Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania: Complete Travel Guide

Pennsylvania is a beautiful place and a state of America associated with its long history. It was one of the oldest colonies in America, which became a state of America, and has many revolutionary marks. It is also rich in culture, has attractive places to travel, and has multiple iconic historical sites to visit. This is the place where you not only visit some specific sites, but also find yourself slowing down, soaking in the history, and connecting with the character of each place. You don’t need to explore all the places to visit in Pennsylvania at once as each place tells you some stories, has its own personality, and has something unique. So, you just need to know what you want to do and what the features of the place you will visit are.

In this article, we will find out why people should visit here, what places to visit, and what activities they can do here. We will also give some tips about the best time to visit, things to do, and the best places to visit in Pennsylvania.

Note: Planning a group trip to Pennsylvania? BUSXOXO offers charter bus rentals in Pennsylvania, perfect for school field trips to Gettysburg, corporate outings in Philadelphia, and group transportation in Amish Country.

Why Visit Pennsylvania?

You need to know some attractive places to visit in Pennsylvania or activities you want to do at a new place before visiting there. So, before making any decision, you should read and know the following things we have mentioned:

• Iconic History: There are many sites you can visit that represent Pennsylvania’s history, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Philadelphia, often called the birthplace of the nation, still has its historic cobblestone streets intact in the Old City neighborhood.
• World-Class Museums: You can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and also some standalone points like the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh.
• Amish Country:  This is an old rural settlement. Here, the Amish live in a plain and simple style without using any modern technology. You should surely visit this place. You can enjoy the famous horse-drawn buggies, handcrafted quilts, and homestyle dining.
• Thrilling Rides: If you are traveling with your family. Then we will suggest visiting the most popular family amusement park, Hersheypark, to satisfy your adventurous side.
• Scenic Nature: Here, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the Pocono Mountains and also explore more than 120 free parks all over the state.
• Culinary Delights: You can enjoy the world-famous Philly cheesesteaks and fresh produce here at Reading Terminal Market.

Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

You can visit many Pennsylvania tourist attractions and Iconic sites in Pennsylvania with your family, partner, and friends. Here are the top places to travel in Pennsylvania and enjoy:

Historic Philadelphia

If you love to know about the American Revolutionary War history of Independence, then you must visit here. There is an Independence Hall, and here you can stand in the exact room where the Declaration of Independence was signed. You can also look closely at the iconic Liberty Bell, which is just across the lawn. You can also explore the cobblestone streets of the old city, experience and view 18th century architecture, museums, and the renowned Reading Terminal Market. Here, you can also taste the diverse local and Amish foods, which have been served since 1893.

Gettysburg National Military Park

You can see here the historic battlefield of the Civil War which was fought in July 1863. That’s why these are unique places to visit in Pennsylvania. There are more than 1300 monuments, memorials, and markers that you can see on self-guided tours. The tragedy and the historical importance of this battle can draw your attention if you have an interest in the haunted story of this area and even ghosts walk through the battlefield.

Hersheypark

You should know some fun facts about this park. Originally, this park was created in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey for his chocolate workers as a picnic spot. Over time, this park evolved into a world-class theme park of 121 acres. In this park, you can see and experience more than a dozen world-class roller coasters, a full boardwalk water park, and a wildlife park called ZooAmerica. Outside the gates, there is Hershey’s Chocolate World. Where you can create your own candies, and also you can take free chocolate-making tours.

Amish Country

If you want peace and escape from today’s modern technological world, then you should visit here. This is a very old settlement in America which gives you a glimpse of peace, a simple and old lifestyle without using any modern technology. You can drive buggies drawn by horses, shop for traditional handicrafts, and purchase hand-stitched quilts. This area is also famous for the Strasburg Rail Road, in which you can ride real steam trains that cross through the beautiful village.

Fallingwater and The Laurel Highlands

Did you know that Fallingwater is widely considered a masterpiece of American architecture which was designed in 1935 by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright? This is built just upon the mountain waterfall, in which the indoor living space of the home seamlessly connects with natural rock and forest. This is located in the Laurel Highlands area. Here, the mountain is uneven and famous for outdoor activities. You can hike here or go for whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River.

Quick Reference Table: Attractions, Location, and Entry Fee

Note: Prices and hours are approximate and subject to change. Verify current details on each attraction’s official website before visiting. 

Things to do in Pennsylvania

There are many things to do that you can enjoy and many places to visit in Pennsylvania for different activities. Several things to do in Pennsylvania are given below for you:

History and Culture

There are various historical sites in Pennsylvania, and different cultures are found here. The top activities:

Independence National Historical Park

In American history, Independence National Historical Park is considered the most significant part in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. You can explore here by booking tickets for Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. This is also called the Birthplace of American Democracy, as the Declaration of Independence was signed here. The U.S. Constitution was also debated and adopted here, making Independence National Historical Park the literal birthplace of American democratic government.

Museum of the American Revolution

The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia brings the story of America’s founding conflict to life through immersive exhibitions, rare artifacts, and multimedia displays. Highlights include General George Washington’s actual campaign tent, used as his military headquarters throughout the war, along with a remarkable collection of Revolutionary-era weapons, documents, personal items, and artwork spanning the period from 1765 to 1800.

Gettysburg National Military Park

You have to dive into the history of the Civil War with a 2-hour bus tour of Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History. You should also visit the museum and Visitor Center to explore the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War. Here, you can see the rare artifacts, watch the engaging film “A New Birth of Freedom”, and experience extremely large and great paintings. Anyone who has an interest in the history of building a nation can travel here and experience the history and understood them.

Pittsburgh’s Cultural District

The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in the United States dedicated to a single artist, housing the world’s most comprehensive collection of Warhol’s work and archival materials. It has the largest collection of Warhol and archival materials. In the Senator John Heinz Center, you can learn about the rich industrial past of this region. Here you can find art galleries, renowned theaters, music venues and spaces for the public which host cultural events and performances throughout the year.

The SteelStacks

This is a massive 10-acre campus in Bethlehem. Here you can see arts, culture, events, community celebration, education and fun. This is a place where you can observe that the industrial power of the past meets vibrant creative energy. The Steelstacks campus is proof of how any community can be able to honor its industrial past. While still embracing the future filled with culture, music, and art.

Family Fun And Entertainment

Pennsylvania is one of the best destinations for family fun and entertainment. Some of the entertainment and family things to do in Pennsylvania are:

Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World

This is known as the sweetest place on Earth. This park is full of world class roller coasters and family attractions. If you want to experience a peaceful, simple and modern technology-free life, then you should visit Lancaster County. This is one of the unique places to visit in Pennsylvania and the best things to do.

Dutch Wonderland

It is specifically designed for young children also known as a “Kingdom of Kids” and is located in Lancaster. It offers approximately 35 rides, exciting attractions, entertainment, and play areas suitable for all ages. You can visit this amusement park for more family involvement. It also offers you gentle coasters, water play, and storybook-themed live shows. You can experience its welcoming atmosphere and clean facilities. This makes it a top destination in Pennsylvania for families and tourists who come with children.

Knoebels Resort

You can visit America’s largest free admission amusement park, where you pay per ride only. You can also enjoy the classic roller coasters made of wood, a water park, and family-friendly carnival treats. This is America’s oldest family-owned amusement park and the favorite destination for all ages. You can also enjoy their picnic grove, scenic walking areas and traditional foods. Knoebel’s Amusement Park also offers a memorable experience for families, couples, and adventure seekers.

Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom

You can enjoy more than 100 rides here which will include Planet Snoopy for younger children. The older people who are seeking thrills can ride a record-breaking coaster. People can experience and enjoy the thrilling roller coaster, family-friendly rides, live entertainment, and the best attractions designed for children. You can stop here for a memorable Pennsylvania vacation for a full day of adventure for families, groups, and thrill seekers.

Philadelphia Zoo

If you want to explore America’s first zoo, then you should visit this zoo. You can see its features like incredible wildlife and the innovative Zoo360 trail system. Here, big cats and primates can roam over netting pathways. It has nearly 1900 animals with a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and endangered species, which are protected here.

Nature and Outdoors

There are lots of things to do in Pennsylvania that you can enjoy and experience. Such things are:

Pine Creek Gorge

It is one of the state’s most beautiful natural attractions, which is also called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. Here, you can hike the rugged West Rim Trail, or you can bike the 62-mile-long Pine Creek Rail Trail of flat-packed gravel along the canyon floor. You can enjoy hiking, biking, watching wildlife, fishing, kayaking, and camping here.

Great Allegheny Passage

You can see a continuous 150-mile trail through Cumberland, Maryland, to Downtown Pittsburgh. This would be great for your long bike rides or for the short scenic hike.

Water adventure

You can visit the Laurel Highlands area. Here you can see the famous Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob. After that, you can go for whitewater rafting at Ohiopyle State Park. Ricketts Glen State Park is renowned for its Falls Trail, a 7-mile loop past 22 named waterfalls, the tallest of which drops 94 feet. It’s one of the most spectacular waterfall hikes in the eastern United States

Cherry Springs State Park

In north central Pennsylvania, it is one of the best skywatching destinations you will ever see in the US. This is internationally certified as a Dark Sky place. Here, you can see one of the clearest, darkest night skies in eastern America. This would be perfect for your Milky Way viewing and astrophotography. 

Best Time to Visit in Pennsylvania

If you are planning a trip to Pennsylvania and don’t know which season would be perfect. Then you shouldn’t have to be confused.  The best time according to the season is given below for you:

Best Time for Sightseeing and City Tours

The best time for sightseeing and city tours is from April to May and from September to October.  At this time, you should visit cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. It will give you more comfortable walking weather and beautiful spring blooms. This will help you to avoid the humidity of peak summer and the icy wind of winter.

Best for the Colorful Leaves of Autumn and Harvest Festivals

The best time for this is from late September to October. You can visit here to celebrate the stunning autumn colors at this time. This is considered the peak leaf peeping season, mostly in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors and the Pocono Mountains. You must visit both of these places.

Best for Winter Sports

If you want to go skiing and snowboarding, then the best months would be from December to March. You can visit the Pocono Mountains for these sports, where you can stay in resorts like Camelback and Blue Mountain. You can also try Lancaster County, which offers less crowded places in winter.

Best for Summer Activities

The best time for summer activities is from June to August. This is considered the peak season for water activities. You can visit Presque Isle State Park in Erie to enjoy summer days.

Travel Tips to Visit Pennsylvania

Before travelling to Pennsylvania, you should follow some tips which can make your trips more enjoyable:

• Transportation and Logistics: When you are exploring Central and Northern PA, you should rent a car. While travelling to Philadelphia, you should use walking, rideshare, or local transit. If you are renting a car, then ask the agency about an E-ZPass transponder to avoid the high toll tax. But for groups of 10 or more, a charter bus is the most cost-effective and convenient option.
• Dining and Local Etiquette: There are many iconic foods you must try like Philly cheesesteak, Scrapple, Soft Pretzel, Dutch chicken pot pie or Shoofly pie in Lancaster. If you love to eat chocolates, then make a stop at Hershey’s Chocolate World. If you are visiting Amish Country and interacting with their communities, then always be respectful while taking photographs. It is suggested to be careful of buggies drawn by horses.
• Must Watch Highlights: If you want the panoramic view of Pittsburgh city, then you must ride the historic Duquesne Incline. Visit Philadelphia, and book your tickets for Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in advance.
• Packing: In Autumn and Spring, the weather fluctuates in a way that can’t be determined. So, pack layers of clothes and a pair of walking shoes, which are essential for exploring cities with cobblestone streets.

Conclusion

The USA is a very big Country and also has lots of attractive places to visit in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is one of the iconic states of America that one should visit. You can enjoy the historic sites like Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell which are connected to the Revolutionary War of the USA. We already showed you how to make your trip enjoyable and easy to explore in a specific season and also many things to do there. Now, we hope you will start to make a beautiful plan for Pennsylvania.