You can’t talk about American history without including Pennsylvania. The Keystone State is where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were adopted, and Philadelphia is packed with historical landmarks. But, that’s just one side of this state. While Philly and Pittsburgh serve up urban buzz, world-class museums, and popular sports teams, there are plenty of outdoorsy things to do in Pennsylvania, too, from visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Fallingwater” and skiing the Pocono Mountains to leaf-peeping along the shores of Lake Erie. For history buffs, Gettysburg National Military Park is unmissable.
Summer is the most popular time to visit Pennsylvania. From Fourth of July celebrations to the delights of baseball season to weather that makes a Poconos lake retreat especially inviting, the season offers many things to do in the Keystone State. But, if you'd rather bypass the crowds that come with the heat, aim for spring: the flowers in Longwood Gardens will be at their peak, while family-friendly attractions like Hersheypark theme park will be less hectic.
Pennsylvania’s two major hubs, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, are both served by international airports, by major Amtrak train stations (30th Street Station in the former, Union Station in the latter), by numerous bus lines, and by their own metropolitan transit systems. To get around the state, use mainline trains or bus services like Greyhound, which also link to smaller cities like Allentown, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Erie, and Scranton.
Pennsylvania is largely landlocked, and it’s easy to forget that the state’s northwest corner shares 77 miles (124 kilometers) of border with Lake Erie. To experience for yourself the charm of this Great Lake, head to the city of Erie, where you can explore Presque Isle State Park and experience the only surf swimming within the state. Afterward, enjoy waterfront views from the Bicentennial Tower.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 97 | Tours 354 | Reviews 22,982 |
Yes, there are lots of fun things to do in Pennsylvania. Major hubs like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offer historical landmarks, world-class museums and restaurants, and big-name sports teams. Hersheypark is popular with families, while outdoorsy destinations like the Pocono Mountains and the Lake Erie waterfront offer plenty of recreational activities.
...MorePhiladelphia’s Independence National Historical Park—home to historic icons such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall—is Pennsylvania’s most-visited tourist destination. But it’s not the only thing to do in Philadelphia. Other highlights include Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia Museum of Art (and its Rocky statue), and Rittenhouse Square shopping district.
...MorePennsylvania is known for its history. The state was one of the original 13 colonies, and Philadelphia was an early national capital. It’s known for its Civil War heritage (including the Gettysburg National Military Park), for cultural destinations like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and for its sports teams.
...MorePennsylvania boasts many scenic spots, from Allegheny National Forest and Pocono Mountains to the Appalachian Trail. Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Fallingwater is in southwestern Pennsylvania, while the Pine Creek Gorge (known as the PA Grand Canyon), part of Tioga State Forest, is located in the northern part of the state.
...MoreYes, Pennsylvania is worth visiting, no matter what kind of traveler you are. Those interested in history and culture should visit Philadelphia, while sports fans can get their jollies in Philly and Pittsburgh. Shoppers can head to the enormous King of Prussia Mall, and nature lovers should visit the Poconos.
...MoreThere are so many things unique to the Keystone State, from Philadelphia and its historical landmarks —including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Philadelphia Museum of Art—to Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Fallingwater. There are the sweet delights of Hershey’s Chocolate World to Amish history and culture in Lancaster County.
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