best tourist spots in pennsylvania

The Top 15 Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania (officially known as a “commonwealth” ) was a part of the country’s 13 original colonies and is home to Philadelphia, which served as the US capital city while Washington, D.C. was being built. Pennsylvania is a diverse state with large cities and charming small towns like Hershey, Lancaster, and Historic Gettysburg. The state also has mountain ranges, acres of beautiful scenery, and stunning vistas throughout. Here are some of the top things to do in the state of Pennsylvania:

Eat Chocolate in Hershey, PA

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The town of Hershey (home to Hersheypark ) is the home of the famous chocolate company and is often called “Chocolate Town, USA.” You can enjoy attractions like the Hershey Story museum, where visitors will learn about Milton Hershey and his chocolate empire. There’s also the Hershey Gardens, the Hershey Spa, and the opportunity to go to a Hershey Bears hockey game. Of course, you can’t miss the fabulous and exciting Hersheypark, a legendary amusement park that features the latest and greatest rides for all ages, as well as live music, shows, and entertainment.

Visit the Amish Country

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A sprawling rural region that’s made up of several small towns in the southern part of the state, Lancaster is often called Pennsylvania Dutch country and is home to a robust Amish community. It’s a great destination to experience authentic homemade PA Dutch foods and learn about their time-honored customs. It also happens to be a fantastic and fun shopping destination, known for its many vintage and antique shops. You can spend a lot of time here, as there are museums, spas, wineries, breweries, and family-friendly activities waiting to be explored.

Admire Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon

Travelers are thrilled to learn there is a majestic ancient canyon spanning over 45 miles in rural Pennsylvania. That canyon, sometimes called "the Grand Canyon of PA," is Pine Creek Gorge. This exquisite area’s stunning panoramic views and beautiful nature trails attract visitors from across the globe. The most picturesque sites are located around the Pine Creek Rail Trail’s southern side. Aside from the mesmerizing views, you can also go hiking, fishing, or mountain biking, and visit historical sites or museums. The nearby town of Williamsport has several hotel accommodations.

Visit Fallingwater

Fallingwater is an architectural wonder designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939. The astoundingly impressive modern home is located about 70 miles east of Pittsburgh (about 1.5 hours’ drive from the city). The “Falling Water” home is nestled in the dense woods of Fayette County‘s Bear Run Natural Reserve and perched above a waterfall. In fact, the waterfall actually flows through the home and it’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The home quickly became one of Wright’s most well-known projects and features spacious outdoor terraces. If you'd like to tour the house's interior you'll need to purchase tickets in advance.

Go Apple Picking at an Orchard

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In the autumn, Pennsylvania offers some of the best apple-picking sites in the country. One of the most impressive and fun orchard destinations is Linvilla Orchards , which is located near Philadelphia, in the lovely Delaware Valley. This family-friendly expansive orchard covers more than 300 acres. It’s most popular in the autumn and offers hayrides, games, and pumpkin patches for kids to enjoy. Visitors can tour, stroll around the massive grounds, attend events, and pick up some fresh produce at the market, which also sells gourmet foods, candy, gifts, and much more.

Sip Some Pennsylvania Wines

Pennsylvania has over 300 wineries situated throughout the state, and the Susquehanna Heartland Trail is one of the most scenic ways to visit a few. The wine trail includes 16 wineries that welcome guests with tasting rooms overlooking gorgeous vineyards, as well as cellar tours. The award-winning wineries Spyglass Ridge and Shade Mountain are always favorite stops along the trail.

Check Out New Hope

The quaint and cool historic town of New Hope is located by banks of the Delaware River (not far from the famed "Washington's Crossing"). It’s a charming and sometimes quirky destination lined with boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and more. A former industrial town, it’s a great place to spend the day, especially on weekends, when there are often farmers markets and special events in full swing.  If you’re planning to explore New Hope, be sure to check the website for a calendar of upcoming activities. Some weekends get very crowded so it’s best to plan in advance.

Gaze Upon Bushkill Falls

Bushkill Falls (aka the “Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania") is a jaw-droppingly beautiful retreat where you can admire eight picturesque waterfalls by hiking along a few easy-to-moderate trails. Bushkill Falls features marked nature trails that meander around the falls, and there's some facilities at the entrance as well. You’ll adore the lovely lookout points and scenic wooden bridges to cross while you stroll along the pathways. Be sure to check the recent rainfall in the region before heading to Bushkill falls, as that will determine the strength and size of the waterfalls.

Take a Ride on the Railroad

If you’re ready for a scenic and fun train ride along a mountain range, hitch a ride on the Pocono’s Lehigh George Scenic Railway train . Operated by Reading and Northern Railroad, this train begins its travels from Downtown Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania into the Lehigh Gorge State Park. This 16-mile scenic, narrated round-trip excursion provides an abundance of information about the history of the area, including the natural surroundings. This train follows the Lehigh Valley and the gorge, so you’ll be amazed by the spellbinding views along the way.

Face Your Fears on This Ghost Town Trail

If you’re into secluded towns with intriguing histories, Pennsylvania is the place for you. You'll find several abandoned towns in Indiana and Cambria Counties connected by the Ghost Town Trail . This scenic drive is designated as a National United States Recreation Trail and attracts over 80,000 visitors each year. The trail passes through a number of former coal-mining towns, covered bridges, and state parks with pretty views as well as the towns like Blacklick, Dilltown, and Nanty Glo.

Go Stargazing in the Mountains

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Stargazing enthusiasts know that Pennsylvania is home to one of the best destinations for stargazing in the world: Cherry Springs State Park. This remote state park is famous for its exceptionally dark skies in conjunction with its ideal location for viewing the stars, planets, and other celestial beings. Professional astronomers and casual stargazing enthusiasts flock here throughout the year to admire the night sky. During certain times, this park hosts several special stargazing events that coincide with appearances of stars, constellations, and planets that draw avid stargazers from across the world.

Admire Impressionist Art at the Barnes Foundation

 Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

Located on Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway the Barnes Foundation is a modern art museum that contains the vast and mind-blowing private collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes, a famous chemist and art enthusiast who owned an incredible number of rare works until he passed away in the 1950s. The art was kept at his private estate until it was relocated to this landmark 12,000 square foot building with massive galleries. Today, the museum is home to the largest collection of impressionists in the world, with approximately 200 works by Renoir, and about 4,000 pieces by Picasso, Monet, Cezanne, Degas, Matisse, among others.

Explore the Mountain Town of Jim Thorpe

The small town of Jim Thorpe is a tiny mountain destination with a lot of history. Located on the Lehigh River, this former coal-mining town was home to one of the first railroads in the United States and is named for the Native American Olympic athlete and football player. Today, this compact town is bustling with retail stores, a variety of restaurants, and fun outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, hiking, and camping in summer (and lots of nearby skiing in winter). With plenty of lively festivals scheduled throughout the year, the town of Jim Thorpe is home to many ongoing events, so check out the website before visiting.

See the Liberty Bell

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Located in the Old City district of Philadelphia across from Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell is a top historical destination for tourists visiting the city. A symbol of American independence that’s steeped in history, the Liberty Bell is situated in the middle of Independence Park and can be accessed via a guided tour. There are also a number of related exhibits adjacent to the bell and it's within steps of Independence Hall and the Constitution Center.

Note: Tickets are required to visit the Liberty Bell, however, you can see it through the glass enclosure if you don’t have tickets or arrive after the facility is closed. As an added bonus, the bell is illuminated at night, making it a great time to see the landmark without the crowds.

Visit the Historic Town of Gettysburg

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A trip to historic Gettysburg can be compared to truly taking a step back in time. It’s a must-see destination in Adam’s county that’s educational as well as entertaining for the entire family. This noteworthy battlefield known for the incredibly high number of casualties during the Civil War is the site of President Abraham Lincoln’s famous “Gettysburg Address.” This area has many impressive highlights. In addition to the world-renown battlefield, visitors come to pay respects at the cemetery and view multiple historical museums. You’ll find plenty of walking tour options and shops. There's also an abundance of active outdoor activities such as horseback riding, golf, mountain biking, hiking, and many other great options.

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30 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Pennsylvania | 30 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

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After three years of living in PA, I’m happy to post the ultimate guide on things to do in Pennsylvania . The Keystone State may not be the first place that you think of when you imagine a fun road trip in the U.S. Yet, there are many  things to do in PA , as I’m learning the longer I live here!

During this time, we have not only found many delightful things to do in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas (where we have been living during this time). We have also explored lesser-known Pennsylvania attractions  during the weekends, and I can assure you that spending some time in this state is a great thing to do.

Philly is a major city in PA and has played a key role in United States history, so visiting it is a must (take advantage of the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  or the  Sightseeing Day Pass  to access the main attractions of the city for free). However, Pennsylvania is not just about history and culture. Forests, waterfalls, wildlife, and dark skies come to my mind when I talk about this wonderful state I have the pleasure of living in.

I must admit that I didn’t always like living in Pennsylvania. At first sight, it could seem kind of boring. However, there are plenty of fun things to do in PA  once you know where to look. No matter if you just moved here or are going to be visiting PA, this guide will recommend  where to go in Pennsylvania  as well as  PA tourist attractions  for everyone.

Don’t forget to review the map at the end so you can find all the places in Pennsylvania to visit during your trip. Now, let’s get to the list of the 30 best things to do in PA.

1. Ben Franklin Parkway & Philadelphia Museum of Art

Named after Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, the Ben Franklin Parkway is a huge thoroughfare connecting City Hall with the Philadelphia Museum of Art. There are several museums and points of interest along the Parkway, and the street is lined with flags from countries all around the world.

As you walk along the Parkway, you’ll pass by Love Park (named for its large  LOVE  sculpture), the  Philadelphia Free Public Library, the  Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , and the  Franklin Institute Science Museum (both museums included in the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass ).

1. Ben Franklin Parkway & Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the best museums in PA

At the end of the Parkway, you’ll find the Philadelphia Museum of Art . It’s one of the largest art museums in the world and holds works that span centuries and continents, plus it’s free on Wednesdays from 5:00 p.m. and on the first Sunday of each month. The Museum owns other nearby buildings like the Perelman Building and Rodin Museum.

It’s also known for its  Rocky Steps , a popular  PA tourist attraction . Running up them for the first time is an exhilarating experience! Don’t forget to pose with the  Rocky Balboa Statue  around the corner from the steps. If you’re a Rocky fan, I recommend this Rocky movie tour of the city.

2. Visit the Liberty Bell at Independence Mall, a great thing to do in PA

A visit to Philadelphia isn’t complete without seeing the Liberty Bell , one of the best free things to do in PA.

Built in 1752, the 4-foot bell weighs over 2,000 pounds and sits in a glass box in Philadelphia’s historic district just in front Independence Hall, where one day it made history. As we learned during this amazing walking tour , the ringing of this bell announced the reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776. Nowadays, and despite its iconic fracture, it’s the crown jewel of the Liberty Bell Center  on  Independence Mall , which is part of  Independence National Historical Park . This 3-block section of the city is where you’ll find all the historical landmarks related to Philadelphia and the state’s role in American freedom.

2. Liberty Bell at Independence Mall, Philadelphia, the best thing to do in PA

One of the  places to see on Pennsylvania ‘s Independence Mall is the  National Constitution Center . This is an interactive museum that recreates the discussions involved in the writing of the U.S. Constitution. You won’t find the original Declaration of Independence here, but there are plenty of interesting exhibits.

Another  attraction in PA (included in the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass ) is the  Betsy Ross House  on Arch Street. A prized Philly landmark, this is said to be the site where Betsy Ross lived and sewed the first American flag. Not far from there, you can check out Elfreth’s Alley , the oldest residential street in America.

A few blocks away is  Philadelphia City Hall , a recognizable landmark, and where we got married! It is topped with a statue of William Penn, the founder of Philadelphia. City Hall was the tallest building in Philly until the construction of  One Liberty Place . Both buildings have observation decks that are also included in the Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass . I have visited both and recommend checking them out for some great  PA sightseeing .

3. Gettysburg National Military Park, a must-see in Pennsylvania

Gettysburg  is another historical place and one of the  popular cities in Pennsylvania  I suggest visiting. This location is an important site that commemorates the American Civil War, particularly the specific Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.

The town welcomes  Pennsylvania tourists  and invites them to explore the  Gettysburg National Military Park . Here, you’ll see the  Gettysburg Battlefield , which was the site of military combat between Union and Confederate soldiers on July 1-3, 1863.

You can transport yourself back in time through the  Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center , which does live history reenactments. There are also several galleries, exhibits, and a cyclorama (cylindrical painting) of the Battle of Gettysburg.

I also suggest visiting the  Gettysburg National Cemetery  where Union casualties are buried. This is where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, one of the best-known speeches in American history, four and a half months after the battle. There is a dignified and solemn air about the place.

If it’s your first time visiting this historic landmark and you’re a history buff, don’t think twice and book this bus tour to learn more about this 3-day battle that was a turning point in the history of the country. You will see Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and the location of Pickett’s charge, among other things.

Before leaving the area, be sure to stop by the  Eisenhower National Historic Site . This was the home and farmstead of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States. You can walk through the house where this famous figure once spent his days.

4. Lancaster and the Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Not far from Gettysburg is  Lancaster , one of the oldest towns in PA. Lancaster is best known as a hub for Pennsylvania’s Amish Country. While the Amish live in a few other states, they are most prevalent in PA.

There, you can visit the  Amish Village , a  must-see in Pennsylvania . For a fee, you can walk through the 12-acre property and catch a glimpse of this way of life, including horse-drawn buggies, blacksmithing, and farming. You can also pick up some fresh-baked goodies at the market.

4. Lancaster and the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, a traditional town to visit in PA

Also, I recommend visiting the Amish Farm and House through this  guided tour  to learn more about Amish culture. It’s definitely one of the most interesting  things to do in Pennsylvania’s Amish country .

If you’re driving around, I suggest heading to two nearby towns. The first is Strasburg, which has an impressive collection of over 100 historic railroad cars and locomotives at the  Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.  The second is  Intercourse, PA , which may attract you because of the name. Here, you can explore more Amish culture through shopping and dining.

However, Lancaster offers more than just a snapshot of the Amish way of life – shopping, theater shows, and lots of natural walking and biking paths are also here. A  fun thing to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania  is to drive along the  Musical Road , which has metal grooves that “play” a song as you drive over them. Families with young kids should check out  Dutch Wonderland , a castle-themed amusement park, and one of the best things to do in PA for families.

5. The Poconos, the most breathtaking mountains to visit in PA

Another stunning natural  place in Pennsylvania  is the  Poconos Mountains, where we spend a weekend surrounded by snow every winter (it’s one of my favorite spots in the state). Located in northeastern PA, the hilly area overlooks the Allegheny Plateau and Delaware Water Gap. You’ll find lots of beautiful spots to relax and reconnect with nature.

If you want some adventure, the Poconos offer all kinds of recreational fun. The area is most well-known for its ski resorts, which are 6 in total. The 3 most popular resorts are  Blue Mountain, Camelback,  and  Jack Frost/Big Boulder .

During the warmer months, you should check out the other lush, natural areas in the Poconos. I recommend Promised Land State Park and Bushkill Falls, also called “The Niagara of Pennsylvania”.  Promised Land State Park  is surrounded by two lakes and has 80 miles of trails. The park is a perfect location for camping and all kinds of outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and trail biking. Many black bears live in the forest, so be careful!

Not far from the state park is the  Bushkill Falls  area, which has 8 waterfalls and lots of hiking paths. The tallest waterfall here is over 100 feet tall and is the perfect  PA sightseeing  photo opportunity. I suggest taking your time to enjoy the scenery and exercise.

It’s also worth visiting Lehigh Gorge State Park, especially if you want to go white water rafting. I recommend this  rafting tour , or, if you want to stay dry, this  bike rental . And don’t forget to stop by Jim Thorpe, nestled right at the gorge and considered one of the most beautiful and romantic towns in PA. Here, you’ll enjoy shops, restaurants, pubs, wine-tasting, and live entertainment.

Another popular state park within the Pocono Mountains is Hickory Run, a place that deserves its own section in this list of things to do in Pennsylvania, so I’ll talk about it later.

6. Ricketts Glen State Park, a great hike to do in Pennsylvania

For a seriously good hike, I suggest visiting  Ricketts Glen State Park , one of  Pennsylvania’s best places to visit  for nature lovers. We also visit this state park every year, at least in spring and in fall since we run private photo tours there. Are you interested? Let’s talk!

The park is about 2 hours from Harrisburg, in northern PA. Covering over 13,000 acres, it’s a National Natural Landmark and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for some outdoor  activities in PA , definitely check out Ricketts Glen.

As an old-growth forest, this area is one of the last few untouched (or mostly untouched) places in the state. You could easily spend the day here, or you might choose to sleep at the lakeside campsite.

One of the best parts about Ricketts Glen is its waterfalls; there are 24 of them! If you’re up for it, I recommend taking the  Falls Trail , which loops most of the waterfalls in 3 miles and passes through interesting rock formations, such as the  Midway Crevasse . It’s quite a steep and difficult trail, but there are other more moderate ones you can try too, like the Evergreen Trail.

By the lake, you can canoe or kayak. The area is also known as a great spot for birdwatching. During the winter, the falls freeze over and are open to ice climbers. Some people try to ice skate on the frozen lake.

Without a doubt, this state park is one of the most  beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania , so be sure to take some time to see it.

7. Longwood Gardens, the best thing to do in Pennsylvania for couples

While you’re in the state, I highly recommend visiting  Longwood Gardens , one of the top  things to do in southeast Pennsylvania . These beautiful botanical gardens cover over 1,000 acres and are just a short drive from Philadelphia.

I don’t think there is a bad time to go to Longwood Gardens because the attraction has seasonal displays all year round. During the winter months, the grounds are covered in decorative lights. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and walk around the gardens, taking in the sights.

7. Visit Longwood Gardens, the best thing to do in Pennsylvania for couples

In the warmer months, the fountains turn on, and the spring blooms are in full display. You could visit every month and find something new to see. Along with the outdoor areas, there are indoor horticultural exhibits, greenhouses, and one-of-a-kind treehouses.

This is definitely a great thing to do in PA for couples , as the colorful flowers, landscaped lawns, and majestic fountains and architecture can be quite romantic.

I should also mention that there is another nearby botanical attraction,  Chanticleer Garden . This place is smaller, but still, a lovely place to walk around and get some fresh air. Unlike Longwood, Chanticleer allows picnicking, so it’s another potential date spot!

Best of all, the gardens are on Philadelphia’s Main Line, which easily connects to other sites in the region. So, you can find many  places to explore in Pennsylvania  all within a relatively close distance.

8. Cherry Springs State Park, the best place for stargazing in Pennsylvania

Cherry Springs State Park  is another scenic place to visit in Pennsylvania . The 80-acre park is part of the Susquehannock State Forest and gets its name from its lovely black cherry trees. You’ll have to visit at just the right time to see the cherry trees in full bloom, usually late April.

Regardless of when you go, this park is one of the best  places in Pennsylvania  for stargazing. There is very little light pollution, so you don’t even need a telescope to see thousands of tiny stars twinkling in the sky. We also run private tours here where we teach you how to photograph the Milky Way , so if you’re interested, contact me.

Cherry Springs State Park has some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States. It is a popular haven for astronomers and astrophotographers in the area. The park even installed a few astronomy domes to keep telescopes safe from the elements.

Besides stargazing, the park is perfect for backpacking and hiking, and there are about 30 campgrounds here. I can say that camping out here and sleeping under the stars is probably the best  thing to do in central PA . If you travel with a camera or telescope, you can use the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field (first come, first served). The gate closes at dusk and the use of any kind of light once the gate is close isn’t allowed so as not to disturb the others’ observations.

However, if you’re more a kind of a landscape photographer instead of a deep-sky photographer, I would suggest heading to Lyman Run State Park, just 15 min from there, so you’ll enjoy the same dark sky but will have more opportunities to compose your Milky Way shots.

It’s also worth noting that the park is part of the Pennsylvania Wilds, which I’ll talk about later.

9. Pittsburgh, a top-rated place for entertainment in Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh  is the 2nd-most populous city in PA, after Philadelphia. It offers something for everyone – sports, culture, history, food – so be sure to add a Pittsburgh visit to your list of  things to do in western Pennsylvania .

A place you must see in this city is  Schenley Park . I recommend you head down one of the many walking trails to get away from the city and disconnect for a while. As you’re walking, you may pass by the wooded valley of Panther Hollow, which has a scenic pond. Along with the hiking paths, you’ll find tennis courts, skating rinks, and a golf course at Schenley Park. However, the most popular part of the park is the Phipps Conservatory, which I will talk about later in this article.

Another great natural area in Pittsburgh is  Point State Park , which overlooks the Ohio River at the tip of Pittsburgh’s “Golden Triangle.” The park commemorates the historic heritage of the area during the French and Indian War (1754-1763).

Museum-hopping is another  fun thing to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania . Some of the best museums in the city are the  Andy Warhol Museum  and  Bicycle Heaven , an eclectic collection of bicycles and bike parts.

Finally, be sure to stop by the  Carnegie Museum of Natural History . It’s one of the top five natural history museums in the country and is recognized for its fossil discoveries.

There is a lot more to see in Pittsburgh, so consider this  walking tour , which includes 13 stops around the city.

10. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, another thing to see in Pennsylvania

As I said, the  Phipps Conservatory  is a major attraction in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park. This Victorian greenhouse was founded in 1893 and has several formal gardens spanning different eras and plant species.

Most would agree that it’s one of the most  beautiful places in Pennsylvania , and one of the best parts of Pittsburgh.

The Phipps Conservatory is over 120 years old, but it’s also one of the most eco-friendly buildings in the world. The Conservatory produces all its own energy, which seems fitting for a robust greenhouse like this one.

When you first visit the Conservatory, you’ll walk through the indoor   Palm Court, a Victorian-style greenhouse with installation art by glass artist Dale Chihuly filled with various palm trees and paper cranes. The area offshoots to the Serpentine and Ferns Rooms, followed by the orchid display and a butterfly forest.

There are also greenhouses filled with tropical fruits and citrus trees. As you walk through this area, you’ll hear bubbling waterfalls, smell sweet fruit, and see soothing fishponds. It’s one of the most peaceful  attractions in Pennsylvania .

Outside, be sure to explore the Rooftop Edible Garden and the Japanese Courtyard Garden. There is also a Children’s Garden where kids can run around among birds and butterflies.

If you visit during the summer, check out the floating flowers in the outdoor Aquatic Garden and the Neptune statue. It’s also worth visiting in the winter so you can see the Conservatory’s winter light show. I think it’s the perfect  thing to do in PA for couples .

11. Fallingwater, one of the most beautiful places to go in Pennsylvania

As you make your way to Pittsburgh, be sure to stop by  Fallingwater , the architectural masterpiece by Frankl Lloyd Wright. It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Pennsylvania  and will take your breath away.

Fallingwater is an incredible house nestled in the forest at Bear Run. What’s so special about this home is that it was built around a waterfall. So, as you walk through the rooms, you feel totally connected to nature.

Many people consider Fallingwater to be the architect’s best work, and it has even been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The house was built in 1935 for a Pittsburgh businessman and his wife. Today, anyone can visit Fallingwater, although you’ll need a guided tour to see the interior.

The first thing you notice about the building is the horizontal and vertical structures. The shapes contrast the organic form of the waterfall, but this also seems to bring it all together. If it reminds you of Japanese architecture, that’s because Frank Lloyd Wright was inspired by Japanese designers, particularly their use of space.

The tours aren’t cheap, but if you’re a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, then it’s one of the best  things to see in PA .

Nearby, you can visit the  Bear Run Nature Preserve , which is the land surrounding Fallingwater. The hemlock forest is full of streams, backcountry campsites, and 20 miles of hiking trails. Combined with Fallingwater, it’s one of the most  beautiful places in Pennsylvania .

12. Valley Forge National Historic Park, a calm place to go in Pennsylvania

Not far from Philadelphia (and 10 min from where we live) is  Valley Forge , a settlement with ties to the American Revolution. It’s a great  place to explore in Pennsylvania , plus it’s not far from other attractions like the King of Prussia Mall, the 2nd-largest shopping mall in the country which I will talk about later.

Valley Forge National Historic Park  is one of the sites where the Continental Army camped during the Revolutionary War. Today, the area is home to restored historic buildings, log cabins, monuments, and reenactments. Be sure to stop by the visitor’s center and museum to learn more about the nation’s history.

A key feature of the park is a colonial-style house that served as  George Washington’s headquarters . You can take a tour through the home and transport yourself back to the 1770s.

Valley Forge is also a lovely place to see during the  summer in PA . Besides the historical grounds, there is plenty of wide, open space perfect for hiking and biking. Three of the primary paths here are the  Valley Creek Trail,  the  River Trail , and the  Schuylkill River Trail , which you could take   all the way to Philadelphia. Along the way, stop by the Mount Joy Observation Tower, the highest point in the park.

Valley Forge is certainly one of the most  beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania . I recommend stopping here as you visit Philadelphia. This  4-hour tour from Philly  is perfect if you don’t want to drive.

13. Pennsylvania State Capitol at Harrisburg, another attraction to visit in PA

It seems a bit odd to visit a state without seeing its capital, so consider a trip to  Harrisburg . This city has a long history and is full of family-friendly activities.

Harrisburg has some great museums, so you’ll always have  things to do in central PA  if the weather is bad. I recommend the Susquehanna Art Museum, which is constantly switching up its contemporary exhibits.

I also like the  National Civil War Museum,  the  Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts,  and  the State Museum of Pennsylvania .

When the weather is nice, be sure to visit the parks and natural areas around Harrisburg. I like  Reservoir Park  and  Riverfront Park , both of which host festivals and events throughout the year. The park at  Italian Lake  is also a scenic spot with formal gardens. As you walk across the Japanese-style bridge, you may forget you’re in a busy city.

The  Capital Area Greenbelt  is known for its hiking and biking trails, while the  Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex  is a national historic landmark. Here, you can take a tour of the Capitol and Senate Library exhibits.

While you’re out and about, stop by the  Broad Street Market , the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the U.S.

A bit further outside Harrisburg, you’ll find  City Island , where you can take a boat ride, go shopping or barhopping, or enjoy some outdoor time.

I also suggest checking out  Fort Hunter Park and Mansion , one of the top historical  things to see in PA . Here, you’ll find traces of the 1700s, including a spring house, barn, stable, blacksmith shop, and archeological sites. The Fort Hunter Mansion was home to a PA politician and is now a historical museum.

14. Delaware Water Gap, a quiet place to go in Pennsylvania

This  PA attraction  gets its name from the Delaware River   it borders, so don’t get confused! As the name suggests, it’s a gap of water that flows through a ridge in the  Appalachian Mountains . Doesn’t it already sound scenic and relaxing?

The  Delaware Water Gap  covers 70,000 acres of forests, lakes, streams, and trails. It’s one of the greatest  Pennsylvania places  to go that’s quiet but still close to major cities.

The area includes over 100 miles of hiking paths, 27 of which are on the famous  Appalachian Trail . Alternatively, you could take the  Red Dot Trail  straight into neighboring New Jersey to Mt. Tammany. From there, you’ll have an awesome view of the surrounding region.

Speaking of viewpoints, there are several gorgeous lookouts in the Delaware Water Gap, such as  The Point of the Gap Overlook, Arrow Island Overlook,  and  Kittatinny Point .  Mount Minsi , part of the Blue Mountains, is another pretty lookout point.

Further north along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border, you can find and Raymondskill Falls . The impressive waterfall has 3 tiers and a total height of about 150 feet. However, my favorite spot in the area are the Dingmans Falls , another  must-see in Pennsylvania .

The  Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area also includes routes to some nearby historical buildings, some in PA, others in New Jersey. These mostly reflect local history and include the Foster-Armstrong House, Old Mine Road, and Millbrook Village, an 1830s grist mill. You can check more t hings to do in NJ in our guide.

15. Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania and the PA Wilds

A well-hidden state secret is Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the  Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania . If you find yourself in the area, a visit to this natural beauty is one of the best  things to do in central PA .

The 47-mile gorge cuts through the Allegheny Plateau, creating a magnificent geological formation. You’ll be rewarded with fabulous views of Pine Creek and the surrounding forests. The canyon hits its deepest point at the southern end, at 1,450 feet.

I recommend seeing this area in the autumn when all the trees are changing color. It’s one of  Pennsylvania’s best places to visit  during this time because the air will be crisper and the climb more refreshing.

15. Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania and the PA Wilds, a little-known place to visit in PA

Kayaking in the gorge for a couple of days is something we can’t wait to do (there are a couple of places where you can rent a kayak). The last time we were hiking the area, we fell in love with the views from the Golden Eagle Trail and the Bob Webber Trail. However, the most popular route is the Pine Creek Rail Trail , a 62-mile plus long trail that travels through the gorge. Ride these old railroad tracks converted to wonderful biking and walking trail is one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania.

The area has also many places where you can camp. We always try to stay at Black Walnut Campground, that it’s one of our favorite campsites in the state so far. Last time we even saw a bald eagle from the riverbank as the area is one of the best places in PA for birdwatching.

The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania is part of the  PA Wilds , which encompasses a vast area that also includes Cherry Springs State Park, Allegheny State Forest, and the largest free-roaming elk herd in the northeastern U.S. To see the elk battling for mating rights, head to Benezette during the rutting season (mid-September to October). But for black bear encounters (this area has the highest population of black bears in PA), drive around the PA Wilds in spring.

This region is massive and covers about a quarter of the entire state, so check which areas are closest to your route. Some of the highlights include  Cook Forest, Clear Creek State Park, and the Kinzua Bridge State Park & Sky Walk .

A  summer in PA  is not complete without a visit to the PA Wilds. It’s the best way to get outdoors, disconnect, and recharge.

16. Hersheypark, a unique place to visit in Pennsylvania with kids

Hersheypark  is about 2 hours from Philadelphia and 30 minutes from Harrisburg and is known as “the sweetest place on earth”. Candy connoisseur Milton S. Hershey had the park built as a leisure resort for his employees. Today, Hersheypark is one of the  best vacation places in Pennsylvania .

The destination is more than just an amusement park, although that part of the resort is a lot of fun. One of the most popular attractions at the park is the 330-foot  Kissing Tower , which gently rotates and gives you a panoramic view of the area. There are also family and thrill rides, as well as a waterpark. When you go, see how many Hershey’s candies characters you can meet!

Another main feature of Hersheypark is  Chocolate World . Here, you can get acquainted with the history of Hershey’s chocolate and take a ride through the “factory” to see how the candy is made. You even get a little piece of chocolate at the end.

I also suggest checking out  Hershey Gardens , another  cool place in Pennsylvania  that some Hersheypark visitors overlook. The botanical garden is the perfect, serene counterbalance to the action and thrills of the amusement park. There are nearly two dozen themed gardens as well as a butterfly atrium.

Another fun thing to do in Pennsylvania is to plan an overnight trip to Hershey. You can stay at the Hotel Hershey or the nearby camping resort. I’m partial to camping, although the hotel has a spa where you can get a chocolate facial!

17. Eat at Reading Terminal Market, an exciting thing to do in Pennsylvania

Another  Pennsylvania attraction  with a deceiving name is  the Reading Terminal Market . This marketplace isn’t in Reading, PA, but in downtown Philadelphia. Once you learn the history of the place, you’ll understand why it has that name.

The market opened in 1893 under the shed of the Reading Railroad Company. Today, it’s part of the  Pennsylvania Convention Center , and eating here is one of the best  things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania .

Reading Terminal Market is open daily, although a few stalls are closed on Sundays (mostly the Amish ones). You can find just about anything here, not only food, but also accessories, body care, clothing, and books. The food stalls offer a wide range of cuisines, from Indian and Japanese to Greek, Spanish, Caribbean, and more.

You can also find specialty items like fine chocolates, herbal products, and vegan options. The market gets very crowded just about every day, but it’s one of those cool places in Pennsylvania that you must experience. Whether you want a snack, dessert, or a full meal, you’ll find it here. My personal favorites are the homemade Amish donuts at Beiler’s donut stall and, of course, the iconic Philly cheesesteak. There are a few cheesesteak vendors at the market, and everyone has a favorite, so I guess you’ll have to choose whichever looks the tastiest!

Reading Terminal Market isn’t the only food haven in Philly. If you consider yourself a foodie, I recommend this  city food tour , which includes stops at the market, Di Bruno Brothers cheese cave, and a few other spots.

18. Penn’s Cave, the best thing to do in PA for families

Penn’s Cave  is a  tourist attraction in PA  that I highly recommend. It’s the only all-water cavern in the country, so you need to ride in a boat to see it.

I will say that the tour is not for everyone; you must walk down 48 steep steps, and the caves are dark and chilly. Still, you’ll be safe for the entire 45-minute guided tour as your boat glides past stalagmites, stalactites, and interesting rock shapes and columns that resulted from years of dripping water. It’s one of the most  adventurous things to do in PA .

Penn’s Cave also includes a fun outdoor  Miner’s Maze  and an off-road  mountain tour  in a Jeep, which is available June through November. There is also a wildlife preserve on the premises, but we didn’t visit so as not to support the captivity of wild animals.

If you’re further south, near Lancaster, I suggest visiting the  Indian Echo Caverns . These limestone caves are like the ones at Penn’s Cave and are accessible via a guided tour. If you’re into geology, this is a  cool place in Pennsylvania  you don’t want to miss.

19. Eastern State Penitentiary, something to explore in Pennsylvania at night

The natural beauty of this state is exhilarating, but if you’re more of a city dweller, then a visit to  Eastern State Penitentiary  is one of the most  adventurous things to do in PA .

This former prison in Philadelphia is famous for having one of the spookiest Halloween  attractions in Pennsylvania . The prison was in operation between 1829 and 1971, and carries a ghostly presence of days gone by. It was one of the first jails to use separate incarceration, and it housed famed criminals like Al Capone and Willie Sutton.

Today, the penitentiary is a public museum that holds daytime tours and its annual haunted house event. It definitely has a scary atmosphere at night, but it’s a famous landmark, and visiting it is almost a required  thing to do in Pennsylvania .

Besides its title as one of the scariest Halloween attractions, the penitentiary is also a historical building. It is one of the most expensive prisons in the country, and it’s famous for its revolutionary wagon wheel layout. Since it closed, it has fallen into decay, but government funding has maintained these “preserved ruins”, which now add to its appeal.

You can purchase admission tickets to the prison with a $3 discount  here . The entrance fee is also included in this  hop-on hop-off bus tour , and in the  Sightseeing Flex Pass  and the  Sightseeing Day Pass .

20. Hickory Run State Park, a popular place to visit in Pennsylvania

Hickory Run State Park  is another  thing to see in PA ‘s Pocono Mountains. The area covers nearly 16,000 acres and includes 3 natural parks and over 40 miles of hiking trails.

The Hickory Run region is huge, but there are a few points of interest that I want to mention. First is  Boulder Field , the largest such field in Appalachia. The boulders range from 3 to 30 feet tall, and the total field is about 16 acres. The first thing I thought when hiked to the Boulder Field was: How all these rocks got there?! I’m sure the same will happen to you.

However, the hike that I liked the most in the area was the  Shades of Death Trail  to Sand Spring Lake , where you’ll find a disc golf course and campsite. Along the way, you’ll pass by  Stametz Dam  and a beautiful waterfall. A bit further to the southeast is  Hawk Falls , another  must-see in Pennsylvania , although I didn’t enjoy it at all since it was packed with people.

The day we visited Hickory Run, it was overcrowded so I need to give it a second chance before deciding if it’s one of my favorite state parks in PA. However, when we were driving back home, we saw a mommy bear with three cubs. This is the only time we have seen black bears in Pennsylvania, so Hickory Run is going to always be a special place for us. This natural spot in the great outdoors is proof that there are other  things to do in southeast Pennsylvania  besides visiting Philadelphia.

21. Presque Isle State Park, an awesome place to go in Pennsylvania

If you travel all the way to the opposite side of the state, you’ll find  Presque Isle State Park . Tucked away in northern PA, this peninsula stretches out into Lake Erie, providing magnificent views and a relaxing coastal atmosphere.

With over 3,000 acres, it’s a popular spot for a summer swim, bike rides, hikes, and birdwatching. A visit to this state park is one of the top  things to do in Erie, Pennsylvania , a city that doesn’t get as much attention as ones like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

Due to its location in northwestern PA, the Presque Isle peninsula formed from glacial ice sheets in Wisconsin about 20,000 years ago. The winds off Lake Erie are constantly reshaping the coast and creating new ecological zones, which you can learn about at the park’s  Tom Ridge Environmental Center .

The park’s unique habitats create a home for many of Pennsylvania’s endangered and threatened species. While you’re here, you might spot rare butterflies and dragonflies, cerulean warblers, and saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows. For the best birdwatching in the area, go to the  Gull Point Natural Area .

Moreover, the park has over 20 miles of recreational trails, plus 13 sandy beaches, and a marina. Watching the sunset over Lake Erie is one of the most relaxing  things to do in western Pennsylvania . For something a bit more exciting, you could try water skiing, boating, surfing, or swimming in the northern waters.

After visiting the park, check out the other  cool things in PA ‘s northwest corner. The city of  Erie  has lots to see, including museums, theaters, historic mansions, and lighthouses.

22. Scranton, PA, another place to visit in Pennsylvania

Most people might know  Scranton  from the TV sitcom The Office. However, the city has more to offer than a boring office building! Scranton is one of the largest former coal mining communities in the state, so it’s an interesting  place to explore in Pennsylvania .

The city was a hub for not only coal mining but also the railroad business. Many of the landmarks and  things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania  reflect these industries.

For example, the  Steamtown National Historic Site  is home to a heritage railroad and museum. Situated in a functional railroad yard, the attraction features several exhibits about the technology and history of steam railroads and locomotives. There are several freight cars on display, and you can also take a train ride through the area.

The  Lackawanna County Coal Mine  is another Scranton attraction worth visiting. This retired coal mine is now a museum where you can ride in a minecart through an anthracite mine about 250 feet underground. Former miners or children of miners lead the tours, so you get a feel for what coal mining was really like.

Above ground, I recommend checking out  Nay Aug Park , the largest park in Scranton. It’s one of the most  beautiful places in Pennsylvania , especially in an industrial center like Scranton. Be sure to visit the  Nay Aug Gorge , where you can climb the 150-foot  David Wenzel Treehouse . It overlooks the gorge and provides awesome views of the  Nay Aug Falls . The park also has two Olympic-sized swimming pools, playgrounds, walking paths, and the  Everheart Museum of Natural History, Science, & Art .

Other notable points of interest in Scranton include the  Houdini Museum , the  Electric City Trolley Museum , and the  Scranton Iron Furnaces . Built over 160 years ago, these stone blast furnaces are relics of the city’s past.

23. Quehanna Trail and other backpacking hikes in Pennsylvania

If you’re looking for a backcountry getaway, Pennsylvania also has many interesting options to scape the city for a couple of days (or weeks). There are many backpacking trails spanning miles where you can spend time in nature.

The Quehanna Trail  is one of the many great hiking paths in Pennsylvania. Its total length is 70 miles, and it runs through the Moshannon and Elk State Forests of the PA Wilds. You’ll need around 5 to 7 days to complete it. The most popular start/endpoint for the trail is the  Parker Dam State Park , a beautiful area in central PA with a lovely lake and beach that are open to campers and picnickers. We have hiked around 80% of the trail during two separate weekends, and the northeast section is breathtaking!

Two hours from there, you will find the  Black Forest Trail, with a total length of 43 miles overlooking the Pine Creek Gorge. The trek takes 3-5 days and runs through the  Tiadaghton State Forest , where you’ll find lots of natural swamps, hemlock forests, and streams.

If you’re near Pittsburgh, check out the Laurel Highlands Trail, also known as the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. It’s good for all skill levels and takes 5-7 days to complete the 70-mile trail.

The Mid State Trail was named PA’s 2019 Trail of the Year for its diverse views of the wild landscape. The 327-mile trail is moderate but becomes challenging at times and takes 3-4 weeks to hike from the Mason Dixon Line to the NY border.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with the  Appalachian Trail , which covers 229 miles in PA, starting near Gettysburg in the Michaux State Forest, and traveling diagonally up to the Delaware Water Gap. The full trail length is 1993 miles, so you will need around 5 months to hike from Georgia to Maine. However, with only two or three weeks you can hike the whole PA section.

24. King of Prussia Mall, one of the most popular places to go in Pennsylvania

The  King of Prussia Mall  is worth mentioning because it’s the 2nd-largest shopping mall in the country. Less than 40 minutes from Philadelphia and 10 minutes from Valley Forge, it’s a luxurious place to shop, dine, and enjoy a night on the town. The mall is close to other stores and restaurants, making it one of the trendiest  Pennsylvania places .

It covers over 2.7 million square feet and has over 400 shops. Here, you can shop at high-end department stores like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as more casual retailers like Primark and Urban Outfitters. You could spend all day perusing the smaller shops for books, accessories, art, and just about anything else. There are also casual and fine dining restaurants and cafes, along with a food court.

The nearby movie theater and indoor skydiving center offer more  things to do in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania . One of the more recent additions to the area is the Town Center, a shopping and lifestyle area with a downtown feel. The center includes retail outlets, independent stores, and a range of eateries and specialty cafes.

The King of Prussia Mall is close to hotels and public transportation, so it’s a convenient hub for those in southeast PA. It’s a good place to go on a rainy day for a weekend with friends or a romantic date night.

25. Andy Warhol Museum, one of the Can’t-miss attractions in PA

Another Pittsburgh attraction that I wanted to focus on is the  Andy Warhol Museum . Most people are familiar with this artist and, as you can expect, an entire museum dedicated to Warhol is one of the  coolest places in Pennsylvania .

The museum is part of the Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh and is the largest U.S. museum dedicated to a single artist. The facility is a grand testament to Warhol’s work as a pioneer of the Pop Art movement. Inside, visitors can observe thousands of pieces of Warhol’s work, including prints, photographs, films, sculptures, and paintings.

25. Andy Warhol Museum, one of the can’t-miss attractions in PA

Along with its permanent collections, the museum also hosts gallery talks, workshops, and other programs throughout the year, most of which are open to the public. Given Warhol’s legacy as a gay icon, the museum is also an active supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and offers related resources and performances.

No matter when you visit, there will always be something happening at the museum. Part of what made Warhol’s art so iconic was how accessible it was, so even if you’re not an art aficionado, I’m sure you’ll find the museum to be a  fun place to go in Pennsylvania . The bright colors, punchy patterns, and playful approach to popular ads and celebrities are sure to leave you in a good mood.

26. Ohiopyle State Park, the best place to see the sunset in Pennsylvania

About 1.5 hours south of Pittsburgh is the  Ohiopyle State Park , a  must-see place in Pennsylvania ‘s southwest. The park encompasses over 20,000 acres of land and has a network of over 300 miles of hiking and biking trails. The paths range from the easy 1.7-mile  Ferncliff Trail  to the challenging 10.4-mile  Sugarloaf Trail System .

The park’s centerpiece is the  Youghiogheny River Gorge , one of the  best places to visit in Pennsylvania  for white water rafting. There are several runs, each varying in difficulty, that are popular with rafters, kayakers, and canoers. The rapids can be quite dangerous if you’re not experienced, so I recommend this guided  white-water rafting tour  with a picnic lunch.

If you prefer to stay on land, you’ll still be able to witness the stunning natural beauty of the park. Try to see how many waterfalls you can find; there are several near the park office.

There are several campsites in the park, as well as rustic cottage and yurt rentals. The beautiful scenery and clean sites make this a popular  Pennsylvania vacation spot for families .

27. Penn’s Landing, one of the top free things to do in Pennsylvania

Back in Philadelphia, I suggest taking a walk along  Penn’s Landing  along the Delaware River waterfront. It is named after William Penn, and few people know that the actual landing is further south in the city of Chester. Even so, Penn’s Landing is a hotspot during  summers in PA  and is a must-see in Philly.

On any given day, you can sit at Penn’s Landing and watch tugboats, barges, and jet skis cruise down the river. You might hop aboard the  RiverLink Ferry  or visit the  Independence Seaport Museum  to learn more about the city’s maritime history. Nearby is a roller rink that doubles as an ice-skating rink in the winter.

During the summer months, Penn’s Landing transforms into  Spruce Street Harbor Park , a top-rated urban beach. Stroll the boardwalk, enjoy yummy treats, lounge in a hammock, visit the beer garden, or play outdoor games. It’s one of the best  free things to do in PA .

In June, Penn’s Landing holds the Roots Picnic, hosted by Philly hip-hop group The Roots. A variety of other concerts and cultural events take place during the summer and fall, too.

For couples and groups, the area offers two unique dining experiences.  The Spirit of Philadelphia  is perfect for a night of dining and dancing on the water, while the four-masted  Moshulu  is a romantic floating restaurant docked at the Landing.

A few blocks into the city, you’ll find even more fun on South Street, a unique venue with an alternative atmosphere. One of the coolest attractions here is Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens , a large mosaic, and folk-art gallery.

To get the most out of your time, I recommend this  3-hour tour  of South Street and the Magic Gardens or this  South Philly tour  that includes the Italian Market.

28. Hawk Mountain, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania

If you have a passion for photography and nature as we do, then you’ll love  Hawk Mountain . This wild bird sanctuary is about 80 miles north of Philadelphia and is one of the best  Pennsylvania places  for wildlife photography. Bring your telelens!

As the name suggests, this is a great spot to see a variety of hawks. We’ve seen other bird species here too, including falcons, eagles, and ospreys.

Along with the fabulous birdwatching opportunities, Hawk Mountain is also a gorgeous natural area. It’s nestled on a ridge overlooking the Blue Mountain chain. Scattered throughout the sanctuary are several viewing sites where you can get optimal panoramic views. Some of the birds are quite personable and aren’t afraid to fly close to visitors! It truly is one of the most incredible  things to see in PA .

Moreover, there are campgrounds and hiking trails to explore after your viewing session is over. It’s also worth visiting the  Natural Habitat Garden . The blooms attract all kinds of butterflies, birds, and dragonflies, and the ponds are full of turtles and frogs.

There are also opportunities to learn more about raptors and their native habitats at the  Visitor Center , which has interactive displays, a bookstore, and the Wings of Wonder gallery. Learn when different birds will be migrating and, for the best birdwatching chances, visit between mid-August to mid-December in autumn and in April through mid-May in spring.

29. Brandywine Valley, another interesting place to go in Pennsylvania

The Brandywine Valley  offers lots of  things to do in southeast Pennsylvania . This upper-class neighborhood is home to Longwood Gardens, which I mentioned earlier, as well as historical sites, museums, and natural parks.

One of the most popular  Pennsylvania tourist attractions  in the Brandywine Valley is the  Brandywine River Museum of Art . The museum focuses on the work of Andrew Wyeth, who was born in the area. Nearby is the Wharton Esherick Museum, which is dedicated to the sculptor of the same name. For the younger crowd, there is also the  American Helicopter Museum , which has a collection of over 30 aircraft.

The Brandywine Valley is also known for its nature-oriented landmarks. These include  Chanticleer Garden,  the  Jenkins and Tyler Arboretums , and the  Brandywine Creek State Park , a 933-acre park with a nature center, tulip preserve, and 14 miles of trails.

This charming southeastern region of PA is also home to a good number of historical sites. A few examples include  Paoli Battlefield, The Mill at Anselma, Marshallton blacksmith shop, Hibernia Mansion,  and  Newlin Grist Mill .

Finally, there are several nearby wineries, not to mention all kinds of restaurants and specialty shops. The  downtown areas of Kennett Square, Phoenixville,  and  West Chester  are quaint, walkable areas with a charming atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back evening in town.

30. Bucks County, PA, an area with more things to do in Pennsylvania

Bucks County  is another suburban area not far from Philadelphia that offers unique  Pennsylvania tourist attractions .

Many of these attractions are relics from the past, such as the covered bridges scattered throughout the county.  Fonthill Castle , an over 100-year-old National Historic Landmark, was the home of local archaeologist and tile artist Henry Chapman Mercer. The 44-room mansion is open to public tours, and the nearby  Mercer Museum  and  Moravian Pottery & Tile Works  showcase his intricate artwork.

New Hope  is a charming borough in Bucks County with a quaint, artsy atmosphere. Its  Peddler’s Village  is the best  place to visit in Pennsylvania  year-round because there are always seasonal activities going on. I also recommend checking out  Solebury Orchards  and  Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve .

Tyler State Park  and  Washington Cross Historic Park  are two areas in Bucks County where you can get outside and learn more about the region’s past. If you’re around on a weekend, stop by the  Quakertown Farmers Market  for fresh produce and flea market finds.

Bucks County is also a great place to play, both for kids and adults. Small children will love  Sesame Place  amusement park, where they can meet Cookie Monster, Elmo, Big Bird, and the whole gang (you can book your ticket here ). For the older crowd, there are two large shopping malls in the area and a casino.

There is something for everyone in Bucks County, so I recommend adding it to your list of  things to do in eastern Pennsylvania .

At first glance, Pennsylvania may seem like a dull state in the Mid-Atlantic. However, after reading this guide of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania, I’m pretty sure you’ve changed your mind. To help you plan where to go in Pennsylvania, check out our Pennsylvania tourist map below.

Which places in Pennsylvania are you excited to see? If you have any questions or another attraction you’d like to add, leave a comment for me and I’ll get back to you!

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50 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Pennsylvania

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: May 20, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, was one of the 13 original colonies of America.

It was named by King James II by combining the Latin word for “woodland”, “Sylvania”, and the surname of Admiral Sir William Penn.

It achieved statehood in 1787 and is a notable area to visit for history buffs thanks to its many significant roles in time.

It is here that the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Liberty Bell first tolled, and it is also home to sites that were central in the American Revolutionary War and American Civil War.

Naturally, all this history means that Pennsylvania is packed with exciting attractions.

From sprawling gardens to ornate feats of architecture and from historical buildings and museums to art galleries and institutes, there’s no shortage of places that you can visit.

There’s even a healthy mix of cheap and free things to do.

So, where to first?

To help you decide, here is our travel guide for 50 fun things to do and places to visit in Pennsylvania!

Table of Contents

1. Eastern State Penitentiary

MISHELLA / Shutterstock

The Eastern State Penitentiary is an eerie structure that resembles a castle but held a very different purpose.

An amalgamation of the old and the new, it is a prison and boasts stone construction, fortress-like archways and corridors, industrial-style simplistic watchtowers, and formerly “hi-tech” fixings.

It was built in the year 1829 and closed in 1971, and as of its last days, it was one of America’s leading facilities of its kind.

Before the creation of the Eastern State Penitentiary, most prisons had actually been akin to commercial spots.

There was little order in them, with corrupt officers, prostitutes, lots of alcohol, and a high rate of prisoner death before sentencing.

The Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to combat these “trends”, made by the Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Public Prisons.

The building was one of the world’s most expensive buildings in its time, with an $800,000 price tag.

In its day, the Eastern State Penitentiary was very much a technological marvel.

It had private toilets for prisoners before the President had more than a chamber pot, and there were private exercise spaces, three filling and large daily meals, and beautiful skylights in rooms.

It sounded like a paradise, but that was only on the surface.

Prisoners were not allowed to interact with any other prisoners or speak to any guards.

They exercised, ate, and read the only allowed book – the Bible – alone.

Guards wore shoe covers to keep the entire complex incredibly quiet, creating complete silence and solitude.

The hopeless solitary confinement of the Eastern State Penitentiary would drive many of its prisoners insane.

Its separate prison system and overcrowding would eventually lead to this confinement system being overturned, returning to the “New York System” of incarceration, where social interaction was allowed once more.

Its modernity made it ideal for housing those such as Al Capone (who received a lavish cell) and Willie Sutton.

The Eastern State Penitentiary closed down in 1971 and was narrowly saved for destruction following years of abandonment.

It reopened in 1994 and has become one of Pennsylvania’s famous landmarks, providing tours to interested visitors.

Whether for the historical value, photography opportunities, or macabre exploration, it’s one of the things to do in Pennsylvania you shouldn’t miss.

Address: 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

2. Andy Warhol Museum

Pamela Brick / Shutterstock

Andy Warhol, the one-and-only famous artist who was a prominent influence in the world of Pop Art, was born in Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania.

The Andy Warhol Museum pays tribute to his long and illustrious career and life, spanning from his birth to his latter years, up until his passing in 1987.

It is the largest in the country that is dedicated to a single artist.

At the Andy Warhol Museum, you’ll gain insight into the artist and his many pieces, including famous works like Tomato Soup Cans and his portraits of Elvis and Marilyn.

Exhibits are dedicated to his life and times.

The museum covers seven floors and houses a large permanent collection featuring his works and an archive packed with relevant documents to the great artist.

Don’t forget to pop into the Factory portion of the Andy Warhol Museum.

Here, you’ll get to learn and try some of Warhol’s own personal techniques for his art.

Art educators lead the way, allowing you to try making acetate collages, silk screenings, and drawings with blotted lines.

Concerts, film screenings, performances, live entertainment, and lectures are also held here.

For art lovers and curious tourists alike, this is one of Pennsylvania’s top 10 hotspots.

Address: 117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

3. Fallingwater

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Fallingwater ‘s unique name is a product of its actual appearance.

Known also as the Kaufmann Residence, it is chiefly recognized as one of the finest private homes designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright – and one of his best designs overall!

It was built in 1935 and features a structure that protrudes over a waterfall in Pennsylvania’s Fayette County, where it sits on Bear Run in the Steward Township as one of the most loved Pennsylvania attractions and vacation places .

Fallingwater cost $155,000 to build.

It mixes the wonders of the natural world with delightful organic architecture in order to create a seamless harmony between the house and the environment surrounding it.

Inside, furnishings are made from walnut wood that cost $4,500 in total.

As soon as it was built, Fallingwater was an architectural icon and was featured in many publications and magazines.

In 1966, it was determined a National Historic Landmark, and in 1991, it was considered the greatest work of American architecture by the American Institute of Architecture.

For a time, the gorgeous Fallingwater home was lived in by the Kauffman family as their summer home.

But the ceiling had over 50 different leaks which Wright refused to fix, telling them to simply put a bucket under the leaks – which now, as an open public attraction since 1964, is advice that those who manage the home follow!

The home is the only major work by Wright that is open for the public, and it boasts many original features and components.

The Kauffmans filled Fallingwater with art pieces and collections of artifacts that remain on display for visitors till now.

Folk crafts, sculptures, and even designer furniture make up the overall aesthetic.

You’ll find a cast-iron Buddha head dating as far back as 906, an 8th-century sculpture of Parvati the Hindu fertility goddess, a Madonna from 1420 of Austrian-Bohemian style, unique ceramics and sculptures, and collections of art by Picasso and Diego Rivera.

Works from Mexico, Africa, and other cultures adorn the house, providing many sights to see on your visit.

Address: 1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464, United States

4. Hersheypark

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Hersheypark is a fun amusement park packed with activities that will amuse people of all ages.

It is located in the famous Pennsylvania town of Hershey , which, as its name may suggest, is very closely related to the popular Hershey’s brand of chocolate.

Spanning 90 acres, Hersheypark is the main attraction of the town.

It was originally built as a recreational site for works of Hershey’s in 1906, but it eventually expanded – and continues to expand!

Among the things to see and do in Hersheypark are a train, Ferris wheel, carousel, roller coasters, a water park, bumper cars, a zoo, an observation tower, midway games, video arcades, and an amphitheater with live entertainment acts.

There are over 70 total attractions here as well as restaurants catering to people of all preferences.

For an exciting day in Pennsylvania, you can’t go wrong with Hersheypark!

Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

5. Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex

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The Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex is a natural choice for what to do in the state.

Spanning 45 acres of land, it is home to multiple tourist destinations within as well as several active government buildings.

It features a huge dome styled after the Cathedral of St. Peter in Rome, which was built here in 1906 and rests on top of the main complex, where it weighs 52 million pounds.

The Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex’s main building is made from Vermont granite and features a huge part of bronze double doors.

Tours inside are available but have to be pre-scheduled.

The gorgeous architecture of the whole area is worth seeing and exploring, and the grounds house many memorials and museums, including the state’s War Veterans Memorial Fountain and the Soldier’s Grove Quadrangle.

Address: 501 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17120, United States

6. Gettysburg National Military Park

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The Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania is the site where, in 1863, the American Civil War’s Battle of Gettysburg took place, taking 51,000 lives approximately in its three-day rage.

Today, it is adamant that visitors never forget those lives, with monuments and markers throughout the location, totaling hundreds, to provide educational information to guests.

Among the best spots to check out at the Gettysburg National Military Park are Cemetery Ridge, where Union lines stood on the last two days, Oak Ridge, which is where the first day’s battle occurred, and Seminary Ridge, where Confederate lines stood on the last two days.

You can also head to the Park Museum and Visitor Center, where you can view one of America’s largest collection of Civil War weapons, uniforms, and personal items in the Rosensteel collection.

There are also programs, events, horseback trails, and reenactments that make this one of the most interesting places to visit in PA for history lovers.

Address: 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, United States

7. Mütter Museum

Mütter Museum

Mütter Museum is situated within the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is definitely among the state’s most fascinating places to visit.

It is a medical museum that opened in 1858 and is a haven of strange, wondrous, curious, and stomach-turning medical displays, body parts, anatomical oddities, and other things weird and gory.

There are many fun things you’ll spot on display at the Mütter Museum, though most of them are more bizarrely fascinating.

For example, there are the bones of Harry Eastlack, who passed away due to a very rare disorder called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva.

The disorder caused his bones to fuse together when his body’s soft connective tissue ossified, freezing him in an unmoving state.

Another example is the Soap Lady, which is a corpse from the 1800s that was exhumed due to the very weird waxy substance that was produced when it started decomposing.

There is also the skeleton of North America’s tallest man to ever live, preserved human fetuses, a collection of 2,000 items removed from the throats of patients from the Chevalier Jackson Foreign Body Collection, extremely detailed wax models, conjoined twin skeletons, a piece from the vertebra of John Wilkes Booth, and a plaster cast of famous Siamese Twins Eng and Chang Bunker.

But the most loved part of the Mütter Museum is a collection of 46 microscope slides that each contain silvers from Albert Einstein’s brain.

Einstein had wanted to be cremated, but pathologist Thomas Harvey saved his brain from the ashes.

After a long fight to keep it, scientists were able to examine it.

In the 1980s, it became clear that Einstein’s brain had a unique structure that may have contributed to or been a result of his genius.

Now, these slides are, in themselves, one of the state’s biggest tourist draws.

Address: 19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States

8. Valley Forge National Historic Park

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Valley Forge National Historic Park of Pennsylvania are a symbol of the sacrifices, successes, suffering, and ultimate victory of the American Revolutionary War.

It is here that the Continental Army bundled up for the winter of 1777 to 1778, where they lived in crude cabins made of logs after British troops destroyed their center for supplies.

Soldiers here were casualties, with 2,000 or so of them struggling from poor conditions, hunger, and disease.

Despite the wind chills, they lived, rested, and tried to survive from December to June.

George Washington’s own house remains here, available to tour, a reminiscent glimpse into the past.

The Valley Forge National Historic Park spans 3,500 acres and boasts multiple tours, a National Memorial Arch, plenty of recreational trails and spaces, and facilities like restrooms and a canteen.

For locals and tourists alike, exploring and sightseeing here is one of the lovely things to do in PA.

Address: 1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406, United States

9. Phipps Conservatory

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Phipps Conservatory is a large complex in Schenley Park of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It spans 15 acres and is a part of the National Register of Historic Places, with 14 rooms within the main conservatory building.

The space was donated to Pittsburgh in 1893 by Henry Phipps, a real estate and steel magnate who built it as a present for the city.

The Phipps Conservatory’s main goal is to educate guests and provide a fun experience for all visitors.

It boasts 23 gardens such as the rooftop edible garden, children’s garden, and Japanese garden, a Center for Sustainable Landscapes, and of course, the conservatory glasshouse, made in a Victorian style.

The 14 rooms of the Phipps Conservatory glasshouse are packed with all sorts of exotic plants.

This includes spices, orchids, palm trees, tropical fruits, ferns, bonsai, and even a Desert Room boasting cacti and a Tropical Forest Conservatory that feels like it’s a world away from the state.

Themed flower shows, special events, and a beautiful chandelier all add to the experience, making this one of the chief places to visit in Pennsylvania for nature-lovers!

Address: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

10. Philadelphia Museum of Art

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The Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to one of the country’s best and biggest art collections, and it’s also iconic in Pennsylvania thanks to its front steps’ feature in the Rocky movies.

More than 227,000 pieces of art rest here, from American to European to Asian art, making it one of the world’s most important artistic institutions.

Permanent collections at the Philadelphia Museum of Art include very varied works of art, including costumes, Asian ceramics, decorative arts, American colonial furniture, paintings, photographs, fashion, prints, armor, drawings, textiles, and a sculpture garden outdoors.

Great artists such as Cézanne, Dali, Chagall, Picasso, Rembrandt, Monet, Manet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Matisse have works here.

As one of Pennsylvania’s most attractive points of interest for art aficionados, you’ll be pleased to know that the Philadelphia Museum of Art features work from the times of French Impressionism, the Renaissance, the Middle Ages, and even the present day.

Don’t miss a trip here if you can help it!

Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

11. Rodin Museum

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The Rodin Museum sits between two prestigious buildings: the Free Library of Philadelphia and the aforementioned Philadelphia Museum of Art, yet another one of this Pennsylvania city’s tourist places.

It is much more specific than the larger Museum of Art, focused only on the exhibition of the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Opened in 1929, it is the biggest collection of his works outside of Paris and was a gift from a philanthropist named Jules Mastbaum.

The Rodin Museum is a beautifully designed building in the Beaux-Arts style, fringed all around by formal French gardens that hold more fun and insightful sculptures by Rodin.

The sculpture right outside of the museum is the incredibly famous work, The Thinker, and visiting to see that in itself is one of the things to do in Pennsylvania.

Inside the Rodin Museum, close to 150 different sculptures representing many different points of Rodin’s life and career are on display.

This includes bronzes, plasters, marbles, prints, and even works in progress.

The museum is managed by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and is a must-see for fans and curious tourists alike.

Address: 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

12. Mount Moriah Cemetery

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Mount Moriah Cemetery has a long history and was almost a forgotten, destroyed portion of Pennsylvania, but following some rescuing, it has become one of Southwest Philadelphia ‘s best unusual spots for sightseeing.

The cemetery originally opened in 1855, boasting gothic mausoleums, a regal and ornate entrance in a Romanesque brick style, and an eventual expansion of 400 acres of land to become the biggest burial site in Pennsylvania.

Interestingly, no one actually owns the cemetery, which is part of why it became abandoned and forgotten.

For a time, it seemed that Mount Moriah Cemetery would simply be reclaimed by nature, as the headstones and monuments within fell and overgrowth overtook even the wealthiest Victorian graves.

That’s when the Friends Of Mount Moriah, a local non-profit group, stepped in to help.

With years of work, more than half of the cemetery has been cleared up and is reopened for eager eyes and fun, if sobering, exploration.

Address: 6201 Kingsessing Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19142, United States

13. Independence National Historical Park and the Liberty Bell

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One of the biggest and most known Pennsylvania attractions is probably Independence National Historical Park and its accompanying Liberty Bell.

An incredibly historic location, it is here in the park that the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the table that George Washington used is still on-site for visitors to ogle.

It is also a World Heritage Site.

The central feature of Independence National Historical Park is Independence Hall, a Georgian building of red brick available for ranger-led tours.

The structure was Pennsylvania’s first legislative building and was built in 1763.

Across the street, the Liberty Bell Center and its famous crack rest, two tons in weight, after its ringing in 1776 to celebrate Independence.

Beyond there, you’ll find Independence Mall, which extends north and has since 1948.

It lays out trails to Carpenter’s Hall, Old City Hall, and Congress Hall, among other historic buildings lining the cobblestone roads.

Address: Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States

14. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

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If you’re choosing the best things to see in the state of Pennsylvania, you simply must take in the stunning site seeing opportunity that is Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens .

The gardens are a nonprofit group, a folk ark center, and a gallery for the works of Isaiah Zagar, a famous mosaicist, on the site of his biggest public installation of art.

In the late 1960s, Zagar began focusing his efforts on beautifying the neighborhood of South Street after moving here with his wife.

The couple helped revive the area by buying and refurbishing buildings that were falling apart, using vibrant mosaics to color the walls and bring life to them.

The first building they did this with was the Eyes Gallery, which remains open and doing well now.

Zagar’s work on the Magic Gardens began in 1994, using a vacant lot that was close to his studio.

For 14 years, he excavated grottos and tunnels, sculptured walls in layers, added grouting and tiling and perfected 3,000 square feet of space.

A mix of found objects, community contributions, and more cover half a block in Pennsylvania with bright hues, textures, and tiles of all sorts.

The labyrinth of the gardens is packed with sculptures, handmade art, and other objects, and it’s no wonder that the Magic Gardens are not a permanent art institution hosting live entertainment and public workshops run by the man himself, Zagar!

Address: 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States

15. Cave of Kelpius

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The Cave of Kelpius sits in Fairmount Park of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one of the unusual places to see in one of the most beautiful states in the US .

It is an enhanced cave of sorts, fitted into a hillside, its one entrance marked by a stone frame.

It is here that it is thought that the first mystic cult in America lived in the 17th century.

Supposedly, the cave was settled by Johannes Kelpius, a scholar and mystic, with his 40 all-male followers in 1694.

He believed that the world would come to an end that year due to his interpretation of the Book of Revelation.

They were known as The Society of the Woman of the Wilderness, after a passage in Revelation where a woman ran to hide from the end of the world in the wilderness.

They were also called, simply, the Hermits of the Wissahickon, which lends itself to the name of the area: Hermit’s Glen, marked in present-day Pennsylvania by the road Hermit Lane.

In the Cave of Kelpius, the group practiced astronomy and used the space to meet and as an observatory.

They remained there even after the world did not end, and they continued to study the skies, make music and art, and even help the community.

In 1708, Kelpius died, and the group largely disbanded, with many remaining in the area to serve as lawyers and doctors.

The cave is largely demolished now, with only the stone structure outside remaining, but it’s a fascinating visit steeped in history.

Address: 777-795 Hermit Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19128, United States

16. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

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The Carnegie Museum of Natural History was founded in 1896 by the titular Andrew Carnegie, an industrialist and local of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It was here that housed the scientists that discovered the first fossils of the Diplodocus carnegii dinosaur.

It’s a fun spot and one of the coolest places to visit in PA with family.

Throughout the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, you’ll see exhibits of minerals, fossils, gems, animals, and more.

The museum’s pride is housing the planet’s biggest Jurassic dinosaur collection, including the first Tyrannosaurus rex specimen and the only juvenile Apatosaurus fossils.

While dinosaurs are the main draw, topics such as archeology, herpetology, and zoology are also covered.

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

17. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden

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The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden sits close to the base of Pennsylvania’s Schuylkill River.

It is a hidden gem among tourist attractions, but one of the country’s best examples of genuine Japanese design from centuries ago.

The name “Shofuso” roughly means “Pine Breeze Villa” and was made as part of a House in the Garden exhibit for the Museum of Modern Art.

The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden was made by Junzō Yoshimura, an architect, who built it in Japan in 1953.

It was sent and assembled in New York the following year, given to America as a gift from Japan.

For a while, the Museum of Modern Art held onto it, and then the exhibition closed and it was moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1958.

The house of the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is designed following shoin-zukuri architecture and proportions.

It is meant to resemble a temple guest house, boasting a kitchen, tea room, and bath and topped with a roof of hinoki bark that had to be specially requested from the National Forestry Agency of Japan.

The gardens, on the other hand, are host to a tea garden, courtyard garden, koi pond, and a little island.

Vandalism and abandonment left the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden in disrepair for years.

Famous Japanese painter Hiroshi Senju helped refurbish it in 2007, donating 20 murals to the grounds.

Now, the place is very much perked up, and it’s one of the greatest tourist attractions in the state.

Address: Lansdowne Dr &, Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131, United States

18. Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is a public market in the downtown area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Since 1893, it has housed more than a hundred merchants operating out of the former train shed of Reading Terminal, and it became a National Historic Landmark in 1995.

Visiting Reading Terminal Market is one of the top things to do in PA, especially if you’re looking to experience local life on a deeper level.

Baked goods, home-cooked meals, cultural food, crafts, artisanal cheese, ice cream, homemade chocolate, books and cookbooks, canned preserves, meats and fish, fresh produce, kitchen supplies, candy, clothing, jewelry, and more are all sold here on an almost daily basis.

Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States

19. Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle

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The Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle are near to each other and are closely related, making them the best places to visit in Pennsylvania back-to-back.

Fonthill Castle was the home of Henry Chapman Mercer, a famous collector, tile maker, and archaeologist.

He planned the house completely, from the exterior to each interior room, which he sketched and imagined himself.

Fonthill Castle was finished in 1912 and is made completely from poured concrete, somehow ornate and somehow impossible to categorize from an architectural standpoint.

The use of pure concrete was due to Mercer’s fear of fires, which developed after he lost some medieval armor that he was storing while building the museum to the Great Boston Fire.

People made fun of him – but he demonstrated the effectiveness of such construction by building a huge bonfire on an upper terrace and allowing it to rage, high enough for all residents of the surrounding Doylestown to see.

Mercer was a little “mad”, though – or at least extremely eccentric, especially for the surrounding Pennsylvania town.

Despite his personal loathing for “false taste” and “ugliness”, Fonthill Castle is extremely strangely built and reflects a style and reason that only he truly understands.

32 stairs, 8 bedrooms, roof pitch, vaulted ceilings, and unpainted walls… it makes for quite the sight!

Meanwhile, Mercer Museum nearby houses all sorts of “average American” tools used from the 18th to 19th centuries.

Watchmakers’ gears, tortoiseshell comb makers’ supplies, whalers’ boats, butchers’ instruments, a fake vampire hunting kit, and more.

The museum is also made from pure concrete and houses 55 exhibit rooms that each concentrate on different trades from pre-industrial times, such as farming, metalsmithing, milling, woodworking, and sewing tools.

There are also strange objects like unorthodox fire engines, a whaleboat, gallows, and stove plates.

The museum was opened in 1916 and has since included the addition of a children’s room on the highest floor.

Address: 525 E Court St, Doylestown, PA 18901, United States

20. Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland is one of the most fun places to go if you have children, nicknamed a Kingdom for Kids and situated in Lancaster , Pennsylvania.

It is a 48-acre amusement park and has been opened since 1963, earning – over time – a reputation as one of the world’s greatest children’s theme parks.

There are more than 30 rides in Pennsylvania’s Dutch Wonderland, including roller coasters, slides, castles, a themed water park called Duke’s Lagoon, and live performances and shows that will delight and amuse!

There are plenty of activities to keep kids occupied this weekend, so bring your little ones along.

Address: 2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States

21. The Sonorous Stones of Ringing Rocks Park

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If you’re looking for musical things to do in Pennsylvania, bring your own hammers and come to The Sonorous Stones of Ringing Rocks Park.

It was first “discovered” in 1890 when J. J. Ott performed for the Buckwampum Historical Society with a concert where he used a unique instrument: stones, struck with a hammer to make clear bell tones!

The rocks had been taken from Upper Black Eddy in Pennsylvania, or what is known now as Ringing Rocks Park .

The field of rock spans 7 acres and is more than 10 feet deep with these rocks.

Tests by scientists in 1965 revealed that all the rocks here ring at different tones, even if those tones are ones that human ears can’t hear.

As for why they ring, that’s a mystery that’s still unsolved.

Even stranger, the rocks lose their musical ability once removed from the rest!

Address: Ringing Rocks Rd, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972, United States

22. Trundle Manor: House of Oddities

Trundle Manor

Trundle Manor: House of Oddities is a must-do in Pennsylvania if you’re a fan of the strange, and it’s a top option for creepy destinations.

On the outside, it looks like a typical Pittsburgh house, resting on Swissvale, though upon approach the presence of coffins on the porch alerts passersby to the unusual.

In Trundle Manor, you’ll find an eclectic and macabre collection of artifacts and items.

Vintage taxidermy of strange amalgamated creatures like the pigeon shark and rat bird, many dead things in jars, and rusty weaponry are only a few examples of the many collected objects.

Antique medical devices, coffins, art, Steampunk sculptures, animal skulls, gas masks, and many more cover the exhibition rooms!

Trundle Manor is an artist’s residence and the home of Anton Miriello and Rachel Rech.

In order to tour, you have to call and make an appointment in advance for your trip to Pennsylvania.

The extra “hassle”, however, is worth it!

There is no admission fee, but a donation of some kind is required in any form – cash, alcohol, snacks, or even your own donatable oddity.

Address: 7724 Juniata St, Pittsburgh, PA 15218, United States

Want to experience more thrill and excitement? Why not check out Erie and Hershey? If you do plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in Erie, PA , and some of the best things to do in Hershey, PA ! 

23. Bicycle Heaven

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Bicycle Heaven is a working bicycle shop and the biggest bicycle museum in the world, making it one of the more unorthodox famous places in Pennsylvania.

It’s a fun spot for cyclists but is a great place to explore regardless of your cycling endeavors.

It is a two-floor building filled with artifacts, memorabilia, and of course, bicycles.

Boasting more than 4,000 collectible and vintage bikes, Bicycle Heaven is very much what its name suggests.

Famous bicycles, like those used in Pee-Wee Herman’s show and A Beautiful mind, are on display, as well as themed bikes like bobblehead, Beatles, and Elvis bikes.

There are also rare bikes like Bowden Spacelanders, a Columbia Double Eagle, and an 1863 Boneshaker.

As far as Pennsylvania attractions go, Bicycle Heaven is doubly attractive because it offers rentable and purchasable bikes, as well as bike repair.

It is open every day of the week and run by a family.

Address: 1800 Preble Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, United States

24. Penn’s Cave

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Penn’s Cave is situated in Pennsylvania’s Gregg Township and is a subterranean waterway in an inlet of Lake Nitanee that stretches a quarter of a mile.

It is filled with things to see and is a large property with a 55-foot roof and seven buildings.

The limestone cavern is on the National Register of Historic Places and is highlighted by Penn’s Cave House, which is an office for tours and a private residence.

Boats are the best way to explore, and they bring you through the long cave to see ornate formations of limestone, the working farm with cattle, a wildlife park, a bat colony, the historic buildings, and the geology and natural flora and fauna.

Penn’s Cave opened in Pennsylvania in 1885 as a show cave and features formations with grand names like Angel’s Wing, the Statue of Liberty, and Garden of the Gods.

Address: 222 Penns Cave Rd, Centre Hall, PA 16828, United States

25. The Franklin Institute and The Foucault Pendulum

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The Franklin Institute is a highly popular science museum that is one of the chief centers for Pennsylvania’s scientific education and research.

It is the site of a National Memorial for Benjamin Franklin, a wide range of fun permanent exhibits that dig into many different realms of scientific topics, and a number of fascinating and exciting temporary exhibits.

But even if science museums aren’t your ideal choice for what to do in Pennsylvania, you should stop by the Franklin Institute to view the Foucault Pendulum .

It is a massive four-story creation that hangs in the institute’s ceiling, where it has been for 80 years.

Believe it or not, such structures were once trendy to have in science museums!

The first pendulum of this kind was made by Léon Foucault in 1851, who constructed a 67-foot heavy pendulum and hung it from a ceiling over a circular protractor.

The device would appear to swing in a circle throughout the day, but it was not, itself, moving – it was the earth’s rotation beneath it that moved.

This was Foucault’s elegant method of providing that the Earth rotates on its axis.

Now, the Foucault Pendulum of the Franklin Institute is a great way to view the experiment for yourself.

It took 11 people to install and hangs from a wire of 85 feet!

The orb swings approximately every 20 minutes, taking 10 seconds to swing back and forth, knocking over pegs around a circle as it goes.

Address: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States

26. Longwood Gardens

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The Longwood Gardens is one of the very best institutions for horticulture in Pennsylvania and, in fact, the entire country.

It covers more than 1,077 acres of land in Brandywine Creek Valley and welcomes more than a million visitors annually.

It’s one of the vacation spots you’ll need to spend this weekend in to even barely explore – it’s that large!

The Longwood Gardens began their life in 1700 as a Quaker farm.

A century later, it became an arboretum, and then became a (still publicly open) private residence in 1906, with artifacts and structures made or brought in inspired by the World Fair.

Attractions include a giant pipe organ with 10,010 pipes, the King of the Conservatory Encephalartos woodii plant that is extinct in nature, and a Waterlily Display that boasts nine pools of different water-based flora.

There are more than 11,000 species of flora in the 20 outdoor gardens of the Longwood Gardens, and 5,500 species or so inside the conservatory.

Greenhouses and other collections boast themes like The Orangery, the Palm House, the Orchid House, and Acacia Passage, and there are numerous exotic plants from South Africa and Australia, too.

Many activities are held at the Longwood Gardens throughout the year.

Seasonal events and displays, special performances, workshops, lectures, courses, and a tuition-free horticultural degree are all available.

It’s truly one of the greatest places to visit in PA for nature lovers.

Address: 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States

27. Wharton Esherick Museum

Wharton Esherick Museum

The Wharton Esherick Museum is a celebration of the works and career of the titular Wharton Esherick, who was a design artist and sculptor with significant influence in the Studio Furniture Movement of the 20th century.

The museum covers 12 acres of land and is set within what was once the hilltop studio of the artist himself.

The museum has also earned the honor of becoming one of Pennsylvania’s National Historic Landmarks for Architecture.

Esherick worked with wood and created all sorts of architectural and furniture designs that used natural, flowing styles in a beautiful aesthetic.

He built the house here in this secluded location over the course of 40 years, beginning his work in 1926 in the woods of Pennsylvania.

In that time, he would add details and furnishings based on his current style, ranging from the rougher roots of Arts and Crafts to the smooth Modernist designs that would become his hallmark.

On the site, you can see his workshop and garage, his studio, and many of his works.

He found a lot of stuff to do with his craft and his prolificness shows!

Address: 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern, PA 19355, United States

28. Philadelphia Zoo

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The Philadelphia Zoo should be on your list of what to see in Pennsylvania because it’s America’s oldest zoo!

It is home to over 1,300 individual animals, including many that are endangered or rare, housed across 42 acres in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The Philadelphia Zoo’s selection of animals includes lizards, lions, primates, tigers, camels, horses, ponies, lorikeets, and more.

Unique and fun activities, like the Amazon Rainforest Carousel, make for an exciting time.

The Zoo 360 attraction is incredibly popular, and it features mesh elevated walkways where animals walk above your head!

Address: 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States

29. The Barnes Foundation

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The Barnes Foundation is an impeccable art gallery founded in 1922 by the titular Albert Barnes.

A chemist whose fortune came from drug development, Barnes fell in love with art and spent much of his wealth collecting art pieces that are now on display here.

The gallery is designed in such a way that it feels more like a wealthy Pennsylvania home than a museum or art collection, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania for art lovers.

The Barnes Foundation features works by greats like Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, Matisse, Cezanne, Rubes, El Greco, Rubens, Picasso, and Manet, with works spanning Impressionist, Modernist, African art, and many other styles.

The eclectic collection is arranged in Barnes’ personal “wall ensembles” method.

Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

30. State Museum of Pennsylvania

The State Museum of Pennsylvania ‘s main goal is the preservation of the history and culture of the state.

It is also called the William Penn Memorial Museum thanks to the fact that it houses a large statue of the man in its main hall.

Located on North Street of Harrisburg, it’s one of the chief points of interest to head to if you want to gain more insight into the state.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania spans four floors and houses over three million exhibited items.

These objects and artifacts cover many different topics, including the Civil War, fossils, dioramas and art, and state history from prehistoric times till now.

There is also a planetarium that puts on shows like Solar Superstorms, Dynamic Earth, and Grossology and You.

Address: 300 North St, Harrisburg, PA 17120, United States

31. Indian Echo Caverns

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The Indian Echo Caverns are pretty much the definition of things to do in Pennsylvania, a tourist trap hotspot that is crowded and packed with oversold commercialization.

However, it’s also a fun visit even despite this, and the limestone caves are beautiful enough to warrant a trip while you’re in Pennsylvania.

The story of the Indian Echo Caverns is pretty interesting, and it has lived many lives.

It began as a shelter and storage site for Susquehannock Indians, a spot for French fur trappers to hide out, and eventually a beautiful location for commodification as a tourist draw.

Though it’s a little transparent in its intentions, the caverns are among the state’s most scenic places and there’s a reason they’ve survived World War II and the Great Depression to live on in popularity today!

Address: 368 Middletown Rd, Hummelstown, PA 17036, United States

Looking to visit Lancaster and Philadelphia? If you do plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in Lancaster, PA , and here’s what to do in Philadelphia !

32. Sight and Sound Theatres

Sight and Sound Theatres

Sight and Sound Theatres have a few branches across America, and the one in Pennsylvania is a must-see.

It is a Christian theater company that has the sole goal of telling tales from the Bible on stage in colorful plays filled with costumes, sets, and special effects.

More than one million annual visitors to Pennsylvania come to visit the Sight and Sound Theatres, and it has earned the nickname “Christian Broadway”.

The inspiration plays and musicals tell all sorts of Biblical stories, bringing expensive and highly detailed sets and costumes with trained animals, delightful music, and a huge 300-foot stage with 2,000 audience seats.

Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, United States

33. The Hershey Story

The Hershey Story , as its name suggests, is a fun museum dedicated to telling the story of Hershey’s chocolates and its founder, Milton Hershey.

It’s one of the many Pennsylvania attractions dedicated to the company and is an inspiring, family-friendly glimpse into the rise, struggles, and successes of Hershey himself.

At The Hershey Story, you’ll see all sorts of exhibits, including many interactive displays, that feature tales of Hershey, the story of chocolate and its history, and even a Chocolate Lab where you can make your own chocolate.

Don’t forget to try some of the available chocolate taste tests, featuring sweet treats from Pennsylvania, America, and the world!

Address: 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

34. Susquehanna Art Museum

Susquehanna Art Museum

The Susquehanna Art Museum is the only dedicated art museum in central Pennsylvania.

It opened in 1989 and was founded by art educators, showcasing works by local and international artists alike.

There are many things to see in the Susquehanna Art Museum, with exhibits like Towards A New/Old Architecture, Found in Translation, The Edgeless Divide, Quilts 20/20, and works by Bearden and Picasso.

The museum moved to a new location in 2015 and has been thriving ever since – a perfect stop on your site seeing adventures!

Address: 1401 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102, United States

35. Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

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The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is one of the coolest places to see for locomotive enthusiasts.

Spanning 18 acres, it can be found in the Amish countryside and is home to over 100 different railroad cars and locomotives.

It contains more than 17,000 artifacts related to locomotives, including signal equipment, uniforms, artwork, tickets, tools, signs, and more.

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania opened in 1975 and serves as an educational and information location, teaching others about the history of railroads in the state.

It boasts interactive exhibits such as the exploration of a railcar, locomotive simulations, and restoration shop viewing.

There is also a large archival library for perusal.

Address: 300 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579, United States

36. Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area

Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area

The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area of Pennsylvania concentrates on promoting, celebrating, and informing others about Pittsburgh’s heritage of steel-making.

The large area spans many valleys and rivers and is a fun option among places to visit in PA, especially if you love industrial history.

The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area was created in 1988 to preserve the region’s legacy and culture – along with all the complex emotions that come with it, from sentiment to anger and from fear to hopelessness.

The nonprofit group that grew from here would go on to tell the stories of those who worked in the steel industry and all that industry’s details – the good, the bad, and the ugly alike.

Address: 623 E 8th Ave, Homestead, PA 15120, United States

37. Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art

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The Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art was created to protect the historic value of Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania from industrial development that would alter the landscape and devastate the character and water supplies of the area.

In 1967, local residents purchased the land and turned it into Brandywine Conservancy.

Since its early days, it has grown to protect over 64,500 acres of the state and beyond from development, continuing to preach and advocate for responsible and sustainable land use.

The Brandywine River Museum of Art was opened in 1971 then opened and grew into one of the state’s most reputable tourist attractions.

It seeks genuine American art from the local region and houses an incredible and high-quality collection of such works, including ones by Pyle, the Wyeths, Durand, West, Harnett, Chalfant, Stuart, Richards, Harberle, Pippin, and more.

Going sightseeing along the conservancy’s land and then popping in to visit the museum is a fantastic way to see many great vacation spots at once.

Address: 1 Hoffmans Mill Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States

38. Lake Tobias Wildlife Park

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Lake Tobias Wildlife Park was established in 1965 by J. R. Tobias, who created the park as a retirement hobby.

From that humble origin, it has grown into one of the famous landmarks of things to do in PA!

Though Tobias’ passions lay in animals and agriculture, he wound up opting for more practical career paths instead.

Serendipitously, the skills he gained in his career allowed him to put his knowledge to use and construct the park himself!

Today, six of Tobias’ children and one of his grandchildren run the Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Pennsylvania, which attracts an impressive 180,000 annual guests.

There are lots of activities you and your family can take part in here, including rides in open-air safari vehicles, numerous themed facilities and exhibits for different animals, a 500-gallon aquarium, and more.

Address: 760 Tobias Rd, Halifax, PA 17032, United States

39. Chanticleer

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As the Garden Capital of Pennsylvania and America, Philadelphia has its fair share of places of interest related to gardens and gardening.

Chanticleer , a pleasure garden, is one of them.

It dates back to the early years of the 20th century when the land was purchased by the Rosengarten family as their estate.

The botanical gardens, spanning 48 acres, would become prominent in Pennsylvania as a public attraction and one of the state’s beautiful places.

“Chanticleer” is French for “rooster”, and you’ll see lots of rooster motifs and designed around Chanticleer.

With large lawns, a pond, multiple gardens, and forested areas, you’ll be able to spot flora such as black-eyed Susans, ornamental grass, and daisies, as well as fauna like goldfinches, green herons, wrens, and hummingbirds.

Plants from all over the world are arranged throughout Chanticleer, allowing you to immerse yourself in a mix of local and exotic flora.

Address: 786 Church Rd, Wayne, PA 19087, United States

40. Lackawanna Coal Mine

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The Lackawanna Coal Mine was once a working coal mine, and it has a dark history that sets a moody tone over this portion of Scranton , Pennsylvania.

Miners here faced awful conditions in passageways and tunnels, with children and adults all working here in deplorable, dangerous, and potentially deadly states.

Tours of the Lackawanna Coal Mine bring you down into the Clark coal vein.

You’ll learn about anthracite mining, then move onto other veins that can teach you about fault rooms, the fire boss, small vein work, ventilation and air doors, exits, nippers, and more.

The mine itself closed in 1966 and was reopened as a museum in 1978, where it is now one of Pennsylvania’s places to go.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

41. Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

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The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is rather fascinating as a spot in Pennsylvania, mostly because the titular poet only lived in the state for a year.

In 1843, he and his wife moved into a home in Philadelphia, where he wrote “The Gold Bug” and “The Tell-Tale Heart”.

Almost a century later, a die-hard fan of Poe’s purchased the home and decided to turn it into a museum.

When that fan passed away, the city of Philadelphia received it, and it became a National Historic Site.

There are three permanent exhibits and two rotating exhibits at the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, each letting you look in-depth into his life, times, and career.

For literature lovers, a trip here is one of the most fun things to do in Pennsylvania!

Address: 532 N 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, United States

42. National Civil War Museum

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For history nerds, a trip to the National Civil War Museum in Pennsylvania is a must-do.

It is dedicated to telling the tale of the American Civil War with the use of 24,000 items and artifacts housed across two floors and 17 galleries.

The National Civil War Museum tells the story of the war in as objective a manner as possible, and as a Smithsonian affiliate, you know it does the job well.

The galleries begin the tale of the Civil War in 1850, projecting the tensions that led up to the war in 1861, and all the way up to 1876, to showcase the aftermath that followed the war’s end in 1865.

Address: 1 Lincoln Cir, Harrisburg, PA 17103, United States

43. Wagner Free Institute of Science

Wagner Free Institute of Science

The Wagner Free Institute of Science is one of the main Pennsylvania attractions for genuine scientific learning and study, offering lectures and classes that are among the free things to do in Pennsylvania.

The tradition of such lessons began with William Wagner himself, who conducted free informal science lessons out of his home.

Wagner’s classes grew so popular that he opened the Wagner Free Institute of Science in order to expand.

Within, natural history collections belonging to the man were displayed, and Wager’s lessons continued.

When he passed away, his legacy was carried on by Joseph Leidy, a biologist, who expanded on the research available and perpetuated Wagner’s belief that education should be accessible to all.

Address: 1700 W Montgomery Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19121, United States

44. Flight 93 National Memorial

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The Flight 93 National Memorial was created to pay respects to the brave passengers and crew of United Flight 93, one of the hijacked planes on September 11, 2001.

Four terrorists of Al-Qaeda got onboard with the goal of crashing the plane into the Capitol building, but the crew thwarted them and diverted the plane into a hill in Pennsylvania.

There were no survivors on the plane, but greater tragedy was averted thanks to their selfless courage.

The Flight 93 National Memorial is one of the key things to see to get the whole story of the day, with interactive information, a walking path, a memorial wall, and even phone calls made by passengers to their loved ones back home as the plane went down.

It’s a sobering experience and is also one of the state’s free things to do, charging no admission fee.

Address: 6424 Lincoln Hwy, Stoystown, PA 15563, United States

Will you be traveling to Pittsburgh and Scranton? If you do plan the trip don’t miss out on some exciting and fun activities! Here’s what to do in Pittsburgh and some fun things to do in Scranton, PA ! 

45. King of Prussia Mall

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If you’re looking for what to do in the state of Pennsylvania to shop till you drop, the King of Prussia Mall – which is America’s second-largest – is a great stop this weekend.

More than 400 restaurants, boutiques, and shops fill the interior, which measures more than 2.6 million square feet in size.

The iconic King of Prussia Mall features a mix of local shops and common large retailers, such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Bloomingdales, Lord and Taylor, and Macy’s.

There is also an iFLY skydiving center and a United Artists Theatres branch for further enjoyment.

Address: 160 N Gulph Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406, United States

46. Randyland

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Randyland feels like a world away from Pennsylvania, an art museum created by neighborhood renovator and artist Randy Gilson, a local of Pittsburgh.

This neighborhood corner is Gilson’s own labor of love, made vibrant and enticing with psychedelic design and recycled art.

His work, both in this place itself and over the whole neighborhood, helped to bring Central Northside back to life.

At Randyland, you’ll see all sorts of brightly painted objects and scattered by thoughtfully arranged items.

Lawn furniture lies mismatched, and figures of pink flamingos, plastic dinosaurs, and mannequins are staggered throughout the grounds.

Giant banana plants, garden flora, and found ephemera – made and collected by Gilson and other similarly motivated creators – have made this one of the most uniquely beautiful places to visit in PA, and the fact that it’s one of its free things to do certainly adds to that appeal!

Address: 1501 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

47. Eisenhower National Historic Site

The Eisenhower National Historic Site was the location of the farm and house of 34th United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower, next to the Gettysburg Battlefield, wrapping two Pennsylvania tourist attractions in one place.

The house itself was a weekend and vacation home for the President and his wife, and they retired here in 1961.

In 1967, they donated the property to the government.

The peaceful atmosphere of the Eisenhower National Historic Site evokes the same calm that the President and his wife enjoyed on their breaks.

Tours and talks teach you about the place, bringing you through the house, farm, gardens, putting green, barns, skeet range, and teahouse while telling you about Secret Service Operations and World War II.

Address: 243 Eisenhower Farm Rd, Gettysburg, PA 17325, United States

48. The Weeping Glass

The Weeping Glass

If you’re looking for more strange things to do in PA, why not pop into The Weeping Glass ?

It is a shop selling unusual collections of bizarre and macabre curiosities and can be found in Allentown, where it is packed with a dark and dreary atmosphere and many oddities.

The Weeping Glass houses fascinating objects, art pieces, and weird things from across the world beyond Pennsylvania.

Animal bones and pieces, taxidermy, strange glass-preserved items, antiques, and weird art are just some of the offerings.

There is also a special event called the Midnight Death Parlor that happens monthly, where a performer tells a dark, spooky tale while the audience eats curated snacks and sips themed cocktails.

You can also take part in taxidermy classes or have your fortune told via Tarot!

Address: 817 E Warrington Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15210, United States

49. Steamtown National Historic Site

The Steamtown National Historic Site is a museum dedicated to the history of steam railroad innovation, transportation, and the people behind it.

It is situated in an old train yard in the downtown area of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and houses the collection of New Jersey seafood magnate F. Nelson Blount.

The Steamtown National Historic Site feels alive and well with the firebox, hot steam, and bells and whistles as one-ton drive rods push train wheels and vibrate the ground, chuffing out of smokestacks.

You can relive the fantastic 1920s era of steam trains and visit interactive displays, a theater, a working roundhouse, a repair shop, and even archives.

This is one of the only places to visit in Pennsylvania for locomotive enthusiasts!

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

50. Presque Isle State Park

If you’re looking for more relaxing and free things to do in the state of Pennsylvania, one of the relevant points of interest is Presque Isle State Park .

Situated on a peninsula on Presque Isle Bay, it boasts many different hiking trails and a whopping 11 miles of beach space on 3,200 acres of land.

There are plenty of activities to take part in at Presque Isle State Park.

You can sunbathe, swim, fly kites, collect sea glass, or attend live performances, concerts, and events.

There is also the Tom Ridge Environmental Center at the park’s entrance, which provides information on local ecosystems and history and provides a 75-foot observation deck to use for great views.

Address: 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, United States

Start Planning  Your Trip To Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a wonderful state that is perfect for a vacation thanks to its highly varied attractions and the many hats that it has worn and continues to wear.

This travel guide should help you find all the places you want to visit in the lovely Keystone State!

Happy travels.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Nicknamed the Quaker State and the Keystone State, Pennsylvania is a state bordered by New Jersey, New York, Ohio, West Virginia , Maryland and Delaware. Pennsylvania is large and diverse, and within its borders you’ll find big cities, rolling agricultural land, traditional Amish settlements and even beaches on one of the Great Lakes.

All too often, trips to Pennsylvania revolve around Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. While these great cities are definitely great places to visit in Pennsylvania, don’t forget to add in a few more of the many noteworthy destinations.

10. Hickory Run State Park

In the Pocono Mountains of Eastern Pennsylvania is Hickory Run State Park. This enormous park in Carbon County has a lot to offer, including more than 40 miles of scenic hiking trails. In the winter, some of the trails even do double duty for cross-country skiing.

In the summer, Sand Spring Lake boasts a sandy beach suitable for swimming. One of the must-see parts of the state park is its boulder field. This field is more than 20,000 years old, and was formed due to the thawing of glaciers. Hop from boulder to boulder on the fascinating and picturesque Boulder Field Trail.

9. Ohiopyle State Park

On the banks of the Youghiogheny River, you’ll come across the small but scenic Ohiopyle State Park. The river itself is a big part of the state park’s appeal. From the park, you’ll have access to the river and recreation activities like whitewater rafting.

The seven-mile stretch of the Youghiogheny River called the Lower Yough is home to impressive rapids, and you can join a guided tour to experience it yourself. Ohiopyle State Park also boasts great hiking and beautiful waterfalls, the most popular of which is Cucumber Falls. Bring along your camera to snap pictures of the 30-foot (10-meter) bridal waterfall located along the Great Gorge Trail.

8. Delaware Water Gap

Crossing over the state line between Pennsylvania and New Jersey is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. As the name suggests, the Delaware Water Gap is found on both sides of the Delaware River. If you enjoy the great outdoors, there are countless choices available to you there.

Bring history to life in the 19th century Milbrook Village, or take a bike ride along the Old Mill Road. Hikers can pick from more than 100 miles of trails, trekking along scenic streams and lush green hemlock forests. The river also offers three beaches for swimming: Milford Beach, Smithfield Beach and Turtle Beach.

As you might have guessed, the city of Erie is named after the lake it borders: Lake Erie. Erie is the only lake port in the state, and it is the northernmost part of Pennsylvania. To take a closer look at the heritage of Erie, and how the port impacted development, check out the Erie Maritime Museum. The museum also owns the U.S.S. Niagara, an incredible historic warship that you can tour right in the port.

Arguably the most popular thing to do in Erie is visit Presque Isle State Park, which is just off the coast, for hiking, fishing, cycling or just enjoying the beaches.

6. Ricketts Glen State Park

In the heart of Pennsylvania, there is a National Natural Landmark called Ricketts Glen State Park. This park is enormous, spreading out into three different counties, and it is a nature lover’s dream destination. The park is home to 24 major waterfalls and many more smaller falls, and hiking the Falls Trail System is the best way to see as many of them as possible.

If you’d rather kick back, head to the beach on Lake Jean and set up a picnic with a view of the water. You can also head onto the lake with a boat rental or try some fishing from the shore.

5. Pennsylvania Dutch Country

In Lancaster County , you can find a large portion of the state’s Amish population in what is known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Although the capital of Harrisburg is technically within this region, much of the area is rural.

Whitewashed fences, perfectly maintained barns and horse-drawn buggies abound in this part of the state. One of the best ways to explore Amish country is to visit the local markets. One of the most popular is the Bird in Hand Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce as well as baked goods like apple butter and the delicious shoofly pie.

4. Bushkill Falls

The “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is among the best places to visit in Pennsylvania. These waterfalls are phenomenal, and they are located in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. There are eight waterfalls in total, and they are accessible via a collection of hiking trails and stunning bridges.

For a quick trip, the Green Trail takes just 15 minutes and head straight to the main falls. For the more ambitious hikers, the Red Trail takes about two hours and include all eight waterfalls. Kids and adults alike may want to check out the Bushkill Falls Mining Company Maze, which is timed and can add a fun bit of competition to your visit.

3. Gettysburg

One of the most significant battles ever fought in the Civil War was the Battle of Gettysburg. In July of 1863, three days of fighting resulted in heavy casualties and the retreat of the Confederate Army. Today, the Gettysburg National Military Park marks the historic site.

At the Gettysburg Heritage Center, you can get an introduction to the entire Civil War and how Gettysburg factored into it way. Make time to tour the Jennie Wade House, where the only Gettysburg citizen who died during the battle once lived.

2. Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, or the Steel City, is a huge metropolis created where three rivers converge. Several steel bridges span the Ohio River, the Allegheny River and the Monongahela River. It has a distinct topography, a mass of green hills rising straight up from the rivers below.

While Pittsburgh’s heritage is industrial, there are plenty of tourism attractions worth visiting in the city. The skyline in Downtown Pittsburgh is not to be missed, with the U.S. Steel Tower nabbing the honor of tallest in the city. In the heart of Downtown is Point State Park, a green park where you can also tour the 19th century Fort Pitt Block House. For sports fans, head to the North Side of the city to catch the Steelers at Heinz Field or the Pirates at PNC Park.

1. Philadelphia

It is nicknamed the City of Brotherly Love, but Philadelphia is probably best known for three things: American history, Rocky and cheesesteaks! Check out the Philadelphia Museum of Art for its excellent collection of works, and then admire the steps where Rocky famously trained.

History lovers can’t miss the Independence National Historic Park, where several iconic landmarks are located. Within the park, you’ll be able to see Independence Hall, the cracked Liberty Bell and the original U.S. Constitution, which is located in Constitution Hall. Round out the day of sightseeing with a Philly cheesesteak from Pat’s or Geno’s, two rival purveyors located across the street from one another in South Philadelphia.

Map of Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

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21 of the Best Small Towns in Pennsylvania (and What to Do in Each)

Pennsylvania has some amazing cities, but the state is more than its large metropolitan areas. In fact, there are many incredible small towns in Pennsylvania that are worth visiting.

Over the time I’ve been running this site, I’ve spent nearly an entire year traveling to every corner of Pennsylvania and have visited over 1,000 different spots in the state. All that is to say that I’ve visited some really special small towns in my travels.

To qualify for this list, I only looked at small towns in PA with a population under 10,000 (per the 2010 census, the last official numbers available at the time of publication). I’ve organized them below into places with under 1,000 residents, under 5,000 residents, and under 10,000 residents.

So, without further ado, here are my personal picks for the best small towns in Pennsylvania.

(Note: Yes, I’m aware that there is officially only one “town” in Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg (which is too large for this list). All of the places on this list are actually townships, boroughs, or cities.)

Under 1,000 Residents

Ohiopyle – population: 59.

We’ll start off with the smallest town on this list: Ohiopyle. Ohiopyle is located in Fayette County in southwestern PA and is home to only 59 residents. However, this community at the heart of the incredible Ohiopyle State Park has a lot to offer, including many great restaurants , activities, and white-water-rafting tour operators .

The 19,000-acre state park that surrounds the town of Ohiopyle features several beautiful waterfalls , including Ohiopyle Falls , which is right in town. There are also several great vistas and the fantastic Great Allegheny Passage rail trail .

Just outside of town, you’ll find two Frank Lloyd Wright homes ( Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob ), Fort Necessity National Battlefield , and Laurel Caverns .

There are many great spots to stay nearby including Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and the Summit Inn . You can find more spots on VRBO and Booking.com .

Benezette – Population: 207

Benezette is located in Elk County and is the best place in Pennsylvania to visit PA’s famous elk herd. In fact, the fabulous Elk Country Visitor Center is located just outside of town.

After visiting the visitor center, take the center’s driving tour, which takes you past several viewing areas where seeing elk is quite common, though not guaranteed since they are wild animals.

In town, you can visit several small shops and restaurants, as well as a local winery.

Close to Benezette, you’ll find other great spots like the Marion Brooks Natural Area , Table Falls , and the popular Fred Woods Trail .

Nearby Wapiti Woods is a great spot to stay. You can also find other nearby places to spend the night on VRBO and Booking.com .

St Peters Village – Population: Under 1,000

St. Peters Village is a former company town in Chester County, PA. To be honest, I couldn’t find a specific population for the village, but given that it’s only a small portion of a relatively small township, this seemed like the best place to include one of my favorite day trips from Philadelphia .

St. Peters Village features a small commercial area that is home to several restaurants (including a delicious bakery), several shops, an arcade, and a winery.

In town, there is also great hiking along a beautiful portion of French Creek. Sadly, there are no solid maps for his area, but there are many great loops and hikes that you can do here. You can also head to the nearby French Creek State Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site , both of which are nearby.

In town, you’ll find the Inn at St. Peters Village . There are also several nearby places to stay that you can find on VRBO .

Eagles Mere – Population: 120

Eagles Mere is a charming community in northeastern PA’s Sullivan County and one of my favorite small towns in Pennsylvania.

Eagles Mere is surrounded by Loyalsock State Forest and is only a short drive from the popular Worlds End State Park . This means that there are many great outdoor things to do here, including beautiful waterfalls like Dry Run Falls , Cottonwood Falls , and Rusty Falls .

If you prefer museums and history, there are several great spots in and around town including the Eagles Mere Museum , the Eagles Mere Air Museum , the Eagles Mere Auto Museum , and the Sullivan County Historical Society .

In town, you’ll also find several quaint restaurants and shops. In the winter, a large toboggan run is set up on the community’s lake.

There are no hotels in Eagles Mere, but there are plenty of places you can rent on VRBO .

Under 5,000 Residents

Jim thorpe – population: 4,777.

Jim Thorpe is located in Carbon County, PA, and has often been called the “Switzerland of America” due to its incredible setting surrounded by mountains.

Once known as Mauch Chunk, the town was renamed after early 20th-century athlete Jim Thorpe. Thorpe, who had no connection to the area, is still buried on the edge of town . Also just outside of town is the incredible Glen Onoko . While the main portion of the glen has been closed, there are still open trails to the uppermost waterfall and several great views.

In town, there are some great shops in the heart of the downtown area and several tasty restaurants. The Old Jail Museum and the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway are also popular local spots to check out.

The Inn at Jim Thorpe is a historic hotel that’s a perfect choice for spending the night. There are also other nearby options on VRBO and Booking.com .

Wellsboro – Population: 3,263

Wellsboro is a charming small town in Pennsylvania’s Tioga County . This is often a popular jumping-off point for visits to the spectacular Pennsylvania Grand Canyon , but it’s a worthwhile spot to spend some time in on its own.

Wellsboro is home to one of the most quaint Main Streets in Pennsylvania. This strip features many great small stores, restaurants, and even a historic movie theater. Along the street, you can also find gas-powered street lamps, possibly the last such lamps in the state.

Just outside of town, you’ll find great attractions like the Pine Creek Rail Trail , the Tioga Central Railroad , Highland Chocolates , and a ton of great outdoor activities.

There are many great hotels in Wellsboro . There are also some unique spots to find on VRBO .

New Hope – Population: 2,531

New Hope is a charming Delaware River town in Bucks County, PA .

The community is very well known as a destination for artists and not surprisingly features many incredible galleries, as well as other great shops that you can explore in the quaint downtown area. Scattered throughout the area are also many delicious local restaurants.

One highlight of the town is the Bucks County Playhouse , which is self-dubbed “America’s Most Famous Playhouse.” They have been putting on fantastic shows since the 1930s and many future stars have graced its stage including Dick Van Dike, Liza Minnelli, John Lithgow, and Alan Alda.

There are also some great spots only a short distance outside of town including Washington Crossing Historic Site , Ringing Rocks County Park , and Delaware Canal State Park . 

If staying overnight, the Aaron Burr House  is where Burr fled to after shooting Alexander Hamilton. There are also many other great options on VRBO and Booking.com .

Bedford – Population: 2,841

Bedford, Pennsylvania is located in the state’s Alleghenies Region and provides nice small-town charms and nearby areas to get into the outdoors.

At one point in history, this was a frontier town, as noted by the presence of Fort Bedford, and this was even a stopping point by President George Washington during the Whiskey Rebellion. On the site of the town’s French and Indian War-era fort, you can visit the Fort Bedford Museum to learn more about the fascinating history of the area.

In and around the town, you can also visit Olde Bedford Brewery (one of my favorite breweries in PA ), several beautiful and historic covered bridges , and the little-known Coral Caverns . The Koontz Coffee Pot , one of PA’s strangest roadside oddities , is also worth taking a few minutes to see.

If staying overnight, the Bedford Springs Hotel is both historic and luxurious. There are also places you can book on VRBO and modern hotels on Booking.com .

Mifflinburg – Population: 3,530

Mifflinburg is located in Union County and is one of the most charming Pennsylvania small towns to visit any time of the year.

However, Mifflinburg is probably best known for its annual and very authentic German Christkindl Market that is held every December. This is a great chance to pick up holiday gifts, delicious treats, and to simply enjoy the beauty of Christmas in PA .

Outside of December, there are other great spots to visit in town including the incredible Rusty Rail Brewing Company , Hassenplug Covered Bridge (the oldest covered bridge in the state), and the Mifflinburg Buggy Museum .

For overnight stays, the accommodations at Rusty Rain Brewing are well-rated. There are also other places to stay nearby on VRBO .

Bryn Athyn – Population: 1,368

Bryn Athyn is a charming suburb of Philadelphia located just to the north of the city.

Much of Bryn Athyn is centered around Bryn Athyn College and other buildings that are part of The New Church. Bryn Athyn Cathedral is one such building and looks like a cathedral plucked from a European city. Tours of the interior are well-worth taking to learn more about this incredible structure.

Just up the hill from the cathedral is the Glencairn Museum . This museum is located inside a castle and highlights religious art from around the world that dates back thousands of years. It’s easily one of the country’s best collections of religious art and paraphernalia.

Nearby, you can also go for a walk or bike ride on the Pennypack Trail or visit the Ryerss Museum . 

There are many nearby places to stay that you can find on VRBO and Booking.com .

Kittanning – Population: 4,021

Kittanning is in Armstrong County in western Pennsylvania.

It is located along the banks of the Allegheny River, where you’ll find a beautiful riverfront park. This is also a popular area for kayaking along the river.

In town, there is a historic downtown area along Market Street that features several small shops and restaurants. The view of the Armstrong County Courthouse at the end of the road is especially impressive.

At the Armstrong County Historical Society Museum , you can learn about the history of the area. In particular, the display on journalist Nellie Bly, a native of the county, is especially interesting.

Other great spots to visit nearby include Check’s Radio Museum , the Saxonburg Museum , and Yellow Dog Village .

If you are looking for somewhere to stay, there are some nice options on VRBO and Booking.com .

Under 10,000 Residents

Doylestown – population: 8,377.

Doylestown is located in Bucks County a short distance north of Philadelphia. It is also only a few miles from New Hope, another of the great small towns in Pennsylvania that I’ve already mentioned.

If you love art and history, Doylestown’s Mercer Mile is a great area to visit. Here, you’ll find three unique buildings built by artist Henry Chapman Mercer in the early 20th century. Tour his castle-like home, Fonthill , and his Spanish monastery-inspired workshop, The Moravian Pottery and Tile Works , before heading to his castle-like museum, the Mercer Museum .

Also in town, there is fantastic shopping and dining in the downtown area, great local art at the Michener Museum , and a neat Civil War museum .

Stay the night in the Highland Farm Bed and Breakfast , once the home of playwright Oscar Hammerstein, or check out other great spots to stay on Booking.com and VRBO .

Gettysburg – Population: 7,597

There are few small towns in Pennsylvania that are more well know than Gettysburg. Site of one of the most important battles of the Civil War, there is a lot to do in this south-central PA community.

No visit is complete without touring the Gettysburg Battlefield . There are also many great museums that highlight the events here including the Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War , the Seminary Ridge Museum , and the Gettysburg Heritage Center .

If you want to explore Gettysburg beyond the battlefield , there are several beautiful covered bridges nearby , the state’s largest apple-picking region, and delicious food tours .

The Federal Pointe Inn is a historic and beautiful place to stay. There are, of course, also many great spots to spend the night on VRBO and Booking.com .

Punxsutawney – Population: 5,950

If you know one thing about Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, it’s likely their famous Groundhog Day celebration held every February. However, there are reasons to visit this neat small town during the other 364 days of the year.

Because of Groundhog Day, Punxsutawney is known as the “Weather Capital of the World” and is home to the Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center and its Weather Hall of Fame . You can also visit the home of Punxsutawney Phil outside of the borough’s library.

Nearby, visit Scripture Rocks Park ,  BWP Bats , and McGee’s Mill Covered Bridge .

While it can be hard to get a place to stay around Groundhog Day, there are some great places to stay that you can easily find on VRBO and Booking.com throughout the remainder of the year.

Bellefonte – Population: 6,190

Bellefonte, Pennsylvania is located smack dab in the middle of PA, and I mean that quite literally as the geographic center of the state is just outside of town.

This charming community features a quaint downtown with many spots to eat. The beautiful Talleyrand Park along Spring Creek is a great spot to relax and enjoy this historic town. A short distance upstream, you’ll find the converted Match Factory complex that features, among other spots, Big Spring Spirits and the American Philatelic Society .

A bit outside of town, you’ll find several great breweries , Curtin Village at Eagle Ironworks , and Penn’s Cave .

There are many great spots to stay nearby on VRBO and Booking.com , but note that you might have trouble getting a room on weekends that Penn State Football is playing in nearby State College.

Bradford – Population: 8,778

Located in northern Pennsylvania, Bradford was once one of the state’s richest and most influential places when it was the center of the worldwide oil industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Today, it’s a charming town that features a neat downtown area and several fun things to do including the Zippo/Case Museum and the Penn-Brad Oil Museum .

Just outside of town, there are several other great spots including Kinzua Bridge State Park , the Marilla Bridges Trail , and Rock City Park .

For those staying overnight, there are several nicely-appointed hotels in Bradford that you can book on Booking.com as well as options on VRBO .

Lititz – Population: 9,164

Lititz is a popular small town to visit in northern Lancaster County and is considered by some to be the best small town in Pennsylvania.

The main draw here is the downtown area, which features some great shops and dining options in the heart of town. Nearby, you can also stop to visit the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery , which was the first place in the world to sell hard pretzels. Lititz Springs Park is also a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

Near Lititz, you can visit the county’s popular Amish Country, see some historic covered bridges , and visit the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania .

Hotel Rock Lititz sits just north of town and not only offers nice accommodations but also offers the chance to catch a glimpse of one of the many musical icons that come to the city to practice their concerts at Rock Lititz. Of course, there are also many other spots to stay on VRBO and Booking.com .

DuBois – Population: 7,794

DuBois is located in Clearfield County and has a lot of neat spots to offer both in town and nearby.

One of the major draws to the city is Doolittle Station . Located just outside of the city limits, this site features a ton of different attractions including animatronic dinosaurs, a caboose motel, a brewery, fine dining, and more.

In the downtown area, DuBois has some delicious restaurants and nice shops. Personal favorite stops of mine include Winkler Gallery and Hockman Candy .

Near DuBois, great spots to visit include Bilger’s Rock , Starr Hill Winery , and Parker Dam State Park .

In addition to the caboose bed and breakfast at Doolittle Station , there are great spots to stay that you can find on VRBO and Booking.com .

Titusville – Population: 5,592

Titusville, PA might be a small town today, but in the mid-1800s, it sparked one of the largest and most impactful industries in the world: the oil industry. Today, visitors can still see evidence of the money generated by this world-changing industry in the beauty of downtown Titusville.

The Drake Well Museum sits just south of town and allows visitors to see the world’s first oil well and tour a museum dedicated to the oil industry. The museum’s property is directly adjacent to the fantastic Oil Creek State Park , which is a great spot to go hiking and bike riding.

Another great activity in Titusville is riding the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad through the forested hillsides south of town. This allows you to see both the beauty of the area and to learn more about the amazing history that happened in this corner of northwestern PA.

In addition to these activities, downtown Titusville features some great shops and restaurants, as well as some incredibly maintained historic homes from the town’s heyday, making it the perfect place for a self-directed walking tour.

If you are looking to spend the night, the Caboose Motel offers fun accommodations. There are also places to stay on VRBO .

Stroudsburg – Population: 5,576

Stroudsburg is located in the Poconos Mountains on the southern end of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area .

The borough features a charming downtown area that has some delicious restaurants and unique local shops. Those wanting to learn more about the area can visit the Stroud Mansion .

The main draw to the area, however, is the many great recreational opportunities just to the north in the Delaware Water Gap. Here, you’ll find dozens of great waterfalls , including the popular Bushkill Falls and the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania . The area is also known for its many ski resorts.

The Poconos were once a popular honeymoon destination, so there are many unique spots near Stroudsburg that can be booked on Booking.com and VRBO .

Warren – Population: 9,710

Warren is located in northwestern PA and is largely surrounded by the Allegheny National Forest, as well as Allegany State Park in New York .

This is another community that once thrived during PA’s industrial heyday and has an incredible downtown area that still showcases this past. In Warren’s downtown, you’ll find some great shops and restaurants to enjoy during your visit.

Outside of the city, the Allegheny Reservoir and Allegheny National Forest are incredibly popular attractions. Great spots to check out include the museum at the Kinzua Dam, Bent Run Falls , and Rimrock Overlook . There is also great mountain biking at Jake’s Rocks .

Near the city, there are several great VRBOs and hotels on Booking.com to pick from.

Do you have a favorite small town in Pennsylvania that is or isn’t on this list? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for more places to explore in Pennsylvania? Check out our PA Bucket List , the 7 Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania , and our favorite PA state parks for history lovers .

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More great places to visit in Pennsylvania

Visiting the Lake Shore Railway Museum: An Amazing Place for Train Fans

Hershey Gardens Offers an Alternative Taste of Chocolate Town USA

French Azilum: Pennsylvania’s Hidden Colony for 18th Century French Refugees

How to Get to Indian Lookout in Huntingdon County’s Rothrock State Forest

Explore the many regions of pennsylvania.

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

45 thoughts on “21 of the Best Small Towns in Pennsylvania (and What to Do in Each)”

Downingtown

Clarion, PA.

Hummelstown is just darling. Why not on this list

I grew up in Kane, PA. A small, quaint town with fresh air & a lot of outdoor activities in the northwestern part of the state. It’s the top of the Allegheny National Forest and is absolutely beautiful. Seriously fresh air and clean water. A gem!

This was great! I now have lived in California for 40 years but grew up in Warren, PA. I have also visited several of these towns on your list. Thank you for the trip down memory lane! All the best – Be well.

I love this site . I’m a senior citizen that owns a motorcycle and I use this site for destination ideas , Thank you

Thanks for this trip down Memory Lane. I grew up in Tioga County, went to college in western PA, taught in Williamsport, and traveled much of the state through the years. After grad school in NJ, I have lived in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin and thoroughly love the Midwest but my heart still goes back to PA. I have been in many of these towns.

You left out Forksville.

I have been to forksville and w Warren and a few of the others Smethport pa and I live in Bradford pa and lived near Kane and also mt Jewett pa

Yatesboro 10 miles from Kittanning small old coal mining town 2 NFL players came from Bob Pelligrini played about 10 yrs all American Maryland 1954 Doug Buffone line backerfor the Bears played 13 years MLB player Steve Souchuck played Yankees Mike GOLIYAT PLAED PHILLIES All 4 came from same hill in Yatesboro I was raised in NUMINE FEW miles up the road

How about Terre Hill, New Holland, and Ephrata – all in Lancaster County.

I was happy to see Bedford, PA was included, and your mention of Washington’s troops passing there to quell the Whiskey Rebellion. Deeter’s Gap is just west of Bedford and the troops marched through the Gap. Deeter’s Gap was part of my ancestor’s holdings and history, dating back to just after the Revolutionary War. There is a meadow there that I understand the troops camped at. A bit further west is Berlin, PA, another quaint small town. The troops had some activity in Berlin and arrested a man named Philson for his leadership in resistance to the whiskey tax.

How could you leave out Ligonier?

i agree!!! the fort,town square, area surrounding it,the history!!! our family had a cottage on rte 30,that goes thru town,with rte.711 crossing thru in other side of square.was between town & ligonier beach complex. camp nicely was where our cottage was,mostly steelworking familes . behind us was the crick ,where on that side ROONEY FAMILY[steelers] had their SUMMER HOME. spent lot of time with their kids. memories.

You forgot Berwick and the Christmas Boulevard that runs a mile along Market Street every year for the last 74 (Yes, 74 years!).

Thank you for including DuBois, but as there is only Winkler’s Gallery that put our beloved city on the visitor’s list, you could have mentioned the historic Rumbarger Cemetery, The American Legion tribute to veterans, the John DuBois Memorial, Penn State DuBois Campus, Shower’s field, and the biggie, Treasure Lake with all the outdoor amenities for outdoors lovers including two golf courses designed by Arnold Palmer…

Love this I grew up a short distance from DuBois a small town named Sykesville and it is know for being called Pancake town as they serve Pancakes during deer hunting season and loved reading the article on DuBois as that is where I graduated from and my mothers family was from my Uncle Russ Love was chief of police many many years ago Nancy Zimmerman Hamilton

Strasburg, PA is the most historically kept town in Lancaster County. This charming town offers the Strasburg Rail Road, Sight and Sound Theatre, Scooter Rides of Strasburg, Ghost Tours and many other fun family events. You feel like your stepping back in time. With a few shops, mainly antique shops and quaint farm to table restaurants and coffee shops there is something for everyone. They also offer multiple campgrounds as well as wonderful B&b’s. Too much to list. Lancaster County is known for their fresh foods with farmers markets and wonderful down town artisan community. Come and enjoy!

All these towns have fabulous commercial districts -Lewisburg – home of Bucknell University. Off rt 15 south of I 80; lewisburg hotel is gistoric Sunbury – inflatable dam turnd the susquehanna river into a lake in the summertime Danville – home of geisinger medical center. Pine barn inn is quaint Bloomsburg – Bloomsburg University oldest cty fair in the country Pottsville – home of yuengling oldest brewery in us. Disputed 1925 nfl champs the pottsville maroons

Love Bloomsburg. Small college town on the Susquehanna River. Great place to stay is the Inn at Turkey Hill.

Bedford also has the National Coverlet Museum. Learn about weaving on the first computer, the Jaquard loom, and see historical textiles and tools.

Franklin, PA. All of the well-to-do Pittsburghers and oil magnets had their summer homes in Franklin. The courthouse is stunning and Elm Street has some of the most beautiful homes. Sitting in a valley, there isn’t a more beautiful place in the fall. Franklin is also home to The Dibeience Music Museum and the beautiful Barrow-Civic Theater

Franklin is a great little town. I’ve spent a few days around there and always enjoyed it.

Phoenixville

Jim Thorpe is not just located in Carbon County, it’s the county seat!

Listed on the US National Register of Historic Places, the Mauch Chunk Switchback Railway was America’s first permanent railroad over 5 miles in length. The rail ran from 1827 until the middle of the Great Depression. The right-of-way is now the Lehigh Switchback Railroad Trail. Originally a brakeman controlled the gravity rail 9 miles down a 936 foot drop and draft animals pulled the cars back to the top. The hike (at least the downhill) is on my bucket list.

A number of the Molly Maguires conspirators were held at the county jail, which is now a museum. The handprint that Alexander Campbell left to proclaim his innocence is still visible despite efforts to cover it up. Portions of the 1970 movie, The Molly Maguires” were filmed in Jim Thorpe.

A National Historic Landmark, the Asa Packer Mansion is an excellent tour. I saw it in 1970, and if I recall correctly, Mauch Chunk was known as the city of millionaires and Asa Packer, railroad magnate and founder of Lehigh University, was among the richest men in the US.

You listed Mifflinburg as one of the 21 best. Perhaps you better take another look at Lewisburg and compare the two again.

Just my personal opinion. Lewisburg is a neat community as well. I had to leave off some good places to keep this list relatively short.

Thank you. I think you did a wonderful job. I lived in Bradford, DuBois, And Curwensville and Bloomington which were not mentioned. I still have a lot of relatives in Bloomington but it is tiny I know. That was nice to read all about places to visit. Right now it is difficult but it leaves a lot of places to look at for the future. I visited Gettysburg 7 times and would love to go back. Yes, wonderful place to go for the reenactments also. We did go a few times. My heart is still in PA though I live in NY state.

Loved this tour. I was familiar with only eleven. My dad’s family was from DuBois. We often visited Allegheny National Forest from Erie. We also visited the oil well in Titusville. I’m sorry that I didn’t visit Wellsboro on my two trips to The PA Grand Canyon. I’ve been to Bushkill falls and Bradford. Of course, Gettysburg and Punxsutawny are familiar. Doylestown was only familiar from your post about the castle.

You forgot Hollidaysburg!

Northumberland up is where I grew up. Loved that place. Beautiful small town on the Susquehanna.

Although I have not lived in Pa. since 1954 I still consider it my home. I was born in Lemont Furnace Pa, just outside Uniontown, in Fayette County. Still visit there often. The cross on Jumonsville Mountain is a beautiful place to visit.

Marietta, population around 2,500, sits along the Susquehanna River and a large part of town is on the National Register of Historic Places. This is partly because the streetscapes have remained intact since the 19th century when it had a bustling lumber and iron industry and elegant iron masters’ homes dotted the landscape. Today, a wonderful, paved, 13.5 mile bike trail runs between the town and the scenic river offering a variety of views of the water, woods and surrounding fields. It has triggered a surge of investment in businesses and historic houses. The charming downtown area and Front Street have popular bars and restaurants, an amazing variety of historic buildings, a smattering of interesting businesses, (like a world-class recumbent bike shop), an art gallery, and a very hip courtyard cafe. On the edge of town is the Musselman/Vesta Furnace building, an award winning museum that tells the story of the iron business in the area. Just beyond is Chiques Rock, a dramatic outcropping known nationally by rock-climbers and also by geologists impressed with the story this formation tells. And all this is near Lancaster and Columbia, two other places with a remarkable inventory of historic buildings and interesting businesses and restaurants.

Oh, my goodness! I think every town in PA is special and in some way should be on this list! But, I’m partial to Beaver, the county seat of Beaver County. Would you make your next list the best town in every PA county? Thank you for my trip down memory lane and I look forward to reading more! Blessings, B

Coudersport in Potter County

You forgot Washington Crossing, PA. Where Washington and his rag-tag army crossed the Delaware River on Christmas Night in 1776. and turned the tide of the Revolutionary War.

Wow! What a great article this was! My husband and I are turning 40 & have lived in NY/NJ our whole lives. We’re looking to move to a quiet PA neighborhood, & checking Real Estate apps don’t tell you anything about the area. This was really helpful & fun because you took the time to add the links to every place you referenced! I enjoyed the little History lesson & the mini virtual adventure! I signed up for your newsletter & I can’t wait to see what you write about next! Very cool keep it up!

Thanks so much! Good luck in your house hunting.

Can’t find where to comment, just places to reply. Just wanted to add that I have learned much from every town I have visited by going to the Historical Society of the town/area. Some are only open certain days/hours, but worth a visit. Love PA!

I always love visiting local historical society museums. Even if you aren’t from the area, they really help you learn more about PA and always have at least a handful of unique and interesting pieces.

Wonderful article ! Lived in Minersville, Pa..Not one of the prettiest little towns but a great place to grow up in the forties.always enjoy going back to Pa.

I was born in Jeannette, Pa. My grandparents were German immigrants. Loved that small town feel!

I am impressed with the obvious pride in Pennsylvania shown by those leaving notes about their hometowns. Community is what makes these towns great and the community spirit is on display.

I was born and raised in a small WV town (Benwood) but my mom was born and raised in a tiny town in PA called Grassflat in Clearfield Co. I spent many summers there and the family still has property there. Loved being out in the summer,spring, fall and winter.

I would place Palmerton, PA on this list. It is a town of about 5.5K people. Not exactly a place to visit, it may be best town to live. Located strategically between the Poconos and Lehigh Valley, Palmerton was created by the NJ Zinc company in the 1890s as a planned community. This means the main street is extra wide with parking and the town had everything as far as amenities (hospital, police, fire and town hall, a huge park). Homes were built for employees so there is uniformity in row homes. Upper management sections of town have larger single homes. Is it some perfect place. No, they have drug use presence like any town. However, Palmerton has a strong sense of community that you don’t find in the modern age. People still know their neighbors and you look out for each other. If the high school wins anything, there is attitude that “we won “. The winning teams get escorted in town by firetrucks. There is a huge community festival ever September as well. Music concerts in the park in the summer and parades for V-day and Halloween. A blue collar town, you wont find a better place to live in PA or possibly the entire East Coast.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Philadelphia is one of America's most important historical cities. At Independence Hall on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, and in September 1787, the Constitution was drafted. A century earlier, William Penn, a prominent Quaker and namesake of Pennsylvania, was a catalyst for the changes that transformed these British colonies into an independent nation.

Today, modern office towers exist side-by-side with the narrow cobblestone streets of Independence Historic National Park, which is home to historic buildings and sights, including the Liberty Bell, Franklin Court, and Independence Hall. To the south lies Society Hill, the city's original residential area. Many of these eighteenth-century buildings have been handsomely restored. Similarly, Germantown in northwest Philadelphia, is another old residential section, first inhabited by Germans and the Dutch.

To the west, along the Schuylkill River, lies Fairmount Park, a vast belt of green containing numerous Federal-style mansions, as well as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum. Just south of that lies the museum district, including the Franklin Institute of Science Museum and the Academy of Natural Sciences.

If you're wondering where to start, begin with our list of top tourist attractions in Philadelphia.

1. Liberty Bell Pavilion

2. independence hall, 3. independence national historical park, 4. philadelphia museum of art and the "rocky steps", 5. reading terminal market, 6. the barnes foundation, 7. museum of the american revolution, 8. philadelphia zoo, 9. rodin museum, 10. the franklin institute science museum, 11. eastern state penitentiary, 12. pennsylvania academy of fine arts museum, 13. love park, 14. please touch museum, 15. city hall, 16. society hill historic district, 17. fairmount park, where to stay in philadelphia for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to philadelphia, map of tourist attractions in philadelphia.

The liberty bell has long been a symbol of freedom and independence in the United States. It rang to mark the signing of the Constitution, but contrary to popular myth, the big crack came in 1846, when it tolled in observance of George Washington's birthday.

You'll learn this and other facts about the bell in the exhibits, and a film shows how abolitionists, suffragists, and other groups adopted the bell as a symbol of freedom. In the late 1800s, the bell went on tour around the country in an effort to conquer divisions left by the Civil War. The bell completed its journey in Philadelphia in 1915, where it has remained.

The Liberty Bell Pavilion is open without admission charge - one of several free things to do in Philadelphia.

Address: 143 South Third Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Independence Hall originally served as the State House of the Colony of Pennsylvania and is best known as the place where the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It was also where the Continental Congress met again 11 years later and wrote the United States Constitution.

The highlight is Assembly Hall, where the Second Continental Congress met behind closed doors to discuss independence from the British. This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where George Washington was chosen as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.

Independence Hall sits across from the Liberty Bell Pavilion in the Independence National Historical Park. There is no entrance fee, but tickets ($1 reservation fee) are timed and limited, and all visitors should be prepared for security screening.

An advance booking is required from March through December. No bookings are required in January and February (except for President's Day and Martin Luther King Day long weekends). A visit after 5pm on any day does not require a reservation.

Free ESL services are available with advance request.

Independence National Historical Park is quite possibly America's most historic square mile. In addition to housing famous sites, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, many other important attractions line the cobbled streets of this old area.

Independence Hall has seen some of America's most important historical moments and hosted some of its most famous founders. It stood witness to the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and the creation of the United States Constitution in 1787.

It is flanked by Congress Hall, where the first Congress of the United States met from 1790 to 1800 and George Washington and John Adams were elected President, and Old City Hall, which was never, in fact, the town hall but was the seat of the Supreme Court from 1791 to 1800.

To the north of Independence Hall extends the park-like Independence Mall, laid out in 1948. On its east side, at 55 North 5th Street, is the National Museum of American Jewish History. The park is also home to the Ben Franklin Museum , which has a collection of exhibits dedicated to celebrating this revolutionary inventor's many remarkable qualities. The Visitor Center off Dock Street is a good place to begin the day to get current information, tickets, and walking tour maps.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art contains one of the United States' largest collections of paintings and other artworks. Among the finest sections of the museum are the medieval galleries, which include pictures by Rogier van der Weyden and the van Eyck brothers.

In other rooms are Renaissance and Baroque works and art of the 18th and 19th centuries, including pictures by Van Gogh, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Manet, Cézanne, Monet, and Degas. A collection of 20th-century European art is represented by Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, Miró, Paul Klee, and other artists.

There is also American art by the Philadelphia artists Thomas Eakins, Charles Wilson Peale ("The Staircase Group", 1795), and many others. In addition, there are fine collections of Asian art, with porcelain, jade, and Oriental carpets.

The museum is housed in a Neoclassical building fronted by a broad set of stairs, which now - for many tourists - rival the collections as an attraction. Ever since they were featured in the classic American Rocky films, thousands of fans have flocked to the "Rocky Steps" each day to race to the top and strike a Rocky pose with the city as a backdrop.

Prior to striking your pose on the steps, be sure to swing by the actual Rocky statue located nearby. Study the exact arm and body position and then create your own version on the steps. You'll find the statue just off to the right of the steps in a grassy area.

Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Market at Reading Terminal has been a National Historic Landmark since 1995 and is a deeply rooted Philadelphia institution. It has been in operation since 1893, when the Reading Railroad Company built this space beneath their new station to accommodate the farmers and butchers who had been using the area for their open-air markets for decades.

The old market has undergone renovations, but it has retained its unique ambience and many of the structure's original features. Today, you will find more than 80 merchants, 75 of whom are small independent businesses. Both locals and tourists come to buy local produce; free-range meats; canned goods; fresh-baked Amish breads; and handmade crafts, including clothing, jewelry, and gifts. Several vendors specialize in traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods.

Address: 51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Established by Dr. Albert Barnes, the Barnes Foundation is an integral part of Philadelphia's Parkway museum district. It houses some of the world's biggest collections of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, including the world's largest Renoir collection and more of Cézanne's works than there are in all of France. There are just short of 60 Matisse paintings, as well as numerous works by Degas, Manet, and Modigliani.

Additional collections include early modern artists, including Picasso, as well as a large collection of African sculptures. The museum welcomes guests free of charge on the first Sunday of the month for gallery viewings, activities, and family-friendly entertainment, while monthly on the first Friday, adults are invited to spend the evening exploring collections, attending lectures, and mingling with like-minded aficionados while enjoying live music and refreshments.

Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A must-see for any history buff, the Museum of the American Revolution is a fascinating trip back in time to the late 18th century to the conflict that helped form the United States. The museum has an excellent collection of artifacts from the time frame and does a good job of giving the visitor a taste of what life was like back then.

Thoughtfully laid out galleries that are interactive, engaging, and educational make understanding the cause of the Revolution easy. One of the highlights of a visit here is the original headquarters tent that George Washington used during the conflict.

The Museum of the American Revolution is one of Philadelphia's newest museums and is conveniently located near Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Address: 101 S 3rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Philadelphia Zoo is home to a wide range of animals from around the world and is active in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation efforts, focusing on educating visitors about the ways humans impact the earth's other residents.

One of its most remarkable habitats is Big Cat Falls, a spacious area where the world's largest cats can roam among plants and flowing waterfalls, as well as explore the entire park through a system of tunnels that wind above other habitats - including the human visitors. Another favorite with both kids and adults is the African Plains habitat, where you can meet some of the zoo's most impressive residents, including giraffes, hippos, and a white rhinoceros.

Outback Outpost is home to some of Australia's most fascinating wildlife, including red kangaroos and emus. Other habitats include Bear Country, which is home to species from Asia, South America, and North America, and Carnivore Kingdom, where you can meet dwarf mongooses and even the (vegetarian) red panda. There is also a reptile and amphibian house; an aviary; and Monkey Junction, which is home to two pairs of spider monkeys.

At the small mammal house, visitors can see the nocturnal residents as they go about their day, thanks to clever lighting that inverts their sleep cycle. The zoo also operates a primate reserve and a rare animal conservation center, where you can see some of the earth's most endangered animals, learn about issues affecting them, and find out how to help.

Address: 3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

With close to 100 works by famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin, this museum contains one of the most extensive collections of his work outside France. The Rodin Museum includes plasters, bronzes, and marbles of some of Rodin's most famous masterpieces.

In the outdoor sculpture garden, visitors can view some of his best-known works, including The Thinker and Rodin's seminal work, The Gates of Hell. Rodin's career was remarkable for his unconventional training and his philosophy that sculpture should stay true to the natural form, and he is considered the father of modern sculpture.

Address: 2151 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This creative museum is a tribute to scientist Benjamin Franklin, complete with a huge marble statue of a seated Franklin located in one of the large halls. The Franklin Institute Science Museum , which is in fact several museums under one roof, displays many of Franklin's own experiments.

It is particularly concerned with the physical bases of technology and offers visitors the opportunity to try their own experiments, in many fields - computers, information technology, space travel, astronomy, and oceanography. In addition to the museum, the center is also home to an IMAX Theater and the Fels Planetarium.

Address: 222 N 20th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Eastern State Penitentiary was built in 1829 with the aim of rehabilitating criminals through solitary confinement. At the time of its opening, it was considered the world's most expensive and high-tech prison. Willie Sutton and Al Capone were some of the prison's notable "guests," and visitors can see Capone's lavish cell as it was during his stay.

The prison closed in 1971, and today it is open to the public as a museum. Tours of the facility show many sections that remain much the same as they were during its operational years. Exhibits include an in-depth look at incarceration in the United States, how it compares to other countries, and the ever-increasing disproportionate imprisonment of minorities.

Address: 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Museum features a collection of American Art from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, including works by early American artists right through to Andy Warhol. It is housed in a N ational Historic Landmark building designed by American architects Frank Furness and George W. Hewitt.

The museum is part of the Fine Arts Academy, and its exhibits and archives are an important resource for the school. In addition to contemporary and historical art exhibitions, the museum features exhibits of work by the academy's students. The academy is the oldest of its kind in the United States.

Address: 118 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia's favorite photo-op celebrates "the City of Brotherly Love" with Robert Indiana's iconic LOVE sculpture, installed in John F. Kennedy Plaza for America's Bicentennial celebration in 1976.

The plaza, now better known as LOVE Park, marks the entrance to Philadelphia's Museum Mile, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, where you'll find the Barnes Foundation, The Franklin Institute, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Combining green areas, trees, walking paths, benches, and open paved areas for festivals and events, LOVE Park is the scene of frequent pop-up events, including a Christmas village.

Address: 16th Street and JFK Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Please Touch Museum is every child's dream — a place where they can "look with their hands" instead of just their eyes. This completely interactive museum encourages kids of all ages to learn through play, giving them the chance to explore history, fantasy worlds, space, and the big wide world around them.

Exhibits such as the kid-size city include costumes they can use to play the part while experimenting with different professions. As educational as it is fun, the River Adventures exhibit encourages children to learn about science and physics by using dams, waterwheels, levers, locks, and other water-manipulating equipment.

Kids can even explore the garden, where the museum's café grows its produce. Outdoors, you will also find a Dentzel Carousel, which is more than a century old, originally operated at the nearby Woodside Park and now fully restored to its former glory. An afternoon here is one of the favorite things to do for families in Philadelphia.

Address: Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Address: Reservoir Drive, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia's City Hall is the United States' largest municipal building, with nearly 15 acres of floor space. Built on a foundation of solid granite, the building supports a 548-foot tower, which is the world's tallest masonry structure lacking a steel frame.

At the top of the tower sits a 27-ton statue of William Penn, and at his feet, an observation deck provides tourists with a view of the entire city, as well as the park below, which features a fountain, lawns, and a café. Tickets for the guided tour are required for both City Hall and the observation deck.

Address: 1401 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This interesting neighborhood, south of Walnut Street and east of Washington Square, contains a unique blend of 18th Century buildings, restored warehouses, new homes, colonial homes, and apartments. Some of these are occupied by galleries and other tourist-friendly retailers.

Attractions in and around this area include Washington Square, the Polish American Cultural Center, and Old St. Mary's Church, along with the Old Pine Street Presbyterian Church and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania Library.

In Washington Square, once the burial place of those who died in the fight for independence, is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the Revolution, with an eternal flame. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the only tomb in America erected to the memory of unknown Revolutionary War soldiers.

This lovely park along the Schuylkill River and Wissahickon Creek is home to the Philadelphia Zoo , the Rodin Museum , the Philadelphia Museum of Art , and the Shofuso Japanese House and garden , along with numerous other attractions and things to do. There are also gardens, ball fields, swimming pools, tennis courts, hiking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Shofuso, built in Japan in 1953 using traditional materials and tools, was brought to Philadelphia and placed with other Japanese structures that have been in the park since the 1876 Centennial Exposition. You can tour the house and Japanese gardens with a koi pond and island. In early July, the Tanabata Family Weekend includes family-friendly activities and traditional Japanese crafts.

Another attraction, at the edge of the 2,000-acre park, is the line of 15 historic boathouses along the Schuylkill River, home to local college rowing clubs. The park is a National Historic Landmark, and it is one of the nation's first parks created to serve as both a public green space and a watershed protection area.

To appreciate this historic city and all of its treasures, it's best to stay right in the heart of it all, in the downtown's Old City. This is where many of the major attractions are located, including Independence National Historic Park. The hotels listed below are all highly-rated and conveniently located for sightseeing.

Luxury Hotels :

• One of the most highly-rated hotels in the city is the Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, by Kimpton . This is a boutique hotel in a restored building in the Old City, with a great location near Independence National Historic Park.
• Nearby, and overlooking the park, is the charming Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel. This hotel recently changed names — it was formerly known as the Franklin Hotel at Independence Park and operated under the Marriott brand.
• Near Rittenhouse Square is the Rittenhouse Hotel , a luxury property in a good location in the city center that prides itself on being family-friendly, with extras for children, and pet friendly.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Morris House Hotel is set in a 1787 mansion that is now a National Historic Landmark. This quaint boutique hotel, with large rooms and a lovely courtyard, is in an excellent location in the Old City
• A five-minute walk from LOVE Park and the City Hall, and even closer to the Reading Terminal Market, the elegantly appointed Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City offers complimentary bikes to further explore the city.
• A little farther out from the Old City but still in a decent location and close to attractions is the Doubletree, by Hilton Hotel, Philadelphia Center City .

Budget Hotels :

• The Alexander Inn is a reasonably priced boutique hotel in the city center with large, comfortable rooms.
• Another good budget choice, within walking distance of some of the main tourist attractions, is the recently constructed Sleep Inn City Center .
• Also newly built and located in the charming Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, with its lively shopping and dining scene, Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia .

Joining an organized tour is a great way to see all the highlights of Philadelphia without the hassle of navigating the busy city streets and finding a parking spot. Along the way, you'll learn stories about the city's history from an audio commentary or a professional guide, depending on the tour selected. Below are some sightseeing tours that guarantee the lowest price:

See the Sights:

• On the Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour , you can relax and see all the sights from an open-air double-decker bus. This convenient tour travels on a two-hour loop around the city encompassing 25 different attractions, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and you can hop on and off at your favorite stops. This pass gives you maximum flexibility to plan your itinerary, with courtesy shuttles from city center hotels and the option of a two- or three-day validity.
• If you prefer a more intimate, on-the-ground experience, consider the Philadelphia Segway Tour . You can choose between a five or 10-mile loop around the city, stopping to see sights such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Italian Market. This small-group tour, with a maximum of six people, offers a more personalized experience and includes Segway training and photos.

Travel Back in Time:

• If you're a history buff, the Founding Fathers Tour of Philadelphia is a fun way to learn about the birthplace of American freedom on a walking tour around the city. Accompanied by an expert guide, this 2.5-hour tour helps you appreciate all the stories behind Philadelphia's top historical attractions and includes a visit to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and other important landmarks, as well as admission fees and a refreshment.

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Pocono Mountains

Pittsburgh, pennsylvania, gettysburg, pennsylvania, lancaster, pennsylvania.

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If you crave peace and relaxation, you can head to a romantic lakeside retreat to rejuvenate your mind and soul. On the other hand, visitors who are looking for adventure will find a wide selection of exciting outdoor activities to try in the Poconos , including whitewater rafting, jet-skiing, zip-lining, sky diving and riding the thrilling Appalachian Express Mountain Coaster. In the winter, you can find the full array of exciting winter sports.

Pittsburgh is literally bursting at the seams with attractions to please all ages. You can spend days exploring the many wonderful museums in the city , starting with the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall (a military museum which doubles as a concert hall), and the Carnegie Science Center. Art lovers will find themselves drawn to The Andy Warhol Museum , the Carnegie Museum of Art, and the very unusual Mattress Factory, which showcases contemporary art. Nature enthusiasts can stroll through the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and hike the Three Rivers Heritage Trail or the Allegheny State Park.

A decisive and bloody Civil War battle took place in Gettysburg in 1863 – consequently the town is home to a treasure trove of military history. The Gettysburg National Military Park covers an enormous area that you can explore along 40 miles of scenic roads dotted with over 1,000 monuments and cannon; a fun way to see it all is to jump aboard a Gettysburg Battlefield Bus Tour. Once you’ve had your fill of Civil War history, you can visit the Lincoln Train Museum and the Gettysburg Railroad Station Museum. Families can take the children to see the Land of Little Horses in Gettysburg , while foodies can taste regional food at several venues on a Savor Gettysburg Food Tour.

The surrounding greater Lancaster County offers a wide variety of outdoor activities.

If you would like to know more, you can visit the Hershey Story interactive museum and Hersheypark (amusement park). Other interesting museums include the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. Outdoor attractions include Hershey Gardens and Zoo America North American Wildlife Park. Hershey is one of the best places to visit in PA.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

You can polish up on your history at the Old Jail Museum and Mauch Chunk Museum or have some fun on a ghost tour with Walk this Way Tours. For a change of pace you can go white water rafting, canoeing, or kayaking with Jim Thorpe River Adventures or take a scenic train ride through the Lehigh Gorge State Park . Hikers should try the strenuous but rewarding Glen Onoko Falls Trail.

The whole family can spend hours at the Whitaker Center for Science and Arts and have fun touring the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum and the planetarium at the State Museum of Pennsylvania, while culture vultures will not want to miss the Susquehanna Art Museum and the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra. If you need some fresh air and exercise, you can head to Wildwood Park in Harrisburg .

For art lovers there is the Allentown Art Museum, while science enthusiasts can visit the Da Vinci Science Center for hands-on fun and learning. You can visit seven historical covered bridges on the Lehigh Valley Covered Bridge Tour or stay in town and visit some local breweries.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

You can take a self-guided stroll (or go on a walking tour) through the Colonial Industrial Quarter, visit the Burnside Plantation, and walk/hike the river-side Heritage Trail. Art lovers should visit the Banana Factory (gallery and studios) for the First Friday monthly art event and attend a show at Steel Stacks. You can walk, jog, picnic, or fish at the Illick’s Mill Park, visit the Sands Casino, or tour some of the fascinating museums in neighboring Allentown.

If the arts are more to your taste, you can visit the Erie Art Museum and the Erie Philharmonic Orchestra or catch a show at the Erie Playhouse. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Presque Isle State Park for hiking, biking, and water sports in summer and a variety of snow sports in winter. Families will love the Erie Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum.

Other interesting museums you can visit include the Everhart Museum of Natural History Science and Art and the Electric City Trolley Station and Museum. Hikers can enjoy scenic trails around Lake Scranton or take on the 23-mile Pinchot Trail on the Pocono Plateau. Bikers can head to the Lackawanna State Forest or try the 70-mile Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, while wine lovers can tour a few of the local wineries.

State College

If you would like to get outdoors, you can visit the Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, Rothrock State Forest, and Mount Nittany Conservancy for hiking and nature observation. State College hosts several annual events and festivals, including the Central PA Festival of Arts, BookFestPa, and the Downtown State College Italian Street Painting Festival.

Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Art lovers can join the Third Friday Artwalk and visit the Marquis George MacDonald Art Gallery, the Sordoni Art Gallery, and the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts. You can get all the info you need for outdoor adventuring at the Luzerne County Convention and Visitors Bureau. You can go hiking along the scenic Black Mountain Trail or head to the Francis Slocum State Park for biking, boating, canoeing, fishing, and more.

King of Prussia

In nearby Phoenixville you can go paddling and tubing with Port Providence Paddle. You can try a gravity-defying indoor skydive at iFly Indoor Skydiving, or shop until you drop at the King of Prussia Mall, which boasts eight major department stores and scores of smaller shops catering to all tastes and desires.

Nockamixon State Park, Pennsylvania

Hiking is very popular along the six hiking trails and for bikers there is a 2-mile paved bicycle trail as well as a more rugged 10-mile trail for mountain bikes. In winter you can enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing. You can rent a modern fully equipped cabin on site and spend evenings star-gazing around the outdoor barbecue.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

There are several ways for you to enjoy the area; you can hike over 100 miles of trails (including a 28-mile stretch of the famous Appalachian Trail), get out on the river on a canoe or kayak, or drive along one of several scenic roads, stopping at the many lookout points. There are 30 miles of biking trails , or you can follow the historic Old Mine Road. You can swim at three swimming beaches along the Middle Delaware River, go fishing, or visit historic Millbrook Village.

Wissahickon Valley Park

You can try your hand at trout fishing along the Wissahickon Creek or do some bird watching – birding walks are arranged in the spring. A few of the historic sites you can visit in the park include Livezey House, the site of a grist mill dating back to 1700, and Rittenhousetown, a 30-acre site surrounding a former paper mill built in 1690.

George W. Childs Recreational Area

You can admire the beautiful forested area and a series of three waterfalls by following an easy and very scenic trail along Dingmans Creek. The first waterfall is called Factory Falls and is situated alongside a historical woolen mill. A little further on you will come to the 56-foot Fulmer Falls, which drop into a semi-circular rock pool before continuing downstream to the Dear Leap Falls. There are lookout points along the route and you can cross the creek at the bottom and retrace your steps on the opposite side of the creek.

Nay Aug Park, Scranton

You can get a birds-eye view of the gorge from the David Wenzel Treehouse, which towers over 150 feet above the ground. Children can let off steam at the two playgrounds or go swimming in one of two Olympic-sized swimming pools or at the waterslide complex. For a change of pace you could tour the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science and Art or take a stroll through the rose garden.

Philadelphia

Art lovers should not miss the Barnes Foundation and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. To learn about science and medicine, you can head to the amazing Franklin Institute and the Mutter Museum, while history buffs should not miss the Independence Seaport Museum and the National Constitution Center. Families can tour the Please Touch Children’s Museum, the Adventure Aquarium, and Philadelphia Zoo, among many other exciting attractions. --->

Peace Valley Park, Pennsylvania

Although the wildlife area is not open to the public, you can observe the rich bird and amphibian life from Chapman Road Bridge, the duck blind, or the bird blind near the nature center, which offers guided birding walks in spring. Picnicking is popular, and you can rent a canoe, paddleboat, or kayak to enjoy the lake.

Laurel Caverns Park

Adventurous souls can choose a guided spelunking (caving) adventure deep into the heart of the caverns or try cave rappelling on weekends during the summer. There is a picnic area available and children can enjoy panning for gemstones. Laurel Caverns are closed during the bat hibernation period from November to April.

Bushkill Falls for Couples

From there you can continue along the Yellow (45 min), Blue (75 min), or Red trails to see some or all of the other waterfalls. The Red Trail is the most strenuous and takes about two hours to complete, but will reward you with views of all eight stunning waterfalls. Children and families can have fun playing mini golf and panning for gold or just enjoy the playground and picnic area.

Presque Isle State Park

Other activities are bird watching (Presque Isle is an important resting spot for migrating birds), searching for beach glass, and exploring the lighthouse on North Pier and the Presque Isle Lighthouse.

Cook Forest State Park

• 1. Pocono Mountains
• 2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• 3. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
• 4. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
• 6. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
• 7. Harrisburg
• 8. Allentown
• 9. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
• 11. Scranton
• 12. State College
• 13. Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
• 14. King of Prussia
• 15. Nockamixon State Park, Pennsylvania
• 16. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
• 17. Wissahickon Valley Park
• 18. George W. Childs Recreational Area
• 19. Nay Aug Park, Scranton
• 20. Philadelphia
• 21. Peace Valley Park, Pennsylvania
• 22. Laurel Caverns Park
• 23. Bushkill Falls for Couples
• 24. Presque Isle State Park
• 25. Cook Forest State Park

If you love the great outdoors, you can explore the wonderful scenery of the Pocono Mountains , hike in the Delaware Water Gap , have fun at the water parks in PA , or enjoy the beaches on the shores of Lake Erie . Here are the best Pennsylvania destinations.

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7 Best Things to Do in Exton, Pennsylvania

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The 10 most essential things to do on your (first) visit to philly, the can’t-miss experiences in the first world heritage city in the united states....

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There’s never a shortage of awesome things to do in Philadelphia, but there are some things youse just gotta do — especially if you’ve never been to our fair city before.

Whether it’s running like Rocky up those magnificent museum steps; refueling with a cheesesteak (an absolute mandatory); or bowing down to the history made at Independence Hall , devouring a roast pork sandwich (our other favorite sandwich) at Reading Terminal Market , and visiting one of the many mighty museums along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway , these are the experiences that make Philly so gloriously Philly.

Read on for the 10 most essential experiences to be had in the City of Brotherly Love — and find 10 more amazing Philly experiences right this way .

Snap a photo in front of the Liberty Bell

Dramatic home of the internationally known symbol of freedom....

It doesn’t make a sound, but the Liberty Bell ’s message rings loud and clear: “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” This inscription on the cracked but mighty Bell is one reason it became a symbol to abolitionists, suffragists and other freedom-seekers around the world. The Bell draws people from around the world to snag a photo in front of it and its dramatic backdrop: Independence Hall . The Liberty Bell Center is free to visit year-round with no tickets required. Learn more about visiting in our guide to the Liberty Bell .

Where: Liberty Bell Center, 526 Market Street

Pose with the Rocky Statue & run up the "Rocky Steps"

Two of the most famous attractions in philadelphia....

Since Rocky’s first triumphant onscreen run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in 1976, the 72 steps have become an international destination. Travelers from around the world embark on their own trek up the stairs , pumping their fists in the air as they cherish the spectacular view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the city skyline. Cheesey? Definitely. Fun? Absolutely! To finish off the experience, head to the bottom of the stairs and snap a photo with the bronze statue of Rocky , originally created for Rocky III . (Then, venture inside one of the country’s most magnificent art museums . We promise it won’t disappoint.)

Where: Rocky Statue and Rocky Steps outside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak

You have to eat one — or more — on your first visit to philadelphia....

The Philly cheesesteak is inarguably the city’s most famous food. So put your diet on hold for the day, and indulge in a hoagie roll filled with chopped (or thinly sliced) steak and your choice of cheese and/or fried onions. Those in the know order their cheesesteak with two words only: cheese selection (provolone, American or Whiz) and “wit” or “without” onions. The debate about which local spot cooks up the best sandwich won’t ever end, but for an iconic Philly experience, visit the intersection of South 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue, where rivals Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks feed the masses daily, and do your very own taste test. (Pro tip: Make time to all of Philly’s iconic foods , including roast pork sandwiches , hoagies , pretzels and water ice .)

Where: Various locations including Campo's Philly Cheesesteaks, 214 Market Street

Tour Independence Hall, the birthplace of the United States

Where the declaration of independence was signed and where the u.s. constitution was created....

While historical attractions abound in Philly, Independence Hall is where the nation was founded. In 1776, the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in the building’s Assembly Room. Just 11 years later, representatives from a dozen states met here to lay the framework for the U.S. Constitution. Today, the goosebumps-inducing UNESCO World Heritage Site is the centerpiece of Independence National Historical Park, and guided tours of this bucket-list gem are available year-round. Free tours of the Hall are available via timed tickets. Learn more about how to obtain tickets in our guide to Independence Hall .

Where: Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut Street

Visit the famous LOVE sculpture

An iconic work of art by robert indiana....

The City of Brotherly Love is filled with love — literally. One of best-known landmarks is LOVE itself — the Robert Indiana sculpture in John F. Kennedy Plaza (or LOVE Park , as it’s affectionately called by most) that’s a prized photo op for couples, families and friends eager to show the world how they feel about one another. The sculpture was restored and repainted in 2018, and the park was entirely redesigned to add more green areas and a high-tech water feature. A small visitor center kiosk was added in 2021. Another LOVE statue sits just west of Center City on the University of Pennsylvania campus near 36th and Locust streets. And because love comes in all languages in Philadelphia, there’s an AMOR sculpture — a Spanish edition of the LOVE sculpture — on display at Sister Cities Park , a six-minute walk from LOVE Park.

Where: LOVE Park, North 15th & Arch streets

Chow down on food from dozens of vendors at Reading Terminal Market

One of america's oldest farmers market and current food paradise....

Set below a former railroad terminal, Center City’s 127-year-old Reading Terminal Market serves as both a dazzling tourist destination and a trusted source for fresh produce, seafood, meats and cheese for locals. The public space also provides open seating where customers can enjoy a world of cuisines from dozens of restaurants, including Pennsylvania Dutch vendors and sandwich slingers like the acclaimed DiNic’s, serving up hot roast pork sandwiches that rival the city’s much-lauded cheesesteaks. Retail merchants sell housewares, jewelry, linens and more.

Where: Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street

Visit the awesome museums on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Philly's most artistic mile....

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway , modeled after the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris, is called Philadelphia’s most artistic mile for good reason. Some of the city’s most important cultural institutions are housed here, including the Barnes Foundation , The Franklin Institute (how can you not love that giant heart?), The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and its crown jewel, the Philadelphia Museum of Art . (Another super-popular attraction, former prison Eastern State Penitentiary , is just a 15-minute walk from the Philadelphia Museum of Art.)

Where: Various locations including the Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Amble through the world-renowned Longwood Gardens

One of the world’s premier horticultural display gardens....

It’s not in Philadelphia proper, but the horticultural legend that is Longwood Gardens is well worth the 50-minute drive from Center City Philadelphia to Kennett Square . Spectacular, epic, brilliant, breathtaking — all of these adjectives adequately describe the Chester County mega garden and its 1,000-plus acres filled with 20 outdoor gardens, 20 indoor gardens, 11,000 different types of plants, dancing fountains and meandering meadows and woodlands. The colorful oasis also hosts hundreds of events each year, including flower shows, gardening demonstrations, educational programs, children’s activities, concerts and musical theater.

Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square

Explore Philly's hip waterfront

Philly's ever-evolving waterfront features loads to do in all seasons....

Once made up of undeveloped piers and underutilized public spaces, the Delaware River waterfront has become one of the most activated spaces in Philadelphia in the 21st century. That’s thanks to the opening of a number of exciting attractions and parks — Cherry Street Pier and Race Street Pier as well as seasonal spots like Spruce Street Harbor Park , Blue Cross RiverRink and Liberty Point — and diverse and well-attended events throughout the year. Those gorgeous views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge — which connects Philadelphia to New Jersey — don’t hurt, either.

Where: Various locations including Cherry Street Pier, 121 N.Christopher Columbus Boulevard

Dine at a critically acclaimed restaurant (or two, or three...)

Philly does good food right....

There’s no way around it: Philly’s dining scene is special. After all, the city won more James Beard Awards in 2023 than any American city. (In fact, the city has been cleaning up at the awards for a number of years now — with a new finalist and a pair of honorees this year .) Philly restaurants regularly make ”best of” lists from The New York Times, Bon Appétit, Condé Nast Traveler and more. Some of the latest critically acclaimed spots: Royal Sushi & Izakaya (Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic finalist, James Beard Foundation), Andra Hem (15 Top Bars in the US, Food & Wine) and Doro Bet (Best Restaurants of the Year 2024, USA Today). Find more about Philly’s award-winning restaurants here .

Where: Various locations including Royal Sushi & Izakaya, 780 S. 2nd Street

Bonus: More Things to Do in Greater Philadelphia

Award-winning food, dynamic neighborhoods and history-making attractions await....

Looking for even more great things to do in Greater Philadelphia? Of course you are! And in Greater Philadelphia, there is so much to explore, discover or rediscover. We’ve got ideas for:

• perfect things to do on your second trip to Philly
• 12 essential Philly eats from appetizers to desserts
• the city’s best hidden gems you probably don’t know about
• the most beautiful places in Greater Philadelphia
• secret bars and restaurants , and
• dozens of day-trip ideas out into Philadelphia’s Countryside.

Find more ideas right this way for your next exploration — then book a stay at one of the city’s great hotels.

• Food & Drink
• For Kids & Families
• Museums & Attractions
• Parks & Outdoors
• Center City
• Philadelphia Neighborhoods

The Perfect Hotel Package for an Easy Philly Escape

The  Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.

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21 Best Things to Do in Philadelphia

Planning a visit to Pennsylvania's largest city? If you're wondering what to do in Philadelphia, your options are truly endless! Explore America's constitutional history, reenact an iconic movie scene (you know the one), escape to a forest, or glimpse authentic architecture and art. You'll also have to catch a baseball or football game if you can — but that's a given.

In Philly, there's no shortage of old alleys to roam and world cuisines to try. However you choose to spend your time in Philly, you'll discover an adventure!

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Best Things to Do in Philly

When you visit Philadelphia, you get a truly unique experience. Here are some of the best things to do in the City of Brotherly Love.

1. Explore the Liberty Bell Center

The Liberty Bell is one of the nation's most iconic historic landmarks, symbolizing unity, activism, courage, and freedom. It was first installed in 1751 to commemorate 50 years of William Penn's Charter of Privileges . The bell was famously rung numerous times during the next century, including in 1776, when Colonel John Nixon rang the bell to summon residents for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

The bell rang for the last time in 1851, creating its famous crack. It was then made “unringable” following a commemoration of George Washington's birthday.

Although silenced, the Liberty Bell remains an iconic symbol of freedom. The bell has inspired abolitionists, women suffragettes, and Civil Rights leaders. You can see the famed crack, read the inscription (including the "Pass and Stow" inscription that inspired that one clue in "National Treasure"), and envision the Liberty Bell's storied history in one memorable visit. You'll also gain greater insight into America's history and heritage at this Philadelphia tourist attraction.

2. Rise Above at the Rocky Statue and Steps

A popular tourist attraction in Philly, the Rocky Statue and Steps are movie stars in their own right, as iconic as Philly itself. The 72 steps leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art are the same ones from the iconic 1976 film “Rocky.” Sylvester Stallone stars as the underdog boxer Rocky Balboa, who ran up these very steps every morning on his quest to defeat the reigning world champion in a thrilling match.

The towering bronze statue of Rocky at the foot of the steps made its film debut in “Rocky III.” For locals and visitors, the statue symbolizes the underdog's triumph against all odds and people's determination to rise above their circumstances, whatever the challenge.

Whether visiting the Rocky Statue and Steps as a tribute to your favorite films or encouraging yourself to face new challenges, you will feel inspired when you leave. Pro tip: be sure to snap a picture with the Rocky Statue to celebrate your triumphs.

3. Relive History at Independence Hall

Independence Hall holds a unique place in American history. It was here that the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were debated and signed by the Founding Fathers, and the United States was born. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, this renowned Philly landmark is an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy.

Originally built in the mid-1700s to house Pennsylvania’s colonial government, the building’s Assembly Room bears witness to the remarkable history that took place here. Explore the distinct architectural influences of this remarkable building. Immerse yourself in history as you imagine listening to Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, and other founding fathers debate the principles on which this country was founded.

As the centerpiece of the Independence National Historical Park, Independence Hall invites you to take a step back in time where history is preserved . Take a guided tour to learn even more about this unique period in U.S. history.

4. Taste World Cuisines at Reading Terminal Market

The Reading Terminal Market is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is one of Philadelphia's best and most diverse places. The market houses rows of food and beverage stalls from everywhere. You can get souvlaki for starters, order an authentic Philly cheesesteak as your entree (of course), and end with a South American or Asian dessert. Aside from the wide range of produce, the Reading Terminal Market has an impressive history.

It is one of the oldest and most significant markets in the nation, with visitors coming by for more than 130 years. The market aims to preserve and promote the history and culture of unique heritages, and you can expect a vibrant atmosphere when you visit. Experience different cultures, share delicious food and drinks, go shopping, take home souvenirs, and enjoy a memorable day in one of the oldest and most culturally relevant destinations in Philly.

5. Explore History Through Art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Even non-museum aficionados can appreciate the Philadelphia Museum of Art. After all, who wouldn't want to see paintings by artists like Van Gogh and Renoir in person?

Throughout its 149 years, the museum has become a place for art, history, cultural exhibitions, and teachings. It is also home to 200-year-old pieces from ancient and medieval times, as well as pieces from times of war and eras of industrial transformation. With more than 200,000 exhibitions on display, you can easily spend an afternoon exploring. If you're traveling with art lovers, you may have to drag them away so that you have time for the other Philly sights!

The museum, situated along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, has undergone many renovations over the years to make room for more art. The building itself is just as memorable as what's housed inside, so don't be surprised if you find yourself staring at the stunning Greek-style architecture. The columns, sculptures, and bronze griffins are incredible to see in real life.

Journey through the Renaissance, Impressionist, and Modern movements, and witness the world's history through the eyes of renowned artists at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

6. Explore the Solitary Cells at Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary is one of Philadelphia's most prominent attractions. The prison used solitary isolation as a way of reforming prisoners. However, the controversial method was considered inhumane, and the prison closed down in the 1970s . It was abandoned for many years before becoming a museum and tourist attraction that allows visitors to take guided tours and witness the cell blocks where prisoners like Al Capone served sentences.

The building, molded after a Gothic or medieval structural design, was one of the most expensive developments in the U.S. at the time. Its brick and stone ceilings and secluded cell blocks paint a picture of the cold and strict conditions prisoners endured. You can see its eerie and fascinating history preserved in the cells, walls, arches, and stained windows.

Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary is an enthralling and educational experience for anyone interested in history. The prison is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with extended hours for holidays like Halloween.

7. Learn About Art Diversity at the Barnes Foundation

The Barnes Foundation — built by Dr. Albert C. Barnes — is an iconic Philadelphia tourist attraction. It houses a diverse collection of European paintings, African art, Greek antiquities, and Native American ceramics. Situated between the Franklin Institutes and Rodin Museum, the Barnes Foundation offers a unique experience for enthusiasts and admirers. It's an excellent outing for art lovers or school groups visiting Philadelphia.

The art assortment is inclusive, distinct, colorful, masterful, classic, futuristic, and educational, providing a memorable tour. Extra eager learners can scan display barcodes with their smartphones to learn more about the pieces and their contributors, making the Barnes Foundation a traditional art gallery experience with an innovative twist.

8. Witness Creativity at Magic Gardens

Out of all the things to see in Philadelphia, the Magic Gardens is one of the most enchanting. The Magic Gardens is a street art museum on South Street displaying quirky, colorful, and unconventional artwork. The Magic Gardens showcases founder Isiah Zagar's life through mirrors, wheels, bottles, paint, and patterns. It is a hallmark of his experiences and Philadelphia's exceptional heritage.

You can tour the museum or explore the outdoor complex for yourself, complete with vibrancy and intrigue. The Magic Gardens has various exhibits throughout the year, so you can see something new to see each time. Taking a picture in front of the multicolored walls is an excellent way to capture the magic and beauty of your Philly excursion.

9. See Famous Sculptures at the Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum is an iconic Philly landmark housing the most Rodin sculptures outside Paris. It is home to some of his most famous pieces, like The Thinker and Two Lovers, so whether you're a Rodin admirer or new to his work, you can't go wrong with this experience.

The marble sculptures are sleek against the contemporary walls and floors, each one expressing classical designs and distinguished emotions. Touring the museum offers a chance to learn about Rodin and appreciate the feelings and expressions in his work.

10. Learn Coin History at the United States Mint

You might not consider the coins in your purse interesting, but learning how they're made sure is. Visiting the United States Mint is an essential thing to do in Philadelphia. The United States Mint is a fundamental part of American history and has manufactured coins for more than 200 years. The institution boasts a rich history and illustrates the development and evolution of coins in the U.S.

Visiting the United States Mint offers a chance to explore and learn what goes into coin design and manufacturing. The building offers artifacts, history, and demonstrations on the making and stamping of coins. The United States Mint is located above the manufacturing factory and provides an experience beyond expectations. Families and collectors can enjoy a fascinating educational journey and tour through coinage.

11. Go on a Cultural Journey at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History showcases Jewish culture and history in the U.S. The museum offers an enlightening experience, displaying artifacts from Jewish artists and contributors. Visitors can hear stories about education, work, slavery, and the accomplishments of Jewish people. You can tour four floors of the museum, each providing an extensive look into Jewish America throughout the decades. The displays are sure to provide an intriguing and enriching experience for people of all cultures.

12. Explore the Beauty of Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Philadelphia. It's the most extensive botanical garden in Philly, housing more than 10,000 plant species. When planning what to do in and around Philly, add Longwood Gardens as a day trip. This horticulture wonderland is situated in Kennet Square, 50 miles from Philly, and is an excellent full-day excursion.

Spend the day roaming the gardens and admiring the colorful flower varieties. Attend one of the garden events , like music and fountain shows or concerts. Or, enjoy lunch at one of the restaurant and cafe options and indulge in a drink at the beer garden. Longwood Gardens offers fun, exploration, nature, photo-ops, food, drinks, and good times. It's an ideal destination for couples, friends, and family. You can don your best springtime outfit and surround yourself with beautiful flowers — what's better than that?

13. Kick Back at Spruce Street Harbor Park

The Spruce Street Harbor Park tops the list of fun things to do in Philadelphia. Situated on the Delaware River Waterfront, Spruce Street Harbor is a popular summer destination for locals and tourists. The park overlooks the river and is lively with greenery, sitting areas, food vendors, and activities.

Renting a hammock is one of the highlights of visiting the park. Friends and families can sit back, relax, watch the sunset, play board games, grab a bite to eat, and take in the Philly views. It's an excellent day and night venue and a great way to kick back if you want a relaxing day in Philly. The trees are luminous at night with colorful lights, and the atmosphere is vibrant and packed with families and friends from all over.

14. Marvel at the Views at Cira Green

Sightseeing in Philadelphia is only complete with a stop at Cira Green. Cira Green is no ordinary rooftop park — it sits on a parking structure in Downtown Philadelphia, overlooking the city center. The hidden gem is brimming with greenery and flowers!

Visiting Cira Green is an excellent way to see the city. The rooftop venue hosts various events, like big-screen movie viewings. There's also a bar, food options, and comfortable sitting areas. At Cira Green, you can enjoy a day or night out with friends and make lasting memories. It's also a cozy date night spot and perfect for meeting new people.

15. Visit the Last-Standing Edgar Allen Poe House

We all remember reading Edgar Allen Poe's short stories and poems in high school English class, and if they resonated with you, then the Edgar Allen Poe House would make an interesting Philadelphia tourist attraction. The three-story residence was one of Poe's many homes and is the last one standing. Situated in the National Historical Park, you can get a quick and insightful tour of Edgar Allen Poe's Life and work when you visit. While some parts of the house were restored, many walls and features remain the same, preserving its authenticity.

You might hear a staff member read one of his original poems if you're lucky enough. For enthusiasts and those who want a rare experience in Philly, visiting the Poe house is a fascinating and worthwhile option.

16. Unwind at Shofuso Japanese Garden

If you're looking for quiet or less touristy things to do in Philadelphia, PA, then Shofuso Japanese Garden is the perfect place. The Shofuso Japanese Garden, which is a few miles from the city center, is a small, tranquil, and beautiful oasis. Perfect for those who want an alternative to the inner city tourist spots.

The garden surrounds a traditional Japanese-style house, complete with a koi pond, flowers, waterfalls, and streams. Explore the garden's unique features, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the flowing water and pink cherry blossoms. Tour the house to learn about Japanese heritage through visual displays or relax with a rejuvenating stroll.

17. Escape to Wissahickon Valley Park

Wissahickon Valley Park is an extraordinary nature experience. It is a hidden gem off the beaten path and perfect if you're looking for an outdoor escape and adventure. The park boasts distinct features like a red-covered bridge, stunning greenery, and beautiful views. Wissahickon Park also has historic hiking and running trails — like Forbidden Drive — nestled deep in the forest.

The park also offers a charming roadhouse to stop and refuel. It is home to diverse wildlife and provides an ideal break for those eager for nature activity near the city. In fall, the leaves don beautiful autumn colors, while summer and spring bring a lush green backdrop of leaves. Pack your camera or phone for some mesmerizing photos.

18. Tour the Betsy Ross House

Betsy Ross owned an upholstery business with her first husband, John Ross, and is famous for supposedly sewing the first American flag. If the history of the nation's flag piques your interest, you've got to add the Betsy Ross House to your Philly things-to-do list.

After Betsy's death, a speech by her grandson describes how she helped design the Stars and Stripes. After George Washington and Congress members came to her shop with a sketch of the flag, she also helped stitch it.

While there's no evidence to prove Betsy sewed the American flag, the Betsy Ross House is a trip worth making. You can take a self-guided or audio tour through her home in Old City. The tour provides information about Betsy's life, work, and patriotism. At the end of the tour, a Betsy Ross impersonator answers all your questions, so come prepared with some good ones.

The house remains the same, placing you back in the 17th century when Betsy lived, worked, and contributed to America's history. Quick tip here: The house has three flights of stairs, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the experience with friends or family.

19. Enjoy the Vibe at Citizens Bank Park

For more fun things to do in Philly, visit Citizens Bank Park, home to the Philadelphia Phillies. The park offers excellent seating, food and beverage options , and an electric atmosphere — it's a complete vibe.

Sport red, white, and blue and join locals and traveling fans in cheering on their favorite team. There are many delicious food kiosks and outdoor beer gardens to enjoy before and after the game. Also, you might spot famous fans like Bradley Cooper or Miles Teller!

If you want an exclusive experience, book a guided tour of the stadium. Tours last around 75 minutes, giving you an inside look at locker rooms and trophy displays. You'll also get the opportunity to take pictures in the stadium and on the pitch. Visiting Citizens Bank Park is an excellent way to unwind, experience Philly traditions, and have a fun day.

Need a bigger sports fix? Might we recommend a trip to Lincoln Financial Field to catch an Eagles game , or perhaps a stop at the Wells Fargo Center to see the Flyers ? Philadelphia is home to some of the most passionate sports fans out there — so bring the excitement if you head to a game!

20. Walk Back in Time at Elfreth's Alley

Elfreth's Alley is often at the top of the list when planning what to see and do in Philadelphia. The 32-house neighborhood is one of the oldest suburbs in the U.S. Walk down the alley and admire the homes and history, or take a 45-minute guided tour . You can also visit the museum and learn the history of the families and merchants who lived and worked on the alley.

Citizens still live in many residences, making the street livelier. Visiting Elfreth's Alley provides a sentimental trip through history and is also one of the best places to take pictures in Philly.

21. Kimmel Center

Along the Avenue of the Arts, you'll find the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts . This is the perfect spot for music lovers or those looking for a night of unforgettable entertainment. There's no shortage of events all year round, so you can be sure to catch a show during your trip. Enjoy Broadway shows, comedy specials, films, workshops, operas, jazz music, and free community entertainment.

Stop in to see a beloved celebrity performer or take the whole family to a famous ballet. The iconic Philadelphia Orchestra also performs here, giving you an authentic impression of Philly music culture. The Kimmel Center also offers special hotel rates and packages reserved for guests. Within blocks of the Cultural Campus, you can access pre-show dining options, themed cocktails, and nightlife. You'll also find upscale shopping and historical museums across the street!

Discover More Philly Activities With visitPA

Every trip, travel goal, and itinerary is unique. You shouldn't have to settle for what everyone else wants to see and do. Your hidden gem, favorite place in the world, ultimate travel experience, and destination is worth finding.

At visitPA, we understand the importance of exploring everything a city has to offer. That's why we help you discover niche events, travel destinations, and adventures in Pennsylvania. Visit for a day or stay for a few nights to appreciate our gardens, museums, stadiums, and galleries. Whether exploring Philadelphia or elsewhere in PA, our newsletter is your trusted guide for unique sights and events.

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The Poconos   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Andrew F Kazmierski | Getty Images

15 Best Things To Do in The Poconos

Updated April 24, 2024

Nearly every aspect of the Poconos integrates the area's stunning natural landscape. So, whether you spend a day taking advantage of elevation changes while golfing , barreling down the Delaware River on a raft or taking in the fall foliage from

• All Things To Do

Pocono Raceway Pocono Raceway

Known as the "Tricky Triangle" for its three distinct turns, the Pocono Raceway began welcoming fans in 1968. Nowadays, Pocono Raceway hosts a handful of NASCAR races every summer, while a variety of other car-related experiences are available when races are not taking place. Visitors can ride in or drive a stock car, bring their own car for a spin on the famous track, choose from a selection of exotic cars to take for a test drive and more. 

Past travelers praised the stock car ride-along experience, saying that the G-force going around the track's iconic corners provides an adrenaline rush. The park's clean atmosphere, from the restrooms to the vendors, also impresses most recent visitors. Still, those who are not racing fans expressed disappointment with NASCAR in general, and diehard NASCAR fans couldn't help comparing the Pocono Raceway to its more impressive counterparts.

Asa Packer Mansion Museum Asa Packer Mansion Museum

This luxurious mansion was constructed in 1861 for Asa Packer, a railroad magnate who founded Lehigh University. Construction of the three-story, 18-room home took two years and cost $14,000. The roughly 11,000-square-foot mansion has served as a museum since 1956 and holds the distinction of a National Historic Landmark. Tours showcase the mansion and an assortment of artifacts, as well as cover the interesting history of Packer and his family.

Past visitors raved about the excellent tour guides and interesting historical facts shared. They also praised the opulent mansion's original furnishings and period-specific details, claiming that walking across the porch feels like stepping into a time capsule. Despite all of its appeal, reviewers also warned that the mansion's location at an exceptionally steep hill makes accessing it particularly arduous, but they insisted it is worth the climb.

Poconos Water Parks Poconos Water Parks

The Poconos' assortment of water parks provide the sense of a tropical escape in all four seasons. There are four water park resorts in the Pocono Mountains region, each offering their own slides and pool, plus a relatively unique atmosphere. For example, Camelback Lodge & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark boasts a transparent roof, while Kalahari Resorts and Conventions offers African decor. Great Wolf Lodge and Split Rock Resort & Golf Club round out the area's water park offerings.

While advice from past travelers varies depending on which water park you choose to visit, a handful of suggestions apply to all of the parks. First, exercise caution with the on-site eateries, which run the gamut from overly expensive to downright unappetizing, according to past guests. Also, keep an eye on your kids, as many reviewers expressed disappointment with the lifeguards across all four resorts.  Finally, adult guests should take into account what they want to do on vacation, as many of the resorts' amenities appeal to specific age groups and traveler types.

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Poconos Adventure Parks Poconos Adventure Parks

After you've gotten your fill of the Poconos' ground- and water-based activities, head to one of the area's numerous adventure parks. Adventure parks take the excitement into the air, with elevated obstacle courses for adventurous children and adults to challenge themselves on. The courses often weave their way through picturesque forest settings with rope, wood and cable configurations that create balance beams, rickety bridges and monkey bars. Each park offers an assortment of difficulty levels, each with its own challenging elements.

Past travelers praised the adventure parks as entertaining options for the whole family. A handful of the adventure parks also offer zip lines, which impressed adrenaline junkies. Despite all the accolades adventure parks received, travelers who are afraid of heights or are not physically fit did not enjoy the higher and more challenging courses. Be sure to research the difficulty and elevation of each course before making a reservation.

Poconos Whitewater Rafting Poconos Whitewater Rafting

Both the Lehigh River and Delaware River are controlled by a dam, which makes the water level and current (and subsequent rapids) controlled throughout the summer. Consequently, a variety of whitewater rafting companies are available to take groups through the rapids and down the river. These companies often run trips on different parts of the river, so that travelers can choose between adrenaline-pumping challenges and family-friendly floats.

Past travelers suggested thrill-seekers visit on a dam release weekend when the water is at its most chaotic; otherwise, the trip may be a bit boring. Most reviewers were impressed regardless of when they visited, and the trips earned especially high marks from families. Anyone worried about safety will be comforted that safety measures played a part in every trip, from rule presentations to required life jackets, according to past rafters.

Lehigh Gorge State Park Lehigh Gorge State Park free

Past travelers warned that the rewarding trails that take you near the Glen Onoko Falls can be extremely difficult. In comparison, other trails in the park are paved and can even be biked, which past travelers said makes them an excellent choice for families. In fact, several past travelers said the park can be a bit boring for walking, and is instead best enjoyed on two wheels. 

Lehigh Gorge State Park sits between White Haven and Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, so it is easy to reach via car from most towns within the Poconos. All areas of the park are open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset. Access to the park is free, and there are no campsites at Lehigh Gorge State Park. Check Lehigh Gorge State Park's website for the most up-to-date information.

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

The coaches for the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway were built as early as 1917, meaning the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is sure to make the day of any ferroequinologist, or a person who studies trains. The trains are most often pulled by diesel engines, but the railroad occasionally uses steam locomotives. The 16-mile, roughly one-hour round trip weaves through the Lehigh Gorge State Park . The exact length of trips varies depending on the season, and the railway offers special excursions for events like fall foliage.

Past travelers suggested splurging the extra couple bucks for an open-air car if the weather is nice. Arrive early, though, as visitors warned that tickets are tricky to get, especially during the fall foliage months and other special excursions. Also, while the beautiful scenery impresses most riders, they advised future passengers to keep in mind that the train takes the same route out and back, so the second half of the trip is a repeat.

Hickory Run State Park and Boulder Field Hickory Run State Park and Boulder Field free

Hickory Run State Park covers more than 15,000 acres and is crisscrossed by more than 40 miles of hiking trails. Still, the park's primary attractions are the Boulder Field and its roughly 6-mile Boulder Field Trail. The field is an 18-acre collection of rocks, which range in size from less than 18 inches to more than 25 feet in length, and scientists suggest the perplexing site is the result of a long-melted glacier. In addition to hiking, Hickory Run State Park welcomes fishers, campers, bird-watchers, swimmers and even disk golfers.

Past travelers particularly enjoyed climbing out on the rocks of Boulder Field, saying that the natural wonder is interesting for visitors of all ages. You'll want to watch your step, though, as the boulder field provides ample opportunity for twisted ankles. Hawks Falls serves as the park's second most popular attraction, and recent travelers said that the large waterfall is worth the short hike along Hawks Falls Trail.

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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area stretches over 40 miles of the Delaware River, covering a total of roughly 67,000 acres. This expansive protected area allows outdoorsy visitors to explore more than 100 miles of hiking trails, including 27 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Scenic drives complement the hiking options, while motorboats, fishers, kayaks and swimmers can utilize the Delaware River. Come winter, the recreation area also allows cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Past visitors recommended hiking the Red Dot Trail up Mount Tammany, which can be combined with the Blue Blaze Trail to create a loop. The Red Dot Trail is particularly steep and rocky, though the full loop is only 3 miles, so it's recommended to take the Red Dot Trail up and the Blue Blaze Trail down. The recreation areas fall foliage also impresses recent adventurers, meeting their high expectations for the region's autumn colors.

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

While the Pocono Mountains may not pierce the sky like the Rockies, they still provide an excellent destination for skiers and snowboarders from the East Coast. The first ski area opened in 1946, and the area's offerings have kept pace with modern innovations, boasting routes that are well-groomed and lifts that are speedy. Six ski areas are scattered across the region, meaning that there is no shortage of slopes. Whether you're practicing on the bunny hills or bombing double black diamonds, you're sure to find a few runs that suit your skill level.

Past travelers reported flocking to the mountains that offer snow tubing, but there are also numerous complaints that the tubing programs are poorly managed during the peak ski season. Similarly, the ski runs themselves often become crowded during weekends in the peak season, leading to mixed reviews from recent visitors who were frustrated by long lift lines on weekends.

Poconos Golf Poconos Golf

The Poconos' varied terrain makes the area a golf destination for travelers from surrounding cities. The region includes historic courses designed by Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast, as well as more modern courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Rocky Roquemore. Many of the courses also include driving ranges, tee areas and other practice areas, so that travelers can brush up on both their long- and short-game before tackling a full course. Keep in mind that a handful of the courses are owned and maintained by hotels or resorts, so you may get a deal by bedding down where you golf.

Past travelers particularly praised the beautiful courses for their elevation changes and stunning surroundings. Like any courses, recent golfers claimed that the difficulty level varies between courses and holes. Past visitors also appreciate the area's generally cheap price, especially if you look into the various specials when booking a tee time. Prices vary greatly depending on the course, time of day and season that you plan on golfing. In general, the Poconos' golf season runs through spring, summer and fall, only pausing when there is snow on the ground. Additional information on the area's most popular courses is available on the Pocono Mountains website .

Poconos Farmers Markets Poconos Farmers Markets free

Part of the Poconos' appeal is the area's natural beauty. Going hand in hand with natural beauty is natural bounty, and the Poconos certainly don't skimp on ways to enjoy a taste of the region's offerings. Farms dot the area surrounding small Pennsylvania towns like Stroudsburg and Lake Harmony, while farmers markets set up shop in regular intervals to sell flowers, fruits and cheeses. Whether you stop by and stock up, or simply want to stroll, smell and sample, the assorted farmers markets provide a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or morning.

Past visitors recommend bringing cash, as some options like the Lake Harmony farmers market don't accept cards. While shoppers marveled at the array of options, baked goods seemed to be a favorite across all of the markets.

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The Top 7 Safest Places to Live in Pennsylvania

Is safe the be-all and end-all that determines where to live?

Up until the last four to five years, most American cities were considered safe. But the impact of nationwide lockdowns has put an entirely new perspective on the word safe.

Is state-of-the-art security your highest priority? Or would you rather enjoy top-notch schools, public transportation, and sunsets over mountains?

Want to know what are the safest places to live in Pennsylvania? Keep reading for your comprehensive guide on the seven safest communities in PA.

1. Fox Chapel

Fox Chapel, PA is a great place to live if you’re looking for a safe and secure neighborhood. This borough, situated near the Allegheny River , is one of the top seven safest places to live in Pennsylvania. With its low crime rate compared to neighboring communities, excellent schools, and friendly residents, it offers a great environment for families and young professionals alike.

Residents enjoy easy access to amenities such as a golf course, shopping centers, restaurants, and recreation areas. The borough is also known for its discreet police force. Which actively patrols the neighborhood to maintain safety.

Ultimately, Fox Chapel is an up-and-coming area in the Pittsburgh area that’s balanced between a suburban feel and modern amenities. The luxurious, safe, and picturesque environment is truly something special.

2. Franklin Park

Franklin Park , Pennsylvania is one of the safest places to live in the state. It’s located in the scenic Allegheny Mountains and is part of the Triangle townscape for Franklin and Washington Townships. This quaint borough is home to a growing population and offers its residents an excellent quality of life.

Its low crime rate and small population make it very attractive to potential residents. There are excellent public schools and plenty of recreational activities to choose from including fishing, hiking, and biking.

The community is very welcoming and friendly and has a strong sense of community. Franklin Park is one of the top seven safest places to live in Pennsylvania and is truly a great place to call home.

3. Turtle Creek

Turtle Creek is one of the top Pennsylvania housing markets for safety. Home to about 6,400 residents, crime and violence rates are low in Turtle Creek. The crime rate is 40% lower than the state average.

The police force is highly active and efficient in keeping the town safe and secure. Residents feel safe in their own homes as crime rates are significantly low due to the strict regulations and police presence. The safety and security of Turtle Creek come from the town’s cultural foundation and its commitment to tight-knit connections between its residents.

People in Turtle Creek enjoy well-established educational opportunities, recreational amenities, advanced healthcare options, and excellent public services. The small-town atmosphere in Turtle Creek creates an inviting and protective environment for its residents. 

4. Bellefonte

Bellefonte, Pennsylvania is one of the top seven safest places to live in the state. While its population isn’t large at 6,321 people, Bellefonte offers peace that many larger cities can’t. Residents here enjoy a pleasant small-town feel and low crime rates.

Bellefonte has a fairly low crime rate, with only 117.3 crimes per 1,000 people reported in 2018. This is significantly below the U.S. average which is over 300 per 1,000 people.

It is also the safest city in the entire state of Pennsylvania, only seeing one violent crime and no homicides in 2018. Bellefonte has invested heavily in community policing, which someone looking for an extra safe neighborhood is likely to appreciate. 

5. McCandless

McCandless, Pennsylvania is one of the top seven safest places to live in the state according to recent reports. McCandless provides an ideal place to raise a family with low crime rates and several recreational activities for all ages. The town features a great school system and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities.

Residents also have access to a variety of shopping and dining options. What stands out about McCandless is its commitment to public safety through a dedicated police department that is focused on protecting the town and its citizens.

Additionally, the town’s low unemployment rate and strong job market contribute to a high quality of life for residents. All in all, McCandless offers a safe and secure place to call home.

6. Murrysville

Murrysville, Pennsylvania is well known for being one of the safest places to live in the state. This was recently confirmed by a 2018 study that placed Murrysville in the Top 7 Safest Places in Pennsylvania. Murrysville prides itself on its low crime rate, excellent police department, and strong community bonds.

In Murrysville, the police department regularly includes community outreach programs and crime prevention initiatives to ensure the safety of its residents. Because of this, there is an overall feeling of security in the town that cannot be found in other parts of the state. This is why so many individuals and families are drawn to living in the Murrysville area.

Clarion is located in Pennsylvania, and is known for its safety and low crime rate. It is consistently rated as one of the safest cities in Pennsylvania, with a low violent crime rate and a high property crime rate. The understanding and friendly community makes it a great place to live and raise a family.

It is also home to some of the best schools in the state, ensuring that children receive a quality education. In addition, Clarion boasts beautiful natural attractions such as the Allegheny National Forest and the Genesee River.

It is also home to a thriving economy, with a wide range of industries, businesses, and amenities. With all these advantages, Clarion is considered one of the top family-friendly places to live in Pennsylvania. Click here to learn more about the safest places to live in Pennsylvania.

Consider the Safest Places to Live in Pennsylvania Today

Pennsylvania is a beautiful state with many safe places to call home. Whether you’re looking for the charm of a small town, the comforts of the suburbs, or the vibrant energy of a metropolitan city, there is something for everyone. All of these places provide a safe and secure environment.

Due to the rising PA real estate market, it is one of the best places to live now. Why not take a visit to one of these top seven safest places to live in Pennsylvania? You’ll be sure to find something you love.

If you want to read more articles, visit our blog.

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.