, he excavated grottos and tunnels, sculptured walls in layers, added grouting and tiling and perfected 3,000 square feet of space.

A mix of found objects, community contributions, and more cover half a block in Pennsylvania with bright hues, textures, and tiles of all sorts.

The labyrinth of the gardens is packed with sculptures, handmade art, and other objects, and it’s no wonder that the Magic Gardens are not a permanent art institution hosting live entertainment and public workshops run by the man himself, Zagar!

Address: 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States

15. Cave of Kelpius

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The Cave of Kelpius sits in Fairmount Park of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one of the unusual places to see in one of the most beautiful states in the US .

It is an enhanced cave of sorts, fitted into a hillside, its one entrance marked by a stone frame.

It is here that it is thought that the first mystic cult in America lived in the 17th century.

Supposedly, the cave was settled by Johannes Kelpius, a scholar and mystic, with his 40 all-male followers in 1694.

He believed that the world would come to an end that year due to his interpretation of the Book of Revelation.

They were known as The Society of the Woman of the Wilderness, after a passage in Revelation where a woman ran to hide from the end of the world in the wilderness.

They were also called, simply, the Hermits of the Wissahickon, which lends itself to the name of the area: Hermit’s Glen, marked in present-day Pennsylvania by the road Hermit Lane.

In the Cave of Kelpius, the group practiced astronomy and used the space to meet and as an observatory.

They remained there even after the world did not end, and they continued to study the skies, make music and art, and even help the community.

In 1708, Kelpius died, and the group largely disbanded, with many remaining in the area to serve as lawyers and doctors.

The cave is largely demolished now, with only the stone structure outside remaining, but it’s a fascinating visit steeped in history.

Address: 777-795 Hermit Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19128, United States

16. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

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The Carnegie Museum of Natural History was founded in 1896 by the titular Andrew Carnegie, an industrialist and local of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It was here that housed the scientists that discovered the first fossils of the Diplodocus carnegii dinosaur.

It’s a fun spot and one of the coolest places to visit in PA with family.

Throughout the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, you’ll see exhibits of minerals, fossils, gems, animals, and more.

The museum’s pride is housing the planet’s biggest Jurassic dinosaur collection, including the first Tyrannosaurus rex specimen and the only juvenile Apatosaurus fossils.

While dinosaurs are the main draw, topics such as archeology, herpetology, and zoology are also covered.

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

17. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden

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The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden sits close to the base of Pennsylvania’s Schuylkill River.

It is a hidden gem among tourist attractions, but one of the country’s best examples of genuine Japanese design from centuries ago.

The name “Shofuso” roughly means “Pine Breeze Villa” and was made as part of a House in the Garden exhibit for the Museum of Modern Art.

The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden was made by Junzō Yoshimura, an architect, who built it in Japan in 1953.

It was sent and assembled in New York the following year, given to America as a gift from Japan.

For a while, the Museum of Modern Art held onto it, and then the exhibition closed and it was moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1958.

The house of the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is designed following shoin-zukuri architecture and proportions.

It is meant to resemble a temple guest house, boasting a kitchen, tea room, and bath and topped with a roof of hinoki bark that had to be specially requested from the National Forestry Agency of Japan.

The gardens, on the other hand, are host to a tea garden, courtyard garden, koi pond, and a little island.

Vandalism and abandonment left the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden in disrepair for years.

Famous Japanese painter Hiroshi Senju helped refurbish it in 2007, donating 20 murals to the grounds.

Now, the place is very much perked up, and it’s one of the greatest tourist attractions in the state.

Address: Lansdowne Dr &, Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131, United States

18. Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is a public market in the downtown area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Since 1893, it has housed more than a hundred merchants operating out of the former train shed of Reading Terminal, and it became a National Historic Landmark in 1995.

Visiting Reading Terminal Market is one of the top things to do in PA, especially if you’re looking to experience local life on a deeper level.

Baked goods, home-cooked meals, cultural food, crafts, artisanal cheese, ice cream, homemade chocolate, books and cookbooks, canned preserves, meats and fish, fresh produce, kitchen supplies, candy, clothing, jewelry, and more are all sold here on an almost daily basis.

Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States

19. Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle

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The Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle are near to each other and are closely related, making them the best places to visit in Pennsylvania back-to-back.

Fonthill Castle was the home of Henry Chapman Mercer, a famous collector, tile maker, and archaeologist.

He planned the house completely, from the exterior to each interior room, which he sketched and imagined himself.

Fonthill Castle was finished in 1912 and is made completely from poured concrete, somehow ornate and somehow impossible to categorize from an architectural standpoint.

The use of pure concrete was due to Mercer’s fear of fires, which developed after he lost some medieval armor that he was storing while building the museum to the Great Boston Fire.

People made fun of him – but he demonstrated the effectiveness of such construction by building a huge bonfire on an upper terrace and allowing it to rage, high enough for all residents of the surrounding Doylestown to see.

Mercer was a little “mad”, though – or at least extremely eccentric, especially for the surrounding Pennsylvania town.

Despite his personal loathing for “false taste” and “ugliness”, Fonthill Castle is extremely strangely built and reflects a style and reason that only he truly understands.

32 stairs, 8 bedrooms, roof pitch, vaulted ceilings, and unpainted walls… it makes for quite the sight!

Meanwhile, Mercer Museum nearby houses all sorts of “average American” tools used from the 18th to 19th centuries.

Watchmakers’ gears, tortoiseshell comb makers’ supplies, whalers’ boats, butchers’ instruments, a fake vampire hunting kit, and more.

The museum is also made from pure concrete and houses 55 exhibit rooms that each concentrate on different trades from pre-industrial times, such as farming, metalsmithing, milling, woodworking, and sewing tools.

There are also strange objects like unorthodox fire engines, a whaleboat, gallows, and stove plates.

The museum was opened in 1916 and has since included the addition of a children’s room on the highest floor.

Address: 525 E Court St, Doylestown, PA 18901, United States

20. Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland is one of the most fun places to go if you have children, nicknamed a Kingdom for Kids and situated in Lancaster , Pennsylvania.

It is a 48-acre amusement park and has been opened since 1963, earning – over time – a reputation as one of the world’s greatest children’s theme parks.

There are more than 30 rides in Pennsylvania’s Dutch Wonderland, including roller coasters, slides, castles, a themed water park called Duke’s Lagoon, and live performances and shows that will delight and amuse!

There are plenty of activities to keep kids occupied this weekend, so bring your little ones along.

Address: 2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States

21. The Sonorous Stones of Ringing Rocks Park

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If you’re looking for musical things to do in Pennsylvania, bring your own hammers and come to The Sonorous Stones of Ringing Rocks Park.

It was first “discovered” in 1890 when J. J. Ott performed for the Buckwampum Historical Society with a concert where he used a unique instrument: stones, struck with a hammer to make clear bell tones!

The rocks had been taken from Upper Black Eddy in Pennsylvania, or what is known now as Ringing Rocks Park .

The field of rock spans 7 acres and is more than 10 feet deep with these rocks.

Tests by scientists in 1965 revealed that all the rocks here ring at different tones, even if those tones are ones that human ears can’t hear.

As for why they ring, that’s a mystery that’s still unsolved.

Even stranger, the rocks lose their musical ability once removed from the rest!

Address: Ringing Rocks Rd, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972, United States

22. Trundle Manor: House of Oddities

Trundle Manor

Trundle Manor: House of Oddities is a must-do in Pennsylvania if you’re a fan of the strange, and it’s a top option for creepy destinations.

On the outside, it looks like a typical Pittsburgh house, resting on Swissvale, though upon approach the presence of coffins on the porch alerts passersby to the unusual.

In Trundle Manor, you’ll find an eclectic and macabre collection of artifacts and items.

Vintage taxidermy of strange amalgamated creatures like the pigeon shark and rat bird, many dead things in jars, and rusty weaponry are only a few examples of the many collected objects.

Antique medical devices, coffins, art, Steampunk sculptures, animal skulls, gas masks, and many more cover the exhibition rooms!

Trundle Manor is an artist’s residence and the home of Anton Miriello and Rachel Rech.

In order to tour, you have to call and make an appointment in advance for your trip to Pennsylvania.

The extra “hassle”, however, is worth it!

There is no admission fee, but a donation of some kind is required in any form – cash, alcohol, snacks, or even your own donatable oddity.

Address: 7724 Juniata St, Pittsburgh, PA 15218, United States

Want to experience more thrill and excitement? Why not check out Erie and Hershey? If you do plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in Erie, PA , and some of the best things to do in Hershey, PA ! 

23. Bicycle Heaven

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Bicycle Heaven is a working bicycle shop and the biggest bicycle museum in the world, making it one of the more unorthodox famous places in Pennsylvania.

It’s a fun spot for cyclists but is a great place to explore regardless of your cycling endeavors.

It is a two-floor building filled with artifacts, memorabilia, and of course, bicycles.

Boasting more than 4,000 collectible and vintage bikes, Bicycle Heaven is very much what its name suggests.

Famous bicycles, like those used in Pee-Wee Herman’s show and A Beautiful mind, are on display, as well as themed bikes like bobblehead, Beatles, and Elvis bikes.

There are also rare bikes like Bowden Spacelanders, a Columbia Double Eagle, and an 1863 Boneshaker.

As far as Pennsylvania attractions go, Bicycle Heaven is doubly attractive because it offers rentable and purchasable bikes, as well as bike repair.

It is open every day of the week and run by a family.

Address: 1800 Preble Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, United States

24. Penn’s Cave

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Penn’s Cave is situated in Pennsylvania’s Gregg Township and is a subterranean waterway in an inlet of Lake Nitanee that stretches a quarter of a mile.

It is filled with things to see and is a large property with a 55-foot roof and seven buildings.

The limestone cavern is on the National Register of Historic Places and is highlighted by Penn’s Cave House, which is an office for tours and a private residence.

Boats are the best way to explore, and they bring you through the long cave to see ornate formations of limestone, the working farm with cattle, a wildlife park, a bat colony, the historic buildings, and the geology and natural flora and fauna.

Penn’s Cave opened in Pennsylvania in 1885 as a show cave and features formations with grand names like Angel’s Wing, the Statue of Liberty, and Garden of the Gods.

Address: 222 Penns Cave Rd, Centre Hall, PA 16828, United States

25. The Franklin Institute and The Foucault Pendulum

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The Franklin Institute is a highly popular science museum that is one of the chief centers for Pennsylvania’s scientific education and research.

It is the site of a National Memorial for Benjamin Franklin, a wide range of fun permanent exhibits that dig into many different realms of scientific topics, and a number of fascinating and exciting temporary exhibits.

But even if science museums aren’t your ideal choice for what to do in Pennsylvania, you should stop by the Franklin Institute to view the Foucault Pendulum .

It is a massive four-story creation that hangs in the institute’s ceiling, where it has been for 80 years.

Believe it or not, such structures were once trendy to have in science museums!

The first pendulum of this kind was made by Léon Foucault in 1851, who constructed a 67-foot heavy pendulum and hung it from a ceiling over a circular protractor.

The device would appear to swing in a circle throughout the day, but it was not, itself, moving – it was the earth’s rotation beneath it that moved.

This was Foucault’s elegant method of providing that the Earth rotates on its axis.

Now, the Foucault Pendulum of the Franklin Institute is a great way to view the experiment for yourself.

It took 11 people to install and hangs from a wire of 85 feet!

The orb swings approximately every 20 minutes, taking 10 seconds to swing back and forth, knocking over pegs around a circle as it goes.

Address: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States

26. Longwood Gardens

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The Longwood Gardens is one of the very best institutions for horticulture in Pennsylvania and, in fact, the entire country.

It covers more than 1,077 acres of land in Brandywine Creek Valley and welcomes more than a million visitors annually.

It’s one of the vacation spots you’ll need to spend this weekend in to even barely explore – it’s that large!

The Longwood Gardens began their life in 1700 as a Quaker farm.

A century later, it became an arboretum, and then became a (still publicly open) private residence in 1906, with artifacts and structures made or brought in inspired by the World Fair.

Attractions include a giant pipe organ with 10,010 pipes, the King of the Conservatory Encephalartos woodii plant that is extinct in nature, and a Waterlily Display that boasts nine pools of different water-based flora.

There are more than 11,000 species of flora in the 20 outdoor gardens of the Longwood Gardens, and 5,500 species or so inside the conservatory.

Greenhouses and other collections boast themes like The Orangery, the Palm House, the Orchid House, and Acacia Passage, and there are numerous exotic plants from South Africa and Australia, too.

Many activities are held at the Longwood Gardens throughout the year.

Seasonal events and displays, special performances, workshops, lectures, courses, and a tuition-free horticultural degree are all available.

It’s truly one of the greatest places to visit in PA for nature lovers.

Address: 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States

27. Wharton Esherick Museum

Wharton Esherick Museum

The Wharton Esherick Museum is a celebration of the works and career of the titular Wharton Esherick, who was a design artist and sculptor with significant influence in the Studio Furniture Movement of the 20th century.

The museum covers 12 acres of land and is set within what was once the hilltop studio of the artist himself.

The museum has also earned the honor of becoming one of Pennsylvania’s National Historic Landmarks for Architecture.

Esherick worked with wood and created all sorts of architectural and furniture designs that used natural, flowing styles in a beautiful aesthetic.

He built the house here in this secluded location over the course of 40 years, beginning his work in 1926 in the woods of Pennsylvania.

In that time, he would add details and furnishings based on his current style, ranging from the rougher roots of Arts and Crafts to the smooth Modernist designs that would become his hallmark.

On the site, you can see his workshop and garage, his studio, and many of his works.

He found a lot of stuff to do with his craft and his prolificness shows!

Address: 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern, PA 19355, United States

28. Philadelphia Zoo

Kate Iniakina / Shutterstock

The Philadelphia Zoo should be on your list of what to see in Pennsylvania because it’s America’s oldest zoo!

It is home to over 1,300 individual animals, including many that are endangered or rare, housed across 42 acres in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The Philadelphia Zoo’s selection of animals includes lizards, lions, primates, tigers, camels, horses, ponies, lorikeets, and more.

Unique and fun activities, like the Amazon Rainforest Carousel, make for an exciting time.

The Zoo 360 attraction is incredibly popular, and it features mesh elevated walkways where animals walk above your head!

Address: 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States

29. The Barnes Foundation

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The Barnes Foundation is an impeccable art gallery founded in 1922 by the titular Albert Barnes.

A chemist whose fortune came from drug development, Barnes fell in love with art and spent much of his wealth collecting art pieces that are now on display here.

The gallery is designed in such a way that it feels more like a wealthy Pennsylvania home than a museum or art collection, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania for art lovers.

The Barnes Foundation features works by greats like Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, Matisse, Cezanne, Rubes, El Greco, Rubens, Picasso, and Manet, with works spanning Impressionist, Modernist, African art, and many other styles.

The eclectic collection is arranged in Barnes’ personal “wall ensembles” method.

Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

30. State Museum of Pennsylvania

The State Museum of Pennsylvania ‘s main goal is the preservation of the history and culture of the state.

It is also called the William Penn Memorial Museum thanks to the fact that it houses a large statue of the man in its main hall.

Located on North Street of Harrisburg, it’s one of the chief points of interest to head to if you want to gain more insight into the state.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania spans four floors and houses over three million exhibited items.

These objects and artifacts cover many different topics, including the Civil War, fossils, dioramas and art, and state history from prehistoric times till now.

There is also a planetarium that puts on shows like Solar Superstorms, Dynamic Earth, and Grossology and You.

Address: 300 North St, Harrisburg, PA 17120, United States

31. Indian Echo Caverns

Amy R. Gillung / Shutterstock

The Indian Echo Caverns are pretty much the definition of things to do in Pennsylvania, a tourist trap hotspot that is crowded and packed with oversold commercialization.

However, it’s also a fun visit even despite this, and the limestone caves are beautiful enough to warrant a trip while you’re in Pennsylvania.

The story of the Indian Echo Caverns is pretty interesting, and it has lived many lives.

It began as a shelter and storage site for Susquehannock Indians, a spot for French fur trappers to hide out, and eventually a beautiful location for commodification as a tourist draw.

Though it’s a little transparent in its intentions, the caverns are among the state’s most scenic places and there’s a reason they’ve survived World War II and the Great Depression to live on in popularity today!

Address: 368 Middletown Rd, Hummelstown, PA 17036, United States

Looking to visit Lancaster and Philadelphia? If you do plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in Lancaster, PA , and here’s what to do in Philadelphia !

32. Sight and Sound Theatres

Sight and Sound Theatres

Sight and Sound Theatres have a few branches across America, and the one in Pennsylvania is a must-see.

It is a Christian theater company that has the sole goal of telling tales from the Bible on stage in colorful plays filled with costumes, sets, and special effects.

More than one million annual visitors to Pennsylvania come to visit the Sight and Sound Theatres, and it has earned the nickname “Christian Broadway”.

The inspiration plays and musicals tell all sorts of Biblical stories, bringing expensive and highly detailed sets and costumes with trained animals, delightful music, and a huge 300-foot stage with 2,000 audience seats.

Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, United States

33. The Hershey Story

The Hershey Story , as its name suggests, is a fun museum dedicated to telling the story of Hershey’s chocolates and its founder, Milton Hershey.

It’s one of the many Pennsylvania attractions dedicated to the company and is an inspiring, family-friendly glimpse into the rise, struggles, and successes of Hershey himself.

At The Hershey Story, you’ll see all sorts of exhibits, including many interactive displays, that feature tales of Hershey, the story of chocolate and its history, and even a Chocolate Lab where you can make your own chocolate.

Don’t forget to try some of the available chocolate taste tests, featuring sweet treats from Pennsylvania, America, and the world!

Address: 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

34. Susquehanna Art Museum

Susquehanna Art Museum

The Susquehanna Art Museum is the only dedicated art museum in central Pennsylvania.

It opened in 1989 and was founded by art educators, showcasing works by local and international artists alike.

There are many things to see in the Susquehanna Art Museum, with exhibits like Towards A New/Old Architecture, Found in Translation, The Edgeless Divide, Quilts 20/20, and works by Bearden and Picasso.

The museum moved to a new location in 2015 and has been thriving ever since – a perfect stop on your site seeing adventures!

Address: 1401 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102, United States

35. Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

refrina / Shutterstock

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is one of the coolest places to see for locomotive enthusiasts.

Spanning 18 acres, it can be found in the Amish countryside and is home to over 100 different railroad cars and locomotives.

It contains more than 17,000 artifacts related to locomotives, including signal equipment, uniforms, artwork, tickets, tools, signs, and more.

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania opened in 1975 and serves as an educational and information location, teaching others about the history of railroads in the state.

It boasts interactive exhibits such as the exploration of a railcar, locomotive simulations, and restoration shop viewing.

There is also a large archival library for perusal.

Address: 300 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579, United States

36. Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area

Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area

The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area of Pennsylvania concentrates on promoting, celebrating, and informing others about Pittsburgh’s heritage of steel-making.

The large area spans many valleys and rivers and is a fun option among places to visit in PA, especially if you love industrial history.

The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area was created in 1988 to preserve the region’s legacy and culture – along with all the complex emotions that come with it, from sentiment to anger and from fear to hopelessness.

The nonprofit group that grew from here would go on to tell the stories of those who worked in the steel industry and all that industry’s details – the good, the bad, and the ugly alike.

Address: 623 E 8th Ave, Homestead, PA 15120, United States

37. Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art

Schnapf , CC By 4.0 , via Wikipedia

The Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art was created to protect the historic value of Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania from industrial development that would alter the landscape and devastate the character and water supplies of the area.

In 1967, local residents purchased the land and turned it into Brandywine Conservancy.

Since its early days, it has grown to protect over 64,500 acres of the state and beyond from development, continuing to preach and advocate for responsible and sustainable land use.

The Brandywine River Museum of Art was opened in 1971 then opened and grew into one of the state’s most reputable tourist attractions.

It seeks genuine American art from the local region and houses an incredible and high-quality collection of such works, including ones by Pyle, the Wyeths, Durand, West, Harnett, Chalfant, Stuart, Richards, Harberle, Pippin, and more.

Going sightseeing along the conservancy’s land and then popping in to visit the museum is a fantastic way to see many great vacation spots at once.

Address: 1 Hoffmans Mill Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States

38. Lake Tobias Wildlife Park

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Lake Tobias Wildlife Park was established in 1965 by J. R. Tobias, who created the park as a retirement hobby.

From that humble origin, it has grown into one of the famous landmarks of things to do in PA!

Though Tobias’ passions lay in animals and agriculture, he wound up opting for more practical career paths instead.

Serendipitously, the skills he gained in his career allowed him to put his knowledge to use and construct the park himself!

Today, six of Tobias’ children and one of his grandchildren run the Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Pennsylvania, which attracts an impressive 180,000 annual guests.

There are lots of activities you and your family can take part in here, including rides in open-air safari vehicles, numerous themed facilities and exhibits for different animals, a 500-gallon aquarium, and more.

Address: 760 Tobias Rd, Halifax, PA 17032, United States

39. Chanticleer

Bo Shen / Shutterstock

As the Garden Capital of Pennsylvania and America, Philadelphia has its fair share of places of interest related to gardens and gardening.

Chanticleer , a pleasure garden, is one of them.

It dates back to the early years of the 20th century when the land was purchased by the Rosengarten family as their estate.

The botanical gardens, spanning 48 acres, would become prominent in Pennsylvania as a public attraction and one of the state’s beautiful places.

“Chanticleer” is French for “rooster”, and you’ll see lots of rooster motifs and designed around Chanticleer.

With large lawns, a pond, multiple gardens, and forested areas, you’ll be able to spot flora such as black-eyed Susans, ornamental grass, and daisies, as well as fauna like goldfinches, green herons, wrens, and hummingbirds.

Plants from all over the world are arranged throughout Chanticleer, allowing you to immerse yourself in a mix of local and exotic flora.

Address: 786 Church Rd, Wayne, PA 19087, United States

40. Lackawanna Coal Mine

bulletproofsoul67 / flickr

The Lackawanna Coal Mine was once a working coal mine, and it has a dark history that sets a moody tone over this portion of Scranton , Pennsylvania.

Miners here faced awful conditions in passageways and tunnels, with children and adults all working here in deplorable, dangerous, and potentially deadly states.

Tours of the Lackawanna Coal Mine bring you down into the Clark coal vein.

You’ll learn about anthracite mining, then move onto other veins that can teach you about fault rooms, the fire boss, small vein work, ventilation and air doors, exits, nippers, and more.

The mine itself closed in 1966 and was reopened as a museum in 1978, where it is now one of Pennsylvania’s places to go.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

41. Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock

The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is rather fascinating as a spot in Pennsylvania, mostly because the titular poet only lived in the state for a year.

In 1843, he and his wife moved into a home in Philadelphia, where he wrote “The Gold Bug” and “The Tell-Tale Heart”.

Almost a century later, a die-hard fan of Poe’s purchased the home and decided to turn it into a museum.

When that fan passed away, the city of Philadelphia received it, and it became a National Historic Site.

There are three permanent exhibits and two rotating exhibits at the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, each letting you look in-depth into his life, times, and career.

For literature lovers, a trip here is one of the most fun things to do in Pennsylvania!

Address: 532 N 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, United States

42. National Civil War Museum

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For history nerds, a trip to the National Civil War Museum in Pennsylvania is a must-do.

It is dedicated to telling the tale of the American Civil War with the use of 24,000 items and artifacts housed across two floors and 17 galleries.

The National Civil War Museum tells the story of the war in as objective a manner as possible, and as a Smithsonian affiliate, you know it does the job well.

The galleries begin the tale of the Civil War in 1850, projecting the tensions that led up to the war in 1861, and all the way up to 1876, to showcase the aftermath that followed the war’s end in 1865.

Address: 1 Lincoln Cir, Harrisburg, PA 17103, United States

43. Wagner Free Institute of Science

Wagner Free Institute of Science

The Wagner Free Institute of Science is one of the main Pennsylvania attractions for genuine scientific learning and study, offering lectures and classes that are among the free things to do in Pennsylvania.

The tradition of such lessons began with William Wagner himself, who conducted free informal science lessons out of his home.

Wagner’s classes grew so popular that he opened the Wagner Free Institute of Science in order to expand.

Within, natural history collections belonging to the man were displayed, and Wager’s lessons continued.

When he passed away, his legacy was carried on by Joseph Leidy, a biologist, who expanded on the research available and perpetuated Wagner’s belief that education should be accessible to all.

Address: 1700 W Montgomery Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19121, United States

44. Flight 93 National Memorial

Kathy D. Reasor / Shutterstock

The Flight 93 National Memorial was created to pay respects to the brave passengers and crew of United Flight 93, one of the hijacked planes on September 11, 2001.

Four terrorists of Al-Qaeda got onboard with the goal of crashing the plane into the Capitol building, but the crew thwarted them and diverted the plane into a hill in Pennsylvania.

There were no survivors on the plane, but greater tragedy was averted thanks to their selfless courage.

The Flight 93 National Memorial is one of the key things to see to get the whole story of the day, with interactive information, a walking path, a memorial wall, and even phone calls made by passengers to their loved ones back home as the plane went down.

It’s a sobering experience and is also one of the state’s free things to do, charging no admission fee.

Address: 6424 Lincoln Hwy, Stoystown, PA 15563, United States

Will you be traveling to Pittsburgh and Scranton? If you do plan the trip don’t miss out on some exciting and fun activities! Here’s what to do in Pittsburgh and some fun things to do in Scranton, PA ! 

45. King of Prussia Mall

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If you’re looking for what to do in the state of Pennsylvania to shop till you drop, the King of Prussia Mall – which is America’s second-largest – is a great stop this weekend.

More than 400 restaurants, boutiques, and shops fill the interior, which measures more than 2.6 million square feet in size.

The iconic King of Prussia Mall features a mix of local shops and common large retailers, such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Bloomingdales, Lord and Taylor, and Macy’s.

There is also an iFLY skydiving center and a United Artists Theatres branch for further enjoyment.

Address: 160 N Gulph Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406, United States

46. Randyland

Paul Sableman / flickr

Randyland feels like a world away from Pennsylvania, an art museum created by neighborhood renovator and artist Randy Gilson, a local of Pittsburgh.

This neighborhood corner is Gilson’s own labor of love, made vibrant and enticing with psychedelic design and recycled art.

His work, both in this place itself and over the whole neighborhood, helped to bring Central Northside back to life.

At Randyland, you’ll see all sorts of brightly painted objects and scattered by thoughtfully arranged items.

Lawn furniture lies mismatched, and figures of pink flamingos, plastic dinosaurs, and mannequins are staggered throughout the grounds.

Giant banana plants, garden flora, and found ephemera – made and collected by Gilson and other similarly motivated creators – have made this one of the most uniquely beautiful places to visit in PA, and the fact that it’s one of its free things to do certainly adds to that appeal!

Address: 1501 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

47. Eisenhower National Historic Site

The Eisenhower National Historic Site was the location of the farm and house of 34th United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower, next to the Gettysburg Battlefield, wrapping two Pennsylvania tourist attractions in one place.

The house itself was a weekend and vacation home for the President and his wife, and they retired here in 1961.

In 1967, they donated the property to the government.

The peaceful atmosphere of the Eisenhower National Historic Site evokes the same calm that the President and his wife enjoyed on their breaks.

Tours and talks teach you about the place, bringing you through the house, farm, gardens, putting green, barns, skeet range, and teahouse while telling you about Secret Service Operations and World War II.

Address: 243 Eisenhower Farm Rd, Gettysburg, PA 17325, United States

48. The Weeping Glass

The Weeping Glass

If you’re looking for more strange things to do in PA, why not pop into The Weeping Glass ?

It is a shop selling unusual collections of bizarre and macabre curiosities and can be found in Allentown, where it is packed with a dark and dreary atmosphere and many oddities.

The Weeping Glass houses fascinating objects, art pieces, and weird things from across the world beyond Pennsylvania.

Animal bones and pieces, taxidermy, strange glass-preserved items, antiques, and weird art are just some of the offerings.

There is also a special event called the Midnight Death Parlor that happens monthly, where a performer tells a dark, spooky tale while the audience eats curated snacks and sips themed cocktails.

You can also take part in taxidermy classes or have your fortune told via Tarot!

Address: 817 E Warrington Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15210, United States

49. Steamtown National Historic Site

The Steamtown National Historic Site is a museum dedicated to the history of steam railroad innovation, transportation, and the people behind it.

It is situated in an old train yard in the downtown area of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and houses the collection of New Jersey seafood magnate F. Nelson Blount.

The Steamtown National Historic Site feels alive and well with the firebox, hot steam, and bells and whistles as one-ton drive rods push train wheels and vibrate the ground, chuffing out of smokestacks.

You can relive the fantastic 1920s era of steam trains and visit interactive displays, a theater, a working roundhouse, a repair shop, and even archives.

This is one of the only places to visit in Pennsylvania for locomotive enthusiasts!

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

50. Presque Isle State Park

If you’re looking for more relaxing and free things to do in the state of Pennsylvania, one of the relevant points of interest is Presque Isle State Park .

Situated on a peninsula on Presque Isle Bay, it boasts many different hiking trails and a whopping 11 miles of beach space on 3,200 acres of land.

There are plenty of activities to take part in at Presque Isle State Park.

You can sunbathe, swim, fly kites, collect sea glass, or attend live performances, concerts, and events.

There is also the Tom Ridge Environmental Center at the park’s entrance, which provides information on local ecosystems and history and provides a 75-foot observation deck to use for great views.

Address: 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, United States

Start Planning  Your Trip To Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a wonderful state that is perfect for a vacation thanks to its highly varied attractions and the many hats that it has worn and continues to wear.

This travel guide should help you find all the places you want to visit in the lovely Keystone State!

Happy travels.

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35 fun things to do in pennsylvania, according to a local.

From Hersheypark to the Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania has some of the country's most iconic attractions.

Fun Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Courtesy of Gettysburg National Military Park

You probably know the chocolate-inspired town of Hershey is located in Pennsylvania, and you might know a thing or two about Pennsylvania Amish Country. But did you know you can see Albert Einstein's brain on display in Philadelphia, or that you can visit an International Dark Sky Park in the northern part of the state?

Better still, many of the best things to do in Pennsylvania are free. It doesn't cost anything to listen to sonorous rocks ring with the strike of a hammer in Bucks County, attend the nation's largest free-admission music festival in Bethlehem or explore the whimsy of Randyland in Pittsburgh.

Cue the "Rocky" theme song and read on to discover the most fun things to do in Pennsylvania.

The "Rocky" Statue and Steps

J. Smith | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

Get your picture with the "Rocky" statue, originally created for a scene in "Rocky III," before lacing up and running the 72 stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, just like Rocky Balboa did in the first film. Once you get to the top, turn around and catch your breath while you take in the views of Independence Mall in Center City. If you really want to go the distance, sign up for the Rocky Run, which includes a 5K, 10K, and the 13.1 Italian Stallion Challenge hosted in the city each fall.

Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130

Courtesy of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts

Milton S. Hershey established his famous chocolate company in 1894, but he didn't stop there. He used his fortune to build Hersheypark, ZooAmerica, The Hotel Hershey and its chocolate-themed spa, Milton Hershey School for underprivileged children, and other local attractions. (It's no wonder the town is named for him.) While you can't tour the original chocolate factory, you can learn about it on a free indoor ride – in a Hershey's Kiss-shaped car – at Hershey's Chocolate World or on a visit to The Hershey Story museum.

But there's more to Hershey than chocolate. See a concert at Hersheypark Stadium, try a falconry experience and sip craft beer at Tröegs Independent Brewing. There are so many things to do in Hershey that it's worth a weekend (or more) to enjoy it all.

Gettysburg National Military Park

In 1863, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War was fought in Gettysburg. Today, visitors can explore the storied battlefields at Gettysburg National Military Park via a variety of guided tours . Plan to spend a day or two here so you can explore the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, where you'll find the impressive Gettysburg Cyclorama: a large oil-on-canvas painting that depicts the final Confederate assault, considered a turning point in the war. Be sure to also check out the World War II American Experience museum, among other local attractions .

Address: 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325

Courtesy of Jin Wu

In 1995, a man named Randy Gilson purchased a series of rundown buildings in the North Side of Pittsburgh and turned them into eye-popping art installations. Known as Randyland, the eclectic project has not only revamped the space but also helped to breathe new life into the area that surrounds it. The photo-worthy attraction is free to visit (though donations are welcomed), and Gilson himself will likely be on-site to greet you – Randyland is also his home.

Address: 1501 Arch St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Carnegie Science Museum

Courtesy of Carnegie Science Center

One of the most-visited attractions in Pittsburgh , the Carnegie Science Museum is especially fun for those interested in space exploration. The exhibit "Mars: The Next Giant Leap" provides visitors with a realistic look at what life on this planet might look like while also covering important issues like sustainability and climate change. The Buhl Planetarium & Observatory is also a highlight, with a variety of shows and experiences that transport guests to outer space. Other exhibits include the Robot Hall of Fame and Bricksburgh, where kids of all ages will enjoy hands-on building fun. New for select dates in 2024 and 2025 is a temporary exhibit focused on the science behind Pixar, with more than 50 interactive displays.

There are three other Carnegie museums in Pittsburgh as well: the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and The Andy Warhol Museum.

Address: 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15212

The Andy Warhol Museum

Andy Warhol's famous artwork is on display throughout this seven-floor museum in Pittsburgh, the late artist's hometown. Expect to see his famous consumer product paintings of Campbell's soup cans and Coke; celebrity portraits including Jackie Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe; and even work from Warhol's mother, Julia Warhola, who also had an eye for art.

The museum also features rotating exhibits and special events including art workshops for kids and theater performances. Previous patrons say you'll learn a lot of little-known facts about Warhol during your visit. For instance, did you know he was a collector, putting together more than 600 time capsules in the latter part of his life?

Address: 117 Sandusky St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Dutch Wonderland

Courtesy of Dutch Wonderland

If you have young kids, a visit to Dutch Wonderland should be on your list of things to do in Pennsylvania. This "Kingdom for Kids" became an instant classic when it opened in 1963, offering local families a place to play together. Today it offers more than 30 year-round attractions, with rides and shows geared toward families with children ages 12 and younger.

One of the top attractions in Lancaster , the park offers (tame) roller coasters, a water play area, seasonal events and dining venues. Kids especially dig Exploration Island, where they can encounter 20-plus lifelike dinosaurs at Prehistoric Path. More than 60 years since its opening, the amusement park continues to receive rave reviews from families in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond.

Address: 2249 E. Lincoln Highway, Lancaster, PA 17602

Knoebels Amusement Resort

Courtesy of Knoebels Amusement Resort

Knoebels (pronounced kuh-no-buhlz) touts itself as America's largest free-admission theme park, with more than 60 rides – from tame to wild – on offer. Costs start at $2 for kiddie rides and $5 for thrill rides, with the latter including the Phoenix, an iconic wooden roller coaster. Knoebels also offers games, live entertainment, and a pool with water slides for cooling off on a hot summer day. On-site campsites (tents and cabins) are especially fun and convenient for weekend trips and mid-day breaks. Parkgoers agree Knoebels – which will turn 100 in 2026 – is one of the best amusement parks in the U.S.

Address: 391 Knoebels Blvd., Elysburg, PA 17824

Independence Hall

J. Fusco | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

At Independence Hall in Philadelphia, you can take a free guided tour to stand in the room where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. You can also see surviving copies of both documents at the Great Essentials exhibit, take a "bell-fie" with the famous Liberty Bell, and get the same cancellation on your postal stamp that Ben Franklin used when he was postmaster.

Address: 520 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

Reading Terminal Market

R. Kennedy | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

No trip to Philly is complete without a stop at Reading Terminal Market, where more than 80 vendors serve some of the city's most delicious food, plus fresh flowers and other goods. Beiler's Bakery, Hershel's East Side Deli and Miller's Twist are all a good place to start, but you can't go wrong with anything you choose here. Go mid-morning or mid-afternoon on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Address: 1136 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19107

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Getty Images

During the Revolutionary War, George Washington's Continental Army camped out in Valley Forge, where they rested, trained and emerged a fighting force. The former encampment, now known as Valley Forge National Historic Park, features several historic monuments and memorials, as well as original buildings from that time, including Washington's Headquarters. Take a ranger-led tour of the park or explore on your own – there are myriad hiking and biking trails and places to enjoy a picnic lunch.

Address: 1400 N. Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, PA 19406

Eastern State Penitentiary

M. Fischetti | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

This hauntingly abandoned prison-turned-attraction is a must-visit in Philadelphia . Considered the world's first true penitentiary (a prison for those convicted of serious crimes), Eastern State Penitentiary remains a Gothic masterpiece, with vaulted, sky-lit cells and a Jewish synagogue. Its most notorious inmate, Al Capone, spent his first prison sentence here, and his cell is one of the prison's many interesting exhibits. Past visitors found their visit interesting, with some even saying the Eastern State Penitentiary is better than Alcatraz in San Francisco. Visit at Halloween for an extra spooky experience.

Address: 2027 Fairmount Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19130

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

Now an award-winning artist, Philadelphia local Isaiah Zagar started mosaicking as a form of therapy to cope with mental struggles in his late 20s. His project Philadelphia's Magic Gardens aims to heal and inspire others through the power of art. Spend an afternoon getting lost in this whimsical maze of mosaics and sculptures. You can explore on your own, or opt for a guided tour, available on select days. No matter how you experience the Magic Gardens, you won't be disappointed.

Address: 1020 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19147

Duquesne Incline

Like other funiculars constructed in the 19th century, the Duquesne Incline (along with its sister, the Monongahela Incline) was built to transport cargo and people up and down Pittsburgh's Mount Washington in the 1800s. Today it's still used as a mode of transportation, but is more so a popular tourist attraction and ride, especially since it affords some of the best views of Pittsburgh's skyline, including the confluence of three rivers. The view is especially breathtaking at night.

Address: 1197 W. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Bushkill Falls

Otherwise known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," Bushkill Falls encompasses 300 breathtaking acres in the Pocono Mountains . Wooded trails, bridges and walkways take visitors past eight cascading waterfalls; on the roughly 2-mile Red Trail, you can see all of the waterfalls at once. Bushkill Falls also offers play areas, fishing opportunities and dining options, and it's open April to November, weather permitting. As you're planning your visit, note that there are a lot of stairs to navigate.

Address: 138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324

Ringing Rocks County Park

Courtesy of Visit Bucks County

Bring a hammer or two to Ringing Rocks County Park in Upper Black Eddy. When struck, the park's boulders ring like a bell. It's unclear why the sonorous rocks (their technical name) ring, though one geologist theory is that the rocks were under high pressure when they formed, leaving them resistant to breakage. Located in Bucks County, Ringing Rocks County Park is a scenic spot to go for a hike or bike ride – and see the area's largest waterfall – before enjoying a picnic lunch. Wear sturdy shoes for your visit since you'll be climbing across a field of rocks.

Address: Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972

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Sesame Place

Courtesy of Sesame Place

The first "Sesame Street"-themed park in the U.S. is located in Langhorne, about 25 miles northeast of Philly, and features pint-sized rides like Big Bird's Tour Bus, the Flying Cookie Jars and the Sunny Day Carousel. There are also water attractions, live shows, parades and character meet-and-greet experiences to enjoy (including dining with Elmo). Visit during one of the park's seasonal events, such as The Count's Halloween Spooktacular or A Very Furry Christmas, for a special experience. Park patrons recommend visiting later in the day to avoid long lines.

Address: 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047

Bucks County Playhouse

Courtesy of Bucks County Playhouse

Around 70 miles southwest of New York City, the Bucks County Playhouse hosts a variety of musicals and plays. Broadway greats including Grace Kelly, Dick Van Dyke, Bob Fosse, Liza Minnelli and Audra McDonald have all performed on its stage. Book tickets to an upcoming show and enjoy dinner at the on-site Deck Restaurant and Bar or another one of New Hope's lovely waterfront restaurants along the Delaware River. The charming town of New Hope alone is worth a visit, especially for those seeking a romantic getaway in Pennsylvania .

Address: 70 S. Main St., New Hope, PA 18938

Fonthill Castle

Courtesy of Kevin Crawford Imagery LLC

Once the home of archaeologist and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer, Fonthill isn't a true castle, but it certainly resembles one. Take a guided tour to see it for yourself, and be sure to look for "Rollo's Stairs," where Mercer's beloved dog, Rollo, left his paw prints in wet concrete during construction. A short drive from Fonthill, the Mercer Museum (located at 84 S. Pine St. in Doylestown ) is a Smithsonian affiliate with some 50,000 artifacts, most of which are associated with early American trades and crafts.

Address: 525 E. Court St., Doylestown, PA 18901

The Franklin Institute

This Philadelphia museum honors Benjamin Franklin's work as a scientist and inventor through interactive exhibits, both permanent and rotating. Noteworthy exhibits at The Franklin Institute include Your Brain, featuring an 18-foot-tall neural climb; the Franklin Air Show, where youngsters can climb inside of a 1948 T-33 jet; and Sir Isaac's Loft, which teaches visitors about pulleys, prisms and pendulums through hands-on activities. You can also watch live science demonstrations and experiments. The museum continually receives rave reviews for being fun for all ages.

Address: 222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, PA 19103

Longwood Gardens

Becca Mathias | Courtesy of Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens encompasses 1,100 acres in Pennsylvania's Brandywine Valley, with something new and beautiful to explore each season. At Christmas – which many people agree is the best time to visit – you can ogle thousands of poinsettias and other pretty flowers while listening to holiday tunes, stroll through hundreds of thousands of lights, gather around a fire pit, and just enjoy the magic of the season. Longwood Gardens also hosts theater performances, concerts, classes, workshops and themed events throughout the year. A full-service restaurant, a cafe and a beer garden are also available on-site.

Address: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348

Flight 93 National Memorial

During the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001, 40 people lost their lives when United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in Somerset County, about 75 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. Shortly after the flight departed Newark, New Jersey, for San Francisco, four al-Qaida hijackers took control of the cockpit with intentions to crash the plane in Washington, D.C. Aware of the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the crew and passengers banded together to divert the plane, potentially saving thousands of lives. The plane was successfully diverted from D.C. but crashed in Pennsylvania instead, killing everyone onboard.

The brave crew and passengers are now honored at the Flight 93 National Memorial, where the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot-tall musical instrument, rings with 40 wind chimes representing each crew member and passenger. While the memorial can't be labeled "fun" like the rest of the recommendations on this list, visiting the historic site is an essential experience in Pennsylvania.

Address: 6424 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown, PA 15563

Presque Isle State Park

If you're looking for a beach in Pennsylvania, head to Presque Isle State Park, a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula on Lake Erie. Presque Isle has 13 beaches and as such is a popular spot for swimming. It's also popular for fishing and boating (including boating tours), as well as land-based activities such as biking and hiking. If you enjoy bird-watching, be on the lookout for endangered, threatened or rare bird species, which are known to migrate to this area. Visitors comment that the park is clean and the views are spectacular.

Address: 301 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505

Fallingwater

Christopher Little | Courtesy of Western Pennsylvania Conservancy

Frank Lloyd Wright's widely acclaimed Fallingwater house is located in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. It was designed for the Kaufmann family, owners of the largest department store in nearby Pittsburgh, in 1935. The architectural masterpiece is tucked into the woods atop a cascading waterfall, beautifully marrying art and nature. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is open for a variety of tours, including guided architectural tours and forest-to-table dinners. Visitors agree Fallingwater is a must-visit in Pennsylvania, even if you don't know much about architecture or have an interest in it.

Address: 1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, PA 15464

Cherry Springs State Park

Pack a red light flashlight and prepare to see the night sky as you've (likely) never seen it on the East Coast. Located in Potter County, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the darkest destinations on the Eastern Seaboard, with very little light pollution. A dark sky park , Cherry Springs affords visitors the rare opportunity to see constellations, asteroids and more. You might even spot the northern lights , though it's less likely.

The best (and essentially only) way to experience Cherry Springs State Park is by camping overnight. Keep in mind that there are just 30 campsites on-site, so advance reservations are a must. Travelers rave about their experiences at Cherry Springs and recommend taking advantage of the park's stargazing programs, which include nightscape photo workshops and private guided star tours.

Address: 4639 Cherry Springs Road, Coudersport, PA 16915

Betsy Ross House

George Widman Photography | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

It's never been confirmed that Betsy Ross created the first American flag. However, she remains the person most widely credited with sewing the first stars and stripes inside her tiny Philadelphia home in 1777. Today, travelers can visit the Betsy Ross House to learn about the late upholsterer, businesswoman and patriot; travelers can also see her burial plot here. If you're planning a visit with children, inquire about the audio tours for kids, which feature a series of mysteries to solve. Previous visitors say the actors, including "Betsy" herself, and other staff are wonderful.

Address: 239 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

Elfreth's Alley Museum

After you tour the Betsy Ross House, take a short walk to the Elfreth's Alley, one of the nation's oldest continually inhabited residential streets. While many people pass through for photos, Elfreth's Alley also offers a small museum (at house numbers 124 and 126), where you can learn about the artisans and tradespeople who helped build our country. If you're interested in guided tours of Elfreth's Alley, the Betsy Ross House and the Old City, consider the Old City Historic Walking Tour .

Address: 126 Elfreth's Alley, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Ricketts Glen State Park

If you enjoy hiking, Ricketts Glen State Park should be on your list of things to do in Pennsylvania. The park has 22 named waterfalls – the highest of which stands 94 feet tall – along its aptly named Falls Trail. The trail runs 7.2 miles in total, so grab your dog (the park is pet-friendly), pack a picnic lunch and plan to spend a whole day here. It's also possible to see most of the waterfalls on a shorter 3.2-mile loop.

Afterward, retreat to one of the park's tent or cabin campsites. It's best to wear sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes since the trails are admittedly difficult in some areas. For a unique experience, consider a guided ice hiking tour in the winter months.

Address: 695 state Route 487, Benton, PA 17814

Museum of the American Revolution

The Museum of the American Revolution tells the story of our nation's founding through captivating and interactive exhibits such as weekend-only Revolution Place, where kids ages 5 to 12 can join the Continental Army and see what life was like at a military encampment. The museum also displays rotating exhibits, such as one highlighting the many people who helped preserve George Washington's tent as an artifact over the years. Previous visitors appreciate the museum's chronological path, adding that it's one of their favorite museums in Philly.

Address: 101 S. Third St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

Woodloch Pines Resort and The Lodge at Woodloch

Courtesy of Woodloch Pines Resort

There are very few all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. , but Pennsylvania has two of them in the Poconos: the family-friendly Woodloch Pines Resort and The Lodge at Woodloch , an upscale, adults-only spa resort that's consistently recognized as one of the best hotels in the U.S. Previous guests rave about both hotels, noting that Woodloch Resort is fun for both kids and kids at heart.

All-inclusive rates at Woodloch Resort include overnight accommodations; two or three meals daily, depending on your plan; and access to a plethora of amenities, activities and events, including seasonal festivals. Guests are welcome to make reservations at the spa up to 14 days in advance. At The Lodge, rates cover luxury accommodations, three gourmet meals per day, and access to all of the spa's facilities – including hydrotherapy pools, fitness studios and more.

Address: 731 Welcome Lake Road, Hawley, PA 18428

Jesse Faatz Photography | Courtesy of DiscoverLehighValley.com

Musikfest, the nation's largest free-admission music festival, takes place in Bethlehem every August. Stroll throughout town to hear live music across a variety of genres during the 10-day event. Ticketed shows for big-name acts are available, too.

Just as good as the music is the food and drink, with favorites including "Aw Shucks" Roasted Corn, featuring butter, parmesan and a special seasoning blend. You'll also find a variety of local artisan vendors. What makes this festival even more special is that parts of it are hosted amid the famous SteelStacks (formerly Bethlehem Steel), an attraction in itself and a sight to behold, especially when lit up at night.

Koziar's Christmas Village

Koziar's Christmas Village is another iconic experience in Pennsylvania. Though some visitors say the family-owned park – first opened in 1948 – is a bit outdated, they maintain that it's a magical place for families with retro appeal. Outdoor and indoor holiday light displays include a toy train attraction that's especially appealing to kids.

Plan to visit this attraction on a weeknight, as weekends see the most crowds (and thus it can be difficult to maneuver a stroller ). Previous visitors also recommend arriving at least 30 minutes prior to opening; otherwise, you'll likely get stuck in a traffic line to the parking area. Koziar's Christmas Village is open from early November through early January annually.

Address: 782 Christmas Village Road, Bernville, PA 19506

The Catacombs at Bube's Brewery

Courtesy of Bube's Brewery

Founded by German immigrant and brewer Alois Bube in 1876, Bube's Brewery landed a spot on the map for its crisp, German-style lagers, a popular style of beer during this era. Today, it's known for a variety of beers plus several dining venues including The Catacombs, an underground, completely candlelit restaurant. Previous patrons say the food is good and the service even better. Bube's Brewery is located in Mount Joy, about 15 miles northwest of Lancaster.

Address: 102 N. Market St., Mount Joy, PA, 17552

The Mütter Museum

Operated by the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, The Mütter Museum houses tens of thousands of anatomical and pathological specimens from dead people. Permanent exhibits include Albert Einstein's brain, the liver of conjoined twins and a skull collection. Visitors agree this one-of-a-kind museum is a must-visit when in Philadelphia. Due to the nature of the exhibits, it is recommended for visitors ages 10 and up.

Address: 19 S. 22nd St., Philadelphia, PA 19103

Explore the King of Prussia mall

Courtesy of Simon

If you enjoy shopping, you'll love King of Prussia – one of the largest shopping malls in the U.S. Stretching across 2.9 million square feet of space, the King of Prussia mall features more than 450 stores, from luxury to budget finds, plus a wide variety of restaurants, from grab-and-go options to fine dining. King of Prussia is located about 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia.

Address: 160 N. Gulph Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a native and resident of Pennsylvania. She grew up near the Pocono Mountains, went to college in Philadelphia and currently resides in Bucks County. Norcross used her personal experiences, along with those of friends and family who live in PA, to put together these recommendations.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Pennsylvania
• The Top Things to Do in New Jersey
• The Best Places to Visit in New York State
• The Top Weekend Getaways from New York City
• The Top Weekend Getaways from Washington, D.C.

The Best East Coast Beaches

Tags: Travel , Pennsylvania Vacations

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Must-see attractions in Pennsylvania

Independence National Historical Park

Philadelphia

This L-shaped Philadelphia park, bound by 6th, 2nd, Walnut and Arch Sts, protects and honors the institutions that formed the foundation of the United…

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Logan Square & Fairmount

The premier cultural institution in Philadelphia, this epic art museum would stand out even without Rocky's famous antics on the east steps. Every visitor…

Barnes Foundation

Since 2012, Dr Albert C Barnes' eye-popping collection of artworks – predominantly focused on French masterpieces from the late 19th and early 20th…

Independence Hall

The 'birthplace of American government', this modest, early 18th-century Georgian building is where delegates from the 13 colonies met to approve the…

Reading Terminal Market

Chinatown & Center City East

Getting the balance just right between food shopping hub and dining destination, Reading Terminal Market opened way back in 1893 and it's been a…

Mattress Factory

Since 1977, this art space has hosted the avant-garde. It now occupies several buildings in the Mexican War Streets neighborhood, and always has something…

Duquesne Incline

This nifty funicular and its Monongahela Incline twin down the road, both built in the late 19th century, are Pittsburgh icons, zipping up the steep slope…

Andy Warhol Museum

This six-story museum celebrates Pittsburgh's coolest native son, Andy Warhol, who moved to NYC, got a nose job and made himself famous with pop art. One…

Fallingwater

Western Pennsylvania

This Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece is simply one of the architectural wonders of the world. Completed in 1938 as a weekend retreat for the Kaufmanns,…

Gettysburg National Military Park

Pennsylvania

Gettysburg National Military Park covers 8 sq miles of land marked with monuments and trails. The museum at the visitor center is a must-see, particularly…

Cherry Springs State Park

Considered one of the best places for stargazing east of the Mississippi, this mountaintop state park seems to have plenty of space, but be sure to book…

Masonic Temple

Although the fortress-like exterior of this 1873 building is pretty impressive, it's the spectacular interiors – which took a further 15 years to complete…

Completed in 1901 following 30 years of construction, City Hall takes up a whole block, and at 548ft is the world's tallest structure without a steel…

Museum of the American Revolution

This impressive, multimedia-rich museum will have you virtually participating in the American Revolution; interactive dioramas and 3-D experiences take…

The old Reading Viaduct is the location of the first phase of this ambitious project to reuse 3 miles of decommissioned rail lines between Fairmount Park…

Benjamin Franklin Museum

This underground museum is dedicated to Franklin's storied life as a printer (he started the nation's first newspaper), inventor (Bifocals! Lightning rods…

Kinzua Bridge Skywalk

The world's tallest railroad structure when it was built in 1882, this 301ft-high bridge was rebuilt in steel in 1900 – but then partially collapsed in…

Black Moshannon State Park

Tucked away west of Julian, PA, Black Moshannon State Park is 43,000 acres reserved for boating, fishing and hiking. Of note are its unique lake and bogs,…

Cathedral of Learning

Soaring 42 stories, this Gothic tower at the center of the University of Pittsburgh is a city landmark. It has a 4-storey common room at ground level and…

Hoover-Mason Trestle

A bit of a masterpiece of industrial architecture, the trestle was once an artery for coke, limestone and iron ore making its way to the area's blast…

Kentuck Knob

This home, designed in 1953 by Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1956, is built into the side of a rolling hill with stunning panoramic views. It's…

Fairmount Park

The snaking Schuylkill River bisects this 2050-acre green space, the largest city park in the US, splitting it into east and west sections. On either side…

Penn Museum

U Penn's magical museum, the largest of its type in the US, contains archaeological treasures from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Mayan world and more…

Franklin Institute

You could easily spend the better part of the day touring this world-class science museum. As well as being the venue for temporary blockbuster science…

Mütter Museum

Maintained by the College of Physicians, this unique, only-in-Philadelphia attraction is a museum dedicated to rare, odd or disturbing medical conditions…

Wissahickon Valley Park

Covering 2042 acres, this beautiful, wooded park follows the Wissahickon Creek from its confluence with the Schuylkill River up to the city's northwest…

Carnegie Museums

Founded in 1895, these neighboring institutions are both tremendous troves of knowledge. The Carnegie Museum of Art has European treasures and an…

Lehigh Gorge State Park

The Lehigh River cuts a steep, dramatically arresting gorge through the uplands of Northeast Pennsylvania. The main attraction is the 20-mile Lehigh Gorge…

Frick Art & Historical Center

Henry Clay Frick, of New York City's Frick Collection fame, built his steel fortune in Pittsburgh. This Frick shows a small art collection (including…

Cook Forest State Park

Much of the old growth forest of northwestern Pennsylvania has been scoured off the map, but not so in Cook Forest, an 8500-acre preserve located just…

Shofuso Japanese House & Garden

This picturesque house, built in Nagoya in 1953 to a 17th-century design, has been set in 1.2 acres of traditional Japanese gardens in Fairmount Park…

Allegheny Reservoir

This 7647-acre lake looks as if it were always a deep-blue compliment to the landscape, but in fact it dates only to the 1960s, when the reservoir was…

Fort Ligonier

Compared to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, the French and Indian War, often considered the 'first world war' and known as the Seven Years War in…

Phipps Conservatory

An impressive steel-and-glass greenhouse with beautifully designed and curated gardens, at the northwest corner of Schenley Park.

30th St Station

The grandness of Graham, Anderson, Probst and White's 1930s design for this station makes it worth a visit even if you're not catching a train. The…

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

This prestigious arts school, founded in 1805, occupies two buildings including a masterwork of Victorian Gothic architecture designed by Frank Furness…

Longwood Gardens

Pierre du Pont, the great-grandson of the DuPont chemical company founder, began designing this property in 1906 with the grand gardens of Europe in mind …

Liberty Bell Center

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Rodeph Shalom Synagogue

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Church of the Advocate

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30 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Pennsylvania | 30 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

After three years of living in PA, I’m happy to post the ultimate guide on things to do in Pennsylvania . The Keystone State may not be the first place that you think of when you imagine a fun road trip in the U.S. Yet, there are many  things to do in PA , as I’m learning the longer I live here!

During this time, we have not only found many delightful things to do in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas (where we have been living during this time). We have also explored lesser-known Pennsylvania attractions  during the weekends, and I can assure you that spending some time in this state is a great thing to do.

Philly is a major city in PA and has played a key role in United States history, so visiting it is a must (take advantage of the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  or the  Sightseeing Day Pass  to access the main attractions of the city for free). However, Pennsylvania is not just about history and culture. Forests, waterfalls, wildlife, and dark skies come to my mind when I talk about this wonderful state I have the pleasure of living in.

I must admit that I didn’t always like living in Pennsylvania. At first sight, it could seem kind of boring. However, there are plenty of fun things to do in PA  once you know where to look. No matter if you just moved here or are going to be visiting PA, this guide will recommend  where to go in Pennsylvania  as well as  PA tourist attractions  for everyone.

Don’t forget to review the map at the end so you can find all the places in Pennsylvania to visit during your trip. Now, let’s get to the list of the 30 best things to do in PA.

1. Ben Franklin Parkway & Philadelphia Museum of Art

Named after Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, the Ben Franklin Parkway is a huge thoroughfare connecting City Hall with the Philadelphia Museum of Art. There are several museums and points of interest along the Parkway, and the street is lined with flags from countries all around the world.

As you walk along the Parkway, you’ll pass by Love Park (named for its large  LOVE  sculpture), the  Philadelphia Free Public Library, the  Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , and the  Franklin Institute Science Museum (both museums included in the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass ).

1. Ben Franklin Parkway & Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the best museums in PA

At the end of the Parkway, you’ll find the Philadelphia Museum of Art . It’s one of the largest art museums in the world and holds works that span centuries and continents, plus it’s free on Wednesdays from 5:00 p.m. and on the first Sunday of each month. The Museum owns other nearby buildings like the Perelman Building and Rodin Museum.

It’s also known for its  Rocky Steps , a popular  PA tourist attraction . Running up them for the first time is an exhilarating experience! Don’t forget to pose with the  Rocky Balboa Statue  around the corner from the steps. If you’re a Rocky fan, I recommend this Rocky movie tour of the city.

2. Visit the Liberty Bell at Independence Mall, a great thing to do in PA

A visit to Philadelphia isn’t complete without seeing the Liberty Bell , one of the best free things to do in PA.

Built in 1752, the 4-foot bell weighs over 2,000 pounds and sits in a glass box in Philadelphia’s historic district just in front Independence Hall, where one day it made history. As we learned during this amazing walking tour , the ringing of this bell announced the reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776. Nowadays, and despite its iconic fracture, it’s the crown jewel of the Liberty Bell Center  on  Independence Mall , which is part of  Independence National Historical Park . This 3-block section of the city is where you’ll find all the historical landmarks related to Philadelphia and the state’s role in American freedom.

2. Liberty Bell at Independence Mall, Philadelphia, the best thing to do in PA

One of the  places to see on Pennsylvania ‘s Independence Mall is the  National Constitution Center . This is an interactive museum that recreates the discussions involved in the writing of the U.S. Constitution. You won’t find the original Declaration of Independence here, but there are plenty of interesting exhibits.

Another  attraction in PA (included in the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass ) is the  Betsy Ross House  on Arch Street. A prized Philly landmark, this is said to be the site where Betsy Ross lived and sewed the first American flag. Not far from there, you can check out Elfreth’s Alley , the oldest residential street in America.

A few blocks away is  Philadelphia City Hall , a recognizable landmark, and where we got married! It is topped with a statue of William Penn, the founder of Philadelphia. City Hall was the tallest building in Philly until the construction of  One Liberty Place . Both buildings have observation decks that are also included in the Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass . I have visited both and recommend checking them out for some great  PA sightseeing .

3. Gettysburg National Military Park, a must-see in Pennsylvania

Gettysburg  is another historical place and one of the  popular cities in Pennsylvania  I suggest visiting. This location is an important site that commemorates the American Civil War, particularly the specific Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.

The town welcomes  Pennsylvania tourists  and invites them to explore the  Gettysburg National Military Park . Here, you’ll see the  Gettysburg Battlefield , which was the site of military combat between Union and Confederate soldiers on July 1-3, 1863.

You can transport yourself back in time through the  Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center , which does live history reenactments. There are also several galleries, exhibits, and a cyclorama (cylindrical painting) of the Battle of Gettysburg.

I also suggest visiting the  Gettysburg National Cemetery  where Union casualties are buried. This is where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, one of the best-known speeches in American history, four and a half months after the battle. There is a dignified and solemn air about the place.

If it’s your first time visiting this historic landmark and you’re a history buff, don’t think twice and book this bus tour to learn more about this 3-day battle that was a turning point in the history of the country. You will see Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and the location of Pickett’s charge, among other things.

Before leaving the area, be sure to stop by the  Eisenhower National Historic Site . This was the home and farmstead of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States. You can walk through the house where this famous figure once spent his days.

4. Lancaster and the Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Not far from Gettysburg is  Lancaster , one of the oldest towns in PA. Lancaster is best known as a hub for Pennsylvania’s Amish Country. While the Amish live in a few other states, they are most prevalent in PA.

There, you can visit the  Amish Village , a  must-see in Pennsylvania . For a fee, you can walk through the 12-acre property and catch a glimpse of this way of life, including horse-drawn buggies, blacksmithing, and farming. You can also pick up some fresh-baked goodies at the market.

4. Lancaster and the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, a traditional town to visit in PA

Also, I recommend visiting the Amish Farm and House through this  guided tour  to learn more about Amish culture. It’s definitely one of the most interesting  things to do in Pennsylvania’s Amish country .

If you’re driving around, I suggest heading to two nearby towns. The first is Strasburg, which has an impressive collection of over 100 historic railroad cars and locomotives at the  Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.  The second is  Intercourse, PA , which may attract you because of the name. Here, you can explore more Amish culture through shopping and dining.

However, Lancaster offers more than just a snapshot of the Amish way of life – shopping, theater shows, and lots of natural walking and biking paths are also here. A  fun thing to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania  is to drive along the  Musical Road , which has metal grooves that “play” a song as you drive over them. Families with young kids should check out  Dutch Wonderland , a castle-themed amusement park, and one of the best things to do in PA for families.

5. The Poconos, the most breathtaking mountains to visit in PA

Another stunning natural  place in Pennsylvania  is the  Poconos Mountains, where we spend a weekend surrounded by snow every winter (it’s one of my favorite spots in the state). Located in northeastern PA, the hilly area overlooks the Allegheny Plateau and Delaware Water Gap. You’ll find lots of beautiful spots to relax and reconnect with nature.

If you want some adventure, the Poconos offer all kinds of recreational fun. The area is most well-known for its ski resorts, which are 6 in total. The 3 most popular resorts are  Blue Mountain, Camelback,  and  Jack Frost/Big Boulder .

During the warmer months, you should check out the other lush, natural areas in the Poconos. I recommend Promised Land State Park and Bushkill Falls, also called “The Niagara of Pennsylvania”.  Promised Land State Park  is surrounded by two lakes and has 80 miles of trails. The park is a perfect location for camping and all kinds of outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and trail biking. Many black bears live in the forest, so be careful!

Not far from the state park is the  Bushkill Falls  area, which has 8 waterfalls and lots of hiking paths. The tallest waterfall here is over 100 feet tall and is the perfect  PA sightseeing  photo opportunity. I suggest taking your time to enjoy the scenery and exercise.

It’s also worth visiting Lehigh Gorge State Park, especially if you want to go white water rafting. I recommend this  rafting tour , or, if you want to stay dry, this  bike rental . And don’t forget to stop by Jim Thorpe, nestled right at the gorge and considered one of the most beautiful and romantic towns in PA. Here, you’ll enjoy shops, restaurants, pubs, wine-tasting, and live entertainment.

Another popular state park within the Pocono Mountains is Hickory Run, a place that deserves its own section in this list of things to do in Pennsylvania, so I’ll talk about it later.

6. Ricketts Glen State Park, a great hike to do in Pennsylvania

For a seriously good hike, I suggest visiting  Ricketts Glen State Park , one of  Pennsylvania’s best places to visit  for nature lovers. We also visit this state park every year, at least in spring and in fall since we run private photo tours there. Are you interested? Let’s talk!

The park is about 2 hours from Harrisburg, in northern PA. Covering over 13,000 acres, it’s a National Natural Landmark and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for some outdoor  activities in PA , definitely check out Ricketts Glen.

As an old-growth forest, this area is one of the last few untouched (or mostly untouched) places in the state. You could easily spend the day here, or you might choose to sleep at the lakeside campsite.

One of the best parts about Ricketts Glen is its waterfalls; there are 24 of them! If you’re up for it, I recommend taking the  Falls Trail , which loops most of the waterfalls in 3 miles and passes through interesting rock formations, such as the  Midway Crevasse . It’s quite a steep and difficult trail, but there are other more moderate ones you can try too, like the Evergreen Trail.

By the lake, you can canoe or kayak. The area is also known as a great spot for birdwatching. During the winter, the falls freeze over and are open to ice climbers. Some people try to ice skate on the frozen lake.

Without a doubt, this state park is one of the most  beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania , so be sure to take some time to see it.

7. Longwood Gardens, the best thing to do in Pennsylvania for couples

While you’re in the state, I highly recommend visiting  Longwood Gardens , one of the top  things to do in southeast Pennsylvania . These beautiful botanical gardens cover over 1,000 acres and are just a short drive from Philadelphia.

I don’t think there is a bad time to go to Longwood Gardens because the attraction has seasonal displays all year round. During the winter months, the grounds are covered in decorative lights. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and walk around the gardens, taking in the sights.

7. Visit Longwood Gardens, the best thing to do in Pennsylvania for couples

In the warmer months, the fountains turn on, and the spring blooms are in full display. You could visit every month and find something new to see. Along with the outdoor areas, there are indoor horticultural exhibits, greenhouses, and one-of-a-kind treehouses.

This is definitely a great thing to do in PA for couples , as the colorful flowers, landscaped lawns, and majestic fountains and architecture can be quite romantic.

I should also mention that there is another nearby botanical attraction,  Chanticleer Garden . This place is smaller, but still, a lovely place to walk around and get some fresh air. Unlike Longwood, Chanticleer allows picnicking, so it’s another potential date spot!

Best of all, the gardens are on Philadelphia’s Main Line, which easily connects to other sites in the region. So, you can find many  places to explore in Pennsylvania  all within a relatively close distance.

8. Cherry Springs State Park, the best place for stargazing in Pennsylvania

Cherry Springs State Park  is another scenic place to visit in Pennsylvania . The 80-acre park is part of the Susquehannock State Forest and gets its name from its lovely black cherry trees. You’ll have to visit at just the right time to see the cherry trees in full bloom, usually late April.

Regardless of when you go, this park is one of the best  places in Pennsylvania  for stargazing. There is very little light pollution, so you don’t even need a telescope to see thousands of tiny stars twinkling in the sky. We also run private tours here where we teach you how to photograph the Milky Way , so if you’re interested, contact me.

Cherry Springs State Park has some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States. It is a popular haven for astronomers and astrophotographers in the area. The park even installed a few astronomy domes to keep telescopes safe from the elements.

Besides stargazing, the park is perfect for backpacking and hiking, and there are about 30 campgrounds here. I can say that camping out here and sleeping under the stars is probably the best  thing to do in central PA . If you travel with a camera or telescope, you can use the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field (first come, first served). The gate closes at dusk and the use of any kind of light once the gate is close isn’t allowed so as not to disturb the others’ observations.

However, if you’re more a kind of a landscape photographer instead of a deep-sky photographer, I would suggest heading to Lyman Run State Park, just 15 min from there, so you’ll enjoy the same dark sky but will have more opportunities to compose your Milky Way shots.

It’s also worth noting that the park is part of the Pennsylvania Wilds, which I’ll talk about later.

9. Pittsburgh, a top-rated place for entertainment in Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh  is the 2nd-most populous city in PA, after Philadelphia. It offers something for everyone – sports, culture, history, food – so be sure to add a Pittsburgh visit to your list of  things to do in western Pennsylvania .

A place you must see in this city is  Schenley Park . I recommend you head down one of the many walking trails to get away from the city and disconnect for a while. As you’re walking, you may pass by the wooded valley of Panther Hollow, which has a scenic pond. Along with the hiking paths, you’ll find tennis courts, skating rinks, and a golf course at Schenley Park. However, the most popular part of the park is the Phipps Conservatory, which I will talk about later in this article.

Another great natural area in Pittsburgh is  Point State Park , which overlooks the Ohio River at the tip of Pittsburgh’s “Golden Triangle.” The park commemorates the historic heritage of the area during the French and Indian War (1754-1763).

Museum-hopping is another  fun thing to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania . Some of the best museums in the city are the  Andy Warhol Museum  and  Bicycle Heaven , an eclectic collection of bicycles and bike parts.

Finally, be sure to stop by the  Carnegie Museum of Natural History . It’s one of the top five natural history museums in the country and is recognized for its fossil discoveries.

There is a lot more to see in Pittsburgh, so consider this  walking tour , which includes 13 stops around the city.

10. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, another thing to see in Pennsylvania

As I said, the  Phipps Conservatory  is a major attraction in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park. This Victorian greenhouse was founded in 1893 and has several formal gardens spanning different eras and plant species.

Most would agree that it’s one of the most  beautiful places in Pennsylvania , and one of the best parts of Pittsburgh.

The Phipps Conservatory is over 120 years old, but it’s also one of the most eco-friendly buildings in the world. The Conservatory produces all its own energy, which seems fitting for a robust greenhouse like this one.

When you first visit the Conservatory, you’ll walk through the indoor   Palm Court, a Victorian-style greenhouse with installation art by glass artist Dale Chihuly filled with various palm trees and paper cranes. The area offshoots to the Serpentine and Ferns Rooms, followed by the orchid display and a butterfly forest.

There are also greenhouses filled with tropical fruits and citrus trees. As you walk through this area, you’ll hear bubbling waterfalls, smell sweet fruit, and see soothing fishponds. It’s one of the most peaceful  attractions in Pennsylvania .

Outside, be sure to explore the Rooftop Edible Garden and the Japanese Courtyard Garden. There is also a Children’s Garden where kids can run around among birds and butterflies.

If you visit during the summer, check out the floating flowers in the outdoor Aquatic Garden and the Neptune statue. It’s also worth visiting in the winter so you can see the Conservatory’s winter light show. I think it’s the perfect  thing to do in PA for couples .

11. Fallingwater, one of the most beautiful places to go in Pennsylvania

As you make your way to Pittsburgh, be sure to stop by  Fallingwater , the architectural masterpiece by Frankl Lloyd Wright. It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Pennsylvania  and will take your breath away.

Fallingwater is an incredible house nestled in the forest at Bear Run. What’s so special about this home is that it was built around a waterfall. So, as you walk through the rooms, you feel totally connected to nature.

Many people consider Fallingwater to be the architect’s best work, and it has even been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The house was built in 1935 for a Pittsburgh businessman and his wife. Today, anyone can visit Fallingwater, although you’ll need a guided tour to see the interior.

The first thing you notice about the building is the horizontal and vertical structures. The shapes contrast the organic form of the waterfall, but this also seems to bring it all together. If it reminds you of Japanese architecture, that’s because Frank Lloyd Wright was inspired by Japanese designers, particularly their use of space.

The tours aren’t cheap, but if you’re a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, then it’s one of the best  things to see in PA .

Nearby, you can visit the  Bear Run Nature Preserve , which is the land surrounding Fallingwater. The hemlock forest is full of streams, backcountry campsites, and 20 miles of hiking trails. Combined with Fallingwater, it’s one of the most  beautiful places in Pennsylvania .

12. Valley Forge National Historic Park, a calm place to go in Pennsylvania

Not far from Philadelphia (and 10 min from where we live) is  Valley Forge , a settlement with ties to the American Revolution. It’s a great  place to explore in Pennsylvania , plus it’s not far from other attractions like the King of Prussia Mall, the 2nd-largest shopping mall in the country which I will talk about later.

Valley Forge National Historic Park  is one of the sites where the Continental Army camped during the Revolutionary War. Today, the area is home to restored historic buildings, log cabins, monuments, and reenactments. Be sure to stop by the visitor’s center and museum to learn more about the nation’s history.

A key feature of the park is a colonial-style house that served as  George Washington’s headquarters . You can take a tour through the home and transport yourself back to the 1770s.

Valley Forge is also a lovely place to see during the  summer in PA . Besides the historical grounds, there is plenty of wide, open space perfect for hiking and biking. Three of the primary paths here are the  Valley Creek Trail,  the  River Trail , and the  Schuylkill River Trail , which you could take   all the way to Philadelphia. Along the way, stop by the Mount Joy Observation Tower, the highest point in the park.

Valley Forge is certainly one of the most  beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania . I recommend stopping here as you visit Philadelphia. This  4-hour tour from Philly  is perfect if you don’t want to drive.

13. Pennsylvania State Capitol at Harrisburg, another attraction to visit in PA

It seems a bit odd to visit a state without seeing its capital, so consider a trip to  Harrisburg . This city has a long history and is full of family-friendly activities.

Harrisburg has some great museums, so you’ll always have  things to do in central PA  if the weather is bad. I recommend the Susquehanna Art Museum, which is constantly switching up its contemporary exhibits.

I also like the  National Civil War Museum,  the  Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts,  and  the State Museum of Pennsylvania .

When the weather is nice, be sure to visit the parks and natural areas around Harrisburg. I like  Reservoir Park  and  Riverfront Park , both of which host festivals and events throughout the year. The park at  Italian Lake  is also a scenic spot with formal gardens. As you walk across the Japanese-style bridge, you may forget you’re in a busy city.

The  Capital Area Greenbelt  is known for its hiking and biking trails, while the  Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex  is a national historic landmark. Here, you can take a tour of the Capitol and Senate Library exhibits.

While you’re out and about, stop by the  Broad Street Market , the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the U.S.

A bit further outside Harrisburg, you’ll find  City Island , where you can take a boat ride, go shopping or barhopping, or enjoy some outdoor time.

I also suggest checking out  Fort Hunter Park and Mansion , one of the top historical  things to see in PA . Here, you’ll find traces of the 1700s, including a spring house, barn, stable, blacksmith shop, and archeological sites. The Fort Hunter Mansion was home to a PA politician and is now a historical museum.

14. Delaware Water Gap, a quiet place to go in Pennsylvania

This  PA attraction  gets its name from the Delaware River   it borders, so don’t get confused! As the name suggests, it’s a gap of water that flows through a ridge in the  Appalachian Mountains . Doesn’t it already sound scenic and relaxing?

The  Delaware Water Gap  covers 70,000 acres of forests, lakes, streams, and trails. It’s one of the greatest  Pennsylvania places  to go that’s quiet but still close to major cities.

The area includes over 100 miles of hiking paths, 27 of which are on the famous  Appalachian Trail . Alternatively, you could take the  Red Dot Trail  straight into neighboring New Jersey to Mt. Tammany. From there, you’ll have an awesome view of the surrounding region.

Speaking of viewpoints, there are several gorgeous lookouts in the Delaware Water Gap, such as  The Point of the Gap Overlook, Arrow Island Overlook,  and  Kittatinny Point .  Mount Minsi , part of the Blue Mountains, is another pretty lookout point.

Further north along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border, you can find and Raymondskill Falls . The impressive waterfall has 3 tiers and a total height of about 150 feet. However, my favorite spot in the area are the Dingmans Falls , another  must-see in Pennsylvania .

The  Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area also includes routes to some nearby historical buildings, some in PA, others in New Jersey. These mostly reflect local history and include the Foster-Armstrong House, Old Mine Road, and Millbrook Village, an 1830s grist mill. You can check more t hings to do in NJ in our guide.

15. Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania and the PA Wilds

A well-hidden state secret is Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the  Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania . If you find yourself in the area, a visit to this natural beauty is one of the best  things to do in central PA .

The 47-mile gorge cuts through the Allegheny Plateau, creating a magnificent geological formation. You’ll be rewarded with fabulous views of Pine Creek and the surrounding forests. The canyon hits its deepest point at the southern end, at 1,450 feet.

I recommend seeing this area in the autumn when all the trees are changing color. It’s one of  Pennsylvania’s best places to visit  during this time because the air will be crisper and the climb more refreshing.

15. Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania and the PA Wilds, a little-known place to visit in PA

Kayaking in the gorge for a couple of days is something we can’t wait to do (there are a couple of places where you can rent a kayak). The last time we were hiking the area, we fell in love with the views from the Golden Eagle Trail and the Bob Webber Trail. However, the most popular route is the Pine Creek Rail Trail , a 62-mile plus long trail that travels through the gorge. Ride these old railroad tracks converted to wonderful biking and walking trail is one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania.

The area has also many places where you can camp. We always try to stay at Black Walnut Campground, that it’s one of our favorite campsites in the state so far. Last time we even saw a bald eagle from the riverbank as the area is one of the best places in PA for birdwatching.

The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania is part of the  PA Wilds , which encompasses a vast area that also includes Cherry Springs State Park, Allegheny State Forest, and the largest free-roaming elk herd in the northeastern U.S. To see the elk battling for mating rights, head to Benezette during the rutting season (mid-September to October). But for black bear encounters (this area has the highest population of black bears in PA), drive around the PA Wilds in spring.

This region is massive and covers about a quarter of the entire state, so check which areas are closest to your route. Some of the highlights include  Cook Forest, Clear Creek State Park, and the Kinzua Bridge State Park & Sky Walk .

A  summer in PA  is not complete without a visit to the PA Wilds. It’s the best way to get outdoors, disconnect, and recharge.

16. Hersheypark, a unique place to visit in Pennsylvania with kids

Hersheypark  is about 2 hours from Philadelphia and 30 minutes from Harrisburg and is known as “the sweetest place on earth”. Candy connoisseur Milton S. Hershey had the park built as a leisure resort for his employees. Today, Hersheypark is one of the  best vacation places in Pennsylvania .

The destination is more than just an amusement park, although that part of the resort is a lot of fun. One of the most popular attractions at the park is the 330-foot  Kissing Tower , which gently rotates and gives you a panoramic view of the area. There are also family and thrill rides, as well as a waterpark. When you go, see how many Hershey’s candies characters you can meet!

Another main feature of Hersheypark is  Chocolate World . Here, you can get acquainted with the history of Hershey’s chocolate and take a ride through the “factory” to see how the candy is made. You even get a little piece of chocolate at the end.

I also suggest checking out  Hershey Gardens , another  cool place in Pennsylvania  that some Hersheypark visitors overlook. The botanical garden is the perfect, serene counterbalance to the action and thrills of the amusement park. There are nearly two dozen themed gardens as well as a butterfly atrium.

Another fun thing to do in Pennsylvania is to plan an overnight trip to Hershey. You can stay at the Hotel Hershey or the nearby camping resort. I’m partial to camping, although the hotel has a spa where you can get a chocolate facial!

17. Eat at Reading Terminal Market, an exciting thing to do in Pennsylvania

Another  Pennsylvania attraction  with a deceiving name is  the Reading Terminal Market . This marketplace isn’t in Reading, PA, but in downtown Philadelphia. Once you learn the history of the place, you’ll understand why it has that name.

The market opened in 1893 under the shed of the Reading Railroad Company. Today, it’s part of the  Pennsylvania Convention Center , and eating here is one of the best  things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania .

Reading Terminal Market is open daily, although a few stalls are closed on Sundays (mostly the Amish ones). You can find just about anything here, not only food, but also accessories, body care, clothing, and books. The food stalls offer a wide range of cuisines, from Indian and Japanese to Greek, Spanish, Caribbean, and more.

You can also find specialty items like fine chocolates, herbal products, and vegan options. The market gets very crowded just about every day, but it’s one of those cool places in Pennsylvania that you must experience. Whether you want a snack, dessert, or a full meal, you’ll find it here. My personal favorites are the homemade Amish donuts at Beiler’s donut stall and, of course, the iconic Philly cheesesteak. There are a few cheesesteak vendors at the market, and everyone has a favorite, so I guess you’ll have to choose whichever looks the tastiest!

Reading Terminal Market isn’t the only food haven in Philly. If you consider yourself a foodie, I recommend this  city food tour , which includes stops at the market, Di Bruno Brothers cheese cave, and a few other spots.

18. Penn’s Cave, the best thing to do in PA for families

Penn’s Cave  is a  tourist attraction in PA  that I highly recommend. It’s the only all-water cavern in the country, so you need to ride in a boat to see it.

I will say that the tour is not for everyone; you must walk down 48 steep steps, and the caves are dark and chilly. Still, you’ll be safe for the entire 45-minute guided tour as your boat glides past stalagmites, stalactites, and interesting rock shapes and columns that resulted from years of dripping water. It’s one of the most  adventurous things to do in PA .

Penn’s Cave also includes a fun outdoor  Miner’s Maze  and an off-road  mountain tour  in a Jeep, which is available June through November. There is also a wildlife preserve on the premises, but we didn’t visit so as not to support the captivity of wild animals.

If you’re further south, near Lancaster, I suggest visiting the  Indian Echo Caverns . These limestone caves are like the ones at Penn’s Cave and are accessible via a guided tour. If you’re into geology, this is a  cool place in Pennsylvania  you don’t want to miss.

19. Eastern State Penitentiary, something to explore in Pennsylvania at night

The natural beauty of this state is exhilarating, but if you’re more of a city dweller, then a visit to  Eastern State Penitentiary  is one of the most  adventurous things to do in PA .

This former prison in Philadelphia is famous for having one of the spookiest Halloween  attractions in Pennsylvania . The prison was in operation between 1829 and 1971, and carries a ghostly presence of days gone by. It was one of the first jails to use separate incarceration, and it housed famed criminals like Al Capone and Willie Sutton.

Today, the penitentiary is a public museum that holds daytime tours and its annual haunted house event. It definitely has a scary atmosphere at night, but it’s a famous landmark, and visiting it is almost a required  thing to do in Pennsylvania .

Besides its title as one of the scariest Halloween attractions, the penitentiary is also a historical building. It is one of the most expensive prisons in the country, and it’s famous for its revolutionary wagon wheel layout. Since it closed, it has fallen into decay, but government funding has maintained these “preserved ruins”, which now add to its appeal.

You can purchase admission tickets to the prison with a $3 discount  here . The entrance fee is also included in this  hop-on hop-off bus tour , and in the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass .

20. Hickory Run State Park, a popular place to visit in Pennsylvania

Hickory Run State Park  is another  thing to see in PA ‘s Pocono Mountains. The area covers nearly 16,000 acres and includes 3 natural parks and over 40 miles of hiking trails.

The Hickory Run region is huge, but there are a few points of interest that I want to mention. First is  Boulder Field , the largest such field in Appalachia. The boulders range from 3 to 30 feet tall, and the total field is about 16 acres. The first thing I thought when hiked to the Boulder Field was: How all these rocks got there?! I’m sure the same will happen to you.

However, the hike that I liked the most in the area was the  Shades of Death Trail  to Sand Spring Lake , where you’ll find a disc golf course and campsite. Along the way, you’ll pass by  Stametz Dam  and a beautiful waterfall. A bit further to the southeast is  Hawk Falls , another  must-see in Pennsylvania , although I didn’t enjoy it at all since it was packed with people.

The day we visited Hickory Run, it was overcrowded so I need to give it a second chance before deciding if it’s one of my favorite state parks in PA. However, when we were driving back home, we saw a mommy bear with three cubs. This is the only time we have seen black bears in Pennsylvania, so Hickory Run is going to always be a special place for us. This natural spot in the great outdoors is proof that there are other  things to do in southeast Pennsylvania  besides visiting Philadelphia.

21. Presque Isle State Park, an awesome place to go in Pennsylvania

If you travel all the way to the opposite side of the state, you’ll find  Presque Isle State Park . Tucked away in northern PA, this peninsula stretches out into Lake Erie, providing magnificent views and a relaxing coastal atmosphere.

With over 3,000 acres, it’s a popular spot for a summer swim, bike rides, hikes, and birdwatching. A visit to this state park is one of the top  things to do in Erie, Pennsylvania , a city that doesn’t get as much attention as ones like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

Due to its location in northwestern PA, the Presque Isle peninsula formed from glacial ice sheets in Wisconsin about 20,000 years ago. The winds off Lake Erie are constantly reshaping the coast and creating new ecological zones, which you can learn about at the park’s  Tom Ridge Environmental Center .

The park’s unique habitats create a home for many of Pennsylvania’s endangered and threatened species. While you’re here, you might spot rare butterflies and dragonflies, cerulean warblers, and saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows. For the best birdwatching in the area, go to the  Gull Point Natural Area .

Moreover, the park has over 20 miles of recreational trails, plus 13 sandy beaches, and a marina. Watching the sunset over Lake Erie is one of the most relaxing  things to do in western Pennsylvania . For something a bit more exciting, you could try water skiing, boating, surfing, or swimming in the northern waters.

After visiting the park, check out the other  cool things in PA ‘s northwest corner. The city of  Erie  has lots to see, including museums, theaters, historic mansions, and lighthouses.

22. Scranton, PA, another place to visit in Pennsylvania

Most people might know  Scranton  from the TV sitcom The Office. However, the city has more to offer than a boring office building! Scranton is one of the largest former coal mining communities in the state, so it’s an interesting  place to explore in Pennsylvania .

The city was a hub for not only coal mining but also the railroad business. Many of the landmarks and  things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania  reflect these industries.

For example, the  Steamtown National Historic Site  is home to a heritage railroad and museum. Situated in a functional railroad yard, the attraction features several exhibits about the technology and history of steam railroads and locomotives. There are several freight cars on display, and you can also take a train ride through the area.

The  Lackawanna County Coal Mine  is another Scranton attraction worth visiting. This retired coal mine is now a museum where you can ride in a minecart through an anthracite mine about 250 feet underground. Former miners or children of miners lead the tours, so you get a feel for what coal mining was really like.

Above ground, I recommend checking out  Nay Aug Park , the largest park in Scranton. It’s one of the most  beautiful places in Pennsylvania , especially in an industrial center like Scranton. Be sure to visit the  Nay Aug Gorge , where you can climb the 150-foot  David Wenzel Treehouse . It overlooks the gorge and provides awesome views of the  Nay Aug Falls . The park also has two Olympic-sized swimming pools, playgrounds, walking paths, and the  Everheart Museum of Natural History, Science, & Art .

Other notable points of interest in Scranton include the  Houdini Museum , the  Electric City Trolley Museum , and the  Scranton Iron Furnaces . Built over 160 years ago, these stone blast furnaces are relics of the city’s past.

23. Quehanna Trail and other backpacking hikes in Pennsylvania

If you’re looking for a backcountry getaway, Pennsylvania also has many interesting options to scape the city for a couple of days (or weeks). There are many backpacking trails spanning miles where you can spend time in nature.

The Quehanna Trail  is one of the many great hiking paths in Pennsylvania. Its total length is 70 miles, and it runs through the Moshannon and Elk State Forests of the PA Wilds. You’ll need around 5 to 7 days to complete it. The most popular start/endpoint for the trail is the  Parker Dam State Park , a beautiful area in central PA with a lovely lake and beach that are open to campers and picnickers. We have hiked around 80% of the trail during two separate weekends, and the northeast section is breathtaking!

Two hours from there, you will find the  Black Forest Trail, with a total length of 43 miles overlooking the Pine Creek Gorge. The trek takes 3-5 days and runs through the  Tiadaghton State Forest , where you’ll find lots of natural swamps, hemlock forests, and streams.

If you’re near Pittsburgh, check out the Laurel Highlands Trail, also known as the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. It’s good for all skill levels and takes 5-7 days to complete the 70-mile trail.

The Mid State Trail was named PA’s 2019 Trail of the Year for its diverse views of the wild landscape. The 327-mile trail is moderate but becomes challenging at times and takes 3-4 weeks to hike from the Mason Dixon Line to the NY border.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with the  Appalachian Trail , which covers 229 miles in PA, starting near Gettysburg in the Michaux State Forest, and traveling diagonally up to the Delaware Water Gap. The full trail length is 1993 miles, so you will need around 5 months to hike from Georgia to Maine. However, with only two or three weeks you can hike the whole PA section.

24. King of Prussia Mall, one of the most popular places to go in Pennsylvania

The  King of Prussia Mall  is worth mentioning because it’s the 2nd-largest shopping mall in the country. Less than 40 minutes from Philadelphia and 10 minutes from Valley Forge, it’s a luxurious place to shop, dine, and enjoy a night on the town. The mall is close to other stores and restaurants, making it one of the trendiest  Pennsylvania places .

It covers over 2.7 million square feet and has over 400 shops. Here, you can shop at high-end department stores like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as more casual retailers like Primark and Urban Outfitters. You could spend all day perusing the smaller shops for books, accessories, art, and just about anything else. There are also casual and fine dining restaurants and cafes, along with a food court.

The nearby movie theater and indoor skydiving center offer more  things to do in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania . One of the more recent additions to the area is the Town Center, a shopping and lifestyle area with a downtown feel. The center includes retail outlets, independent stores, and a range of eateries and specialty cafes.

The King of Prussia Mall is close to hotels and public transportation, so it’s a convenient hub for those in southeast PA. It’s a good place to go on a rainy day for a weekend with friends or a romantic date night.

25. Andy Warhol Museum, one of the Can’t-miss attractions in PA

Another Pittsburgh attraction that I wanted to focus on is the  Andy Warhol Museum . Most people are familiar with this artist and, as you can expect, an entire museum dedicated to Warhol is one of the  coolest places in Pennsylvania .

The museum is part of the Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh and is the largest U.S. museum dedicated to a single artist. The facility is a grand testament to Warhol’s work as a pioneer of the Pop Art movement. Inside, visitors can observe thousands of pieces of Warhol’s work, including prints, photographs, films, sculptures, and paintings.

25. Andy Warhol Museum, one of the can’t-miss attractions in PA

Along with its permanent collections, the museum also hosts gallery talks, workshops, and other programs throughout the year, most of which are open to the public. Given Warhol’s legacy as a gay icon, the museum is also an active supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and offers related resources and performances.

No matter when you visit, there will always be something happening at the museum. Part of what made Warhol’s art so iconic was how accessible it was, so even if you’re not an art aficionado, I’m sure you’ll find the museum to be a  fun place to go in Pennsylvania . The bright colors, punchy patterns, and playful approach to popular ads and celebrities are sure to leave you in a good mood.

26. Ohiopyle State Park, the best place to see the sunset in Pennsylvania

About 1.5 hours south of Pittsburgh is the  Ohiopyle State Park , a  must-see place in Pennsylvania ‘s southwest. The park encompasses over 20,000 acres of land and has a network of over 300 miles of hiking and biking trails. The paths range from the easy 1.7-mile  Ferncliff Trail  to the challenging 10.4-mile  Sugarloaf Trail System .

The park’s centerpiece is the  Youghiogheny River Gorge , one of the  best places to visit in Pennsylvania  for white water rafting. There are several runs, each varying in difficulty, that are popular with rafters, kayakers, and canoers. The rapids can be quite dangerous if you’re not experienced, so I recommend this guided  white-water rafting tour  with a picnic lunch.

If you prefer to stay on land, you’ll still be able to witness the stunning natural beauty of the park. Try to see how many waterfalls you can find; there are several near the park office.

There are several campsites in the park, as well as rustic cottage and yurt rentals. The beautiful scenery and clean sites make this a popular  Pennsylvania vacation spot for families .

27. Penn’s Landing, one of the top free things to do in Pennsylvania

Back in Philadelphia, I suggest taking a walk along  Penn’s Landing  along the Delaware River waterfront. It is named after William Penn, and few people know that the actual landing is further south in the city of Chester. Even so, Penn’s Landing is a hotspot during  summers in PA  and is a must-see in Philly.

On any given day, you can sit at Penn’s Landing and watch tugboats, barges, and jet skis cruise down the river. You might hop aboard the  RiverLink Ferry  or visit the  Independence Seaport Museum  to learn more about the city’s maritime history. Nearby is a roller rink that doubles as an ice-skating rink in the winter.

During the summer months, Penn’s Landing transforms into  Spruce Street Harbor Park , a top-rated urban beach. Stroll the boardwalk, enjoy yummy treats, lounge in a hammock, visit the beer garden, or play outdoor games. It’s one of the best  free things to do in PA .

In June, Penn’s Landing holds the Roots Picnic, hosted by Philly hip-hop group The Roots. A variety of other concerts and cultural events take place during the summer and fall, too.

For couples and groups, the area offers two unique dining experiences.  The Spirit of Philadelphia  is perfect for a night of dining and dancing on the water, while the four-masted  Moshulu  is a romantic floating restaurant docked at the Landing.

A few blocks into the city, you’ll find even more fun on South Street, a unique venue with an alternative atmosphere. One of the coolest attractions here is Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens , a large mosaic, and folk-art gallery.

To get the most out of your time, I recommend this  3-hour tour  of South Street and the Magic Gardens or this  South Philly tour  that includes the Italian Market.

28. Hawk Mountain, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania

If you have a passion for photography and nature as we do, then you’ll love  Hawk Mountain . This wild bird sanctuary is about 80 miles north of Philadelphia and is one of the best  Pennsylvania places  for wildlife photography. Bring your telelens!

As the name suggests, this is a great spot to see a variety of hawks. We’ve seen other bird species here too, including falcons, eagles, and ospreys.

Along with the fabulous birdwatching opportunities, Hawk Mountain is also a gorgeous natural area. It’s nestled on a ridge overlooking the Blue Mountain chain. Scattered throughout the sanctuary are several viewing sites where you can get optimal panoramic views. Some of the birds are quite personable and aren’t afraid to fly close to visitors! It truly is one of the most incredible  things to see in PA .

Moreover, there are campgrounds and hiking trails to explore after your viewing session is over. It’s also worth visiting the  Natural Habitat Garden . The blooms attract all kinds of butterflies, birds, and dragonflies, and the ponds are full of turtles and frogs.

There are also opportunities to learn more about raptors and their native habitats at the  Visitor Center , which has interactive displays, a bookstore, and the Wings of Wonder gallery. Learn when different birds will be migrating and, for the best birdwatching chances, visit between mid-August to mid-December in autumn and in April through mid-May in spring.

29. Brandywine Valley, another interesting place to go in Pennsylvania

The Brandywine Valley  offers lots of  things to do in southeast Pennsylvania . This upper-class neighborhood is home to Longwood Gardens, which I mentioned earlier, as well as historical sites, museums, and natural parks.

One of the most popular  Pennsylvania tourist attractions  in the Brandywine Valley is the  Brandywine River Museum of Art . The museum focuses on the work of Andrew Wyeth, who was born in the area. Nearby is the Wharton Esherick Museum, which is dedicated to the sculptor of the same name. For the younger crowd, there is also the  American Helicopter Museum , which has a collection of over 30 aircraft.

The Brandywine Valley is also known for its nature-oriented landmarks. These include  Chanticleer Garden,  the  Jenkins and Tyler Arboretums , and the  Brandywine Creek State Park , a 933-acre park with a nature center, tulip preserve, and 14 miles of trails.

This charming southeastern region of PA is also home to a good number of historical sites. A few examples include  Paoli Battlefield, The Mill at Anselma, Marshallton blacksmith shop, Hibernia Mansion,  and  Newlin Grist Mill .

Finally, there are several nearby wineries, not to mention all kinds of restaurants and specialty shops. The  downtown areas of Kennett Square, Phoenixville,  and  West Chester  are quaint, walkable areas with a charming atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back evening in town.

30. Bucks County, PA, an area with more things to do in Pennsylvania

Bucks County  is another suburban area not far from Philadelphia that offers unique  Pennsylvania tourist attractions .

Many of these attractions are relics from the past, such as the covered bridges scattered throughout the county.  Fonthill Castle , an over 100-year-old National Historic Landmark, was the home of local archaeologist and tile artist Henry Chapman Mercer. The 44-room mansion is open to public tours, and the nearby  Mercer Museum  and  Moravian Pottery & Tile Works  showcase his intricate artwork.

New Hope  is a charming borough in Bucks County with a quaint, artsy atmosphere. Its  Peddler’s Village  is the best  place to visit in Pennsylvania  year-round because there are always seasonal activities going on. I also recommend checking out  Solebury Orchards  and  Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve .

Tyler State Park  and  Washington Cross Historic Park  are two areas in Bucks County where you can get outside and learn more about the region’s past. If you’re around on a weekend, stop by the  Quakertown Farmers Market  for fresh produce and flea market finds.

Bucks County is also a great place to play, both for kids and adults. Small children will love  Sesame Place  amusement park, where they can meet Cookie Monster, Elmo, Big Bird, and the whole gang (you can book your ticket here ). For the older crowd, there are two large shopping malls in the area and a casino.

There is something for everyone in Bucks County, so I recommend adding it to your list of  things to do in eastern Pennsylvania .

At first glance, Pennsylvania may seem like a dull state in the Mid-Atlantic. However, after reading this guide of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania, I’m pretty sure you’ve changed your mind. To help you plan where to go in Pennsylvania, check out our Pennsylvania tourist map below.

Which places in Pennsylvania are you excited to see? If you have any questions or another attraction you’d like to add, leave a comment for me and I’ll get back to you!

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania (officially known as a “commonwealth” ) was a part of the country’s 13 original colonies and is home to Philadelphia, which served as the US capital city while Washington, D.C. was being built. Pennsylvania is a diverse state with large cities and charming small towns like Hershey, Lancaster, and Historic Gettysburg. The state also has mountain ranges, acres of beautiful scenery, and stunning vistas throughout. Here are some of the top things to do in the state of Pennsylvania:

Eat Chocolate in Hershey, PA

 Getty Images

The town of Hershey (home to Hersheypark ) is the home of the famous chocolate company and is often called “Chocolate Town, USA.” You can enjoy attractions like the Hershey Story museum, where visitors will learn about Milton Hershey and his chocolate empire. There’s also the Hershey Gardens, the Hershey Spa, and the opportunity to go to a Hershey Bears hockey game. Of course, you can’t miss the fabulous and exciting Hersheypark, a legendary amusement park that features the latest and greatest rides for all ages, as well as live music, shows, and entertainment.

Visit the Amish Country

Grant Faint / Getty Images

A sprawling rural region that’s made up of several small towns in the southern part of the state, Lancaster is often called Pennsylvania Dutch country and is home to a robust Amish community. It’s a great destination to experience authentic homemade PA Dutch foods and learn about their time-honored customs. It also happens to be a fantastic and fun shopping destination, known for its many vintage and antique shops. You can spend a lot of time here, as there are museums, spas, wineries, breweries, and family-friendly activities waiting to be explored.

Admire Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon

Travelers are thrilled to learn there is a majestic ancient canyon spanning over 45 miles in rural Pennsylvania. That canyon, sometimes called "the Grand Canyon of PA," is Pine Creek Gorge. This exquisite area’s stunning panoramic views and beautiful nature trails attract visitors from across the globe. The most picturesque sites are located around the Pine Creek Rail Trail’s southern side. Aside from the mesmerizing views, you can also go hiking, fishing, or mountain biking, and visit historical sites or museums. The nearby town of Williamsport has several hotel accommodations.

Visit Fallingwater

Fallingwater is an architectural wonder designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939. The astoundingly impressive modern home is located about 70 miles east of Pittsburgh (about 1.5 hours’ drive from the city). The “Falling Water” home is nestled in the dense woods of Fayette County‘s Bear Run Natural Reserve and perched above a waterfall. In fact, the waterfall actually flows through the home and it’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The home quickly became one of Wright’s most well-known projects and features spacious outdoor terraces. If you'd like to tour the house's interior you'll need to purchase tickets in advance.

Go Apple Picking at an Orchard

Anne Hawken / Getty Images

In the autumn, Pennsylvania offers some of the best apple-picking sites in the country. One of the most impressive and fun orchard destinations is Linvilla Orchards , which is located near Philadelphia, in the lovely Delaware Valley. This family-friendly expansive orchard covers more than 300 acres. It’s most popular in the autumn and offers hayrides, games, and pumpkin patches for kids to enjoy. Visitors can tour, stroll around the massive grounds, attend events, and pick up some fresh produce at the market, which also sells gourmet foods, candy, gifts, and much more.

Sip Some Pennsylvania Wines

Pennsylvania has over 300 wineries situated throughout the state, and the Susquehanna Heartland Trail is one of the most scenic ways to visit a few. The wine trail includes 16 wineries that welcome guests with tasting rooms overlooking gorgeous vineyards, as well as cellar tours. The award-winning wineries Spyglass Ridge and Shade Mountain are always favorite stops along the trail.

Check Out New Hope

The quaint and cool historic town of New Hope is located by banks of the Delaware River (not far from the famed "Washington's Crossing"). It’s a charming and sometimes quirky destination lined with boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and more. A former industrial town, it’s a great place to spend the day, especially on weekends, when there are often farmers markets and special events in full swing.  If you’re planning to explore New Hope, be sure to check the website for a calendar of upcoming activities. Some weekends get very crowded so it’s best to plan in advance.

Gaze Upon Bushkill Falls

Bushkill Falls (aka the “Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania") is a jaw-droppingly beautiful retreat where you can admire eight picturesque waterfalls by hiking along a few easy-to-moderate trails. Bushkill Falls features marked nature trails that meander around the falls, and there's some facilities at the entrance as well. You’ll adore the lovely lookout points and scenic wooden bridges to cross while you stroll along the pathways. Be sure to check the recent rainfall in the region before heading to Bushkill falls, as that will determine the strength and size of the waterfalls.

Take a Ride on the Railroad

If you’re ready for a scenic and fun train ride along a mountain range, hitch a ride on the Pocono’s Lehigh George Scenic Railway train . Operated by Reading and Northern Railroad, this train begins its travels from Downtown Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania into the Lehigh Gorge State Park. This 16-mile scenic, narrated round-trip excursion provides an abundance of information about the history of the area, including the natural surroundings. This train follows the Lehigh Valley and the gorge, so you’ll be amazed by the spellbinding views along the way.

Face Your Fears on This Ghost Town Trail

If you’re into secluded towns with intriguing histories, Pennsylvania is the place for you. You'll find several abandoned towns in Indiana and Cambria Counties connected by the Ghost Town Trail . This scenic drive is designated as a National United States Recreation Trail and attracts over 80,000 visitors each year. The trail passes through a number of former coal-mining towns, covered bridges, and state parks with pretty views as well as the towns like Blacklick, Dilltown, and Nanty Glo.

Go Stargazing in the Mountains

Jack R Perry / Getty Images

Stargazing enthusiasts know that Pennsylvania is home to one of the best destinations for stargazing in the world: Cherry Springs State Park. This remote state park is famous for its exceptionally dark skies in conjunction with its ideal location for viewing the stars, planets, and other celestial beings. Professional astronomers and casual stargazing enthusiasts flock here throughout the year to admire the night sky. During certain times, this park hosts several special stargazing events that coincide with appearances of stars, constellations, and planets that draw avid stargazers from across the world.

Admire Impressionist Art at the Barnes Foundation

 Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

Located on Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway the Barnes Foundation is a modern art museum that contains the vast and mind-blowing private collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes, a famous chemist and art enthusiast who owned an incredible number of rare works until he passed away in the 1950s. The art was kept at his private estate until it was relocated to this landmark 12,000 square foot building with massive galleries. Today, the museum is home to the largest collection of impressionists in the world, with approximately 200 works by Renoir, and about 4,000 pieces by Picasso, Monet, Cezanne, Degas, Matisse, among others.

Explore the Mountain Town of Jim Thorpe

The small town of Jim Thorpe is a tiny mountain destination with a lot of history. Located on the Lehigh River, this former coal-mining town was home to one of the first railroads in the United States and is named for the Native American Olympic athlete and football player. Today, this compact town is bustling with retail stores, a variety of restaurants, and fun outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, hiking, and camping in summer (and lots of nearby skiing in winter). With plenty of lively festivals scheduled throughout the year, the town of Jim Thorpe is home to many ongoing events, so check out the website before visiting.

See the Liberty Bell

Mike Makela / Getty Images

Located in the Old City district of Philadelphia across from Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell is a top historical destination for tourists visiting the city. A symbol of American independence that’s steeped in history, the Liberty Bell is situated in the middle of Independence Park and can be accessed via a guided tour. There are also a number of related exhibits adjacent to the bell and it's within steps of Independence Hall and the Constitution Center.

Note: Tickets are required to visit the Liberty Bell, however, you can see it through the glass enclosure if you don’t have tickets or arrive after the facility is closed. As an added bonus, the bell is illuminated at night, making it a great time to see the landmark without the crowds.

Visit the Historic Town of Gettysburg

 Getty Images / dszc

A trip to historic Gettysburg can be compared to truly taking a step back in time. It’s a must-see destination in Adam’s county that’s educational as well as entertaining for the entire family. This noteworthy battlefield known for the incredibly high number of casualties during the Civil War is the site of President Abraham Lincoln’s famous “Gettysburg Address.” This area has many impressive highlights. In addition to the world-renown battlefield, visitors come to pay respects at the cemetery and view multiple historical museums. You’ll find plenty of walking tour options and shops. There's also an abundance of active outdoor activities such as horseback riding, golf, mountain biking, hiking, and many other great options.

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19 Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Written by Anietra Hamper and Joni Sweet Updated Feb 15, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Anietra Hamper lives in Ohio and has taken many trips through Pennsylvania. Author Joni Sweet spent time visiting the towns, cities, and sights of Pennsylvania in the summer of 2022.

It is hard to decide the best way to explore Pennsylvania because it has so many sides to love. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia to the Civil War reenactments in Gettysburg and the more than 200 covered bridges throughout the state, history buffs have no end of places to visit here.

Nature lovers turn to the beautiful national and state parks to discover their wild side, whitewater rafting , hiking , and biking through picturesque terrain in places like Ohiopyle State Park in the Laurel Highlands and the Pocono Mountains .

Some people gravitate toward the urban action and sports scene in Pittsburgh, while others meander without a care on the winding roads in Dutch Country, stopping only to buy produce from a local farmers market.

Whether your travel to Pennsylvania has you thirsting for tourist attractions or just a quiet weekend getaway , plan your adventures with this list of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania.

1. Philadelphia

2. pittsburgh, 3. gettysburg, 4. harrisburg, 5. lancaster, 10. scranton, 11. laurel highlands, 12. allentown, 13. bethlehem, 14. poconos, 15. new hope, 17. ligonier, 18. flight 93 national memorial park, 19. historic covered bridges.

The City of Brotherly Love is one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania mostly due to its historical significance. Visit the impressive Liberty Bell and tour Independence Hall where America's founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.

Explore Philadelphia's cultural and artsy side along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway where you can tour the Rodin Museum, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, and run the stairs at the Philadelphia Museum of Art as made famous in the Rocky series of movies. By all means make sure you indulge in an original Philly cheesesteak—the standard by which all other cheesesteaks are measured.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

The rustic industrial appearance of Pittsburgh is what makes this vibrant, edgy city so appealing. The harmonious clashing vibe of industry-meets-cosmopolitan is why so many US companies establish their headquarters here and why it is the secret location for so many movie shoots.

Families love Pittsburgh for attractions like Kennywood Amusement Park , museums like the Andy Warhol Museum , and sightseeing by bike or boat. Sports fans flock to the fields and arenas to see the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins play professional games. There are more than 90 different districts and neighborhoods to explore in Pittsburgh with eclectic food and arts.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Pittsburgh

Take a step back into the Civil War era when you visit Gettysburg. You will want to plan several days in the area to take in its full significance. Gettysburg National Military Park is full of living history presentations and reenactments, bringing the Civil War era to life.

You can step onto the famous Gettysburg Battlefield and the Gettysburg National Cemetery, where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address in 1863. Some other notable stops on your history visit to the city are the Eisenhower National Historic Site; the Shriver House Museum, which depicts the Civil War era from a civilian's point of view; and the Jennie Wade House museum.

For a special treat stay at the historic Inn at Lincoln Square , which was once a family home in the early 1800s.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Gettysburg

The state capital of Harrisburg sits along the Susquehanna River , surrounded by a hilly landscape and urban progress. The star of the show in the city is the Capitol building and the State Museum of Pennsylvania. The four-floor museum has exhibits that preserve the history of the state and Civil War artifacts.

The National Civil War Museum is also a must-see, with exhibits that highlight some of the major battles that took place in the area. To relax from the sightseeing stop by City Island, which is exactly what the name describes. It is a place for leisure activities and home to the minor league Harrisburg Senators baseball team.

The mile-long stretch of land between Harrisburg and Wormleysburg on the Susquehanna River is a great location to walk or bike and see the city.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Harrisburg, PA

One of the most tranquil places to visit in Pennsylvania is Lancaster, located in the center of a rural paradise. The signature rolling hills and farmland make this area perfect for a drive. You will see many Amish farms and the Dutch community that lives a quiet life in this region.

While Lancaster is probably best appreciated when explored while aimlessly driving along the winding roads, plan some time to stop at the farmers market, which is one of the longest continually running markets in the United States.

You will find many Amish attractions to fill your days, from visiting farms and orchards to Dutch Haven, Lancaster's first documented tourist attraction that opened in 1946 and made the shoofly pie famous.

A visit to the tiny town of Hershey is a magical experience because it is synonymous with the Hershey chocolate company founded by Milton Hershey in 1903. You are greeted by a canopy of streetlamps in the shape of Hershey kisses, and you can smell the scent of chocolate in the air.

Hershey's Chocolate World is a museum attraction that gives you hands-on insight into the history of some of the world's most famous chocolates. Samples are plentiful, so go with your sweet tooth. Hershey Park is a favorite for families, with amusement rides and entertainment.

The Hershey Gardens , with 23 acres of stunning flowers and plants, is one of the top attractions to see. For a memorable ride through Hershey take a trolley tour around the town to learn about the social contributions made by Milton Hershey beyond the candy he brought to consumers.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hershey, PA

For the aquatic side of Pennsylvania, the shores in Erie are one of the most popular spots in the state. Erie is located on the coast, so it is prime for summer vacation or a quiet fall weekend when the flock of vacationers have all gone home.

Presque Isle State Park has hiking trails and a peninsula on the water that is ideal for a sunset picnic. Visit the Erie Maritime Museum for impressive displays showcasing Lake Erie history and rotating maritime exhibits. For even more water fun visit the Waldameer Park, which is an amusement park and water park combined, with plenty of activities, especially for kids.

For a unique experience on the water, you can book a trip on the U.S. Brig Niagara , a replica of a ship used in the War of 1812 in the Battle of Lake Erie.

Between its award-winning baseball stadium, an abundance of historical sites, a popular farmers market, and pretty parks, Reading offers tourists plenty of things to do .

One of the top places to visit is the Reading Pagoda. Located at the top of Mount Penn, this quirky structure offers fantastic city views, especially at sunset.

Anyone who loves travel and aviation will want to spend an hour or two at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, which allows you to get up close to an incredible collection of restored vintage aircraft.

History is also on full display in Reading. You can see a mummy at the Reading Public Museum , explore 19th-century buildings at the Berks County History Center, learn about the innovative ways firefighters put out blazes in the past at the Reading Fire Museum, and even take a ride on a vintage train from the Reading Outer Station.

Don't miss the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. This interactive art center invites tourists to see resident artists' studios. It also has a wonderful gift shop filled with creations from local makers.

If you're traveling with kids, one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania is the small city of Easton. It's home to a number of child-friendly attractions, most notably the Crayola Experience. This crayon-themed play place is filled with fun, creative activities, including stations where you can customize a label and wrap your own crayon, a wax spin-art workshop, and a puzzle-making area.

During the warmer months, you can take the entire family on a tubing adventure down the Delaware River with Twin Rivers Tubing. Or, consider boarding the only mule-drawn canal boat in the state at the National Canal Museum. During the 45-minute excursion, guides will tell you about the history of the Lehigh Canal as resident mules Hank and George pull the 48-ton Josiah White II canal boat down old Section 8 of the canal.

Other things to do in Easton include picking up sugary confections from the Carmelcorn Shop , a nearly 100-year-old sweets shop near the historic Centre Square. It's also worth swinging by Klein Farms Dairy and Creamery for a scoop of freshly made ice cream and a meet-and-greet with farm animals.

If you watched NBC's hit comedy The Office , you have probably already heard of some of Scranton's top attractions , like the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour and Lake Scranton. But that's just the beginning of the things to discover in this historic city.

Its top attraction, Steamtown National Historic Site, is a mecca for train lovers. And nearby, at the Electric City Trolley Museum , tourists can take excursions on vintage trolleys and learn about the history of the local electric railway.

Beyond history, Scranton is also a fantastic place to experience wildlife and the outdoors. You could spend an entire day strolling Nay Aug Park (the city's largest park). But, if you just have an hour to spend at the park, focus your visit on the famous David Wenzel Tree House and the Nay Aug Gorge and Waterfall (and keep your eyes peeled for red-tailed hawks).

Even more exotic creatures can be seen at the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den , located on the first floor of the Marketplace at Steamtown.

Round out your visit with a stop at the Scranton Iron Furnaces , where you can see four massive stone blast furnaces that once produced an astounding amount of pig iron in the 19th century.

A visit to the Laurel Highlands region is an unforgettable way to imprint the natural beauty of Pennsylvania into your mind, especially if you enjoy exploring the outdoors. Ohiopyle State Park is an outdoor playground with some of the best white water rafting and kayaking in the state.

After your trip down the river and a hike on some of the rugged trails through the park, hop on a rental bike to explore a paved section of the Great Allegheny Passage . Every experience in the Laurel Highlands, from your drives on the winding western Pennsylvania roads to lunch in the cafes of the tiny towns that dot the region, is surrounded by dense forest and mountains.

Your time here is filled with sensory immersion into the scenic landscape that draws people here. Plan a visit to Fallingwater, the stunning Frank Lloyd Wright home designed to take advantage of the region's hypnotic beauty.

Allentown is a charming city located in eastern Pennsylvania. This city is home to a number of historical sites, interesting museums, and plenty of fun activities for tourists of all ages.

Try to time your visit on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, when the A llentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market is open. Open since 1953, this bustling farmers market is chock-full of produce, meats, and ready-to-eat foods from more than 65 vendors. It's the perfect place to pick up lunch and then head to a local park, such as the Malcolm Gross Rose Garden or Trexler Memorial Park, for a picnic.

History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Liberty Bell Museum , which is located in a church where the original Liberty Bell was hidden in 1777. The Allentown Art Museum is another must-see, and features a wide variety of artwork from both local and international artists (including Rembrandt's Portrait of a Young Lady ).

During baseball season, you can cheer on Allentown's Minor League Baseball Team, the IronPigs, from Coca-Cola Park.

The rustic historical town of Bethlehem is most noted for its German architecture, old steel plants, and elaborate Christmas festival. The town is worth a visit just to admire the architectural details of the downtown buildings, with special attention to the Brethren's House, constructed in 1748; Gemeinhaus, erected in 1741; and the Old Chapel, still standing from the mid-1700s.

Throughout the Colonial Industrial Quarter, you can see even more buildings (including the 240-year-old Grist Miller's House and Garden ) that have stood for hundreds of years.

Lehigh University is also a major attraction in Bethlehem. Tourists can enjoy this educational institution simply by strolling the beautifully manicured lawns, or better yet, popping into the Linderman Library. Topped with a mesmerizing stained-glass window, the Victorian Rotunda in this Hogwarts-like literary haven makes a perfect place to read for a little while.

For some historical adventure in Bethlehem drive past the network of stacks left over from the old Bethlehem Steel Factory, which was once one of the largest in America. Located just in front of the stacks, the Hoover Mason Trestle also makes for a one-of-a-kind stroll.

It's been converted into a 1,650-foot elevated park lined with educational plaques that explain the history of this once-great factory. You can continue learning about this unique heritage at the nearby National Museum of Industrial History , as well.

If you are in town around the holidays, Bethlehem comes alive with an old-fashioned Christmas festival, and this top USA Christmas town is decorated to get you into the holiday spirit. This can be a particularly fun time to visit the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, as well.

It decks the halls of its Victorian-era premises with a unique Christmas tree in every room. Should you need a few last-minute gifts to finish off your holiday shopping list, head to the Historic Bethlehem Visitor Center, which has a museum store filled with locally made treasures.

One of the most popular regions in the state is the Pocono Mountains , where majestic forest-covered peaks and valleys make you want to sit and enjoy a park picnic just to soak in the view. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is where you want to visit first in the region.

Hike one of the many trails, including part of The Appalachian Trail , in the recreation area and peer down into the 1,000-foot-deep gap from a lookout point above. Hiking, biking, and rafting are popular things to do, but so is kicking back and enjoying the view from the window of one of the many resorts in the area. Other towns to check out during your visit to the Poconos are Jim Thorpe , a tiny historical town; Milford ; and Honesdale .

New Hope is a quaint little town located in Bucks County. This town is situated along the Delaware River and is a popular destination, with plenty of things to do for tourists , especially in the summer.

Theater lovers should be sure to catch a performance at the Bucks County Playhouse . Over the last eight decades, it has hosted performances from many stars, including Jessica Walter, Dick Van Dyke, and Angela Lansbury.

Visual arts are also a highlight in New Hope. The town is home to dozens of galleries. Canal Walk Studios and the New Hope Arts Center can be great places to check out the local arts scene.

You can also travel back in time at several historic sites. The Parry Mansion Museum dates back to 1784 and has rooms preserved with the designs of various eras. You can stroll a portion of the Delaware Canal (a National Historic Landmark) and learn about its history at the Locktender's House.

There's also Bowman's Hill Tower, a 125-foot-tower that was built around 1930 to give people a sense of a lookout point once used by George Washington's troops during the Revolutionary War.

When you're ready to refuel, head to Ferry Market. The food hall has tasty meals from all around the world.

The quaint town of Lititz is a charming 2.3-square-mile spot in Lancaster County and worth every minute that you spend here. Park the car and walk down Main Street, where you will find small boutique shops and eateries.

Plan a lunch or snack at the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, where you can learn how to twist a pretzel or just indulge in the bakery's 160-year-old heritage.

You can complement the salt on your taste buds with some chocolate at the Wilbur Chocolate Museum and store. Be sure to walk to the Lititz Springs Park , which is within walking distance of downtown and has events going on throughout the year.

If you want to visit one of the oldest children's amusement parks in America, you will want to make Ligonier a part of your Pennsylvania itinerary. The small historical town has plenty of nostalgia, shopping, and parks. Fort Ligonier is one of the must-sees here because it was a significant battle location during the French & Indian War.

Families visiting Ligonier almost always spend a day at the Idlewild and SoakZone, which has been around since 1878. While you are in the area, be sure to stop into the Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum, which is a restored rail station built in the late 1800s. The small museum has more than 3,000 items and artifacts from the historic railroad station when it was in operation.

One of the most memorable places to visit in Pennsylvania is the Flight 93 National Memorial Park near rural Shanksville. It is the memorial ground for the flight crew and passengers of Flight 93 that crashed in the field outside during the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States.

It is a designated National Park that overlooks the crash site. You can walk along several paths around the park, and walk or drive to the lower memorial plaza. There are many benches around the park for quiet observance of the 40 lives lost in the crash and for the nearly 3,000 people who died on the day of the attacks.

The Tower of Voices is a stunning visual when you enter the park. The 93-foot-tall memorial is constructed with 40 wind chimes, representing the passengers and crew of Flight 93, which ring softly in the rural Pennsylvania breeze.

The visitor center by the parking lot is the best place to start your visit to get a broader understanding of what happened during Flight 93 on September 11, 2001 and the layout of the memorial park.

Address: 6424 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown, Pennsylvania

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/flni/index.htm

Making a plan to visit some of Pennsylvania's historic covered bridges lets you experience some of the most scenic and historic beauty that the state has to offer. With more than 200 covered bridges located in about half the counties in Pennsylvania, it is easy to plan a trip around them, whether you want to mark them off during an extended road trip throughout the state or hit locations where many are concentrated.

Pennsylvania is home to the first covered bridge in the United States, built in 1805 over the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. It was destroyed by fire in 1875. The longest covered bridge, more than a mile long, was also built in 1814 between Lancaster and York counties but was destroyed by floods 18 years later.

Lancaster County has the most covered bridges at 29 and is where you can base yourself if you want to plan your trip around visiting these stunning and historic landmarks. The backroads of Lancaster County will treat you to beautiful trees, waterways, and Amish culture.

The county with the next largest cluster of covered bridges is Somerset. The 10 covered bridges are easy to visit here because they are all located near the Pennsylvania turnpike, including the Barronvale Covered Bridge, which is 162 feet in length and the longest in the county.

Other counties with clusters of covered bridges include Indiana County; Adams County; Bucks County; and Lawrence County, which has McConnell's Mill Covered Bridge inside the state park of the same name.

More on Pennsylvania

15 Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

By: Author Claire Allard

Posted on Published: June 26, 2021  - Last updated: May 30, 2023

There’s no shortage of exhilarating and enriching things to do in the Keystone State.

Steeped in history and natural beauty, Pennsylvania satisfies travelers of all stripes and ages.

From outdoor pursuits to eye-opening history lessons, the state bursts with epic experiences and adventures.

So, enjoy a memorable trip here by checking out our list of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania.

1. Independence National Park and the Liberty Bell — Philadelphia

Independence National Park Philadelphia, PA 19106 (215) 965-2305

Nicknamed the birthplace of American democracy, this 55-acre UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with historical treasures.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Wondering what to do in Pennsylvania when you’re in the mood for a history lesson?

Then, don’t forget to put this National Historic Park at the top of your list of places to travel in Pennsylvania.

From the iconic Liberty Bell to the Carpenter’s Hall, this park preserves the national symbols of democracy and freedom.

Furthermore, it houses landmarks that play a crucial role in shaping American history.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

Take the insightful 30-minute tour of the Independence Hall.

Through savvy guides, touring this Georgian-style building will give tidbits about the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.

Just reserve your tickets in advance to secure a spot.

2. Hershey Park — Hershey

100 Hersheypark Dr Hershey, PA 17033 (717) 534-3900

Since 1906, this theme park in Hershey has been wowing visitors with its chocolate-themed rides and attractions.

If you’re on the hunt for family-friendly places to see in Pennsylvania, look no further than this theme park.

Not only does it offer classic family rides, but it also has a water park, aquatic shows and thrilling coasters.

Download the official Hersheypark app.

t’s free, and features listings for attractions, rides and live wait times.

There’s also an interactive map, to help you navigate through the park.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Hershey

Related: Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

3. Gettysburg National Military Park — Gettysburg

1195 Baltimore Pike Gettysburg, PA 17325 (717) 334-1124

Encompassing 6,000 acres, this national park in Gettysburg is perfect for anyone who has a penchant for Civil War history.

The Gettysburg National Military Park is truly one of the top places to visit in Pennsylvania for history buffs.

Managed by the NPS, this park interprets and protects the landscape of the well-known Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.

Through guided tours and exhibits, the park welcomes visitors who want to learn more about the Civil War.

Stop by the Film, Cyclorama and Museum experience before you start exploring the park.

It will make you better acquainted with the tactics, locations and personalities of the battle.

And, trust me, gaining some insights about the battle will make your trip so much more meaningful.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Near Gettysburg Battlefield Visitor Center

Related: Best Places to Eat in Gettysburg

4. Andy Warhol Museum — Pittsburgh

117 Sandusky St Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (412) 237-8300

Opened in 1994, this 88,000-square-foot facility houses an extensive art collection from the legendary Andy Warhol.

The Andy Warhol Museum will give you a glimpse into the fascinating life of the pop art icon.

Set inside a refurbished warehouse, this 7-storey museum dazzles with educational exhibits and installations dedicated to the notable Pittsubrgher.

Check out the Silver Clouds, an immersive display with metallic floating pillows that hover in space.

Filled with air and helium, these balloons defy expectations and showcase Warhol’s interest in experimentation.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni William Penn Hotel

Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in Pennsylvania

5. Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex — Harrisburg

501 N 3rd St Harrisburg, PA 17120 (800) 868-7672

In 1977, this Renaissance Revival building in Harrisburg earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Spanning 45 acres, this capitol complex is home to several Pennsylvania tourist attractions.

Of course, it boasts the elaborate State Capitol, which entralls visitors with its majestic dome.

Additionally, the building has gorgeous 1-ton bronze doors and an impressive granite structure.

Schedule a Capitol Building tour in advance, and gain some fantastic insights about the building.

After touring the building, spend time exploring the beautiful places to visit near you, like the State Museum of Pennsylvania.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites Harrisburg Hershey

Related: Best Places to Eat in Harrisburg

6. Ricketts Glen State Park — Benton

695 PA-487 Benton, PA 17814 (570) 477-5675

Open since 1942, this state park and National Natural Landmark spans 13,046.54 acres.

Ricketts Glen is one of the top places to go in Pennsylvania for an amazing vacation.

Sure, it’s not as popular as some of the popular, must-visit destinations.

But, this state park teems with outdoor activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding and hiking.

Pack some insect repellent, especially if you’re visiting the park in spring.

Also, bring trail food and at least 1 liter of water if you’re going to take a hike in this state-owned park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fishing Creek Lodge Bed & Breakfast

Related: Weekend Getaways in Pennsylvania

7. Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA 19019

Founded in 1682, the City of Brotherly Love is renowned for its cheesesteaks, historic treasures and Rocky.

Want to see the best of Pennsylvania?

Here’s a simple word of advice on where to go in Pennsylvania: visit Philadelphia .

With a burgeoning culinary scene , bumping nightlife and notable museums, Philly will captivate you in a variety of ways.

And, best of all, the city is dotted with historical riches and cultural wonders.

If you’re traveling with kids, and plan to do a lot of sightseeing, we recommend getting a SEPTA family pass.

Suitable for a family of up to 5, this cheap pass covers 1-day unlimited travel with SEPTA’s system.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia

8. Phipps Conservatory — Pittsburgh

1 Schenley Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 622-6914

Set right in the heart of Pittsburgh, this verdant 15-acre oasis is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

The Phipps Conservatory is one of the popular sites in Pittsburgh for local weddings and photography.

With its butterfly gardens and tropical gardens, it’s a refreshing respite from your frenzied city life.

Plus, it provides an array of play areas and hands-on activities for kids.

Free parking is available on Schenley Drive’s center island.

I suggest that you arrive early, as parking is fairly limited.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pittsburgh North Shore, an IHG Hotel

9. Strasburg

Strasburg, PA 17579

Although its land area is less than a square mile, this Lancaster County borough is still a must-see destination.

There’s nothing in Pennsylvania quite like Strasburg.

Set right in the heart of Lancaster County, this bucolic town will amuse you with its beguiling railroad history and Amish culture.

Not to mention, it has a number of attractions suited for the little ones.

Take the 45-minute journey on the Strasburg Rail Road, and see the scenic Amish farms and country.

You can also visit the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, which houses over 100 cars and locomotives from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lancaster East – Strasburg, an IHG Hotel

Erie, PA 16501

Erie , located on Lake Erie’s southern shore, is the 4th largest city in Pennsylvania.

Erie, though often overlooked, is sure to surprise travelers or all ages and interests.

Whether you’re a history buff, art connoisseur, or foodie interested in local eats , there’s something cool for you in Erie.

And, guess what?

It even has some outdoor attractions and activities.

For some affordable fun, head to the Asbury Woods Nature Center.

Featuring 205 acres of forests, streams, wetlands and fields, this center teems with inexpensive recreational pursuits.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel

11. Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA 15106

Nicknamed Steel City, this 58.34-square-mile hub is truly an up-and-coming destination for foodies .

Pittsburgh is, no doubt, one of the best cities to visit in Pennsylvania.

Ideal for families, this city is home to a bundle of kid-friendly places of interest, including the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.

Moreover, it lures visitors with its eclectic and tempting cuisines.

Reduce the data charges on your smartphone by signing up for downtown’s free Wi-Fi.

It’s available daily and provides 2 hours worth of free mobile data.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Pittsburgh West – Greentree, an IHG Hotel

12. Hickory Run State Park — White Haven

3613 PA-534 White Haven, PA 18661 (272) 808-6192

At 15,990 acres, this state park in the Pocono Mountains is packed with fun and adventure.

Hickory Run State Park is a paradise for nature lovers.

In summer, the park offers 40 miles of hiking trails and a sandy beach perfect for swimming.

Winter, meanwhile, draws adventurers who love cross-country skiing.

See the 25-foot-tall Hawk Falls.

It’s a thing of beauty and has plenty of space where you can unwind and relax.

You can reach this natural wonder through an easy 0.6-mile-long hiking trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Wilkes Barre – East Mountain, an IHG Hotel

13. Presque Isle State Park — Erie

301 Peninsula Dr Erie, PA 16505 (814) 833-7424

Established in 1921, this 3,112-acre state park is an absolute treat for nature lovers.

Searching for more cool and unique places to visit in Pennsylvania?

Why not pay a visit to this wondrous state park?

Open year-round, this park has a ton to offer to its visitors, including numerous hiking trails, colorful sea glass and 11 miles of beach.

Spend some time enjoying the exhibits at the Tom Ridge Environmental Education Center.

With an observation tower, theater and museum, this center lets you learn more about Presque Isle’s geology and history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront

14. The Pocono Mountains

The Pocono Mountains, PA 18344

Sitting in Northeastern Pennsylvania, this beloved recreation area entices visitors with recreational activities and scenery.

The Poconos have long been popular vacation spots in the East Coast since the 1940s.

Besides its romantic and secluded atmosphere, this destination also has adrenaline-inducing outdoor activities.

And, did we mention that it’s family-friendly?

Spring is an excellent time to visit the Poconos.

With favorable temperatures, the spring months offer ample opportunities for nature trips and outdoor adventures.

And, rates for hotel rooms are cheaper in spring than summer or winter.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mount Airy Casino Resort

Related: Best Places to Eat in The Poconos

15. Philadelphia Museum of Art — Philadelphia

2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy Philadelphia, PA 19130 (215) 763-8100

Founded originally in 1876, this museum in Philly showcases more than 240,000 items from around the world.

No list of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania is complete without this art museum.

Known for its cameo in the timeless “Rocky” films, this landmark offers a sweet view of the City Hall.

Even better, it houses collections featuring works by Picasso, Van Gogh and Matisse.

Before visiting the museum, decide which exhibitions appeal to you the most and plan your visit around those works.

Also, there’s a “pay as you want” admission on the month’s first Sunday.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Rittenhouse Hotel

Pennsylvania Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for [currentyear]

• Independence National Park and the Liberty Bell — Philadelphia
• Hershey Park — Hershey
• Gettysburg National Military Park — Gettysburg
• Andy Warhol Museum — Pittsburgh
• Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex — Harrisburg
• Ricketts Glen State Park — Benton
• Philadelphia
• Phipps Conservatory — Pittsburgh
• Hickory Run State Park — White Haven
• Presque Isle State Park — Erie
• The Pocono Mountains
• Philadelphia Museum of Art — Philadelphia

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15 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Not only part of the Appalachian and Great Lakes regions but the Mid-Atlantic too, Pennsylvania certainly has lots of different sides to it. Located in the northeast of the United States, it boasts beautiful countryside and farmland, as well as some marvellous mountain ranges and a small, scenic segment of Lake Erie coastline.

While much of the state is rural, the large and lively cities of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia have plenty of interesting tourist attractions to check out. As it played an important role in the Civil War and Revolutionary War, there are also a number of fascinating historic sites scattered about the Keystone State to visit. With everything from Amish farms and state parks to ghost towns and gardens to explore, there are plenty of things to do in Pennsylvania.

15. Phipps Conservatory

Set in the northwest corner of Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park, the Phipps Conservatory and its beautiful botanical gardens make for an impressive sight. Built in 1893, the superb steel-and-glass Victorian-style conservatory has 14 fantastic flora exhibits to explore, with gorgeous plants and flowers wherever you look.

Each boasting their own delightful design and lush layout, the rooms are pleasant and peaceful to wander around; a Tropical Forest Conservatory is be found alongside an Orchid Room and Palm Court. In addition to its extensive assortment of exotic plants, there is also attractive architecture on show, with a handful of sculptures and waterfalls dotted about.

Outside is just as alluring in terms of what Phipps Conservatory has to offer: a gorgeous Japanese Courtyard Garden lies right next to an educational and entertaining Children’s Discovery Garden.

14. Indian Echo Caverns

A stunning show cave, the incredible Indian Echo Caverns are found not far from Hummelstown in the southeast corner of the state. Long a popular attraction, the captivating caves have been visited by millions of visitors since they first opened to the public in 1929.

Long before that, however, the caves were likely used by Native Americans for shelter and storage. Numerous archaeological findings have been unearthed in the fields and farms around its entrance. Visitors can learn all about its fascinating past during a tour of the commercialized caverns with their awe-inspiring rock formations.

In addition, there’s a picnic area, playground, and petting zoo for guests to use, and souvenirs can be purchased in the adjoining gift shop.

13. Centralia

An interesting, atmospheric, and somewhat eerie place to visit, the near-ghost town of Centralia has been almost abandoned since 1962. This was when an underground coal fire was discovered burning under the once-thriving mining town.

Since then, its population has dwindled from more than a thousand to fewer than five, with dilapidated houses and decaying buildings now lining its graffiti-strewn streets. As well as visiting the one remaining church, visitors can drive around its quiet and overgrown roads and spy wisps of smoke escaping from cracks in the ground.

Often used as a model or inspiration for fictional ghost towns and representations of Hell, Centralia has featured in numerous films and TV shows over the years. Well worth visiting for its apocalyptic look and feel, Centralia can be found in the east of the state in Pennsylvania’s Coal Region.

12. Dutch Wonderland

Home to exhilarating rollercoasters and rides as well as a castle and slides, Dutch Wonderland is a fun and festive theme park that is sure to delight all the family. Lying just to the east of Lancaster, the ‘Kingdom for Kids’ is particularly suitable for families with small children.

Sprawling over a huge site, the amazing amusement park is entered through a large stone imitation castle façade, which is sure to astound and excite little ones. Once inside, a festival of sights, sounds and smells greet you, with colorful rides and attractions everywhere you look.

In addition to its 32 rides, there is a wonderful water park to enjoy, and shows and games are regularly put on for the children. After having met its costumed characters Duke the Dragon and Princess Brooke, visitors can check out the shops and eateries that lie next to Dutch Wonderland.

11. Valley Forge National Historical Park

Set on the outskirts of Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park offers a fascinating look at the vital role the site played in America’s War for Independence. It was here in the cold, harsh winter of 1777-1778 that General George Washington and his Continental Army camped and suffered untold hunger and hardships for six long months.

Now a pleasant and picturesque park, Valley Forge tells the story of the exposed encampment and that of the American Revolution through interesting exhibits, films, and tours around the site. Dotted about are various statues and monuments, as well as reconstructed log cabins. Washington’s colonial home is one of the standout sights.

Besides perusing the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, visitors can hike or bike along the many trails and paths weaving around the historical park.

10. Hershey Gardens

Perched atop a prominent hill, the pretty and peaceful Hershey Gardens overlooks the fun and family-friendly theme park of the same name. Located in the town of Hershey , it was founded in 1937 by the wildly wealthy chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey.

Including a botanical garden and arboretum, its gorgeous grounds are filled with fantastic flowerbeds, pretty plants and lovingly landscaped lawns. Delightfully designed, the gardens are a joy to explore at any time of year as its captivating collection of colorful trees and shrubs change with the season.

Besides basking in all the botanical beauty, visitors can wander around the tropical Butterfly Atrium. A Children’s Garden allows young ones to have a hands-on experience of all the magnificent nature around them.

9. Presque Isle State Park

Nestled away in the northwest of Pennsylvania is the stunning scenery and nature of Presque Isle State Park. Set on a sandy peninsula that juts out into Lake Erie, it is sure to delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike with its lovely landscapes and wealth of recreation activities.

Formed some 11,000 years ago during the last ice age, the idyllic isle and peninsula hem in a beautiful bay of the same name. Lining each side of its serene shores are breathtaking beaches, with dramatic dunes, lagoons, and forests spied here and there.

The state park’s delightfully diverse habitats lend themselves to all kinds of outdoor activities, with hiking, biking, and lounging on the beach particularly popular. In addition, a selection of watersports can be enjoyed in its surrounding waters, with everything from boating and canoeing to water skiing and scuba diving on offer.

8. Bicycle Heaven (Pittsburgh)

The largest shop and museum in the world solely dedicated to bicycles, the appropriately named Bicycle Heaven can be found along the banks of the Ohio River in the center of Pittsburgh. Home to more than 4,000 models and makes, with many more in storage, its colossal collection is well worth perusing if you have the chance.

Besides boasting rare and vintage bikes from around the world, the museum also has some prop bicycles that appeared in films such as A Beautiful Mind, Fences, and Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. As well as standout sights such as the futuristic Bowden Spacelanders, it also has some fun themed bikes representing bands and artists like The Beatles and Elvis.

If you want to explore Pittsburgh by bike, you can rent one from Bicycle Heaven – or even buy one if you’re going to stick around town for a bit longer.

7. Amish Farm & House (Lancaster)

Set alongside Lincoln Highway on the outskirts of Lancaster is the awesome Amish Farm & House where you can learn about the rural, religious community’s history and culture. Founded in 1955, it offers visitors an authentic and educational experience as you explore the farms, fields, houses and barns.

Fascinating to explore, the sprawling site has an old Amish-built schoolhouse for you to check out, as well as pretty paddocks and pastures full of donkeys, horses and goats. As you tour around the historic buildings with your guide, you’ll learn all about the Amish way of life and their history in Lancaster County.

In addition to delving into the farm’s nearly 300 years of history, you can sample some delicious food at the BBQ Barn and pet cute animals in the petting zoo. Before heading off, it’s well worth buying some locally produced souvenirs and going on a horse and buggy ride.

6. New Hope

Located on the border with New Jersey, the small town of New Hope lies in the far east of the state on the west bank of the Delaware River. Long a popular tourist destination, it has been both an art colony and gay resort, with Broadway shows historically tested in its theaters.

As well as the numerous art galleries and live music venues that have sprung up around town, New Hope has some interesting historic sights, with plenty of old houses and a quaint railway station on show. At Bucks County Playhouse, locals and tourists can enjoy brilliant Broadway shows and theater productions.

After having explored its antique and arts and crafts shops, visitors can cross the river and check out its twin town of Lambertville. Further downstream, you’ll find Washington’s Crossing Park, a historical site where you can watch war reenactments of the Continental Army crossing the Delaware River.

5. Hersheypark

Set in the town of the same name, Hersheypark is a fun and family-friendly theme park that has been entertaining guests ever since it opened in 1906. Founded by Milton S. Hershey as a leisure park for the employees of his chocolate factory, it’s now one of the most popular attractions in the state.

Home to more than 70 hair-raising rides, rollercoasters, and attractions, it has various themed areas to explore, such as Pioneer Frontier and Kissing Tower Hill. In addition, there is a superb water park and zoo for visitors to enjoy, while frequent fireworks displays and performances only add to the ambience.

After having gone on all the rides, it’s worth stopping by Hershey’s Chocolate World, which is adjacent to the park. Here you’ll find shops and restaurants as well as loads of chocolates and candy bars to taste and even try making.

4. Eastern State Penitentiary

Opened in 1829, Eastern State Penitentiary was used right up until 1971 before being turned into a museum and tourist attraction. Nowadays, visitors can take tours around its hulking great ruins to learn about the famous facility and the notorious criminals it once housed.

When it was built in North Philadelphia, the imposing penitentiary stood as a symbol of modernity and progress as it was dedicated to reform rather than punishment. Over the years, famed figures such as Al Capone and Willie Sutton were held within its cells, which are laid out in an innovative wagon wheel design.

Exploring its crumbling cell-blocks is an eerie yet interesting experience as you learn all about its fascinating past and prisoners. Also, there are a number of excellent art installations on display in the penitentiary. Nighttime tours around the National Historic Landmark are a fun but frightening affair.

3. Fallingwater House

Designed and built by the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the fantastic Fallingwater House can be found in a pretty and picturesque part of southwestern Pennsylvania. Partly built over a beautiful waterfall with woods all around it, the beautiful building is widely considered to be his most majestic and memorable masterpiece.

While the serene and secluded scenery certainly looks stunning, the house itself exhibits some astounding architecture and a dynamic and daring design. Showcasing strong horizontal and vertical lines, its futuristic features and harmonious relationship with nature it saw it once labelled as the ‘best all-time work of American architecture’.

Built between 1936 and 1939 to be the summer home of Liliane and Edgar J. Kaufman, the famous Fallingwater House can now be visited and viewed on tours. It lies around one hundred kilometers to the southeast of Pittsburgh.

2. Liberty Bell Center

Set in the center of Philadelphia, this charming yet contemporary centre houses one of the nation’s most important symbols and sights – the Liberty Bell. An icon of American independence, the cracked and chipped bell is a very popular tourist attraction; as such, there are often long queues to see it.

Protected from the elements in a glass-housed building, it was made in 1751 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the state’s constitution. On it is engraved ‘Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof’. The bell became an enduring symbol of freedom when it was exhibited around the States in the aftermath of the Civil War to mend divisions and celebrate the country’s Centennial.

After you’ve stopped by the Liberty Bell Center, it is worth visiting some of the other sights related to the American Revolution that can be found in the surrounding Independence National Historical Park.

1. Gettysburg National Military Park

One of the most popular and impressive places to visit in Pennsylvania , the Gettysburg National Military Park tells the story of the most important battle in America’s history. It was here in and around the town of the same name that the Battle of Gettysburg was fought from July 1 – 3 1863, with victory for the North marking a significant turning point in the American Civil War.

Dotted about the expansive park are various monuments and memorials dedicated to the fallen and the influential figures who decided its outcome. As well as taking a tour of the largest land battle ever fought in North America, visitors can explore the fields and forests in which they fought.

The undoubted highlight in Gettysburg , however, is its magnificent museum which houses an astounding array of Civil War artifacts and archaeological findings. In addition to perusing its extensive collection of cannons, uniforms and firearms there is also a fantastic film to watch on the battle and a sensational cyclorama of the events that took place.

Map of Things to Do in Pennsylvania

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Reader interactions.

February 10, 2021 at 12:10 pm

Your article should be things to do in eastern Pennsylvania and two thing to do in western Pennsylvania. No wonder people from western Pennsylvania feel disenfranchised by everybody in the media and the state. Maybe Pennsylvania should be cut in half and because eastern PA and Western PA. God knows the only part of the state that actually matters is eastern PA to the politicians, media and tourism. You didn’t say anything about Ohiopyle State Park. Kennywood and West Mifflin. Or any of the other battlefields or historical landmarks in Western PA. It almost all revolved around eastern Pennsylvania. You know there’s another half of the state on the other side of I 81.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Pennsylvania (PA) » 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, The Keystone State , has some truly awesome places to visit and see! There’s beautiful nature to be admired and many cool towns and larger cities to explore. To give you an impression on how impressive this state is, I’ve selected some of the most beautiful pictures!

1. Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, Pittsburgh

The Soldier and Sailor’s Memorial Hall is one of the best-known attractions in Pittsburgh . The museum tells the story of the servicemen that have served the United States since the civil war. The building has stood in memory of the country’s veterans since 1910.

2. Gothic Study Hall inside the Cathedral of Learning, University of Pittsburgh

At the centre of the University of Pittsburgh’s main campus, the Cathedral of Learning is a well-known attraction and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cathedral is an imposing building, standing an impressive 163m over the campus. It has been described as a gothic skyscraper. Construction on the 34-story building was completed in 1931.

3. Pittsburgh Skyline

Pittsburgh is known for great food, adventure and a fascinating history. In 2015 Pittsburgh was named as a “Top Place to Go in 2015” by Conde Nast Traveller. The city is the second largest in Pennsylvania and has a population of 306,000 people. In 2016, the city of Pittsburgh will celebrate its bicentennial.

4. Delaware River

The Delaware River passes through New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland in addition to Pennsylvania. In Northampton County, the river meanders past 17 miles of stunning farmland, historic sights and small towns. The welcome centre in Riverton provides a great introduction to the area as well as walking routes.

5. Road in Rural Pennsylvania

The countryside in Pennsylvania is known for its great food, extensive history and countless outdoor activities. The countryside is stunning in all seasons and has plenty to offer in winter, such as snowboarding and skiing, or in summer, such as white water rafting and hiking. In autumn, the colours are particularly beautiful.

6. Codorus State Park, Pennsylvania

• Codorus State Park, Pennsylvania

7. Philadelphia

Philadelphia certainly has plenty to offer and a trip to the City of Brotherly Love is always a pleasure. Known for its music, art and food, the city has not been affected by crushingly high real estate prices and still makes for an affordable but exhilarating place to live.

8. Duquense Incline Vertical, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The century old Duquesne Incline cable cars allow for great views of Downtown Pittsburgh. The cable cars were first opened in 1877 and, after many year of use, were subsequently restored by local residents in 1963. Those taking a trip to the incline can see the inner workings of the machinery and visit the museum at the upper station, which explores Pittsburgh’s history.

9. Oakland Run waterfalls, York County

The waterfalls of York County come in various shapes and sizes but are all stunning and well worth a visit. Hiking is very popular in all seasons and there are a number of well-marked routes to follow that include views different waterfalls however there are also rewarding views for those willing to walk off the beaten track.

10. The Washington County Courthouse

Another building in Pennsylvania with a remarkable history is the Washington County Court House. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, having been admitted in 1974. The building, which was first opened in 1900, is still in operation today.

11. Falls in Glen State Park Fall Trails

The Glen State Park Fall Trails includes over 20 waterfalls and attracts thousands of visitors each year, all of whom come to marvel at its natural beauty. Sullivan falls is more difficult to reach than many of the others in the area but this means it is more peaceful and worth the adventure through the surrounding woodlands.

12. Salt Springs State Park, Susquehanna County

Salt Springs State Park in North-eastern Pennsylvania covers a massive 405 acres and is best known for its giant hemlock trees, estimated to be about 300 years old.  The park is also home to three waterfalls and a rocky gauge and is maintained by a group of volunteers known as the Friends of Salt Springs Park.

15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Pennsylvania:

• Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, Pittsburgh
• Gothic Study Hall inside the Cathedral of Learning, University of Pittsburgh
• Pittsburgh Skyline
• Delaware River
• Road in Rural Pennsylvania
• Philadelphia
• Duquense Incline Vertical, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Oakland Run waterfalls, York County
• The Washington County Courthouse
• Falls in Glen State Park Fall Trails
• Salt Springs State Park, Susquehanna County

Things To Do in Hershey, Pa: July 2024

Top events and attractions in the sweetest place on earth this month.

Hello, July! There are so many sweet things to do in   Hershey , Pa.,  this month. Keep scrolling for some of our top picks.

Fourth Of July

From an epic fireworks display and stadium concerts to coaster riding and special dining offerings, Hershey, Pa., is the place to celebrate Independence Day. 

Hersheypark will offer its annual fireworks display (located just outside of the Park) for guests and residents to enjoy on Friday, July 5 at 10:15 p.m. Please note that the rides will still close at 9 p.m., but Hersheypark will remain open for guests to watch the fireworks from inside the Park and the parking lots.

Those planning to celebrate the holiday weekend at the Park can add on an all-you-care-to-eat Star Spangled buffet picnic in the Fahrenheit Catering area, available on July 4 - 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. The menu includes multiple salads, sides, entrees and assorted desserts. Adult tickets are $28.61, and child tickets are $18.01. You can purchase tickets online . Hersheypark Season Pass Holders can purchase discounted picnic tickets in their Self-Service Account under Add-Ons

Visit Hersheypark Daily

There is no sweeter way beat the July heat than riding coasters or splashing at a water park. Hersheypark and The Boardwalk At Hersheypark are open daily in July; hours vary . It’s a great time for thrill seekers to experience the new first-class flight on Skyrush or conquer the World’s Largest Underflip on Wildcat’s Revenge hybrid coaster. 

Parkgoers looking to cool off can catch a wave at The Shore or stop by the air-conditioned Chevrolet Music Box Theatre to see the new live summer show, HPTV Presents: My Sweet Life. The musical journey through time celebrates the 50th anniversary of Hershey Characters at Hersheypark . There are four shows included with a Hersheypark ticket on weekdays from Monday through Friday (no shows on Tuesday) and five shows on Saturday and Sunday, with details listed in the Hersheypark app.

• Hersheypark_Aerial of The Boardwalk and Ferris Wheel
• Hersheypark_Skyrush_2024
• 2024.Hersheypark.Shows.MySweetLife.FullCast
• Boardwalk Coastline Plunge
• 23.HP.Wildcat's Revenge.Sunset
• Hersheypark_Boardwalk_Cabanas
• Hersheypark.2022.Jolly Rancher Character.Family.Selfie

Great ticket deals are available on Hersheypark.com , including a Midweek Summer Savings Ticket valid only Mondays through Thursdays through September 2 for $59.99.

See A Live Show

There's no sweeter place to see a concert in July than one (or multiple!) of our world-class entertainment venues in Hershey, Pa. Hersheypark Stadium will host some of the biggest names in music this month, while Hershey Theatre and GIANT Center continue to heat up the summer season with rocking shows for all kinds of music enthusiasts. Check out the full lineup below and grab tickets while you can!

July 2: Donny Osmond at Hershey Theatre

July 4: Justin Timberlake at Hersheypark Stadium

July 6: Janet Jackson at Hersheypark Stadium

July 7: Outlaw Music Festival at Hersheypark Stadium

July 9: Christopher Cross & Justin Hayward at Hershey Theatre

July 18: Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo at Hershey Theatre *

July 23: Foo Fighters at Hersheypark Stadium*

July 25: Journey & Def Leppard with Stevie Miller Band at Hersheypark Stadium

July 31: Melanie Martinez at GIANT Center *

* Very limited seats remaining - grab yours before they're gone!

Book A Sweet Summer Getaway

After a day of coaster riding at Hersheypark or a night out at a concert or show, stay overnight at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark so you can continue experiencing everything our sweet destination has to offer! Guests can save on select dates this month with popular summer packages , including our guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge or the Hersheypark Summer Camping Package at Hersheypark Camping Resort . 

The sweetest part about choosing to stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark is the FREE Resort Benefits , including extra hours and free front-gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark . 

• Outdoor Pool Complex at The Hotel Hershey
• The Hotel Hershey
• Hershey Lodge_Kids Check In
• Hershey Character at Hershey Lodge
• Hersheypark Camping Resort_Spring_0422
• Tiny Homes at Hersheypark Camping Resort

Plus, guests who stay at our newest and most luxurious accommodations - The Villas At The Hotel Hershey - receive additional amenities and Hersheypark perks, including an all-new exclusive concierge lounge with food, drinks and activities; daily Hersheypark tickets; and One-Day Fast Track. Take a look inside The Villas and explore the daily schedule of exclusive activities and offerings for guests.

• Villas Exterior
• The Villas Concierge Lounge
• Villas Concierge Lounge Fire Pit
• Breakfast at The Villas Concierge Lounge
• Villas At The Hotel Hershey Double Queen Room

Visit ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily in July for extended hours this summer from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Included with admission, visitors in July can watch special animal encounters, educational activities, and feeding and training sessions every day of the week, weather permitting. View the daily activities schedule .

ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Regular admission just to ZooAmerica for guests ages 9-61 is $16.50 plus taxes and fees. Admission for juniors ages 3-8 and seniors ages 62+ is $14.50 plus taxes and fees. Children 2 and under are free.

Enjoy Outdoor Dining

It’s patio season in Hershey! As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, join us for sweet outdoor dining (weather permitting) at the below locations across the destination:

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio at Hersheypark
• Houlihan’s Restaurant + Bar in downtown Hershey
• Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey
• Trevi 5 Italian restaurant at The Hotel Hershey
• Harvest Restaurant inspired by local and regional ingredients at The Hotel Hershey
• Revelry Chophouse, Bar & Patio at Hershey Lodge
• STACKS all-day breakfast and lunch restaurant at Hershey Lodge
• The Chocolatier Patio Menu 2024
• Harvest Patio
• STACKS_Outdoor Patio
• The Chocolatier Outdoor Patio_2024
• Revelry Patio

Relax With A Day At The Spa

Treat yourself to a spa day this summer! The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey offer sweet relaxation with unique chocolate treatments and limited-time seasonal collections. Enjoy a day of pampering at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey when you book a summer spa package like the Vacation For A Day Package, Sweet Summer Sampler, or Citrus Sensation Package. Or, try a treatment from their all-new Wellness Collection to restore and rejuvenate your body and mind. 

With over 70 quality spa treatments and convenient evening hours seven days a week, MeltSpa by Hershey makes it easy to fit relaxation into any schedule. Try one of the refreshing treatments from the seasonal Summer Strawberry Collection , featuring a body scrub, immersion, manicure and pedicure. Or, indulge in an exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate spa treatment - available year-round.

• MeltSpa Facial
• The Spa At The Hotel Hershey_Quiet Room
• MeltSpa by Hershey_Summer Strawberry Collection
• The Spa At The Hotel Hershey_Staircase
• The Spa At The Hotel Hershey_Lobby
• MeltSpa Hair Stylist
• MeltSpa by Hershey_Relaxation Lounge

Hershey Bears are Back-to-Back Calder Cup Champs!

The quest to Repeat the Roar is complete - the Hershey Bears are 2024 Calder Cup champions , going back-to-back for the third time in team history and winning their league-record 13th American Hockey League title. Now Bears fans can get their paws on the latest championship gear – visit store.hersheybears.com to snag the newest offerings to commemorate the team’s 2024 Calder Cup championship. Plus, fans can get their photo taken with the Calder Cup at various Hershey Entertainment & Resorts properties the week of July 1, 2024. Find a list of locations and times . 

And fans can be on the lookout for the schedule for the 2024-25 regular season as the Bears look to defend their title and become only the second team in AHL history to go back-to-back-to-back!

July 20: Hersheypark Halloween Hiring Event

Hersheypark is hiring for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights seasonal events!  Join us for a Hiring Event on Saturday, July 20, from 9 - 11 a.m. at the team member cafeteria, Coaster Café , located at Hersheypark . (Search “ Hersheypark Employee Parking Lot” in any map app.)

Roles are available in the following departments: 

• Dark Nights Attendant
• Ride Operator 
• Food & Beverage 
• Sanitation and Utilities 
• Guest Experience and Ticketing
• Safety and Security 
• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

Our Recruitment team members will be onsite to assist Hiring Event attendees with the application process, and interview and hire qualified candidates on the spot! RSVP today to secure your in-person interview spot or request a phone interview.

Join Our Team!

From first jobs to full-time careers, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts offers employment opportunities for all levels of experience. Our team members enjoy sweet perks like FREE Hersheypark tickets and parking to Hersheypark Entertainment Complex events, discounts around town, recognition programs, and so much more. Visit our Careers site to learn more about working in Hershey The Sweetest Place On Earth .

We hope to see you in The Sweetest Place On Earth this month! Be sure to tag us on social media using #HersheyPA during your visit. 

These beaches, summer attractions are worth the drive, says the Pa. parks dept.

With the heart of summer vacation season underway, here’s a look at the top six beaches and five unique summer attractions you can discover at state parks across the commonwealth.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages 124 state parks and here’s a breakdown of what it considers to be the top places to swim and play in the sand as well as some unique attractions that are worth the road trip:

Top 6 state parks for beaches

Bald Eagle State Park : Located in northcentral Pennsylvania in Howard, Centre County, Bald Eagle has a1,200-foot long sand and turf beach. It’s open in the summer through Labor Day, unless otherwise posted. The area has a children’s playground, snack bar, changing rooms, public restrooms and parking. Pets are prohibited in the beach area. 

Beltzville State Park : In eastcentral Pennsylvania, swimmers will enjoy the beach at Beltzville State Park in Lehighton, near the Poconos.

A 525-foot sand beach flows along the 949-acre Beltzville Lake. It is open from 8 a.m. to sunset through Labor Day, unless otherwise posted. A food and refreshment concession at the swimming beach is open daily (weather permitting) during the summer season. 

Laurel Hill State Park : Located near Somerset in southwestern Pennsylvania, this park’s 1,200-foot sand beach is open from 8 a.m. to sunset through mid-September. It’s a swim at your own risk beach located along the 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. The beach has an ADA-accessible ramp to the lake, an ADA-accessible beach wheelchair and an ADA-accessible restroom. A food concession is available during the summer months. 

Pine Grove Furnace State Park : This southcentral Pennsylvania state park in Gardners, Adams County, has beaches at Fuller and Laurel lakes that are open from 8 a.m. to sunset through Sept. 30. Laurel Beach is swim at your own risk. Fuller Beach has lifeguards on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Labor Day weekend, unless otherwise posted. Please follow posted rules for swimming when lifeguards are off duty. Swimmers at Laurel Lake and especially at Fuller Lake are advised to exercise caution because of the extreme depths and cold subsurface waters. 

Presque Isle State Park : Located in northwestern Pennsylvania along Lake Erie, the sandy beaches along this peninsula provide visitors with the only surf swimming in Pennsylvania. It’s similar to an ocean, but without the saltwater. Beaches are open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. until Labor Day, unless otherwise posted. Barracks Beach, the Mill Road Beaches and Beach 11 are smoke-free.

More: Headed to the beach? A guide to rentals, trails and more at Presque Isle State Park

Pymatuning State Park: Also located in northwestern Pennsylvania, Pymatuning State Park in Jamestown, Mercer County, has three public beaches, Linesville, Main Beach, and Beach Two; and the beach for campers in Jamestown Campground are open the weekend before Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather and conditions permitting. Swim at your own risk. Please read and follow posted rules. 

More: Pennsylvania has 124 state parks, here are the 10 that have the most visitors

Five state park unique summer attractions:

Bucktail State Park/Bucktail Natural Area : Motorists looking for a ride in the Pennsylvania Wilds should consider this park’s Scenic Drive in northcentral Pennsylvania. The 75-mile route along PA 120 from Emporium, through Renovo, to Lock Haven runs through unspoiled forest lands, steep mountains, beautiful hills and deep valleys along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and Sinnemahoning Creek.

Cherry Springs State Park : Travelers who enjoy seeing the night skies need to plan a visit to Cherry Springs State Park in Coudersport, Potter County. The facility has a stargazing field located at the top of a 2,300-foot high mountain. What makes it unique is the surrounding state forest is relatively undeveloped and nearby communities are in valleys, shielding any light pollution that might affect the park.

There’s a Night Sky Public Viewing Area located north of Route 44 which is on the opposite side of the road of Overnight Astronomy Observation Field.

Night skies in Pennsylvania: State parks offer clear views for stargazers, astrotourists

There is also a backlit summer sky map wayside located on this pathway to guide you through the areas at night.

Jennings Environmental Education Center’s Prairie Visit : This western Pennsylvania center located in Slippery Rock, Butler County, is one of several state parks dedicated to providing environmental education and recreational programs to the community. One of the park’s main features is the Prairie Visit in a 20-acre prairie ecosystem. The area is home to distinctive prairie plants and the endangered massasauga rattlesnake. The DCNR reports the most noteworthy and spectacular prairie flower is the blazing star.

Jennings was the first reserve established in Pennsylvania to protect an individual plant species and remains the only public and protected prairie in the commonwealth.

Little Buffalo State Park’s unique swimming pool : Swimmers may want to visit this state park in central Pennsylvania in Perry County. 

It has a state-of-the art swimming pool, which is nearly half an acre in size. The pool is located along Holman Lake and is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. until mid-August. The pool varies in depth from 1 to 5 feet and has 17- and 11-foot waterslides. The pool has a capacity of 1,285 swimmers and has a ramp for people with disabilities. A fee is charged for pool use which is $6 for adults on weekdays and $7 on weekends. Seniors pay $4 and children under 42 inches tall can swim for free. Swimmers arriving after 4 p.m. receive a discount to $4. Season passes are available at the park office. The DCNR reports the pool is very popular and reaches capacity on holidays and many weekends. Mid-week swimming is often less crowded.

Washington Crossing Historic Park/Bowmans Wildflower Preserve: Traveling to southeastern Pennsylvania, nature lovers should stop at Bowmans Hill Tower in Bucks County. The 125-foot Bowman’s Hill Tower, located in the Upper Section off of Lurgan Road, provides an incredible view of the Delaware River Valley. An entry fee of $7 for adults is charged. The experience is free to children under 5 and active military. The tower closes for the winter season.

The park preserves the site of George Washington’s boat crossing of the Delaware River during the American Revolution and is a National Historic Landmark.

About 70,000 people each year visit Bowmans Hill Wildflower preserve that’s also found in Bucks County. Fields of summer wildflowers begin to appear in June, especially in the meadow. The display of flowers and fruit is continually changing. Visitors can walk among a variety of colored flowers and native grasses. 

Brian Whipkey is the outdoors columnist for USA TODAY Network sites in Pennsylvania. Contact him at [email protected] and sign up for our weekly Go Outdoors PA newsletter email on this website's homepage under your login name. Follow him on Facebook @whipkeyoutdoors .

One Pennsylvania Destination Named Among 'Most Beautiful Places' In The US

H ave you ever traveled to a place so beautiful that you simply cannot stop thinking about it and instantly feel the need to tell everyone you know about the magic that unfolded as you explored it? There is one Pennsylvania destination so breathtaking that it landed on Travel + Leisure 's prestigious annual list of the most beautiful places in America.

Be it stunning manmade architecture or wondrous naturescapes, something about this alluring location continues to draw in travelers from around the globe and keep them entranced in its beauty.

Per the list, the most beautiful destination in all of Pennsylvania is the Appalachian National Scenic Trail at the Delaware Water Gap . This lovely location also ranked among the most beautiful destinations in the entire country for its stunning scenes and clear mountain views.

Here's what Travel + Leisure had to say about the most stunning place in Pennsylvania:

"The famous Delaware Water Gap area spans 70,000 acres of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, yet its namesake point is where the river carves through the rugged Kittatinny Mountain. See the Gap from Appalachian National Scenic Trail (the AT, to in-the-know hikers), which offers a clear view from Mount Minsi."

For a continued list of the 50 most beautiful destinations in America visit travelandleisure.com .

Guide to PA’s Best State Parks and Forests

From fishing and ATV riding to snowmobiling and ice skating, Pennsylvania’s 124 free state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forestland provides endless year-round outdoor adventure for you to incorporate in your next Great American Getaway itinerary. While each one of our state parks and forests provides a stellar experience, here are some of our top picks to get you started exploring Pennsylvania’s greater than great outdoors any time of year:

McConnells Mill State Park

Portersville

Just a 45-minute drive north of Pittsburgh takes you to McConnells Mill State Park where both history buffs and extreme outdoor adventurers alike can indulge their respective passions. The park’s historic, 19 th century gristmill and the Howe Truss design covered bridge – a registered National Historic Landmark - along with an old lime kiln, are key sites for those who love history and historic structures. Dive into a bit of the park’s natural history by exploring the amazing natural geologic wonders created over the past 2 million years along the half-mile Hell’s Hollow Trail. This easy walk takes you past the old lime kiln and stunning Hells Hollow Falls.

The park offers several exhilarating, heart-pounding experiences for highly skilled, outdoor-adventure-seeking enthusiasts. Gear up to climb and then rappel down the park’s two rock climbing areas : the challenging Rim Road and the even more advanced and rugged Breakneck Bridge area where extreme caution is strongly recommended. Enjoy up to six miles of thrilling whitewater rafting action especially in the spring and fall on Slippery Rock Creek with its Class II to IV rapids, depending on water level. Be aware of the mandatory portage around the dam at the historic gristmill. The park’s 11 miles of hiking trails are perfect for advanced and highly experienced hikers to test and perfect their skills with steep to very steep terrain, large changes in elevation, and rocky terrain with huge boulders to navigate over and around left from past glacier activity of eons ago. Along with all the adrenaline-pumping action, you’ll be treated to some spectacular scenery whatever sport or activity you choose at this National Natural Landmark!

Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Nestled within the 85,500-acre Michaux State Forest and the midway point on the 2,000-mile-long Appalachian Trail, the nearly 700-acre Pine Grove Furnace State Park is known as a hotspot for hikers visiting southcentral PA. The park features four miles of hiking trails, two miles of rail trail, two lakes for swimming and fishing (boating and ice skating allowed in the much larger Laurel Lake), and plentiful terrain for wildlife watching and cross-country skiing.

Find all of the necessities for a picnic in the park at the on-site General Store, which is stocked with all of your picnic picks including ice cream and burgers. Stop in the Appalachian Trail Museum to learn more about this iconic eastern trail and be sure to check out the remnants of the ironworks that took place on this site dating back to the mid-1700s. You can even stay overnight in the two-story historic Paymaster’s Cabin that has been fully modernized. Alternatively, you can pitch a tent or park your RV at the campground with its modern facilities to make the most of your time at this PA state park.

Pine Creek Gorge and Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks

Almost 50 miles long and more than 1,500 feet deep in places, Pine Creek Gorge is often referred to as the “ Pennsylvania Grand Canyon ” featuring spectacular views, abundant wildlife, and beautiful foliage. You can explore the gorge with a truly up-close view of the canyon floor along the Pine Creek Rail Trail , the 62-mile multi-use recreational trail that runs the length of the gorge and popular with hikers, cyclists, and other outdoor recreation fans. This stunning outdoor attraction is roughly a 4-hour drive from New York City and 3.5 hours from Philadelphia, perfect for a mid-week or weekend PA Getaway with delightful restaurants and lodging in the quaint town of Wellsboro nearby.

Start your visit with a beautiful bird’s-eye views of the 47-mile-long canyon from stunning vistas at the two state parks on the canyon’s east and west rims. The views from Leonard Harrison State Park on the east rim are simply breathtaking, with the park considered one of the best places on the East Coast to enjoy fall’s vibrant colors. The park’s visitors center, gift shop, and viewing area offer insights and examples celebrating the region’s rich history.

Colton Point State Park on the west rim is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, resonating with the rustic charm of the 1930’s Civilian Conservation Corps and rugged overlooks providing great views of the canyon below. Adventurous climbers will want to check out the Turkey Path , an extremely challenging 1.5-mile hike down to the canyon floor with a 70-foot cascading waterfall less than a half-mile down.

Cook Forest State Park

With its 2,300 acres of old-growth forest featuring a veritable “Forest Cathedral” of towering white pine and hemlock trees with white and chestnut oak, black cherry, red maple, and cucumber trees scattered throughout, Cook Forest State Park is a must-visit destination. This National Natural Landmark is perfect for an outdoor PAGetaway with a variety of opportunities for open-air adventures – from water sports to hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching to many fun winter activities.

Water sport enthusiasts can enjoy a six-to-ten-mile kayaking or canoe trip down the Class I Clarion River, while fishing aficionados can attempt to reel in trout, panfish, and warmwater game fish. For those who prefer more land-based adventures, the park together with the adjacent Clarion River Lands (CRL) offers 55 miles of hiking trails ranging in difficulty from easy to super challenging with close to 30 additional miles of multi-use trails between the two areas. There’s a 13-mile bicycle route in the state park along its more lightly traveled roads including a portion of the Hefren Run Trail, while horseback riders will find 24 miles of trails with an additional small loop trail in the park. When conditions allow, the park is transformed into a veritable playground in winter with ice skating , sledding , and cross-country skiing fun. Be sure to check out the Sawmill Center for the Arts located in the park for a wide variety of hands-on activities and events throughout the year.

Cherry Springs State Park and Susquehannock State Forest

Coudersport

With its jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring view of the night sky, Cherry Springs State Park is one destination that should be on everyone’s PA bucket list. Located atop a 2,300-foot-high mountain with a 360-degree view of the night sky essentially free of light pollution, you can see the Milky Way and thousands upon thousands of stars with your naked eye - an experience like no other! Serious stargazers with equipment will find the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field ideal for night sky viewing with its concrete telescope pads, Wi-Fi, electricity provided, required registration, and strict rules and regulations. The Night Sky Public Viewing Area and the Rustic Campground are perfect for those who just want to spend a few hours gazing up at the stars, with several astronomy-related educational programs offered throughout year.

Explore the 265,000-acre Susquehannock State Forest that surrounds Cherry Springs State Park to extend your great outdoor PA getaway to the area. Featuring some of the most productive stands of black cherry trees in the world and lots of opportunities for outdoor fun, the forest boasts hundreds of miles of streams with native and stocked trout , miles upon miles of roads and trails for mountain biking , designated trails for ATV and snowmobile riding and cross-country skiing , hiking trails galore, plenty of places for camping , and chances to spot some outstanding wildlife .

Ricketts Glen State Park

Boasting 22 wild, free-flowing waterfalls cascading through rock-strewn clefts in the ancient hillside culminating with the absolutely stunning 94-foot Ganoga Falls, it’s easy to see why Rickett’s Glen State Park is one of the most popular state parks in PA. A National Natural Landmark, the park is an amazing place to spend a day in the great outdoors whether you’re visiting for the waterfalls or other fun outdoor experiences. Hardier hikers can opt to take the more challenging, rocky, and wet 7.2-mile-long Falls Trail for the full waterfall experience. If you’re limited in time or want a bit less challenging hike, you can still see most of the waterfalls by taking the 3.2-mile loop along the Highland Trail . Regardless of which trail you take, proper footwear is highly recommended.

While the waterfalls are Rickett’s Glen major draw, the park offers lots of other types of outdoor fun. The park has 26 miles of hiking trails in total where you can try to spot a variety of wildlife within the old growth timber and the park’s variety of habitats. The park is especially popular with birders who might spy bald eagles, up to 23 species of warblers, and other birds. The 245-acre Lake Jean with its beach and bathhouse is ideal for swimming , boating (with boat rentals available), and fishing . In winter when the waterfall trails are closed, park goers can enjoy cross-country skiing , snowmobiling , and ice fishing on Lake Jean when conditions allow.

Lehigh Gorge State Park

With stunning waterfalls, whitewater adventures, gorgeous scenery all along the Lehigh Gorge, and a fun rail trail to bike or hike, Lehigh Gorge State Park is a veritable playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with a bit of history thrown in. The Lehigh River is a key feature of the park, winding through the deep, steep-walled gorge lush with thick vegetation, rock outcroppings, and waterfalls. The river is a popular place for both trout fishing and whitewater rafting , especially during the periodic releases of water from the Francis E. Walter Dam, with its close to 20 sets of class II to III rapids.

Lush with rhododendrons, you can hike and bike along the 26-mile Lehigh Gorge Trail that borders the Lehigh River and feeds into the beautiful Buttermilk Falls, with opportunities to see wildlife and historic remnants of the Upper Grand Section of the Lehigh Canal. You can even stand inside Lock 22 of the Lehigh Canal for a blast from the past! In winter months, enjoy cross-country skiing all along the Lehigh Gorge Trail and snowmobiling on the 15-mile section of the trail from White Haven to Penn Haven Junction, when conditions allow.

Ohiopyle State Park

Perhaps best known as one of the best whitewater rafting on the East Coast, ., Ohiopyle State Park ‘s 20,500 acres of rugged natural beauty offer a rich and dynamic assortment of adventures and experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all stripes. The rushing waters of the Youghiogheny, affectionately called “The Yough” [pronounced “yawk” by those in the know], and its river gorge pass through the heart of the park. Whether cooling off in the river’s natural waterslides or engaging in a wild, heart-pumping whitewater rafting adventure with class I to IV rapids, the Yough does not disappoint!

When not on the water, you can hike along the park’s nearly 80 miles of trails ranging from short day hikes to challenging overnight backpacking excursions that take you through the region’s spectacular scenery complete with waterfalls, ridges, ravines, and, as a designated “Important Mammal Area” and “Important Bird Area,” the chance to spy some amazing wildlife . The Yougiogheny River Trail is another key feature of the park. As part of the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage, the trail is really popular with bike riders , joggers, and cross-country skiers in winter. Fishing , mountain biking , horseback riding , rock climbing , and sledding and snowmobiling in winter when conditions allow round out the activities to enjoy at this storied park.

Presque Isle State Park

Whether you travel to Presque Isle State Park to enjoy the park’s pristine sandy beaches , study-its unique and ever-changing ecological diversity, visit the lighthouses , or learn about the peninsula’s historical significance, it’s easy to see why the park reigns as the most visited park in PA. While the peninsula is a designated National Natural Landmark, the 65,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, silver-LEED-certified Tom Ridge Environmental Center serves as the gateway to Presque Isle and to discovery.

Surrounded by water on three sides, water-based activities are clearly a major draw with swimming, surfing (yes, surfing!) off the lake-side beaches, fishing in Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay, and boating with moors available at the Marina and canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, and small motorboats available for rent from Presque Isle Canoe and Boat Livery. Wildlife watching is also popular, especially for birders with the opportunity to spy 339 different species due to the park’s unique spot along the “Atlantic Flyway.” You can hike and bike along the park’s trails, many of them deemed “easiest hiking” with the 13.5-mile, ADA-Accessible Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail extremely popular with bike riders, joggers, and in-line skaters.

Elk Country Visitor Center in Elk State Forest

Nestled in the heart of Elk State Forest, you’ll find the Elk Country Visitor Center . Here you’ll find a state-of-the-art facility where you can learn all about Pennsylvania’s storied elk herd through a variety of interactive exhibits, including its 4-D theater that takes you along a four-season journey through the eyes of an elk. The center features 245 acres of prime, well-managed forage areas that are optimal for elk viewing, including three easily accessible trails. . A fun way to tour the viewing grounds of these magnificent animals is with a 45-mimute guided tour aboard a covered wagon, ideal for elk viewing and learning a bit about the conservation efforts that led to the restoration of PA’s elk herd.

While elk viewing amidst the area’s amazing scenery is by far the main draw of the visitor center and Elk State Forest , the forest offers lots of other outdoor adventures including some first-class trout fishing along 120 miles of trout streams with names such as Hicks Run, Hunts Run, Brooks Run, and Cowley Run. You’ll also find 17 hiking trails in the forest of varying lengths, some as long as 34 miles and others that are less than two miles long. Mountain biking is allowed on most of the forest’s roads, but prohibited on the hiking trails and certain areas so be sure to check before you start pedaling. The Thunder Mountain Equestrian Trail system features 53 miles of designated horseback riding trails and roads.

Forbes State Forest

Laughlintown

Here’s your chance to literally tower over every resident of Pennsylvania with a trip to Forbes State Forest where you’ll find Mount Davis, at 3,213 feet the highest point in all of PA. You don’t even need sturdy hiking boots to reach the pinnacle of Mount Davis since you can drive up to a parking lot with the actual highest point just steps away. Be sure to climb the High Point Observation Tower for outstanding 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

For those who want more challenging outdoor adventures, Forbes State Forest offers plenty of those. The forest boasts more than 100 hiking trails covering more than 250 miles of terrain, with the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail running through the forest’s entire 70-mile length between Ohiopyle and Johnstown. Many of the forest’s trails and roads are open for horseback riding and mountain biking with the exception of the forest’s designated Natural Areas and the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Cold-water fishing is popular along several creeks that run through the forest, including Blue Hole Creek, Jones Mill Run, Mill Run, Quebec Run, Linn Run, Roaring Run, Camp Run, Laurel Hill Creek, and Indian Creek. In winter when conditions allow, there are close to 120 miles of groomed state forest roads and trails for snowmobiling , with cross country skiing and snowshoeing ideal along the forest’s blue-blazed trails.

Washington Crossing State Park

Washington Crossing

Along the banks of the Delaware River in Bucks County lies Washington Crossing Historic Park , the embarkation site of General George Washington’s and his troops’ famed crossing of the Delaware River. On December 25, 1776, in the dead of night General George Washington led his soldiers across the Delaware River in perilous, freezing and icy conditions that resulted in the Continental Army’s first battle win. Experience the sights and sounds of this legendary event as hundreds of reenactors in Continental military dress bring history to life each December with a live reenactment of Washington’s crossing .

The park contains restored 18th century buildings and homes , Revolutionary War gravesites , and the 125-foot-tall Bowman’s Hill Tower with its spectacular views of the Delaware River and surrounding countryside. Washington Crossing Historic Park also features several pathways where you can walk, bike, or cross-country ski when conditions allow. You can also launch a non-motorized kayak or canoe into the Delaware River from the park, or simply enjoy fishing along the river’s banks. Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve is located nearby, conserving and showcasing the beauty of Pennsylvania’s native plants.

Delaware Canal State Park

Upper Black Eddy

Delaware Canal State Park preserves a key piece of Pennsylvania’s, and the nation’s, industrial history, along with offering an ideal day in PA’s great outdoors during your getaway. The key feature of the park is the nearly 60-mile Delaware Canal and accompanying towpath that for decades was a crucial transportation link to move anthracite coal mined in northeastern PA to cities on the eastern seaboard. Today, the canal is “the only remaining continuously intact canal of the great towpath canal-building era in the early and mid-19 th century” and a designated National Historic Landmark.

Recognizing both its historical importance and as a place to fully enjoy the outdoors, the Delaware Canal State Park Towpath was named Pennsylvania’s 2022 Trail of the Year . The park features a 90-acre pond, miles of river shoreline, and 11 river islands in addition to the canal and towpath. The towpath alone attracts walkers, joggers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers, and bird watchers, while its access to the Delaware River provides for some great fishing and boating opportunities. Kayaking and canoeing are popular in the canal, on the Delaware River, and at the Giving Pond Recreation Area.

Looking for more outdoor adventure in Pennsylvania? Check out the VISIT PA website. Follow us on Facebook , X , Pinterest , YouTube , and Instagram to stay up-to-date on even more great ideas and places to visit around our state. Don’t forget to sign up for our monthly PA travel e-newsletter so you never miss an update!

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AAA: Independence Day travel to create busy roads; airports will be 'packed' with people

As communities prepare to celebrate Independence Day with their friends and families, they may want to plan for some extra time for travel as a record number of people head out for the holidays this year.

In their most recent travel predictions, AAA is projecting that over 70 million people will travel 50 miles or more from their home between Saturday, June 29, to Sunday, July 7. While previous years' data has only focused on the holiday weekend, changing travel demands across the United States are showing that people are traveling as early as the weekend before the holiday to maximize their vacations.

“Americans are embracing the opportunity to travel over the Independence Day holiday in record-breaking numbers,” said Bevi Powell, senior vice president of AAA East Central. “Whether by car, plane or train, we are seeing more people planning extended trips over the holiday to celebrate with family and friends.”

Car travel: expect higher than usual traffic, practice safety

As families travel for fireworks and other festivities, travel forecasts estimate that over 60 million people will be traveling by car throughout the week, creating plenty of traffic for communities across the United States.

In the Mid-Atlantic Region of their forecast, experts at AAA East Central are calling for over 8 million motorists to fill the roads in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. With lower gas prices than last year, experts say that more families are willing to pack up their cars for long trips to destinations across the United States, taking in the sights along major highways.

Not everyone will be driving their personal cars, though. According to early data from Hertz, car rentals are in high demand, especially in cities such as Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Pick ups for car rentals are expected to be busiest on June 28, June 29 and again on July 3.

With the influx of vehicles, traffic will have several points throughout the week where travel is difficult. For metro areas, traffic is expected to be the worst before the holiday and on Independence Day, especially as families travel for their afternoon plans during rush hour traffic.

"Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”

According to travel data from INRIX, the traffic forecast is as follows:

• Minimal traffic impact expected
• Worst travel time: 2 to 6 p.m.
• Best travel time: After 7 p.m.
• Worst travel time: 2 to 7 p.m.
• Best travel time: Before Noon
• Worst travel time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Best travel time: Before 10 a.m.
• Worst travel time: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Worst travel time: 2 to 8 p.m.
• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m.
• Worst travel time: 1 to 5 p.m.

When embarking on these planned road trips, experts recommend that families double-check their car seats are installed correctly for their younger passengers and that all items are safely secured in the car so they do not go flying during sudden stops. Families should plan for the unexpected by considering snacks, drinks, blankets, jumper cables, road flares and a first aid kit. Planning out the route with several stops can also be a big benefit.

Families should also bring entertainment, especially for younger children. Toys, books and electronics should be packed within reach to make the travel experience easier for everyone. For tablets and other electronics, make sure that everything is downloaded and fully charged to avoid any disappointment when on the road without a signal.

Air travel: packed airports are expected during lower airfare this travel season, domestic and international destinations to be busy

While there is a growing number of alternative travel options, which have seemingly grown in popularity in recent years, the ease of airplane travel still dominates the other half of travel.

Experts forecast that over 5 million Americans will take to the skies throughout the week, with packed airports throughout the country for Independence Day travel. Over 911,000 of those air travelers will be departing from the Mid-Atlantic Region, with experts pointing to a 2% cheaper airfare this year leading to surges in travelers.

The forecast reflects local trends at the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), which is reporting that several airlines will break travel records at the airport during July. On its Blue Sky News website , the airport reported having the busiest May travel season in 17 years, with 18,255 passengers departing PIT on Memorial Day. During that holiday weekend, the airport also reported TSA agents around the country screened more than 2.95 million travelers, breaking the single-day record set on Thanksgiving.

The average domestic roundtrip ticket is currently averaging around $800 for holiday travel, with some popular destinations including Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami. International travel is slightly more expensive depending on where travelers are headed, but popular destinations include Vancouver, London, Rome, Dublin and Paris.