As a member of the original 13 colonies of the United States, Pennsylvania has a long and fascinating history, which can be discovered in any of its cities or townships, including Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Pittsburgh. The scenery is wonderful throughout much of the state, with key places to visit including the Pocono Mountains and the Allegheny National Forest; ample opportunities to hike, bike, ski and partake in water sports exists in these outdoor areas. Satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting Hershey, the hometown of all things Hershey’s Chocolate. If you’d like to visit the Keystone State, be sure to read on for ideas on the best places to go on vacation in Pennsylvania.
1. Get your fill of brotherly love in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city steeped in history, leaving you no shortage of things to see and do while visiting. Check out the Liberty Bell and learn its full history then visit Independence Hall, where you can see the very room where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. Take a break from history and immerse yourself into the world of art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art before stopping in at a local restaurant and devouring a local favorite, the Philly Cheesesteak.
Liberty Bell
Address: 143 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: Liberty Bell
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
2. Visit Bethlehem in Lehigh Valley
Originally settled in 1741, Bethlehem began life as a Moravian settlement and has since become the economic heart of Lehigh Valley. There are several places of interest in Bethlehem, including the National Museum of Industrial History, Steelstacks, and the Banana Factory Arts and Education Center. Lost River Caverns offer visitors tours of the underground caves and a gem mill while Burnside Plantation sits on a 6.5 acre (2.6 hectares) property that features living history exhibits from the 1700s & 1800s.
National Museum of Industrial History
Address: 602 E 2nd St, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Website: National Museum of Industrial History
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (Closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 12 USD
3. Hang out in Lancaster
Lancaster is one of the country’s oldest inland cities and has a wealth of attractions to offer its guests. Take in the Lancaster Central Market, where you can find locally produced cheeses and meats in addition to traditional Amish and Asian snacks. Explore the North Museum of Nature and Science before taking a ride on one of the roller coasters at the Dutch Wonderland amusement park.
North Museum of Nature and Science
Address: 400 College Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603
Website: North Museum of Nature and Science
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 13 USD
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4. Indulge in some chocolate in Hershey
Surely you’ve heard of Hershey’s chocolates? Come visit the home of the well-known candy, you’re sure to have a sweet time! Hershey, PA is home to Hershey’s Chocolate World, where you can take a chocolate tour and watch cocoa beans become the treat you know and love. Nearby is Hersheypark, an amusement park that features over 10 roller coasters and many other rides and attractions, as well as Hershey Gardens and ZooAmerica.
Hershey's Chocolate World
Address: 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033
Website: Hershey’s Chocolate World
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 6pm; Fri & Sun: 9am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 11pm
Price: 15 USD onwards
5. Explore wonderful Pittsburgh
Situated at the juncture of three rivers, Pittsburgh is a hot spot of things to do. You’ll want to check out the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens as well as the Andy Warhol Museum. No visit to Pittsburgh would be complete without visiting the Carnegie museum system, which includes the Carnegie Science Center, Museum of Natural History and Museum of Art.
Carnegie Museum of Art
Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Website: Carnegie Museum of Art
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10am - 5pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 19.95 USD
6. Enjoy the beauty of Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe has a history of being a picturesque vacation town, and there is definitely a reason behind it. The town is surrounded by the scenic Pocono Mountains and has plenty of restaurants, shops and wine tastings you can partake in. Outdoor adventures are plentiful as well, with white water rafting, biking and horseback riding available to visitors.
Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center
Address: 41 W Broadway, Jim Thorpe PA 18229
Website: Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center
Opening hours: 11am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 7.50 USD
7. Reconnect with nature in Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap is a National Recreation Area located along the Delaware River where it separates Pennsylvania and New Jersey. With a total of 66,741 acres (27,009 hectares) worth of unspoiled land to explore, your list of options is lengthy. Enjoy a hike along any of the numerous trails where you may stumble upon a beautiful waterfall. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are also available to visitors of the recreation area.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Address: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324
Website: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Opening hours: 24/7
8. Visit the beautiful stretch of the Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains cover approximately 2,400 square miles (6,215 square km) in northeastern Pennsylvania and is a great place to visit no matter what the time of year. Warmer summer months offer visitors plenty of water sports, hiking and fishing while winter brings wonderful skiing opportunities. There are also many tours you can take to see the area, including air, boat and sidecar tours.
Blue Mountain Resort
Address: 1660 Blue Mountain Dr, Palmerton, PA 18071, USA
Website: Blue Mountain Resort
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
9. Escape to the Allegheny National Forest
Located in northwest Pennsylvania, Allegheny National Forest covers a total of 513,175 acres (207,674 hectares) and has recreations for everyone. Visit the Kinzua Sky Walk, which is an elevated footbridge that extends 624 feet (190 meters) over the Kinzua Gorge, offering visitors spectacular views. Other activities include ATV trails, camping, boating, and hiking.
Kinzua Sky Walk
Address: 296 Viaduct Road, Mt Jewett, PA 16740
Website: Kinzua Sky Walk
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
10. Stroll through Pennsylvania's capital, Harrisburg
The state capital of Pennsylvania sits along the banks of the Susquehanna River and boasts a skyline that’s the focal center is the Capitol’s dome. Any visitors interested in history will love visiting the National Civil War Museum, while those interested in science or the arts should check out Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts. Beer enthusiasts will want to stop by the Appalachian Brewing Company, which is one of the largest microbreweries in the country.
National Civil War Museum
Address: One Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Website: National Civil War Museum
Opening hours: Mon & Tue, Thu - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Wed: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm
Price: 13 USD
Take time to visit the Keystone State
With nearly limitless possibilities for a fantastic vacation, Pennsylvania is a state that may not come to mind immediately, but it should! In a place where those fascinated with history or enamored with exploring the great outdoors can all be satisfied, you know you have a winning destination. Plan on visiting Pennsylvania soon!
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