What to do in pennsylvania?
Updated: July 31, 2024Exploring Philadelphia: The Birthplace of American Independence
Philadelphia, often called Philly, is a cornerstone of American history. Begin your journey at the iconic Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom and independence. Nearby, you'll find Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. The National Constitution Center offers interactive exhibits that delve into the history and impact of the Constitution.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to over 240,000 works, from Renaissance masterpieces to modern art. Don’t miss the "Rocky Steps" in front of the museum, immortalized in the Rocky films. For a unique experience, visit the Magic Gardens, a mosaic wonderland created by artist Isaiah Zagar.
Discovering Pittsburgh: The Steel City
Pittsburgh is a dynamic city with a rich industrial history and a burgeoning cultural scene. Start with a ride on the Duquesne Incline, a historic cable car that offers panoramic views of the city skyline. The Andy Warhol Museum, dedicated to the Pittsburgh-born pop art icon, houses an extensive collection of Warhol’s works.
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is another must-visit, featuring impressive dinosaur exhibits and ancient artifacts. Sports fans can catch a game at Heinz Field or PNC Park, home to the Steelers and Pirates, respectively. For a touch of nature, the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens provide a lush escape with their exotic plant collections and stunning glasshouse.
Embracing Nature: Pennsylvania's Outdoor Adventures
Pennsylvania is blessed with diverse landscapes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pocono Mountains offer year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, fishing, and kayaking in the warmer months. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, with its scenic trails and waterfalls, is perfect for hiking and camping.
Ricketts Glen State Park is renowned for its 22 named waterfalls, with the Falls Trail System providing a challenging yet rewarding hike. For a more leisurely experience, head to the Laurel Highlands, where you can explore the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile trail for hiking and biking, or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece, Fallingwater.
Delving into History: Pennsylvania's Heritage Sites
Pennsylvania's historical significance extends beyond Philadelphia. In Gettysburg, the site of the pivotal Civil War battle, the Gettysburg National Military Park offers guided tours that bring history to life. The Eisenhower National Historic Site, the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, provides a glimpse into the life of the 34th president.
Valley Forge National Historical Park is another key site, where George Washington and his Continental Army endured a harsh winter during the Revolutionary War. The park offers educational programs, reenactments, and miles of trails for exploration.
Experience the Charm of Pennsylvania's Small Towns
Beyond the major cities, Pennsylvania's small towns offer charm and unique experiences. Lancaster County, in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, is known for its Amish community. Here, you can take a buggy ride, shop for handmade crafts, and enjoy traditional Amish fare.
Jim Thorpe, often called the "Switzerland of America," boasts picturesque Victorian architecture and outdoor activities like kayaking on the Lehigh River. Lititz, voted "America's Coolest Small Town," offers a delightful main street with boutique shops, cafes, and the historic Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery.
Tasting Pennsylvania: Culinary Delights
Pennsylvania’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. Philadelphia is famous for its cheesesteaks, with iconic spots like Pat’s and Geno’s offering their take on this classic sandwich. For a sweet treat, try a Tastykake or a soft pretzel, both Philly staples.
Pittsburgh’s Primanti Brothers is renowned for its sandwiches piled high with fries and coleslaw. The state also boasts a burgeoning craft beer scene, with breweries like Yuengling, America's oldest brewery, and Tröegs Independent Brewing offering tours and tastings.
Lancaster County’s Amish markets are perfect for sampling homemade goods, from shoofly pie to whoopie pies. Don’t miss the chance to try scrapple, a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dish made from pork scraps and cornmeal, often served for breakfast.
Exploring Unique Attractions
For those seeking something off the beaten path, Pennsylvania has plenty of unique attractions. The Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, now offers tours that highlight its eerie history and notable inmates, including Al Capone.
Centralia, a near-ghost town due to an underground coal mine fire that has been burning since 1962, offers a surreal visit. Graffiti Highway, though officially closed, remains a testament to the town's strange history.
The Mutter Museum in Philadelphia is a medical museum with a collection of oddities, including preserved anatomical specimens, models, and medical instruments. It provides a fascinating, albeit macabre, look at medical history.
Immersing in the Arts and Culture
Pennsylvania's cultural offerings extend beyond its museums and historical sites. The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts by the Philadelphia Orchestra. The Pittsburgh Cultural District is home to theaters, galleries, and performance spaces, offering a diverse array of cultural experiences.
The annual Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, held at the Mount Hope Estate & Winery, transports visitors back to the 16th century with jousting, period music, and artisan crafts. The Three Rivers Arts Festival in Pittsburgh celebrates visual and performing arts with ten days of free performances and exhibits.
Family-Friendly Activities
Pennsylvania offers numerous attractions for families. Hersheypark, located in Hershey, the "Sweetest Place on Earth," features roller coasters, water rides, and a zoo. Nearby, Hershey's Chocolate World offers interactive exhibits and chocolate tastings.
Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster is a family amusement park geared towards younger children, with themed rides and shows. The Crayola Experience in Easton allows kids to explore the world of color through interactive exhibits and creative activities.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and the Philadelphia Zoo, the nation’s first zoo, offer animal exhibits and educational programs that are sure to delight children and adults alike.
In the heart of Pennsylvania lies a world of diverse experiences, waiting to be discovered and cherished by each visitor in their own unique way.
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