In the far northeast of the United States, Pennsylvania is an incredible (and very easy) state to visit. With good transportation links between New York City and other major cities on the East Coast, it’s the kind of state that’s worth exploring during a trip around the US. Not only that, there are tons of great things to do in Pennsylvania scattered throughout the state.
Now, you could easily spend weeks exploring vast Pennsylvania, but most of us don’t have that luxury. However, don’t think you can’t see some of the top sights in Pennsylvania, even on a short trip.
So, to help you get the most out of your visit to Pennsylvania, take a look at some of the iconic spots you won’t want to miss. Have the best time in the United States.
1.) Laurel Highlands
Located in the southwestern region of Pennsylvania, Laurel Highlands is a beautiful region to visit. Easily reachable in a few hours by car from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is one of the best things to visit if you’re on an extensive East Coast road trip.
Now, the region is huge, which means there are many different places to explore. For example, we like to visit Stewarton Falls. It’s on the edge of Ohiopyle State Park and really easy to visit. Now, a visit here will take about 15 minutes, unless you are following one of the trails around the park on a hike.
Afterwards, go up falling water, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Yes, the tours can be a bit expensive but it’s honestly worth it, especially if you’re interested in its architecture and building itself.
Alternatively, you can go to Frank Lloyd Wright Kentucky Knob, is another historical house that was built not too far away. Visits take about 60 minutes and are quite easy if you are already driving around Pennsylvania.
Finally, be sure to visit Laurel Caverns Which is very impressive to watch. They are the largest cave system in Pennsylvania and are worth a visit to go inside.
Read more: Best things to do in Pittsburgh
2.) Raymondskill Falls
On the state border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Raymondskill Falls Easy to visit if you are passing through the town of Milford.
Once here, be sure to hike some of the trails that criss-cross this beautiful area of Pennsylvania. We love the Pitman Orchard McDade Trail and the Cliff or Waterfall Trails that start just off Raymondskill Road. here There is a trailhead on Google Maps.
Afterwards, you can head further south to Dingmans Falls. can be easily reached from The car parking point And if you’re already in this area of Pennsylvania it’s worth a look.
3.) Philadelphia
Philadelphia is one of the best cities in Pennsylvania to visit. It is a city steeped in history and well worth visiting for a few day trips.
Once here, be sure to visit Independence National Historic Park. In fact, it is one of the most historic places in the United States, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. This is the place where the Constitution was framed.
Upon arrival, you can visit the historic Independence Hall and Congress Hall. Not only that, you will be able to see Franklin Court, Old City Hall and other sites where the modern United States was born.
Afterwards, make sure to head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It has a huge collection of artefacts and art which is incredible to see.
Their collection consists of over 200,000 items, which are displayed seasonally throughout the rooms.
Read more: Best things to do in Philadelphia
4.) Valley Forge National Historical Park
In Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania
Just outside of Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park is really easy to visit while in town. Once here, you’ll be able to see George Washington’s winter headquarters and see the National Memorial Arch.
Not only that, you can easily follow the Mount Misery Trail which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It is about 3 miles in length and is a beautiful place to visit if you are looking for a ramble in the park.
Also, nearby, you can visit Wharton Esherick Museum. It is a cozy little museum created by artist Wharton Asherick. It’s totally kitsch and well worth a 30-minute visit.
Read more: Best things to do in Philadelphia
5.) Hershey Park
Not far from Harrisburg, Hershey Park Easily one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania if you’re a chocolate-lover like me! Famous for its delicious candies and chocolates, a visit to Hershey Park is a full-day adventure that is a lot of fun,
Once inside, you can visit many different areas and ride some of the best rides in Pennsylvania. We absolutely love Skyrush. It’s a massive rollercoaster that will have you screaming in no time. After all, it is over 200 feet tall.
Plus, the Great Bear rollercoaster is also quite fun. Just be sure to plan your trip in advance so you can get on as many rides as possible.
6.) Gettysburg
You can’t visit historic sites in Pennsylvania without stopping in Gettysburg. You see, it’s one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania that will teach you about the Civil War of 1863.
You can easily spend an entire morning at Gettysburg National Military Park visiting places such as; Culp’s Hill, Spangler’s Spring and the Pennsylvania State Monument nearby
Also from an international perspective, we loved the museum and the huge park. He does such a great job of explaining the facts of Intervigraha in detail. It is worth doing.
Oh, and don’t forget to search Sax-covered bridge Even at Gettysburg. It spans over 100 feet and you can walk across it.
7.) Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is another incredible city to visit in Pennsylvania. Not only that, you can easily visit Pittsburgh on your way west to Ohio.
Once here, be sure to visit the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here and you can also explore the vast Schenley Park.
Afterwards, head to downtown Pittsburgh and explore Fort Pitt Museum. This is a great way to further explore a 1700s British castle that still stands. The visit will take about 1 hour and is very easy to see when you are in the downtown area.
Oh, and don’t forget to visit Andy Warhol Museum. Here, you can see many of Warhol’s installations and visit various rooms where you can learn more about his life. It is truly amazing and one of the best places in the world for Andy Warhol lovers.
8.) Pine Creek Gorge
Located in the heartland of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge is an epic place to visit while driving through the state. Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge is located in the Tioga State Forest.
If you want a longer hike, take the Pine Creek Rail Trail which follows the historic train route. It’s a great way to explore the vast area around Pine Creek Gorge and it’s so beautiful.
Eager for a bite to eat? Head for Wheary’s Pine Creek Inn For their pickle fries. They are very good.
9.) Ellisburgh
About 2.5 hours from Philadelphia, a visit to Elysburg is one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania while driving west across the state.
Now, that’s a really fun place to visit Knoebels Recreational Resort. It’s a lot of fun. It has over 60 rides and heaps of shows during the summer months. We absolutely loved Impulse; It’s a huge rollercoaster that’s pretty epic. You will scream a lot!
Read more: Best things to do around Lake Erie
10.) York
Nestled in the southern region of Pennsylvania, York is a historic city that you really should visit. Although it’s not as big as the likes of Philadelphia, York is an absolutely epic city to visit for a few days.
Once here, be sure to visit Central Market House For all domestic production. You will find heaps of regional farmers selling their seasonal produce which is absolutely delicious. Just make sure to come hungry, I guarantee you’ll be stuffed by the time you leave.
Afterwards, go up Agricultural Museum which shares a trip to the area and its development over the past few centuries. Now, it is a great museum to visit; That being said, it can be a bit specific if that makes sense. If you’re not interested in Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage, you might want to miss it.
Read more: Best things to do around Lake Erie
11.) Lancaster
Not far from the city of York, Lancaster is worth a visit while driving through the southern regions of Pennsylvania.
Once here, be sure to visit the Central Market in downtown Lancaster. This is a thriving activity and a great place to try local products, grab a coffee and even pick up some souvenirs.
Afterwards, be sure to visit the cozy Demuth Museum. It is inside the former home of Charles Demuth that you will learn more about his art and the modernist turn in his work.
Oh, and be sure to visit Bird in Hand Bakeshop It’s just outside of Lancaster. It’s an institution in Pennsylvania and their whoopie pies are delicious. We absolutely loved it.
Read more: Best things to do around Lake Erie
12.) Presque Isle State Park
If you like spending time in the great outdoors, be sure to visit Presque Isle State Park. If you’re driving around Lake Eerie it’s one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania.
Upon arrival, be sure to look Presque Isle Lighthouse which dates back to the 1800s. Also, don’t forget to spend some time visiting Presque Isle Beach Bicentennial Tower On the mainland itself.
You will get some spectacular views from here.
Read more: Best things to do around Lake Erie
13.) Harrisburg
Along the Susquehanna River. Harrisburg is a great stop as part of a great Pennsylvania road trip. Now, you can easily see all of Harrisburg’s top sights in a single day (as long as you plan accordingly).
Once you arrive, be sure to visit the National Civil War Museum. This is a great place to learn all about the American Civil War and its lasting impact on modern America.
Also, you can visit easily West Shore Farmers Market Have some local treats to eat or visit Lancaster Brewing Company. Their brews are very good and worth having a tasting tray while you’re here.
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