When you consider all of the hubbub and sights to see all along the East Coast of the United States, Pennsylvania may not seem like it has much to offer. Sure, it’s home to metropolises like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, but outside of those it’s mostly just farmland and Amish country, right? Well, that’s where you’re mistaken. Tucked within those 46,055 square miles are countless adventures to be had and sights to unfurl, both within the big cities and in the middle of nowhere. Take a look at some of the best travel destinations you can find within Pennsylvania’s cities and rural areas, and start planning a trip to one of them today!
Cities:
Philadelphia
Independence Hall
- If you want to witness an iconic piece of American history, look no further than Independence Hall. Not only does this building currently house the original Liberty Bell, in 1787 Independence Hall was where the United States Constitution was signed. You can view artifacts and pieces of American culture in this historic hall.
Citizen’s Bank Park
- Planning to visit Philadelphia between April and October? Why not consider catching a game at Citizen’s Bank Park to see the Philadelphia Phillies play baseball. The games are always fun, and the
Lincoln Financial Field
- If you have a couple hundred bucks lying around and you’re a football fanatic, your next trip to Philadelphia should include plans to see the Eagles play a game on their home turf.
The Mütter Museum
- This stop might not be one for the kids; the Mütter Museum is a collection of medical marvels and anomalies throughout time, most of which are equal parts horrifying and fascinating. Visitors can gaze upon exhibits like Einstein’s brain and John Wilkes Booth’s vertebrae in this collection of medical history.
Reading Terminal Market
- Located downtown, this indoor public market hosts more than a hundred vendors offering everything from local produce and fresh seafood to flowers and housewares – although the food is the biggest selling point. Stop by for lunch or take a few hours to explore it in its entirety.
Pittsburgh
Heinz Field
- You can’t talk about Pittsburgh without talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pennsylvania’s other NFL team. If you’re planning on visiting Pittsburgh and you’re a fan of the Steelers, this stop is likely already on your list.
The Andy Warhol Museum
- American artist Andy Warhol was a leading force in the pop art movement in the United States, and this museum is a curation of his greatest works. It boasts a collection of “900 paintings, 100 sculptures, almost 2,000 works on paper, 1,000 prints, and 4,000 photographs.” Fans of his works will enjoy seeing them in person.
PPG Paints Arena
- Yet another sports venue, the PPG Paints Arena is home to the Pittsburgh Penguins, one of Pennsylvania’s two professional ice hockey teams. The team was founded in 1967, and holds 4 Stanley Cup victories: 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016.
Gettysburg
Battlefields
- Civil War buffs will have likely already visited this area, site of the largest, bloodiest battle of the American Civil War. Even though it lasted only three days, nearly 10,000 soldiers were killed and another 30,000 were injured during that time. Due to the number of casualties caused in such a small area, Gettysburg has also become famous as a hotbed for paranormal activity. There have been enough sightings over the years for some ghosts to have become iconic.
Monuments
- Woven into the history of the battlefields, Gettysburg is also home to numerous monuments and landmarks scattered around the surrounding area. There are statues and monuments constructed to honor numerous states and individuals, as well as historic landmarks like Devil’s Den or The Copse of Trees.
Lancaster
Lancaster City
- Dubbed by some as the next Brooklyn, this small city nestled inside its eponymous county is packed full of art, music, and history. Lancaster is the oldest inland city in America, founded in 1729, and served briefly as the capital city of Pennsylvania from 1799 to 1813. Now, it is home to numerous art galleries, local music venue The Chameleon Club, and more varieties of cuisine than you can count, including Ethiopian, Vietnamese, Mediterranean, Puerto Rican, and more.
Lancaster County
- Venture into a world where it seems as though time stands still by visiting “Amish Country” in the heart of Lancaster County. Visit one of the countless farmer’s markets, vegetable stands, or fruit stalls during the summer, and check out the amazing homemade quilts to keep you warm on the coldest winter nights. Chances are you’ll drive right by a number of horses and buggies as they make their way down the streets.
Hershey
Hersheypark
- For a day packed with thrills and chills, Hersheypark is your one-stop shop. The park is home to 13 different roller coasters; the Storm Runner is a hydraulic powered coaster that goes from 0 mph to 72 mph in just 2 seconds and Fahrenheit has a 97 degree drop that actually doubles back under itself, just to give you an idea. Hersheypark is also home to the Boardwalk, a water park within the amusement park that’s included in the price of admission and features numerous slides, rides, and aquatic jungle gyms.
Hershey’s Chocolate World
- Chances are that at some point in your life you’ve eaten (or at least seen) Hershey’s chocolate. See where it was born with a trip to the sweetest place on earth: Hershey’s Chocolate World. You can meet the candy mascots, design your own candy bar, and take a tour to see how Hershey’s produces all of its delicious candy. As a bonus, you get a free candy bar after the ride.
Other Attractions:
Fallingwater
- Also known as the Kaufmann Residence, this architectural marvel was made possible by the most famous architect in America: Frank Lloyd Wright. Fallingwater is built overtop of a waterfall and took three years to complete. The building is now a National Historic Landmark, revered for its unique placement and aesthetic.
Pennsylvania Grand Canyon
- Located in the middle of the Tioga State Forest, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is officially known as the Pine Creek Gorge. It runs for 45 miles along the Allegheny Plateau throughout Northern Pennsylvania with depths reaching up to 1,500 feet.
Knoebels Amusement Resort
- If you ever find yourself in the area between Harrisburg and Williamsport, chances are that you’re not too far from the country’s largest free admission amusement park: Knoebels. Opened in 1926, this little treasure found in Elysburg, PA is equal parts park and campground, with people flocking from all over the country to take advantage of the free admission. Park-goers must acquire tickets or an all-day handstamp to ride the rides.