Pennsylvania, renowned for its farms and fields, unveils a captivating vacation haven. Among its treasures are two of the most populous U.S. cities, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Yet, beyond these bustling metropolises lie a myriad of enchanting towns, historical landmarks, and breathtaking state parks that promise to amaze.
Amazing Places to Visit in Pennsylvania
Positioned in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions, Pennsylvania beckons to those seeking a diverse tapestry of cultures and locales. Bordering states like New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, and Ohio, Pennsylvania’s western boundary hugs the state of Ohio, while its eastern edge meets Lake Erie. Delve into our guide to the Amazing Places to Visit in Pennsylvania and uncover the exceptional destinations defining this multifaceted state.
As one of the original Thirteen Colonies, Pennsylvania is home to several cities and towns with historic sites and cultural relics dating back centuries. Philadelphia, the city with the most residents, is where visitors can see the original US Constitution, the Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh is famous for its rich industrial history and impressive downtown cityscape.
Gettysburg, the Civil War battlefield, and Valley Forge National Historical Park, which highlights notable people and events from the American War for Independence, are both well worth a visit. Lancaster, the state capital, and the surrounding Amish farms and fields are also great destinations, as are the picturesque seaside towns and cities along Lake Erie.
For those who love nature, Pennsylvania has no shortage of state parks and natural attractions. Raccoon Creek and Ricketts Glen are popular choices, as is the stunning Delaware Water Gap. Visitors can also explore subterranean caverns and rock formations at Indian Echo Caverns or marvel at Bushkill Falls, known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.”
Pennsylvania is often referred to as the Keystone State or the Quaker State and is a land of contrasts. Urban centers and rural areas, traditional Amish communities, and Great Lakes beaches make it a varied and fascinating destination. While Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are excellent choices, visitors should not overlook Pennsylvania’s other fantastic attractions.
Amazing Places to Visit in Pennsylvania: Hickory Run State Park
beautiful waterfall in Hickory Run State Park, Pennsylvania. Image source: MH Anderson Photography/Shutterstock.com
Hickory Run State Park is located in the Pocono Mountains in eastern Pennsylvania. There are about 40 miles of beautiful hiking paths in this massive park in Carbon County. Some of the paths may be used for both hiking and cross-country skiing during the winter months.
During the warmer months, visitors may lounge on the sandy beach at Sand Spring Lake. The boulder field at the state park is an attraction in and of itself. After glaciers melted, they left behind a field that is older than twenty thousand years. Explore the unique and beautiful Boulder Field Trail as you hop from boulder to boulder.
9. Ohiopyle State Park
Cucumber Falls is in Ohiopyle State Park, Pennsylvania. Image source: Kenneth Keifer/Shutterstock.com
There is a tiny but beautiful park called Ohiopyle State Park on the banks of the Youghiogheny River. One of the main attractions of this state park is the river. The river and fun activities like whitewater rafting are easily accessible from the park.
On a guided excursion, you may experience the thrilling rapids of the Lower Yough, a section of the Youghiogheny River that spans seven miles. The most well-known waterfall in Ohiopyle State Park is Cucumber Falls, although the park has several more to choose from. Bring your camera to the Great Gorge Trail to capture the stunning bridal waterfall that drops 30 feet (10 metres) down into a deep gorge.
8. Delaware Water Gap
Dingmans Creek in Child Park, Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania. Image source: Breck P. Kent/Shutterstock.com
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is located in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The Delaware Water Gap spans the width of the Delaware River, thus the name. Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of options to choose from.
Explore Milbrook Village, a replica of a town from the 19th century, or go for a bike ride along the historic Old Mill Road. There are more than a hundred miles of paths for hikers to explore, many of which wind along picturesque streams and verdant hemlock woods. There are three swimming beaches along the river, and they are called Milford Beach, Smithfield Beach, and Turtle Beach.
Amazing Places to Visit in Pennsylvania: Erie
The Bicentennial Tower at Dobbins Landing on Lake Erie, Pennsylvania. Image source: Carrie’s Camera/Shutterstock.com
The city of Erie, as you may have guessed, takes its name from the body of water to which it is adjacent: Lake Erie. Pennsylvania’s northernmost region, Erie, is also home to the state’s lone lake port. Visit the Erie Maritime Museum to learn more about the city’s history and how the port contributed to its growth. The U.S.S. Niagara, a magnificently preserved historic cruiser, is also part of the museum’s collection and may be visited in the harbour.
Presque Isle State Park, located right off the shore, is perhaps the most popular place to go in Erie for hiking, fishing, cycling, and enjoying the beaches.
6. Ricketts Glen State Park
Adam’s Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania. Image source: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock.com
Ricketts Glen State Park is a National Natural Landmark located in the centre of Pennsylvania. This park is so large that it spans three counties, and it is a paradise for everyone who appreciates nature. Hiking the Falls Trail System is the best method to view as many of the park’s 24 main waterfalls and many minor falls as possible.
Relax on Lake Jean’s shore and have a picnic with a view of the lake if that sounds more appealing. You may hire a boat and explore the lake, or you can cast a line from the beach.
Amazing Places to Visit in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Dutch Country
Old Order Amish family riding in a wagon in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Image source: George Sheldon/Shutterstock.com
Much of the Amish community in Pennsylvania is in Lancaster County, an area known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Harrisburg, the state capital, is located here, although most of the area is rural.
Horse-drawn buggies, whitewashed fences, and immaculate barns are common sights in this section of the state. Visiting the local farmers’ markets is a great opportunity to get a feel for Amish life and culture. The Bird in Hand Farmers Market is well-known for its wide selection of locally grown food and homemade treats like apple butter and shoofly pie.
4. Bushkill Falls
: the stunning beauty of Bushkill Falls at the height of Autumn foliage. Image source: Jeremy Tyree/Shutterstock.com
Bushkill Falls, known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” is a must-see attraction in the Keystone State. The Pocono Mountains, home to these spectacular waterfalls, are a sight to see. A network of paths and beautiful bridges leads visitors to a total of eight waterfalls.
The Green Trail will take you to the main falls in only 15 minutes. The eight waterfalls along the Red Trail may be seen in roughly two hours by the most dedicated hikers. The Bushkill Falls Mining Company has a maze that visitors of all ages may enjoy, and because it is timed, it can also add a healthy dose of competitiveness to your trip.
Amazing Places to Visit in Pennsylvania: Gettysburg
Gettysburg National Military Park in Adams County, Pennsylvania. Image source: Open.Tours LLC/Shutterstock.com
Gettysburg was a pivotal engagement in the American Civil War. Over the course of three days of action in July 1863, the Confederate Army suffered terrible losses and was forced to retire. Present-day visitors may find the battlefield preserved as part of the Gettysburg National Military Park.
The Gettysburg Heritage Center provides an excellent overview of the whole Civil War and the role that Gettysburg played in it. Visit the Jennie Wade House, the home of the lone Gettysburg resident killed in the fight.
2. Pittsburgh
the stunning skyline of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Image source: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com
Steel City, or Pittsburgh, is a massive urban centre formed at the confluence of three rivers. Multiple steel bridges connect cities over the three waterways (the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela). It boasts a unique landscape, with rolling green hills that rise abruptly from the valley floors and rivers below.
Even though the city has an industrial past, there are many interesting tourist destinations in Pittsburgh. The U.S. Steel Tower dominates the skyline in downtown Pittsburgh and should not be overlooked. Point State Park, a green space in the middle of downtown, is also home to the historic Fort Pitt Block House, which dates back to the 19th century. Check out the Steelers at Heinz Field or the Pirates at PNC Park on the North Side of town.
1. Philadelphia
the scenic beauty of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Image source: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com
Philadelphia is renowned as the “City of Brotherly Love,” but its real claim to fame is American history, Rocky, and cheesesteaks. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see some amazing artwork, and then stand on the same stairs Rocky once climbed to prepare for his fights.
If you’re interested in history, you shouldn’t miss Independence National Historic Park, where you can see a number of significant sites. All three of these historic landmarks—Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Constitution Hall—are situated inside the park’s borders. After a day of sightseeing, refuel with a Philly cheesesteak from either Pat’s or Geno’s, two competitive establishments that are just across the street from one another in South Philadelphia.
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Where is the prettiest place in Pennsylvania?
- Pocono Mountains
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What is Pennsylvania known for tourist?
- Historic sites like Philadelphia, scenic countryside, Amish country, and Hershey attractions.
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Is Pennsylvania good for tourists?
- Yes, Pennsylvania offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and diverse attractions.
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Is Pennsylvania a beautiful state?
- Yes, Pennsylvania features picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns.
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