tourist attractions pennsylvania

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pennsylvania

Written by Lura Seavey Updated Mar 22, 2022

Pennsylvania is known as the Keystone State for its role in building the foundations of the United States of America. It is here that the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and the Gettysburg Address were written. Tourists will find an abundance of historic landmarks and attractions, from the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia to the Valley Forge and Gettysburg battle sites. It is also known as the Quaker State for the religion of the state's namesake, William Penn.

Pennsylvania Dutch country is home to the unique culture of the Amish, whose dedication to simplicity and tradition continues to draw visitors who are looking for a peaceful weekend getaway . The city of Pittsburgh is known for its industrial roots and the cultural legacy of the Carnegie family, while the capital city of Harrisburg is loved for its small-town feel and historic buildings.

Other places to visit in Pennsylvania have earned their fame for less serious reasons, like Hershey, which is known for its chocolate manufacturer, and Punxsutawney for its weather-predicting groundhog. From the urban attractions of historic Philadelphia to the numerous parks and open country, there is something for everyone here.

Find your new favorite things to do with our list of the best tourist attractions in Pennsylvania.

1. Independence National Park and the Liberty Bell

2. hershey park, 3. gettysburg national military park, 4. presque isle state park, 5. philadelphia museum of art, 6. fallingwater, 7. reading terminal market, 8. phipps conservatory, 9. carnegie museum of natural history, 10. eastern state penitentiary, 11. pennsylvania state capitol, 12. the philadelphia zoo, 13. strasburg, 14. valley forge and valley forge national historical park, 15. intercourse, 16. andy warhol museum, map of tourist attractions in pennsylvania.

One of America's most historic areas and home to the Liberty Bell, Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia is a national treasure. Independence Hall is the central attraction at the park, famous as the site where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where the Constitution was drafted. The Liberty Bell sits on display across from Independence Hall, surrounded by a series of exhibits describing its history.

Independence Mall, laid out in 1948, extends north of here, forming the remainder of the park, which is paved with old cobblestone streets. Here, you will find historic buildings, like Congress Hall and Old City Hall, and museums including the Ben Franklin Museum and the National Museum of American Jewish History.

Address: 143 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.nps.gov/inde/index.htm

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

Families will enjoy an outing to this famous amusement park in Hershey, a town also closely associated with chocolate. Hershey Park is the town's main attraction with 90 acres of rides and entertainment for kids and adults , ranging from roller coasters to aquatic shows.

The park was originally built in 1906 as a recreational area for Hershey's workers but expanded over the years to attract visitors from all over. Hershey Park continues to expand, offering a wide range of things to do for all ages. In addition to kiddie rides, the park has all the family favorites like a carousel, train, bumper cars, and Ferris wheel. There are also several water rides perfect for a hot summer's day and more than a dozen roller coasters designed to thrill.

Other attractions include midway-style games and two large video arcades. Adjacent to the park and included in admission is ZooAmerica. Here, visitors can see more than 200 animals from North American habitats, including bald eagles, mountain lions, and even roadrunners. Zoo guests can also sign up for special behind-the-scenes tours to get a closer look and an opportunity to help feed the animals. For those who want to skip the big park and just visit the zoo, admission is available at a lower rate.

Address: 100 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.hersheypark.com

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hershey, PA

The Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg is the site of Gettysburg Battlefield , where in 1863 this Civil War battle was responsible for 51,000 casualties over a three-day period. Hundreds of markers and monuments now grace the park. Key highlights are Seminary Ridge, which was the primary Confederate position west of Gettysburg for days two and three of the battles; Cemetery Ridge, the site of Union Lines for the final two days of battle; and Oak Ridge, the site of the opening day battle of the Civil War.

The Park Museum and Visitor Center has several exhibits, including the Rosensteel collection, which is one of the largest collections of Civil War uniforms, weapons, and personal items in the United States. The park also hosts living history programs and reenactments and has extensive horseback riding trails.

Address: 1195 Baltimore Pike (Route 97), Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gettysburg

One of the top parks in Pennsylvania , Presque Isle State Park sits on a peninsula that curves out into Lake Erie, creating Presque Isle Bay, an important shipping and transport center. The park is open daily year-round and has plenty to offer, including 11 miles of beach and several hiking trails .

As well as swimmers and sunbathers, many visitors come here to collect colorful "sea" glass that has washed ashore. Kite-flyers also love the open space and lake winds, and Sunset Point is a favorite spot. The park also hosts seasonal events and summer concerts that are free and open to the public.

At the entrance of the park, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center houses exhibits about the local history and ecosystems. The center also facilitates activities and has a 75-foot observation tower from which you can admire the surrounding park and lake. There are also amazing views of the lake from atop the Lighthouse on Presque Isle, which can be visited by guided tour, as well as the lesser-known Lighthouse on North Pier.

Official site: www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PresqueIsleStatePark/Pages/default.aspx

The Philadelphia Museum of Art houses one of America's largest collections of art and is also an iconic building in the city. The museum's front steps were featured in all of the "Rocky" movies, and from the top of these steps is a grand view down Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the landmark tower of City Hall.

Inside, the museum's permanent collections include a wide range of art, including an extensive European collection featuring works by Rembrandt, Cézanne, Matisse, Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Chagall, and Manet. Other galleries include those dedicated to textiles and fashion, American colonial furniture, and an outdoor sculpture garden.

Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.philamuseum.org

Fallingwater is one of the most famous of the buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright , known for its organic architecture that simultaneously harmonizes and contrasts with the natural world around it. In addition to the magnificent architecture, the collections of the home's former residents, the Kauffman family, are a main attraction. Located just 43 miles southeast of the city, Fallingwater is a popular day trip from Pittsburgh .

Sculptures large and small adorn the property inside and out, including pieces ranging from Mexican folk art to the works of prominent Cubist sculptors. Some of the most impressive pieces include a cast iron Buddha head (circa 906-1127), an Austrian-Bohemian Madonna crafted in 1420, and an 8th-century sculpture of the Hindu fertility goddess Parvati.

The home is furnished with an eclectic collection that ranges from folk craft to designer chairs. There is also an impressive international art collection that includes works by Picasso and Diego Rivera. The interior of the home can be seen via guided tour, and there is a café and gift shop on the property.

Address: 1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.fallingwater.org

Named a National historic Landmark in 1995, the Reading Terminal Market has been a Philadelphia institution since its opening in 1893. Before the Reading Railroad Company built its new station and the market area beneath it, farmers and fishermen sold their goods in an open-air market close to the railway hub. Today, it is frequented by locals and tourists alike, still providing fresh local goods to Philadelphia's families and restaurants.

Nearly all of the market's vendors are small local businesses , including those selling farm-fresh local produce, butchers selling free-range meats, and numerous food artisans offering canned preserves, baked goods, ice cream, and even Pennsylvania Dutch candy. Keeping with the theme, visitors will also find plenty of cookbooks, unique kitchen supplies, and other foodie favorites to make the experience complete.

The market also has more than just food - there are numerous artisan shops that feature a range of one-of-a-kind treasures, including handcrafted jewelry, clothing, handmade traditional crafts, and gifts. The market is open seven days a week, but visitors should note that the Pennsylvania Dutch vendors are closed on Sundays.

Address: 51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Official site: https://readingterminalmarket.org

This enormous complex sits in Pittsburgh's Schenley Park , where its botanical gardens and facilities cover 15 acres. Donated to the city in 1893, the conservatory has grown to include 23 gardens in addition to the massive 14-room glasshouse, which is home to impressive collections of bonsai and orchids.

The glasshouse also has several other permanent environments, including the Desert Room, which features cacti, and the Tropical Forest Conservatory. Other exhibits change throughout the year, with seasonal flower shows and events. Outdoors, visitors will find traditional flower gardens as well as unique ones like the aquatic gardens.

The Conservatory complex also includes the Center for Sustainable Landscapes, which is considered to be one of the "greenest" buildings in the world. The center hosts educational programs and is responsible for maintaining green practices throughout the gardens and facilities.

Address: One Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.phipps.conservatory.org

Founded in 1896 by Andrew Carnegie, this is one of Pittsburg's top tourist attractions and one of the best natural history museums in the United States . The museum is best known for its dinosaur and paleontology exhibits, and the on-site PaleoLab gives visitors the opportunity to watch staff scientists work with new specimens as they prepare them to be displayed.

The majority of examples within the Dinosaurs in Their Time exhibit are genuine dinosaur skeletons and fossils, including one of the first Tyrannosaurus Rex skeletons discovered. The exhibit features many of the fossils in their authentic Mesozoic Era settings. The Cretaceous Seaway exhibit dovetails with this to explore the same era's underwater species, focusing on North America's West Interior Seaway as it looked 80 million years ago.

There are fossils from the Cenozoic Era and Ice Age in the Age of Mammals exhibit, and there are several other exhibits that focus on present-day wildlife. These include exhibits about North American wildlife, African wildlife, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Visitors interested in the museum's process can also learn all about how curators create the dioramas that bring the natural world to life.

For younger visitors, Discovery Basecamp is the place to get hands-on with specimens and learn more about the natural world with interactive exhibits.

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.carnegiemnh.org

The Eastern State Penitentiary is an eerie mash-up of the old and new, with industrial watchtowers looming over stone buildings that look more like a medieval fortress than a prison. The stories and legends that surround this massive facility are as impressive as the building itself, which remains largely unchanged since it closed in 1971. The facility was built in 1829, with arched ceilings and long corridors that make it particularly interesting for photography.

Once one of the leading high-tech prisons in the United States, Eastern State Penitentiary housed such infamous inmates as Al Capone and Willie Sutton . One of the most popular parts of the tour is Al Capone's cell, which is shown with the lavish furnishings that Capone managed to have while in prison. The penitentiary museum's central exhibit takes a look at the present statistics regarding prisons in the United States and the conditions within.

In addition, exhibits explore changes in policy and law and the negative effects this has had on specific groups and communities, especially minorities and non-whites. Audio and guide-led tours are available, as well as hands-on interactive tours that allow visitors a more in-depth exploration.

Address: 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.easternstate.org

The State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg covers 45 acres and houses both active government buildings and several tourist attractions. The Capitol Building itself is an impressive structure built of Vermont granite whose entrance is guarded by a pair of bronze doors weighing one ton each. Sitting atop the building is a grand dome inspired by Rome's Cathedral of St. Peter, which weighs in at a massive 52 million pounds. Tours of the Capitol Building can be scheduled in advance.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania is also located on the complex grounds and includes a natural history museum, planetarium, historical exhibits, and a collection of artifacts and documents from the state's early years. Throughout the complex of historical and government buildings are many statues and memorials, including Soldier's Grove Quadrangle, the Pennsylvania War Veterans Memorial Fountain, and a replica of the Liberty Bell.

Address: Room 129, Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.pacapitol.com

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Harrisburg, PA

The Philadelphia Zoo is distinguished as the first zoo in the United States , featuring a wide range of animals in its 42 acres within their own habitats. The zoo's programs focus on educating the public about conservation and caring for its 1,300 residents, as well as rehabilitating wildlife in need.

One of the most popular places to visit in the zoo is the African Plains habitat, where it feels like a safari. It's home to regal giraffes and bold white rhinoceroses. Big Cat Falls is another popular area. This beautiful habitat features African lions, Amur tigers, leopards, pumas, and other large felines.

The PECO Primate Reserve is home to the zoo's population of gorillas, orangutans, and gibbons, as well as smaller primates like the black & white colobus, squirrel monkey, and the Bolivian gray titi monkey. This habitat also has a population of lemurs, a crowd favorite.

Other residents include Humboldt penguins at Penguin Point, red kangaroos in Outback Outpost, sloth bears and others in Bear Country, and two areas devoted to birds. For younger visitors, there is KidZooU, an educational children's zoo that offers hands-on exhibits and up-close visits with the zoo's tamer residents, like sheep, goats, and other farm animals.

Address: 19 S 22nd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.philadelphiazoo.org

This small town in Lancaster County is known for its Amish culture and railroad history. One way to appreciate this area is to take a ride on the Strasburg Rail Road , which offers 45-minute scenic journeys aboard the country's oldest turn-of-the-century steam trains. The coal-powered locomotives pass through Amish country and farms. The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania displays historic railroad artifacts with more than 100 locomotives and cars from the mid-nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Strasburg is also home to the National Toy Train Museum , which has extensive displays of model train collections from the 1800s through today, hands-on educational exhibits, and special events. In keeping with the town's love of trains, Traintown USA features a 1,700-square-foot model train layout complete with animated figures and 22 trains. You can also stock up on your own model train supplies or get your hobby started up at their store, the Strasburg Train Shop.

Valley Forge stands as the ultimate symbol of suffering, sacrifice, and triumph of the American Revolutionary War. During the winter of 1777-78, American soldiers endured some 2,000 casualties related to hunger, disease, and poor conditions after the British razed this key supply center.

This piece of history is illustrated through exhibits, tours, and a film. On-site are Washington's Headquarters , a National Memorial Arch, as well as trails and recreational space for visitors to enjoy. Located on the north-western outskirts of Philadelphia, Valley Forge is an easy day trip from the city .

Address: 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

Just a short drive east of Lancaster on SR 340 is Intercourse, a quaint town with an old-style country atmosphere. One of the top attractions is the Old Country Store, where tourists can buy local crafts and tasty, fresh-baked treats, as well as admire traditional handcrafted patchwork quilts at their Quilt Museum .

On Main Street, tourists can take a buggy ride and visit People's Place to learn about the history, traditions, and folk crafts of local cultures, including the Amish, Mennonites, and Hutterites. Intercourse is also home to the American Military Edged Weaponry Museum , which has an impressive collection of knives, swords, bayonets, and similar weapons.

Other popular attractions include tours of the local pretzel factory and the Leaman Place covered bridge that spans Pequea Creek.

Located in Pittsburgh, the Andy Warhol Museum offers an insightful look at the life of this great American pop artist. On display are some of his most famous pieces, including the Marilyn and Elvis portraits and the Tomato Soup Cans. In addition to his art are exhibits related to his life from his early years through to the end of his life.

Address: 117 Sandusky Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.warhol.org

More on Pennsylvania

The Ultimate PA Bucket List: 101 Things to Do in Pennsylvania Before You Die

Over the past ten years traveling PA, I’ve shared over 1,200 amazing places throughout all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. And, truthfully, in my experience, those places are just the tip of the iceberg. There are truly many amazing things to do in Pennsylvania.

To help you narrow things down a bit, I decided to put together the ultimate Pennsylvania bucket list. These are the 101 things to do in Pennsylvania before you die. No matter where you live in the state or what your interest is, you’re sure to find something great to do on this list.

You can use the links below to jump to the various regions of Pennsylvania, which are listed below, roughly east to west. Of course, you can also browse our Pennsylvania travel map to find even more things to do near where you live or are traveling, or scroll down to check out our PA bucket list below!

Philly and its Suburbs  |  Lehigh Valley  |  The Poconos  |  Northeastern Pennsylvania  |  Susquehanna Region  |  PA Dutch Country  |  The Alleghenies  |  Pennsylvania Wilds  |  Laurel Highlands  |  Pittsburgh and its Suburbs  |  Great Lakes Region

Philadelphia and its suburbs.

Independence Hall – The site where the Declaration of Independence was signed in July 1776 was already my top place to visit in Philadelphia. See where the United States was born and learn about the site’s other fascinating history.

The Liberty Bell – Located adjacent to Independence Hall (and originally housed in its bell tower), the Liberty Bell is another of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania for those wanting to experience American history.

Longwood Gardens – Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square might be the most beautiful natural area in all of southeastern Pennsylvania. The gardens here feature thousands of plants, many fantastic fountains, and one of the largest conservatories in the world.

Rosenbach Museum – The Rosenbach Museum might be the best-kept secret in Philly. Located on a tree-lined street in Rittenhouse Square, this museum is one of the country’s best rare book libraries featuring many one-of-a-kind books and manuscripts dating back hundreds of years.

Mercer Mile – The Mercer Mile in Doylestown is comprised of three amazing concrete structures built by Henry Chapman Mercer in the early 20th century. Fonthill (his home) and the Mercer Museum were built to resemble European castles, the Moravian Pottery and Tiles Works was designed like a Spanish monastery. 

Reading Terminal Market   – Once the ending point of the Reading Railroad (of Monopoly fame), Reading (pronounced “Redding”) Terminal Market is now filled with dozens of stalls selling delicious foods from all over the world. This is a must-visit food stop in the city.

Christ Church   – Christ Church might be the most historic church in the country. It was where many of our Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, worshipped during their time in Philly.

Ringing Rocks County Park – Located in northern Bucks County, Ringing Rocks County Park is one of the oddest places in Pennsylvania. When you tap the rocks of this boulder field with a hammer, they ring like a church bell. There are also other nearby ringing rocks fields at Stony Garden and Ringing Rocks Park .

Eastern State Penitentiary  – A prison from 1829-1971, Eastern State Penitentiary is now a tourist site that allows visitors to learn about its history. Much of the prison has been left in a state of ruin, which makes the building both unique and very creepy.

Valley Forge National Historical Park  – The story of Valley Forge is one of the most well-known stories of the Revolutionary War. Here Continental Soldiers under the command of George Washington spent a harsh winter that both decimated them and prepared them for the long war ahead.

Philadelphia Museum of Art – The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the country’s best art museums and showcases everything from Ancient Asian art to 20th-century American works. Also, don’t miss the chance to run up the famous Rocky Steps that lead to this great museum.

Simeone Automobile Museum – The Simeone Automobile Museum is one of the region’s best antique car museums. The museum focuses on the history of auto racing throughout the world, giving this museum a unique theme relative to other automobile museums in PA.

Philadelphia City Hall Observation Deck  – From 1894-1908, Philadelphia City Hall was the tallest habitable building in the world. Go to the top of this historic building and visit the observation deck just below the feet of William Penn. This deck offers great panoramic views of the city 500 feet below.

Washington Crossing Historic Park  – Washington Crossing Historic Park is located along the Delaware River north of Philly. This is the spot where Washington and his army famously crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776. Don’t miss their annual Christmas day reenactment.

Mütter Museum  – The Mütter Museum is the collection of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia and features some of the most unusual medical oddities in the world. Take a stroll and see human skulls, slices of Einstein’s brain, and many more disturbing, but fascinating pieces.

Wanamaker Organ  – The Wanamaker Organ is located inside a Center City Philadelphia Macy’s and is the world’s largest, still-functioning pipe organ in the world. Concerts are offered six days a week throughout the year.

Glencairn Museum  – The Glencairn Museum in Bryn Athyn is a castle-like building that is home to one of the greatest collections of religious artifacts in the country. Explore the history of religion dating back millennia and from various cultures throughout the world.

Barnes Museum – The Barnes Museum is another great art museum in Philadelphia. Once a private collection in the city suburbs, it’s now located in downtown Philly. It focuses on works by Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist artists.

American Treasure Tour  – The American Treasure Tour is a massive collection of American antiques and kitsch items. Take a ride through the museum on their tram to see the highlights of this fantastic collection.

Brandywine River Museum of Art  – The Brandywine River Museum near Chadds Ford offers visitors the chance to see the works of the Wyeth family, along with other artists that were prominent in the Brandywine School. The museum has an especially large collection of works by Andrew Wyeth.

Mummers Parade – The Mummers Parade is the oldest folk parade in the country and dates back to 1901 (though the tradition dates back much further). Watch as a variety of costumed performers parade down the streets of Philadelphia on New Year’s Day performing a variety of shows to delight the crowd.

Laurel Hill Cemetery  – Laurel Hill Cemetery is one of the only cemeteries in the country on the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to many important graves including a signer of the Declaration of Independence, a well-known Civil War general, and a Baseball Hall of Famer.

Monk’s Cafe – Monk’s Cafe might not be the best place to eat in Philadelphia, but it is one of the best bars in the country. Monk’s features a fantastic selection of imported Belgian beers, many of which are incredibly rare and some that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. Outside of breweries, this might be the best place in Pennsylvania to have a beer. Wharton Esherick Museum – If Dr. Seuss came to Pennsylvania, he’d feel right at home here. The museum is the home and workshop of artist Wharton Esherick and offers visitors the chance to learn about his life and art. It’s filled with pieces designed by Esherick and placed much as he would have had them during his life.

The Lehigh Valley

Hoover-Mason Trestle – Walk along an elevated rail line that once took supplies to workers at the Bethlehem Steel plant in Bethlehem, PA. This walkway offers a close-up look at what remains of the impressive blast furnaces.

C.F. Martin Guitars Factory Tour  – C.F. Martin Guitars are not only some of the best in the world, but many are still handmade in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Visitors can take a free tour of this factory and watch as workers make these beautiful instruments.

Mack Trucks Historical Museum  – Located inside the company’s former testing facility, the Mack Trucks Historical Museum is home to dozens of Mack Trucks dating back to the very earliest years of the company. Free tours give visitors a chance to explore these vintage trucks and learn about the company’s history.

National Museum of Industrial History  – Opened in the summer of 2016 inside an old Bethlehem Steel building, the National Museum of Industrial History tells the story of America’s industrial past, with a special focus on the industries that shaped the region. National Canal Museum  – The National Canal Museum near Easton is home to a fun interactive museum, and the only canal boat ride in Pennsylvania. Take a ride on their recreated canal boat which is pulled along a historic canal by mules.

The Poconos

Raymondskill Falls  – Raymondskill Falls in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. The three drops here total approximately 150 feet, making the total height of this waterfall more than Niagara Falls in New York.

The Boulder Field at Hickory Run State Park – The boulder field at Hickory Run State Park is one of the most impressive in Pennsylvania and is a National Natural Landmark. Take a walk out onto this beautiful boulder field and explore its many nooks and crannies. 

Downtown Jim Thorpe – Despite its unusual name, Jim Thorpe is a great town to visit in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the mountains, this community almost appears like it should be in Switzerland instead of PA. Explore the many shops and museums of this great small town.

Bushkill Falls – While calling it the “Niagara of Pennsylvania” is a bit of a stretch, there’s no denying that Bushkill Falls is home to several impressive waterfalls and one of the most beautiful places to visit in PA. Walk the boardwalk and trails through this park to see their eight waterfalls.

Glen Onoko – The short, but challenging hike through Glen Onoko near Jim Thorpe isn’t for everyone, but it’s definitely one of the most beautiful destinations in Pennsylvania. Explore the three named waterfalls here, along with the many other beautiful cascades as you walk through this scenic gorge. (Note that this spot is currently closed, but is left here in hopes that it will open again soon.)

Dorflinger Factory Museum – The Dorflinger Factory Museum is home to an incredible collection of Dorflinger Glass, including some of the most beautiful pieces of glass I’ve ever seen. This incredible beautiful glass was made in the factory turned museum, and offers visitors a great look at this historic company. Dingmans Falls  – Dingmans Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania and is located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Take a walk down the boardwalk to this great site. Don’t miss Silverthread Falls, another impressive waterfall along the path.

Northeastern Pennsylvania

Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park – The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park might be the best hike in all of Pennsylvania. With 21 named waterfalls along this 7.2-mile trail, you’ll be stopping every few minutes to take in the beauty of another impressive sight.

Steamtown National Historic Site  – Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton showcases the history of the railroad in northeastern Pennsylvania and throughout the country. They feature many historic train engines and offer excursions through the area.

Tunkhannock Viaduct  – The Tunkhannock Viaduct (also known as the Nicholson Bridge) spans the Tunkhannock Creek Valley north of Scranton. The impressive bridge, which was once the largest concrete structure in the world, is made even more impressive as it dwarfs the town below it.

Lackawanna Coal Mine  – Journey underground into a former coal mine near Scranton at the Lackawanna Coal Mine. Visitors ride into this old mine and are given tours by former miners anxious to show you what life was like underground. Houdini Museum – Scranton’s Houdini Museum showcases many items from the life of Harry Houdini, one of the greatest escape artists in history. The highlight, however, is the fantastic and semi-private magic show that’s put on by two of the world’s highest ranked magicians.

The Susquehanna Region

Little League World Series – The Little League World Series is held every August in South Williamsport, PA. This free event draws the best youth baseball players from all over the world to compete to see which team is the best. If you can’t make it in person, you can watch the tournament on national television.

Knoebel’s Amusement Park  – Knoebel’s Amusement Park is the largest, free-admission amusement park in the United States. Stroll their beautiful grounds and either pay for only the rides you want to go on or get a day pass good for nearly all of the attractions.

McIntyre Wild Area – Hidden away in northern Lycoming County, the McIntyre Wild Area is home to Rock Run , often called the most beautiful stream in Pennsylvania. Several of its tributaries (notably Miners Run and Hounds Run ) are home to hidden waterfalls that require hiking directly up the creek to see.

Yuengling Brewery Tour  – Yuengling is America’s oldest brewery and has been producing beer since 1829 with only a short break for Prohibition. Today, visitors can tour their historic Pottsville brewery to learn how this classic American beer is produced. Bowman’s Field – Bowman’s Field, officially known as BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman’s Field, is located in Williamsport. First opened in 1926, it’s the second oldest professional baseball field in the country. During the summer, it is home to the Williamsport Crosscutters, the Single-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Pennsylvania State Capitol – The Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg might be the most impressive state capitol building in the country. Built in the early 20th century, this building is beautiful both inside and outside. Free guided tours are offered, but visitors can also look around on their own.

Gettysburg National Military Park  – The Battle of Gettysburg was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War and was a major turning point in the conflict. Today, visitors can tour this important battlefield to learn more about its story and impact.

Wheatland – Wheatland was the Lancaster home of President James Buchanan. Buchanan lived in this home before, during, and after his presidency, and many of his possessions are still in the home.

Koziar’s Christmas Village  – Koziar’s Christmas Village is located in rural Berks County and is one of the most impressive light displays in the region. More than a million lights brighten the cold nights on this working farm from early November through early January.

Lancaster County Covered Bridges  – Lancaster County is home to more historic covered bridges (29) than any other county in Pennsylvania. Take a ride through the countryside to see a few of these great pieces of history. We have guides to the southwestern bridges, the northwestern bridges, and the northeastern bridges.

Reading Pagoda  – Originally constructed to be part of a hotel, the Reading Pagoda now sits alone atop Mount Penn overlooking downtown Reading. This very authentic Japanese pagoda has great views of the city below from both inside and out. Lancaster Amish County  – While nearly every county in Pennsylvania is home to a population of Amish, nowhere in the state has more than Lancaster County. Places like Intercourse are popular destinations to see this unique religious sect. Another great option is a seasonal mud sale.

The Alleghenies

Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion – One of the most surprising things to do in Pennsylvania, the Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion features a collection of artifacts from around the world that has to be seen to be believed. The highlight, however, is the chapel from the Columbus family castle in Spain.

Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike – In the late 1960s, the Pennsylvania Turnpike was rerouted, creating a 13-mile stretch of roadway that was essentially abandoned. Today, visitors can walk or bike this historic roadway and even pass through two abandoned tunnels that are each nearly a mile long.

Swigart Museum  – Considered the oldest automobile museum in the world, the Swigart Museum has an incredibly long history of collecting cars. Visitors to their Huntingdon museum can see a portion of their collection of incredibly rare and one-of-a-kind cars.

Johnstown Incline  – The Johnstown Incline takes people and cars from downtown Johnstown and into the hills above the city. As the world’s steepest incline that takes cars, a ride offers the chance to see Johnstown from above.

Horseshoe Curve  – The Horseshoe Curve near Altoona is one of the greatest feats of engineering in U.S. history. It was this curve that allowed trains to conquer the Allegheny Mountains. Visitors can visit the viewing platform and watch trains pass through this historic curve.

Hawn’s Overlook – There are many amazing overlooks in Pennsylvania, but few are as great as the view from Hawn’s Overlook. This vista offers an expansive view over Raystown Lake and is a great place to catch the sunset over the lake.

Penn’s Cave  – The only all-water cavern in Pennsylvania, a visit into Penn’s Cave requires a boat ride along the subterranean lake. After exploring this beautiful underground world, make sure to tour their wildlife park and try your hand at their maze.

Johnstown Flood National Memorial  – The Johnstown Flood National Memorial tells the story of the 1889 Johnstown Flood which killed more than 2.200 people. Learn about the devastating impact of this flood and see the historic club that was responsible for the failed dam. Gravity Hill  – While there are others around the state, the Gravity Hill in Bedford County is well worth taking the time to see. Marvel as your car appears to roll uphill along this country road. Is it an optical illusion or a distortion in the earth’s gravity? You decide.

The Pennsylvania Wilds

Kinzua Bridge  – Ever since the Kinzua Bridge was completed, it’s been a popular attraction. However, what was once the world’s longest and tallest railroad bridge now lies half destroyed in the valley below. Today, visitors come to this state park to see the power of nature and the great view from what remains of the bridge.

Foxburg Country Club  – The Foxburg Country Club in Clarion County is the oldest, continually-operating golf course in the United States. While it only has nine holes, it offers visitors a chance to play an incredibly historic course. Don’t miss the American Golf Hall of Fame which is also on the grounds.

Cherry Springs State Park  – Cherry Springs State Park in Potter County is home to the darkest night skies on the east coast. That makes this park the perfect place to go stargazing. Several fields have been set up to help ensure both professionals and amateurs have a chance to see the brilliant sky.

Groundhog Day – If there’s one event that’s synonymous with Pennsylvania, it has to be Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney. This quirky tradition dates back to 1886 and should be experienced at least once. You can also visit Gobbler’s Knob at any time during the year to see the site.

Bilger’s Rocks – There are many outcroppings around Pennsylvania, but few are as fun to explore as Clearfield County’s Bilger’s Rocks. Climb through the nooks and crannies between the rocks and look for some of the decades-old rock carvings.

Leonard Harrison State Park – On the eastern edge of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Leonard Harrison State Park should be on every Pennsylvania bucket list. Enjoy sweeping views of this impressive gorge and hike down the Turkey Path to see several great waterfalls.

Elk Country Visitor Center  – The Elk Country Visitor Center is the focal point for viewing Pennsylvania’s growing elk herd. These reintroduced animals can be found around the land surrounding the visitor center and are a beautiful sight that’s not to be missed.

Austin Dam  – The ruins of Austin Dam are one of the most remote sites on this list, but it’s worth taking the time to visit. A dam disaster here in 1911 killed 78 people and destroyed the surrounding communities. Today, the ruins of the dam can be explored by curious visitors.

Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub – Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub in Clearfield is home to some of the world’s largest hamburger eating challenges. Come and try to conquer the two, three, six, fifteen, or even twenty-five-pound burger challenges. Finish a burger challenge and get your picture on the wall.

Marion Brooks Natural Area  – Located within the Quehanna Wild Area, the Marion Brooks Natural Area is home to a beautiful strand of white birch trees. In addition to these beautiful and rare (in PA) trees, the area is home to one of the best hikes in the state.

Forest Cathedral at Cook Forest State Park – Cook Forest State Park is home to the Forest Cathedral, one of the largest and most beautiful strands of old-growth forest remaining in Pennsylvania. Hike through these towering giants and imagine what PA used to look like before the lumber industry.

Pine Creek Rail Trail  – The Pine Creek Rail Trail might be the most beautiful bike ride in Pennsylvania, especially the upper third that passes through the PA Grand Canyon. This relatively flat rail trail is perfect for bikers of all ages and experience levels. Scripture Rocks Heritage Park – Located in the woods surrounding Brookville are hundreds of rocks inscribed with the religious beliefs and mutterings of an early 20th-century preacher and eccentric. The largest collection of these rocks can be found at Scripture Rocks Heritage Park.

The Laurel Highlands

Fallingwater – Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater is one of the world’s most iconic homes and one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania. Built above a waterfall in southwestern Pennsylvania, this home is open for tours for those wanting to experience its beauty and architectural majesty.

Flight 93 National Memorial  – The Flight 93 National Memorial honors the life, legacy, and sacrifice of those who died on United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. Visit to see the crash site and learn about those who died on this fateful flight.

Laurel Caverns  – Pennsylvania is home to several beautiful show caves, but none are larger than Laurel Caverns. There are several miles of caves, and visitors can take a guided tour, go spelunking, or even go repelling inside the caverns.

Ohiopyle State Park  – Ohiopyle State Park is one of the best state parks in Pennsylvania . Visitors can explore the many great waterfalls here, most notably Ohiopyle Falls and Cucumber Falls . There are also several great vistas and some of the best white water rafting in PA .

Fort Necessity National Battlefield  – Fort Necessity National Battlefield preserves the sites where a young George Washington and his troops fired the first shots of the French and Indian War. This is a great spot to learn about this little-known war and its effect on U.S. history.

Idlewild and SoakZone  – Idlewild and SoakZone near Ligonier has been named the best amusement park for kids in the country for the last eight consecutive years. Young kids will especially enjoy the section of the park devoted to Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. Great Allegheny Passage  – The Great Allegheny Passage travels 150 miles from Cumberland, Maryland, to Pittsburgh, but the majority of its miles are in the Laurel Highlands. This biking trail is perfect for long-distance rides and features incredible beauty and history.

Pittsburgh and its Suburbs

Mount Washington  – There might be no better urban vista in the world than the view of downtown Pittsburgh from the top of Mount Washington. Combine your visit with a ride on the historic Duquesne Incline or Monongahela Incline to have the full bucket list experience.

Meadowcroft Rockshelter – Meadowcroft Rockshelter is the oldest known site of human habitation in North America, with a history dating back 16,000 years. While there, also visit the recreated 19th-century town and 16th-century Native American village.

St. Anthony’s Chapel  – St. Anthony’s Chapel in Pittsburgh’s Troy Hill neighborhood is home to the second largest collection of Catholic relics in the world (only the Vatican has more). Whether you are religious or not, this is a fascinating collection to see.

Andy Warhol Museum – Pittsburgh’s Andy Warhol Museum is the largest, single-artist museum in North America and one of our favorite things to do in PA. The seven-story museum features pieces of art ranging from throughout Warhol’s life and features his many styles of expression.

Bayernhof Museum  – Located in a home just outside of downtown Pittsburgh, the Bayernhof Museum is home to one of Pennsylvania’s best collections of self-playing instruments. Explore this collection and listen to the many working instruments while touring the home.

McConnell’s Mill Covered Bridge  – McConnell’s Mill Covered Bridge is located in the state park of the same name and is one of the most beautiful covered bridges in Pennsylvania. The bridge crosses Slippery Rock Creek and is located adjacent to its namesake mill which is open for tours during the warmer months of the year. 

Cathedral of Learning  – The Cathedral of Learning on the University of Pittsburgh campus is the second tallest university building in the world. The first-floor Commons room looks like a setting for a Harry Potter film. The nearly two-dozen Nationality Rooms showcase the history of cultures that influenced the development of the city.

Jimmy Stewart Museum  – Actor Jimmy Stewart grew up in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and his hometown has a museum dedicated to tell the story of his life, films, and legacy. A visit to the museum will help you better appreciate this legendary actor.

PNC Park  – PNC Park, the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, is widely considered the best ballpark in baseball. Even if you aren’t a Pirates fan, taking in a game here is a great experience. You can even tour the stadium for a behind-the-scenes look.

Bicycle Heaven  – Bicycle Heaven is the world’s largest collection of bicycles and is completely free to tour. Check out the many rare and impressive bikes in their collection, and don’t miss the Groovy Cranky Panky Sprocket Room.

Carrie Furnace – Carrie Furnace is nearly all that remains of the once massive Homestead Steel Works. Abandoned for many years, visitors today can tour the furnace with former steelworkers to learn what life was like inside a working steel mill.

Carnegie Museums of Natural History and Art – While they are technically two separate museums, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Carnegie Museum of Art are connected and have only one admission ticket. Visit these two museums for some of the best collections in Pennsylvania.

National Aviary  – The largest aviary in the country, the National Aviary in Pittsburgh is a great destination for bird lovers. Come to see the many birds on display, including penguins, but don’t miss the aviary’s popular sloth. Randyland  – There might be nowhere in Pennsylvania more colorful or that exudes more joy than Randyland. The work of artist Randy Gilson, Randyland must be seen to be fully appreciated. Make sure to say hi to Randy when you visit.

The Great Lakes Region

Presque Isle State Park  – Presque Isle State Park in Erie is PA’s most visited state park and offers 13 beaches along Lake Erie. The park is also home to miles of hiking trails and is a great place to go kayaking and fishing.

Drake Well Museum – The site of the world’s first purposefully-dug oil well, the Drake Well Museum tells the story of the beginning of this influential worldwide history.

PennDOT Road Sign Sculpture Garden  – the PennDOT Road Sign Sculpture Garden in Meadville is a 1200-foot-long mural made entirely of used road signs. It showcases the history and culture of northwestern Pennsylvania.

DeBence Antique Music World  – DeBence Antique Music World is home to over 100 antique, self-playing musical instruments. With nearly every instrument in the building working, it offers a great chance to hear these rare instruments play.

Daffin’s Chocolate Kingdom – Purported to be the largest candy store in the world (it’s not), Daffin’s Chocolate Kingdom in Sharon is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. The store is also home to several very large chocolate carvings including a 400-pound chocolate turtle.

What spots would make your list of the best things to do in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments section below.

If you liked this article, you’ll also want to read the One Place to Visit in Each of Pennsylvania’s 67 Counties , 53 Facts About Pennsylvania That You Probably Didn’t Know , the best Airbnbs in PA , and the Seven Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania .

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More great places to visit in Pennsylvania

17 Amazing Airbnbs in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania

Visiting Troegs Brewery: Amazing Beer in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Packsaddle Covered Bridge: The Only Pennsylvania Covered Bridge with a Waterfall

How to Get to the Incredible Beam Rocks in Forbes 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.

18 thoughts on “The Ultimate PA Bucket List: 101 Things to Do in Pennsylvania Before You Die”

Shhh – Still one of the best kept secrets in Pennsylvania. Kinzua Dam, Rimrock and Jake’s Rocks in Warren County in the PA Wilds.

Definitely great spots. I had to leave off some fantastic destinations to get this list down to 101.

Centralia, Pa

I thought about including Centralia, but since there’s a bit of question as to whether or not Graffiti Highway is officially off-limits or not, I decided against it.

Roadside America. A can’t miss stop in Dutch Country.

Sadly, Roadside America is no more.

I have been to 29 of these places. I think Mount Davis only because it is the highest point in PA . Hyner View also.

Dear Jim, I would appreciate it , if you would please include in your descriptions of sites to visit,

If it is accessible to handicapped folks. I would like to visit Penn’s cave but I see many steps. Is there another access?

Thank you for your time and talents and the gifts you give by sharing your trips. Sincerely yours, Terry Ann

Thanks for the suggestion. I don’t typically talk about handicapped accessibility since it can vary from person to person. I think it’s best to contact the site directly and discuss it with them. To your question, though, I don’t believe there is a handicapped-accessible access area for Penn’s Cave.

Hi. This is a great list, but can you edit it to include DeBence’s is in Franklin, Venango County? Thanks.

Thanks for the suggestion. I’ve visited DeBence’s in Franklin and quite enjoyed it. Unfortunately, when trying to narrow down the hundreds (if not thousands) of great things to do in PA down to 101, some great spots have to be cut. Keep in mind that this is just one person’s opinion, so your personal list might vary.

I was surprised to not see the Asa Packer museum in Jim Thorpe. Went there a few years back and it was very impressive.

The Gates House in York

The Erie Maritime Museum, especially when Niagara is in port.

Hawk Mountain in Eckville and the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania in Lititz are both great places to visit

HMMM you don’t mention “Chocolatetown, USA….that is Hershey!!!!!!

Don’t forget Kennywood Amusement Park near Pittsburgh.

We just visited the Pennsylvania grand canyon. the horse drawn buggie ride was the best. Wellsboro is beautiful. Never Knew Pennsylvania was so beautiful. If I were to return. I would definitely stay in town. we have visited Jim Thorp very interesting area and Bedford was great. Do not look for the big blue swimming hole in wellsboro. I am told it is a hike and you need your hikking boots. ratlle snakes and copper heads. The grand canyon would really be beautiful in the fall.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Must-see attractions in Pennsylvania

Independence National Historical Park

Philadelphia

This L-shaped Philadelphia park, bound by 6th, 2nd, Walnut and Arch Sts, protects and honors the institutions that formed the foundation of the United…

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Logan Square & Fairmount

The premier cultural institution in Philadelphia, this epic art museum would stand out even without Rocky's famous antics on the east steps. Every visitor…

Barnes Foundation

Since 2012, Dr Albert C Barnes' eye-popping collection of artworks – predominantly focused on French masterpieces from the late 19th and early 20th…

Independence Hall

The 'birthplace of American government', this modest, early 18th-century Georgian building is where delegates from the 13 colonies met to approve the…

Reading Terminal Market

Chinatown & Center City East

Getting the balance just right between food shopping hub and dining destination, Reading Terminal Market opened way back in 1893 and it's been a…

Mattress Factory

Since 1977, this art space has hosted the avant-garde. It now occupies several buildings in the Mexican War Streets neighborhood, and always has something…

Duquesne Incline

This nifty funicular and its Monongahela Incline twin down the road, both built in the late 19th century, are Pittsburgh icons, zipping up the steep slope…

Andy Warhol Museum

This six-story museum celebrates Pittsburgh's coolest native son, Andy Warhol, who moved to NYC, got a nose job and made himself famous with pop art. One…

Fallingwater

Western Pennsylvania

This Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece is simply one of the architectural wonders of the world. Completed in 1938 as a weekend retreat for the Kaufmanns,…

Gettysburg National Military Park

Pennsylvania

Gettysburg National Military Park covers 8 sq miles of land marked with monuments and trails. The museum at the visitor center is a must-see, particularly…

Cherry Springs State Park

Considered one of the best places for stargazing east of the Mississippi, this mountaintop state park seems to have plenty of space, but be sure to book…

Masonic Temple

Although the fortress-like exterior of this 1873 building is pretty impressive, it's the spectacular interiors – which took a further 15 years to complete…

Completed in 1901 following 30 years of construction, City Hall takes up a whole block, and at 548ft is the world's tallest structure without a steel…

Museum of the American Revolution

This impressive, multimedia-rich museum will have you virtually participating in the American Revolution; interactive dioramas and 3-D experiences take…

The old Reading Viaduct is the location of the first phase of this ambitious project to reuse 3 miles of decommissioned rail lines between Fairmount Park…

Benjamin Franklin Museum

This underground museum is dedicated to Franklin's storied life as a printer (he started the nation's first newspaper), inventor (Bifocals! Lightning rods…

Kinzua Bridge Skywalk

The world's tallest railroad structure when it was built in 1882, this 301ft-high bridge was rebuilt in steel in 1900 – but then partially collapsed in…

Black Moshannon State Park

Tucked away west of Julian, PA, Black Moshannon State Park is 43,000 acres reserved for boating, fishing and hiking. Of note are its unique lake and bogs,…

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Set over nearly 18 acres, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania has 100 gigantic mechanical marvels to climb around and admire. Combo tickets are available…

Cathedral of Learning

Soaring 42 stories, this Gothic tower at the center of the University of Pittsburgh is a city landmark. It has a 4-storey common room at ground level and…

Hoover-Mason Trestle

A bit of a masterpiece of industrial architecture, the trestle was once an artery for coke, limestone and iron ore making its way to the area's blast…

Kentuck Knob

This home, designed in 1953 by Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1956, is built into the side of a rolling hill with stunning panoramic views. It's…

Fairmount Park

The snaking Schuylkill River bisects this 2050-acre green space, the largest city park in the US, splitting it into east and west sections. On either side…

Penn Museum

U Penn's magical museum, the largest of its type in the US, contains archaeological treasures from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Mayan world and more…

Franklin Institute

You could easily spend the better part of the day touring this world-class science museum. As well as being the venue for temporary blockbuster science…

Mütter Museum

Maintained by the College of Physicians, this unique, only-in-Philadelphia attraction is a museum dedicated to rare, odd or disturbing medical conditions…

Wissahickon Valley Park

Covering 2042 acres, this beautiful, wooded park follows the Wissahickon Creek from its confluence with the Schuylkill River up to the city's northwest…

Carnegie Museums

Founded in 1895, these neighboring institutions are both tremendous troves of knowledge. The Carnegie Museum of Art has European treasures and an…

Lehigh Gorge State Park

The Lehigh River cuts a steep, dramatically arresting gorge through the uplands of Northeast Pennsylvania. The main attraction is the 20-mile Lehigh Gorge…

Frick Art & Historical Center

Henry Clay Frick, of New York City's Frick Collection fame, built his steel fortune in Pittsburgh. This Frick shows a small art collection (including…

Cook Forest State Park

Much of the old growth forest of northwestern Pennsylvania has been scoured off the map, but not so in Cook Forest, an 8500-acre preserve located just…

Shofuso Japanese House & Garden

This picturesque house, built in Nagoya in 1953 to a 17th-century design, has been set in 1.2 acres of traditional Japanese gardens in Fairmount Park…

Allegheny Reservoir

This 7647-acre lake looks as if it were always a deep-blue compliment to the landscape, but in fact it dates only to the 1960s, when the reservoir was…

Landis Valley Museum

Based on an 18th-century village, this open-air museum is the best way to get an overview of early Pennsylvania Dutch culture, and Mennonite culture in…

Fort Ligonier

Compared to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, the French and Indian War, often considered the 'first world war' and known as the Seven Years War in…

Phipps Conservatory

An impressive steel-and-glass greenhouse with beautifully designed and curated gardens, at the northwest corner of Schenley Park.

30th St Station

The grandness of Graham, Anderson, Probst and White's 1930s design for this station makes it worth a visit even if you're not catching a train. The…

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

This prestigious arts school, founded in 1805, occupies two buildings including a masterwork of Victorian Gothic architecture designed by Frank Furness…

Longwood Gardens

Pierre du Pont, the great-grandson of the DuPont chemical company founder, began designing this property in 1906 with the grand gardens of Europe in mind …

Liberty Bell Center

A glass-walled building protects this icon of Philadelphia history from the elements. You can peek from outside, or join the line to file past, reading…

More destinations you need to see

30 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

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

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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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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34 Best Things to Do in Philadelphia, According to a Local

There's more to Philadelphia than its historic landmarks and delicious cheesesteaks (though those are certainly worthy of your time, perhaps on a local tour ). For instance, did you know Philly is known as "The Mural Capital of the World?" An

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Independence Hall Independence Hall free

It is in this red-brick, Georgian-style building that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated, drafted and signed by our forefathers, and those who visit Independence Hall can see surviving copies of the documents. Visitors can also see the Assembly Room where George Washington was appointed commander in chief of the Continental Army. Recent reviewers agree this is a must-see in Philadelphia.

Located in Independence National Historical Park in Old City, Independence Hall is just steps from the Liberty Bell Center , making it convenient to visit both landmarks in a morning or afternoon.

Liberty Bell Center Liberty Bell Center free

No matter your interests or intentions for a visit to Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell is a must-see. This 2,080-pound piece of history was once mounted in the belfry of Independence Hall , where it was used to mark important historic events, most notably the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

It's unknown why or exactly when the Liberty Bell was damaged, though historians believe the first crack developed in the early 1840s. Metal workers were soon tasked with repairing the bell in anticipation of George Washington's birthday in 1846, but the repair was unsuccessful and the bell ceased to chime again.

Rocky Statue and Steps Rocky Statue and Steps free

Created for a scene in "Rocky III," the Rocky Statue sits at the bottom of "The Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art , where the fictional boxer trained in the original movie.

For the full "Rocky" experience, run up the 72 steps of the museum – don't worry, you can stop for breaks along the way – so you can take in the views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris) at the top, just like Sylvester Stallone did in the film. Snap a photo with "Rocky" before or after the trek – previous visitors agree the fun photo op alone is worth a visit. They also warn of queues to take pictures.

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Reading Terminal Market Reading Terminal Market free

One of the most fun (and delicious) things to do in Philadelphia is taste your way through Reading Terminal Market. Located beneath the Reading Railroad's 1891 train station (a National Historic Landmark) in Center City, Reading Terminal Market houses more than 70 vendors. Sample food from around the world – including Greek, Thai, Mexican and Indian specialties – while perusing homemade crafts and jewelry. Recent visitors agree there's something for everyone at Reading Terminal Market, noting that any lines you encounter are well worth the wait. 

With so many merchants, the market can feel overwhelming so it's best to have a shortlist of places to visit before you head inside. Some of the best food options include:

Mutter Museum Mutter Museum

Housed in a 19th century building at The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, the Mütter  Museum highlights the mysteries of the human body through wet specimens (biological samples preserved in fluid), anatomical models, medical instruments and more. Notable exhibits include Albert Einstein's brain, a tumor removed from President Glover Cleveland's mouth, and the death cast and livers of famous Siamese twins, Chang and Eng Bunker.

Visitors agree the Mütter  Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Philadelphia, though some say they were disappointed with the museum's small size. Due to the nature of the exhibits, the museum is not recommended for children younger than 10.

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

This mixed media art museum in South Street is a must-visit in Philadelphia, with two indoor galleries and a two-story outdoor sculpture garden. Each of the handmade tiles, bicycle wheels, mirrors, bottles and folk art pieces incorporated into the space represents an aspect of creator Isaiah Zagar's life. Zagar – who first found mosaic art as a form of therapy after suffering from severe depression and nearly taking his own life – is now an award-winning artist whose work can be found throughout the city.  

Travelers say it's an intriguing, beautiful and riveting museum, and that you'll want to take your time to see everything on display. Recent visitors also recommend purchasing tickets online in advance, as entry is timed in 30-minute blocks. Children are welcome, but note that the space is too small for strollers. 

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The Franklin Institute The Franklin Institute

U.S. News Insider Tip: The "Giant Heart" exhibit alone is worth a visit. Kids can climb through the chambers of a life-like heart as they listen to the sounds of an actual human heartbeat. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Inspired by founding father and scientist, Benjamin Franklin, The Franklin Institute is fun for visitors of all ages – not just kids. Interactive exhibits include "SportsZone," which explains the science behind surfing, rock climbing and more through simulators, and "Changing Earth," where you can calculate your carbon footprint. You can also use your body to complete a circuit and light a bulb, observe 3D printers in action and explore space without leaving earth at the Fels Planetarium.

Museum of the American Revolution Museum of the American Revolution

After it debuted in 2017, the Museum of the American Revolution quickly became one of the best attractions in Philadelphia. The only museum of its kind, it tells the story of this important historical event through interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. Museumgoers appreciate the layout of the museum, which follows a chronological path, and note that George Washington's sleeping and office tent from the Revolutionary War is one of the highlights.

Another highlight, Revolution Place appeals to young kids with four hands-on exhibits: the "Military Encampment," with a recreated soldier's tent; the "8th Century Church;" the "Three Tun Tavern," where kids can see bottles, bowls and more that would have been used at a 1700s tavern; and the "18th Century Parlor," complete with a recreated privy (known today as an outhouse). Note that this part of the museum is only open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Eastern State Penitentiary Eastern State Penitentiary

The castle-like Eastern State Penitentiary is one of Philadelphia's most important historic sites. Having opened in 1829, this Quaker-inspired prison sought to reform prisoners using isolation and reflection rather than capital punishment and physical abuse. Although it was shut down in the 1970s, the Eastern State Penitentiary led the way to reform in the judicial system. Today, you are welcome to tour this National Historic Landmark; the highlight for many is American gangster Al Capone's cell. 

Bear in mind that this attraction may not be appropriate for younger children due to its rather frightening nature. To embrace the terror, visit around Halloween when the prison celebrates the spooky season with five haunted attractions.

Barnes Foundation Barnes Foundation

Art aficionados who gravitate toward French impressionist, post-impressionist and early modernist works should visit the Barnes Foundation. The museum's permanent collection features paintings by Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso, Matisse and Van Gogh, plus an impressive mix of African art, wrought-iron metalwork, Native American pottery and more.

But here's why the Barnes Foundation is so unique: Even if all of the above terms and names sound foreign to you, you'll still find something to enjoy. The museum's late founder, Dr. Albert C. Barnes, sought to teach people from all backgrounds how to appreciate art. As such, all of the museum's artwork is grouped together in what Barnes called his "ensembles" – groupings of art (objects, media and more) from a variety of time periods and cultures – designed to make visitors draw similarities they wouldn't otherwise notice.

Please Touch Museum Please Touch Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds. You may even be able to nab some free street parking. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Widely considered one of the best children's museums in the U.S., the Please Touch Museum offers hands-on fun for children as young as 1. You and your kids can travel to Alice's Wonderland, float boats in a water table version of the local Schuylkill River and ride the precious Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel (extra fees apply). Recent visitors agree the "Food & Family" exhibit is especially fun for kids, with a supermarket, home and industrial kitchens, and a neighborhood festival area.

Philadelphia Zoo Philadelphia Zoo

Established in 1859 and opened in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo is the first and oldest zoo in the country.  Its mission as an animal care organization, educational resource, and advocate for endangered species also makes it one of the best zoos in the U.S. More than 1,900 animals live at the zoo, including the endangered Sumatran orangutan, Amur tiger and giant otter.

Fun features at the zoo include Zoo360, a property-wide system of mesh trails that allows the animals to wander around and above the zoo's grounds; Wild Works Ropes Course; and SEPTA PZ Express Train, perfect for youngsters.

Citizens Bank Park Citizens Bank Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Depending when you visit and what's going on at Citizens Bank Park, traffic (particularly to exit the complex) can result in hourslong jams. Take public transportation if you can, or consider leaving a bit early on a night when there are several events going on at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Get tickets to see the Phillies play at their home field, Citizens Bank Park, in South Philly. Even if you're not a baseball (or sports) fan, it's fun to walk around the stadium and enjoy the variety of food options along the way; there are a variety of vendors throughout. The Crabfries (perfectly seasoned crinkle cut fries) at Chickie's & Pete's are a must. Other options include Manco and Manco Pizza and only-in-Philly Federal Donuts. If visiting with kids, check out The Yard, an interactive baseball experience that's open during games, or consider a behind-the-scenes tour of the ballpark.

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South Street South Street free

This quirky neighborhood is practically synonymous with Philadelphia. Spanning roughly 14 blocks (it depends who you ask), South Street offers an eclectic variety of independent gift shops, boutiques and thrift stores, many of which are women- and Black-owned. It's also home to Philadelphia's Magic Gardens .

There's no shortage of dining options, either. In fact, Jim's Steaks on South Street (expected to reopen in late 2023 following a fire) serves some of the city's best cheesesteaks. Brahaus Schmitz (German), Tattooed Mom (vegan-friendly bar), and Pumpkin BYOB (top-rated) are also favored by locals and tourists alike.

Italian Market Italian Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure Sarcone's Bakery will be open during your visit (and go early for the best selection). It might actually be a sin to visit the Italian Market without buying a few loaves of their fresh bread. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

In addition to visiting Reading Terminal Market , both locals and tourists agree a visit to the Italian Market on South Ninth Street is an essential food experience in Philly. One of the oldest open-air markets in the country, the Italian Market features a multitude of gourmet food vendors selling imported goods, cheeses, meats, freshly roasted coffee beans, homemade chocolates and more. Travelers appreciate the variety of delicious food and recommend visiting when hungry.

Johnny Brenda's Johnny Brenda's

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you have tickets to a show, get here early to nab a spot on the second-tier balcony — this is where you’ll get the best views. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Philadelphia has its share of live music venues, including the Kimmel Center, World Cafe Live and the well-known Theatre of the Living Arts. But no place has as much character as Johnny Brenda's, and seeing a show here is as authentically Fishtown as you can get. Previous visitors also agree it's one of the most unique venues they've ever visited.

Spruce Street Harbor Park Spruce Street Harbor Park free

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a summertime favorite in Philly, with hammocks, a beer garden, an arcade, lawn games and a boardwalk on the Delaware River. It's the ultimate place to relax and the closest you'll come to a beach in Philadelphia (though the Jersey Shore beaches aren't far).

There's also a variety of food vendors on-site, and visitors have the option to enjoy their meal on a floating river barge. Spruce Street Harbor Park is especially pretty at night, when the trees are illuminated by multicolored lights.

Elfreth's Alley Museum Elfreth's Alley Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the best photos and overall experience, visit early in the day. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

The nation's oldest continually inhabited residential street, Elfreth's Alley is one of the most charming walkways in Philadelphia. Not surprisingly, it's also one of the most popular for photos. When visiting and snapping pics, just remember the homes are owned by local residents.

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Philadelphia Museum of Art Philadelphia Museum of Art

Modeled after the Parthenon in Athens , the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most recognized buildings in Philadelphia. Once you've made it to the top of the " Rocky Stairs ," take a breath and dive into the museum's impressive works by Matisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, Cézanne and more. You'll also find entire structures from around the world, including a 14th century Buddhist temple.

Recent visitors agree this museum is a must, touting its amazing collections and variety. If you can, budget a full day to explore, and decide what exhibits are the most important before your visit.

Fairmount Park Fairmount Park free

Fairmount Park is the largest landscaped urban park in the world – it’s bigger than Central Park in New York City – with more than 2,000 scenic acres affording opportunities for hiking, off-road biking (permit required) and even horseback riding in the city. There are also picnic tables throughout the park, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Also considered a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Fairmount Park houses popular attractions including The Philadelphia Museum of Art , the Philadelphia Zoo , Boathouse Row , and the indoor-outdoor Mann Center (one of the best live music venues in Philly). Other noteworthy landmarks include Fairmount Water Works, the Philadelphia Water Department's former engine room-turned-event center and a National Historic Landmark, and the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, complete with a ceremonial tea house and koi pond. The park begins near the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and extends to the northwest.

Rittenhouse Square Rittenhouse Square free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a reservation for breakfast or brunch at Parc, a French-style bistro with great food, ambiance and people watching. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

This ritzy neighborhood is one of the best places to eat and shop in Philadelphia, with some of the city's top-rated restaurants, high-end shopping and trendy nightlife venues on offer. Many of the best hotels in Philadelphia are also located here.   

Franklin Square Franklin Square free

When William Penn imagined the city of Philadelphia, he planned five open-square parks. Franklin Square, located in Independence Hall National Historical Park, is one of them (along with Rittenhouse Square , Logan Square, Washington Square and Centre Square).

Close to historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell and especially fun for families, Franklin Square offers a carousel and an 18-hole miniature golf course that looks like a pint-size version of Philly. At the center of the square, a 180-year-old fountain puts on a (free) seasonal water show every 30 minutes. When you get hungry, head to SquareBurger for a bite to eat and the Original Cake Shake, made with Philly's own Tastykake Butterstoch Krimpets.

LOVE Park LOVE Park free

LOVE Park, which was designed by city planner Edmond Bacon (father of actor Kevin Bacon), is where you'll find Robert Indiana's world-renowned LOVE statue, one of the most popular spots for a photo in Philly. There's also a welcome center, walking paths, plenty of green space and a fountain (fun for toddlers to splash through on a hot day).

Visitors agree a photo in front of the LOVE sign is a must, though they caution there's almost always a line. Several travelers also suggest visiting the adjacent Philadelphia Holocaust Memorial Plaza. And if you enjoy holiday markets, time your visit around Christmas when the park transforms into Christmas Village, an event inspired by German Christmas markets with dazzling decor and vendors selling authentic European food, handmade ornaments and more.

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Betsy Ross House Betsy Ross House

It's never been confirmed whether Betsy Ross was the person who sewed the first American flag, though she's widely credited with the task. Her former home, where she would have sewn the first stars and stripes, is now a small museum.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour (with or without an audio guide) of the home before meeting "Betsy" herself. The real Betsy Ross, along with her third husband, John Claypoole, is buried in a courtyard behind the home.

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History aims to inspire people of all backgrounds to appreciate the diversity of the American Jewish experience. The three-floor museum covers three centuries dating back to 1654, with more than 30,000 artifacts illustrating immigration, worship, hard work, community and family life. Visitor-favorite exhibits include the "Only in America Gallery/Hall of Fame," which showcases the accomplishments of nearly two dozen well-known Jewish Americans including Leonard Bernstein, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Estee Lauder and Steven Spielberg.

Recent museumgoers highly recommend a visit to this museum, noting the exhibits are both fascinating and extensive.  

Rail Park Rail Park free

Unused rail lines are being reimagined as this 3-mile trail in Philadelphia. Once finalized, the Rail Park will not only connect 10 neighborhoods, but will also offer a variety of locally inspired art installations and amenities for the public to enjoy.

Phase 1 (called The Cut), which is fully complete, offers swings, bike racks, and an electric platform for events. You'll also spot one of the city's many murals, a story wall depicting Philadelphia's Industrial era, and a variety of plants that are native to Pennsylvania. The current iteration of Rail Park can be accessed at two entrances: 1300 Noble St. and Callowhill Street between 11th and 12th streets.

Wissahickon Valley Park Wissahickon Valley Park free

No, you don't have to drive to the mountains to go hiking near Philadelphia (though the Poconos region and its many things to do aren't far). About 5 miles northwest of downtown, the 1,800-acre Wissahickon Valley Pack offers more than 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails. Plus, visitors can go bird-watching, picnicking or fishing along the Wissahickon Creek. For some of the park's best panoramas, visitors suggest strolling along the vehicle-free Forbidden Drive trail. They also note it ca be a popular place to visit, so expect some crowds on pleasant days.

As you trek through the park, you'll notice its historical architecture, which includes a covered bridge built in 1737 and the historic Valley Green Inn, where you can grab a bite to eat.

Rodin Museum Rodin Museum

Home to one of the largest public collections of Auguste Rodin's work outside of Paris , the Rodin Museum boasts almost 150 bronzes, marbles and plasters created by the famed artist. The collection represents every phase of the illustrious artist's career. Highlights include The Kiss, Rodin's famous sculpture of two lovers.

The beaux-arts building itself is also a stunner, designed by French architect Paul Cret, with a formal French garden imagined by landscape designer Jacques Gréber. The lovely outdoor space features eight of Rodin's works, including The Thinker and The Gates of Hell, the latter of which was the defining project in Rodin's career. Recent visitors note that the museum is small, but well worth a stop – especially since admission to the Rodin Museum is included with your ticket to the nearby Philadelphia Museum of Art , and vice versa.

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Dilworth Park Dilworth Park free

One of Philadelphia's many public outdoor spaces, Dilworth Park appeals to locals and tourists alike – especially with its location at City Hall (above Suburban Station, a hub for public transportation) and close proximity to popular LOVE Park .

Features at this park include the Albert M. Greenfield Lawn, a computer-programmable fountain and Pulse, an art installation that sprays colorful mist whenever SEPTA trains pass through the station below. There's also an outdoor cafe, restaurant and Starbucks on-site.

National Constitution Center National Constitution Center

Located in the Old City neighborhood, less than a half-mile from the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall , the National Constitution Center houses unique exhibits highlighting the signing of the Constitution and other important events in U.S. history. Noteworthy artifacts include the first draft of what would become the Constitution and one of the surviving copies of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

Previous visitors recommend exploring Signers' Hall, where the 42 Founding Fathers are immortalized in bronze, life-size statues, while others appreciate the abundance of interactive activities for kids.

Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Independence Blue Cross RiverRink

If you're looking for something festive to do in Philly at Christmastime, go ice skating at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink. Located on the Delaware River Waterfront, the NHL-sized skating rink affords views of the Ben Franklin Bridge, especially pretty when lit up at night. This attraction also offers cozy cabin rentals with fire pits—perfect for warming up over hot cocoa. 

Recent visitors say they enjoyed their experience here, adding that Blue Cross insurance holders get a discount (free admission for the insurance holder and three guests).  

Boathouse Row Boathouse Row free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the best views of Boathouse Row, look for the pullout near the Fish Ladder on Martin Luther King Drive. If you go a little further north, you can get past the netting that runs across the river and also get away from the big fence that's set up in front of the fish ladder. – Binh Nguyen, Senior Director of Communications at Visit Philly

Boathouse Row is one of the most famous landscapes in Philadelphia; however, the only attraction available to visitors is the Lloyd Hall Recreation Center, which offers bike rentals, a visitor center, cafe, and public restrooms, as well as indoor basketball courts. The other historic buildings belong to local rowing clubs, and you'll often see rowers training or competing in regattas on the Delaware River.

Penn Museum Penn Museum

Don't overlook the Penn Museum in Philadelphia, an archaeological and anthropological museum that highlights the human experience through more than a million artifacts from Asia, Africa, the Americas and the Mediterranean. Expect to see the largest ancient Egyptian sphinx in the Western Hemisphere, one of the oldest known wine vessels in the world (5400-5000 BCE), a Native American war bonnet made around 1890, and other one-of-a-kind artifacts.

Museumgoers praise this engaging museum as well as its location at the University of Pennsylvania. The museum hosts a variety of adult-focused and family-friendly events throughout the year so be sure to see what's on deck ahead of your visit.

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Adventure Aquarium Adventure Aquarium

Technically the Adventure Aquarium is in Camden, New Jersey. But with its close proximity to Philly — less than 5 miles east — as well as its reputation as one of the best aquariums in the U.S. , we'd be remiss not to include it on a list of the best things to do in Philadelphia.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Adventure Aquarium is dedicated to animal welfare, housing and caring for more than 15,000 aquatic animals. Up-close encounters include Shark Bridge, a rope suspension bridge that allows guests to walk inches away from sand tiger and nurse sharks; recent visitors say this exhibit was one of their favorites. Other exhibits include Little Blue Beach, where you’ll see the smallest penguin species in the world, and Hippo Haven, where the resident Nile hippos live.

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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.

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These Are The 10 Most Unique Places To Visit In Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania offers diverse attractions and activities for travelers, including unique museums, breathtaking state parks, and quirky roadside attractions.
• Travelers can venture off the beaten path to uncover hidden gems like the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk and Ringing Rocks Park, which offer one-of-a-kind experiences.
• From the macabre Mütter Museum to the charming Knoebels Amusement Resort, Pennsylvania's unique destinations promise to provide travelers with unforgettable memories.

Pennsylvania is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to rolling farmlands, Pennsylvania offers diverse attractions and activities for travelers. While major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are popular tourist destinations, the Keystone State also boasts many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered . Visitors who take the time to venture off the beaten path will be rewarded with one-of-a-kind experiences.

Pennsylvania's unique museums, breathtaking state parks, and quirky roadside attractions provide the perfect change of pace from the well-trodden tourist trails. Whether one is a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for something completely out of the ordinary, these unique destinations in Pennsylvania promise to provide travelers with memories that will last a lifetime.

Related: 14 Of Pennsylvania's Most Popular State Parks Worth A Hike

Kinzua Bridge Skywalk

The Kinzua Bridge Skywalk is one of the many unique places to visit Pennsylvania has in store for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path spots in the state. It allows adventurous travelers to walk along the remnants of a railroad bridge that was partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003.

Once the longest railroad bridge in the world, the Kinzua Bridge is now a unique state park attraction. Visitors can stroll 600 feet out on the bridge to take in panoramic views of the Kinzua Gorge from 225 feet above the valley floor.

Witnessing the bridge's crumpled steel and collapsed support towers is a sobering yet captivating experience. The Skywalk provides travelers with a one-of-a-kind perspective on this engineering marvel gone awry.

• Length: 600 feet
• Height: 225 feet above the valley floor
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for ideal weather

Ringing Rocks Park

At Ringing Rocks Park , visitors can tap on a field of unique boulders that ring like bells when struck with a hammer. This geological phenomenon occurs due to the unique chemical composition of the rocks.

Travelers of all ages will enjoy wandering through the park and tapping the rocks to hear the variety of loud, gong-like sounds they produce. The ringing rocks provide a fun, hands-on way to experience the local geology. Unique findings like this are part of what makes road-tripping through Pennsylvania so rewarding.

• Length of Trail: 0.5 miles
• Things to Do: Picnicking, hiking
• Top Attraction: The ringing boulders

Mütter Museum

One of the best places to explore when traveling through Philadelphia's Amtrak Station , the Mütter Museum offers travelers a fascinating look into the early days of modern medicine. With its collection of over 20,000 medical oddities, this unique Philadelphia museum houses one of the most fascinating assemblages of medical history in the US.

Visitors can expect to see noted surgeon Thomas Dent Mütter's collection of anatomical and pathology specimens, including diseased tissues, skeletons with unusual medical conditions, and body parts preserved in jars. The Mutter Museum's exhibits are also home to Einstein's brain and other oddities.

The macabre collection may not be for the faint of heart, but it provides an intriguing insight into antiquated medical practices. The Mütter Museum is an eccentric experience like no other.

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Tour Duration : 1-2 hours
• Things to See: Medical oddities, anatomical specimens

Clyde Peeling's Reptiland

Travelers visiting Clyde Peeling's Reptiland can get up close with colorful snakes, temperamental alligators, and other fascinating members of the reptile family. This family-owned reptile zoo has been educating visitors about the world's cold-blooded creatures for over six decades.

In addition to the many snake, turtle, and lizard species on display, daring travelers can hold giant pythons or snap photos with Pete, the six-foot alligator. Clyde Peeling's menagerie of exotic reptiles from across the globe makes this attraction a must-visit for animal lovers.

The zoo's hands-on encounters and educational presentations provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about these prehistoric-looking creatures.

• Location: Allenwood, PA
• Top Attractions : Giant pythons, Pete, the 6-foot alligator
• Things to Do: Animal encounters, educational presentations

Related: The Best U.S. Zoos Offer More Than Self-Guided Tours

Trundle Manor

The bizarre Trundle Manor is a Victorian-style dollhouse inhabited by a strange cast of ghastly puppets and macabre marionettes. This eccentric roadside attraction was created by artist couple Velda and Mr. Arm, who welcome brave travelers into their unusual abode for self-guided tours. Each room overflows with eerie life-sized figurines, all handmade by the proprietors.

Trundle Manor's disturbing décor includes fuzzy rats eating antique dolls, a spewing lava lamp, and skeletons lurking in the bathroom. Those with a taste for the dark and unusual will appreciate this creepy collection of curiosities. A visit to Trundle Manor is a quirky experience that provides an intriguing glimpse into Velda and Mr. Arm's artfully twisted imaginations.

• Location: Swissvale, PA
• Tour Duration : 1 hour
• Things to See: Creepy figurines, eerie décor

Fallingwater

Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater is one of the most unique attractions in Pennsylvania; it's an architectural marvel that blends seamlessly into the natural landscape of Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands.

The house features cantilevered balconies perched dramatically over a 30-foot waterfall. Travelers can tour the unique domicile to admire Wright's groundbreaking organic architecture and his special attention to harmonizing man-made designs with the surrounding woods and waterfalls.

A visit to Fallingwater allows architecture aficionados to see one of the most famous private residences in the world while taking in breathtaking natural scenery. This National Historic Landmark has fascinated travelers for over 80 years and continues to offer an unforgettable look at Wright's avant-garde style.

• Location: Mill Run, PA
• Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
• Tour Duration: 1 hour
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall

Knoebels Amusement Resort

Knoebels Amusement Resort is another one of the most unique places in Pennsylvania to visit; it provides old-fashioned family fun with its collection of classic rides, games, and eateries. This locally-owned park offers free admission, allowing travelers to pay per ride and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere.

Visitors can race across the wooden coaster, loop through the air on a vintage plane ride, or spin through the park on a classic carousel. With no flashing lights, blaring music, or commercial branding, Knoebels harkens back to traditional carnivals of yesteryear.

Families and thrill-seekers alike will enjoy the charming, laidback vibes and variety of attractions. Knoebels provides travelers young and old with good, wholesome fun.

• Location: Elysburg, PA
• Top Attractions: Classic rides, vintage games, old-timey atmosphere
• Things to Do: Ride rollercoasters, play games, eat classic amusement park food

Sesame Place

Sesame Place theme park is among the most unique spots in Pennsylvania to visit for those with kids; it allows families to share the magic of Sesame Street with their kids. Based on the beloved children's television series, this family theme park brings to life locales like Big Bird's Nest, Mr. Hooper's Store, and Abby Cadabby's Garden.

In addition to enjoying parades and shows featuring favorite Sesame Street muppets, kids can ride Elmo's slide, splash down Zoe's water slides, or take a spin on Cookie Mountain. Travelers get into an immersive experience that entertains children and nostalgic parents.

With opportunities to meet characters, enjoy rides, and make memories, Sesame Place offers a one-of-a-kind family getaway.

• Location: Langhorne, PA
• Top Attractions: Sesame Street-themed rides and shows
• Best for: Families with young children

Hersheypark

No trip to Pennsylvania is complete without a visit to Hersheypark for some chocolate-filled family fun. This park is one of the many amusement parks that are worth every penny and offers over 70 rides and attractions based around Hershey's signature sweets.

Visitors can experience the thrill of 13 roller coasters, including the water coaster Storm Runner, and more tame attractions like the carousel and teacups. The Boardwalk at Hersheypark provides additional rides and games for all ages.

Beyond the park's coasters and carnival rides, travelers can go on a simulated tour of a Hershey's chocolate factory, create their candy bar, or dine at restaurants serving Hershey-inspired cuisine. Hersheypark lets travelers experience sugary, chocolate-themed entertainment.

• Location: Hershey, PA
• Top Attractions: Rollercoasters, Hershey's Chocolate World
• Things to Do: Ride coasters, design custom candy bars, enjoy chocolate-themed treats

Related: 10 Amusement Parks Around The World (That Are Not Disneyland)

Presque Isle State Park

With its beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and abundant recreational activities, Presque Isle State Park provides gorgeous natural wonders for outdoors enthusiasts. Travelers can walk 13 miles of walking trails through forests, wetlands, and shorelines. Pristine beaches allow swimming, kayaking, and boating opportunities galore.

The park's Observation Tower rewards those who climb its 157 steps with panoramic views of Lake Erie. Adventurous travelers can enjoy the shallow Lake Erie by going shipwreck diving . The Tom Ridge Environmental Center lets visitors discover the park's diverse ecosystems through interactive exhibits.

Whether one comes for the plentiful birdwatching, fishing, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach, Presque Isle allows travelers to appreciate the best of Pennsylvania's outdoors.

• Location: Erie, PA
• Length of Hiking Trails : 13 miles
• Top Attractions: Beaches, fishing, birdwatching
• Things to Do: Swimming, kayaking, hiking

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• 10 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania

The U.S. Constitution was drafted in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania , in 1787 and ratified by thirteen states, with the Keystone State second. It took effect after New Hampshire 's ratification on June 21, 1788. This constitution has been in effect in the US since 1789. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is one of the most historic in the nation. The natural topography is also stunning, with mountains, rolling hills, and river valleys.

The smaller communities often have a pure Americana atmosphere, historic buildings, and walkable downtowns. For architecture buffs, several styles date back 300 years, and Frank Lloyd Wright built some structures. Here are ten breathtaking small towns in Pennsylvania.

Mill Run is famous for the architectural masterpiece Falling Water, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935. The house was built hanging slightly over a waterfall on the Bear Run River. The town also has striking natural beauty, including streams, forests, and the Bear Run Nature Preserve. Mill Run is a popular hiking destination with trails ranging from easy to difficult, like the Bear Run Black Loop, the most difficult loop in Bear Run Reserve.

Family attractions include Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, where you can find whitewater rafting, an ATV park, and many nature adventures. The quaint downtown has a lot to offer, from antiquing to dining, and is the nucleus of the community. Stroll through town and peruse the architectural styles, or grab lunch at Falls City Restaurant and Pub.

The town of Jim Thorpe, in the Pocono Mountains, got its name from the Native American athlete Jim Thorpe. Several museums, like the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center, highlight the town's coal mining history. Jim Thorpe has a classic downtown with vintage brick buildings and several attractions.

Attractions include The Inn at Jim Thorpe, The Old Jail Museum, and the Broadway Grill. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway uses 100-year-old diesel coaches and leads into Lehigh Gorge State Park. This small town near the Poconos has breathtaking natural beauty and historic attractions.

Gettysburg is one of the most historic towns in America. The Gettysburg National Battlefield was pivotal in the US Civil War. This living museum includes the Gettysburg Museum with Civil War artifacts and live reenactments. The National Cemetary includes a memorial at the location where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address.

The downtown area is pleasant, with a brick aesthetic and a town clock. One of these structures, the David Wills House, explores the era after the Civil War. The Jennie Wade House displays domestic life during the war and is dedicated to civilian casualty Jennie Wade. Though most of it is not pretty, the past comes alive in Gettysburg, and it is truly a stunning town to visit.

Ridgway is a Clarion River borough named after its founder, Jacob Ridgway. Because of its 19th—and 20th-century architecture, it is a National Historic Register District called the "Lily of the Valley." The historic district contains over 725 registered structures, like the David Robinson House on Center Street. Self-guided tours are welcome through the historic district, and brochures are available for download on the town's website.

The Ridgway Historic Homes Tour is a guided tour that leads visitors past historic homes like the William H. Hyde Mansion and explains the significance of these "century homes." Tree-lined streets accent the historic mountains and are ideal for a self-guided tour. The home, constructed in 1891, is a prime example of the classic Queen Victorian style.

Doylestown is a beautiful small town with an amazing historical district and classic architecture. The National Trust For Historic Preservation has designated it one of America's "Distinctive Destinations." Downtown has an art-deco theatre, museums, and a vibrant nightlife.

Archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer founded the Mercer Museum to house his extensive collection of pre-industrial-age artifacts. Fonthill Castle, on the museum grounds, is an architectural marvel. Another unique museum is the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, which has historical artifacts and workshops.

The town of Lititz is a historic town with beautiful scenery. The charming downtown includes the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the first pretzel shop in the country. The town was founded in 1756 by Moravians seeking religious freedom, and its history remains visible today.

The intersection of Broad and Main Streets makes up the heart of town and contains unique shops and eateries, including the Wilbur Chocolate Store. The tight-knit community hosts several festivals throughout the year. The Chocolate Walk is held downtown every October. Over 30 merchants pass out chocolate treats to those who have purchased a ticket. Lititz looks and feels like a better time that has gone by.

New Hope is popular for its shopping district, riverside restaurants, and cultural attractions. Adjacent to the Delaware River, the pleasing Main Street is the heart of town. The 60-mile canal has a small bridge, which is excellent for photo opportunities. The New Hope Historical Society provides walking tours to learn about the town's past.

The tour leads to Parry Mansion, built in 1784 by one of the town's founders. The Bucks County Playhouse is a historic performing arts theatre. Entertainers like Grace Kelley and Dick Van Dyke have performed here, and photos are honoring them. There are several bed and breakfast inns, like the 1870 Wedgwood Inn, which is a veritable walk through time.

Ligonier is a small borough famous for Idlewild Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country. It was named after Fort Ligonier, a French and Indian War-era fort that can be visited today. The Diamond Town Square is popular among locals and visitors and is the hub for community events.

The Diamond is a decorative piece downtown that once was a "parking lot" for horses. Today, the area is home to many historic buildings like the Diamond Theatre of Ligonier, built in the 1930s. Often touted as one of America's best small towns, the history and sense of community make Ligionier breathtaking.

Wellsboro emerged as a historic trading and logistic center in the early 19th century. It is named after Mary Wells, the wife of one of the founders. A memorial to her stands at the historic Robinson House. The downtown is also pleasing and includes a 1930s movie theatre and the last family-operated department store in the country.

Pine Creek Gorge, known as Pennsylvania's "Grand Canyon," is jaw-dropping, especially in Autumn. The stunning vistas provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and camping. Plenty of lodging is available, including historic bed and breakfasts to complete your stay. They are within walking distance of the many restaurants and boutiques in town.

Stroudsburg

Lumber and textile mills contributed to Stroudsburg's growth in the 19th century, while today, tourism is the economic driver of this Poconos town. It is five miles from the Delaware River and sits on the confluence of the Brodhead, McMichaels, and Pocono Creeks. Along with its natural beauty, Stroudsburg has a charming downtown with shops like the Olde Engine Works Market Place.

Many visitors to the Pocono Mountains stay the night in Stroudsburg for its culinary and cultural scene. One of the more popular night spots is The Renegade Winery. It is the Poconos' first urban concept winery and offers hard cider. The wines are crafted in the heart of historic Stroudsburg and are a perfect nightcap.

Pennsylvania is a beautiful state with wide rivers and mountain ranges. It is also steeped in history, having been among the founding 13 Colonies. Perhaps no other town exudes the historical significance than Gettysburg.

Towns like Mill Run and Lititz are renowned for their multiple architectural styles and history. Wellsboro and Ridgway have beautiful scenery and are popular among outdoor enthusiasts. These towns are breathtaking in their natural and architectural beauty and exemplify the best of Pennsylvania's small towns.

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Pittsburgh is KidsBURGH, Picks-Burgh, #PIXARburgh and Babesburgh

If you’ve been considering coming to Pittsburgh, these next three months are the height of can’t-miss festivals and world-class attractions sure to surprise and delight everyone you’re traveling with.

June kicks off an incredible summer in the city with massive free festivals like Three Rivers Arts Festival and Juneteenth taking over Downtown. Or, try DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh which gives you behind-the-scenes access to incredible Downtown properties.

Elsewhere in the city, you'll find Four Chord Music Festival rocking Carrie Furnace with two days of punk rock. On the North Shore, the first Babesburgh Bash promises Pittsburgh's first festival for women!

Traveling with kids? Our new KidsBURGH pass is a must-have on your phone as you unlock prizes and exclusive discounts at a dozen locations around the city including the new Pixar exhibit at Carnegie Science Center .

The Pick is In! Pittsburgh will host the NFL Draft in 2026.

Partnered with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh has officially been selected to host the NFL Draft!

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• 542 Main Street, Stroudsburg, PA, 18360
• 570-688-6950
• http://www.klues.com/

Klues Escape Room

"One Hour, One Team, One Mission"

Challenge your skills with a group of friends, family or co-workers at Klues Escape Room, located in Stroudsburg, Monroe County, Pennsylvania. They offer the ultimate Escape Room Experience with the most uniquely themed rooms in the state! The current themed rooms offered at Klues includes The Curse of the Pharaoh, Mad Hatter, Moonshiner, The Mad Scientist and, coming soon, Escape Houses! Explore the ancient past in their Egypt Room, where the Pharaoh’s Tomb has been disrupted and you and your team must work together to rid the spirits and lift the curse. The Mad Hatter Room was inspired by Lewis Carroll's fairy tale, take part in a whimsical and puzzling journey into a wonderland of adventure! In the Moonshiner room, you'll have to quickly brew a batch of moonshine to raise money to bail Uncle Cecil out of jail! Put your body into the hands of the Mad Scientist, you'll earn fast cash by submitting to his medical study, but what will become of you when the experiment goes horribly wrong? Whether you're coming with a group of friends for fun or co-workers on a team-building trip, Klues Escape Rooms will facilitate communication, promote creativity and foster unity in a fun and memorable experience. Call for more information or easily book online !

• 726 Durham St., Hellertown, PA, 18055
• 610-838-8767
• http://www.lostcave.com/

Lost River Caverns

Nature's underground wonderland

Take a day trip to Hellertown, Pennsylvania and discover a natural underground wonderland you never knew existed! Hellertown's Lost River Caverns was discovered in 1883 when quarry workers ignited black powder in order to remove limestone from the cliff face. In the years following, used as a ballroom by locals looking to escape the summer heat, used by local fraternities for initiation ceremonies and by bootleggers to store their illegal liquor. In 1930, after the installation of handrails, lights and walkways, the caves opened to the public. For almost 100 years, guided tours have been offered to the all who want to discover this natural landmark. Tours are 30 to 45 minutes long and cover about 1200 feet of the caves. Once inside, you will discover rare and magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations. Outside of the caves, The Gilman Museum houses fossils, antiques, gems and minerals dating back to the 17th century. The Gem Mill is a functioning reconstruction of a 19th century mining operation; uncover your own gemstones! 1800 feet of nature trails traverse the grounds, take a nature hike and discover the surrounding beauty or enjoy a picnic outside. Open all year!

• 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19106
• 215-627-5343
• http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/

Betsy Ross House

One of the Most Popular Attractions in Pennsylvania!

It's no mystery why the Betsy Ross House remains one of the most visited attractions in Pennsylvania.  By visiting this cultural and historical landmark, you will set foot in the same room where the famous Quaker flagmaker designed what we now know as the American flag.

Take a journey back in time as you witness all the historical figures, including Betsy Ross herself, from the 18th century dressed in their native garb.  A visit to the Betsy Ross House will complete your examination into the great city of Philadelphia and the molding of this great nation!

• 1 Hoffmans Mill Road, Chadds Ford, PA, 19317
• 610-388-2700
• http://www.brandywinemuseum.org/

Brandywine River Museum

One of the Most Beautiful Attractions in PA!

Encounter priceless works of American art at the Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, PA!  The museum is renowned for its unforgettable collection of works by three generations of Wyeths.  Go on a lively and interesting tour led by Andrew Wyeth's granddaughter, Victoria, in which she discusses the history and meaning behind her family's classic paintings.

Located within a restored 19th century grist mill along the Brandywine River and surrounded by the most gorgeous flowers and gardens, the museum maintains a uniquely serene atmosphere.  The cafe offers a great selection of sandwiches and salads, and allows you to enjoy a nice lunch while overlooking the water.

• 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213
• 412-622-3131
• http://www.carnegiemnh.org/

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

One of the Best Overall Attractions in PA!

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh is a haven for specimens and artifacts that will better educate you on the history of life on earth.  Regarded as one of the best natural history museums in America, this top Pennsylvania attraction has many mesmerizing exhibits to explore.

One of those exhibits is the Hall of North American Wildlife, featuring some of the country's most amazing animals (i.e.:  endangered jaguar, white-tailed deer).  Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians gives insight into Native American cultures and their relationships with the natural world.  Finally, you can journey back into the pre-historic era with Dinosaurs in their Time, one of the world's largest dinosaur displays!

• Penn Square - Broad and Market Streets, Philadelphia, PA, 19102
• 215-686-2840
• http://www.phila.gov/virtualch/

One of the Top 25 Tourist Attractions in PA!

A trip to the City of Brotherly Love is not complete without a visit to historic City Hall.  Home to the nation's largest municipal building, City Hall has been serving the city's government and politics for over 100 years.  Over the years, there have been proposals to demolish this great building, but it remains unscathed.  Until this day, it's regarded as one of the most unique architectural and sculptural achievements. 

Take photos of the glorious William Penn Statue that tops the structure's clock tower.  Explore one of the 700 rooms in which history was made.  Don't pass up the opportunity to encounter one of the most famous attractions in PA and the entire nation!      

• 963 Crystal Cave Road, Kutztown, PA, 19530
• 610-683-6765
• http://www.crystalcavepa.com/

Crystal Cave Park

One of the Best Natural Attractions in PA!

Behold Pennsylvania's greatest natural wonder at Crystal Cave Park!  Known as the most popular natural attraction in Pennsylvania, this majestic underground formation has been visited by millions of people since it was discovered in 1871.

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania's Dutch Country, Crystal Cave received its title due to the dazzling display of shining calcium crystals that nature molded over the years.  Groups are always welcome at Crystal Cave, as it's a popular spot for field trips, day trips, birthday parties, and organized group events.

See their full page listing to find out more information on the coolest cave in PA!

• 3830 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, PA, 18104
• 610-395-3724
• http://www.dorneypark.com/

Dorney Park

The Most Fun Attraction in Pennsylvania!

Dorney Park is a prime PA attraction that features thrilling rides, fabulous food, award winning entertainment, and much more!  Ride one of the thrill-seeking roller coasters that will make your head spin, heart throb, and hair stand straight up!  The park also has over ten family rides, which are fun for all ages.  On hot days, cool off at one of the signature water rides!

More than 40 food locations are spread throughout the park!  A variety of live shows take place every day.  Wander into many different gift shops for collectibles, clothing, novelties, plush toys, and souvenirs.  There really is something for everyone at Dorney Park!

• 2249 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA, 17602
• 1-866-386-2839
• http://www.dutchwonderland.com/

Dutch Wonderland

One of the Most Fun Attractions in PA!

Known as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is a top PA attraction that the whole family will enjoy!  The park features 30 fun-filled rides, including 2 kid-friendly coasters, water rides, and a merry-go-round!  Live entertainment occurs every day at Dutch Wonderland, with such spectacular shows as "Thomas & Friends Live" and "A Dragon's Tale."

Your kids can cool off at Duke's Lagoon, a multi-level water platform with kid-sized slides, spray nozzles, jets, tipping cones, a large tipping bucket.  When you get hungry, stop by one of the numerous eateries and food stands throughout the park.

• 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19130
• 215-236-3300
• http://www.easternstate.org/

Eastern State Penitentiary

One of the Most Fascinating Attractions in PA!

The Eastern State Penitentiary was once one of the most expensive and famous prisons in the world.  Like Alcatraz, it now stands as a U.S. landmark.  Eastern State was the first true "penitentiary."  Drift into the same cells that were once inhabited by famous criminals, including the notorious Al Capone.

Do you like interactive exhibits?  Check out the TowerCam, where you put yourself in the shoes of the former guards.  Once you're done exploring the exquisite architecture of Eastern State, you can explore its vast array of vibrant art installations at one of the top attractions in Pennsylvania.

• 4231 North Concourse Drive, Philadelphia, PA, 19131
• 215-683-0200
• http://www.fairmountpark.org/

Fairmount Park

One of the Largest Attractions in Pennsylvania!

Fairmount Park in Philadelphia is one of the world's largest municipal parks with a sprawling 9,200 acres of land, claiming 10% of land in the city.  Also regarded as one of the largest urban parks in the country, this glorious Pennsylvania attraction houses several million trees, America's oldest zoo, and two acclaimed museums (Museum Mile and Burholme Park). 

The park is beautiful to look at and would be a perfect spot to take a quiet daytime stroll or ride your bike.  On a lovely day, you can have lunch at one of the many picnic areas.  The river side of the park is home to Boat House Row, a Philadelphia icon.

• 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
• 717-334-1124
• http://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm

Gettysburg National Military Park

Visit this Top PA Attraction and Be Part of History!

Witness one of the most historic sites in Pennsylvania!  A major turning point in the Civil War, the Battle of Gettysburg ended General Robert E. Lee's second invasion of the North in 1863.  It is known as the war's bloodiest battle with 51,000 casualties.  In addition to the setting for one of the nation's most infamous battles, Gettysburg set the stage for Abraham Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address.

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center has a 22,000-square-foot gallery with interactive programs, multi-media presentations, and various exhibits.  Tour the battlefield park and cemetery on your own or with a licensed guide.

• 100 West Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA, 17033
• 717-534-3900
• http://www.hersheypark.com/

Hersheypark

One of the Top 25 Attractions in PA!

Hersheypark is a delicious PA attraction!  Start off your journey at Hershey's Chocolate World attraction.  Then go to the free Hershey's Great American Chocolate Tour Ride, and receive a free Hershey's product sample.

Hersheypark has many thrilling roller coasters, family rides, kiddie rides, and even water rides.  Entertainment is available all day throughout the park, and song and dance shows (i.e.:  Strolling Shows, Summer Concert Series) take place on special dates.  At the park you can also enjoy a fun-filled dining experience, within a delightfully themed atmosphere surrounded by carousels, coasters, and characters.

• Chestnut Street between 5th & 6th Streets, Philadelphia, PA, 19106
• 215-965-2305
• http://www.nps.gov/inde/index.htm

Independence Hall

A Top PA Attraction for Historical Buffs Everywhere!

Who doesn't want to set foot in the same building where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution?  Independence Hall is a must-see PA attraction for historical buffs and visitors looking to receive a better education on the history of this great nation. 

Enter the same rooms occupied by George Washington, Ben Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and other U.S. presidents.  The rangers at Independence Hall will lead you on an engaging expedition through U.S. history.  Independence Hall is one of several memorable PA attractions that have amazed visitors for years upon years!

• 4800 Kennywood Boulevard, West Mifflin, PA, 15122
• 412-461-0500
• http://www.kennywood.com/

Kennywood Park

One of the Top 25 Classic Attractions in PA!

Founded in 1898, Kennywood Amusement Park is a top Pennsylvania attraction that has been delighting its visitors for over 110 years!  The park has successfully put a smile on everyone's face, young and old.  Kennywood was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987 for good reason. 

Whether you ride the carousel or one of the exhilarating roller coaster rides, a fun-filled time is guaranteed.  "Lost Kennywood" contains turn-of-the-century architecture and houses some of the best amusement park rides you'll ever find!  Kennywood also has more than a dozen great dining areas that can't be found at any other amusement park.

• 160 North Gulph Road, King of Prussia, PA, 19406
• 610-337-1330
• http://www.kingofprussiamall.com/

King of Prussia Shopping Mall

One of the Top 25 Shopping Attractions in PA!

Do you enjoy shopping?  The King of Prussia Mall is a haven for shoppers everywhere, as it's the equivalent of a giant multi-store catalogue.  With over 400 stores, you'll never want to leave this premier PA attraction!

Whether you seek the coolest designer labels or a store dedicated exclusively to crayons, there's something for everyone at the King of Prussia Mall!  Treat yourself to one of the 40 restaurants, which offer everything from coffee to sushi.  The mall is open 7 days a week for your shopping convenience.

• 391 Knoebels Boulevard, Elysburg, PA, 17824
• 800-487-4386
• http://www.knoebels.com/

Knoebels Amusement Resort

The Largest Free Admission Attraction in PA!

Knoebels Amusement Resort is home to some of the best amusement park rides in the world!  From the Grand Carousel to thrilling world-class roller coasters, your whole family will cherish this endlessly amusing PA attraction.  The kids will love the huge array of kiddie rides, which includes a mini Merry-Go-Round, Kiddie Wheel, and even kid-sized bumper cars!

In addition to exhilarating rides, Knoebels has a shooting gallery, bald eagle habitat, laser tag, miniature golf, and much more!  If that's not enough, there's an awesome water park with waterslides, diving boards, and a shallow pool area for the little ones.

• Third Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101
• 800-868-7672
• http://www.pacapitol.com/

Pennsylvania State Capitol

One of the Most Amazing PA Attractions!

Former President Teddy Roosevelt once referred to the Pennsylvania State Capitol as the handsomest building he ever saw.  With its giant vaulted dome, grand staircase, stained glass, murals, and painted floors, this spectacular Italian Renaissance-style building must be seen to be believed!

In addition to being an architectural and artistic treasure, The Pennsylvania State Capitol is a public building belonging to the citizens of the Commonwealth.  The magnificent structure serves as a representation of history and power, as well as an icon of democracy and freedom.  Don't miss the chance to encounter this national historic landmark!

• 26th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA, 19102
• 215-763-8100
• http://www.philamuseum.org/

Philadelphia Museum of Art

One of the Top 25 Artistic Attractions in PA!

One of the largest museums in the U.S., the Philadelphia Museum of Art allows visitors from all over the globe to witness renowned art collections, acclaimed exhibitions, and enriching programs.  It remains one of the nation's foremost destinations to view world-class art, and has been celebrated by art enthusiasts everywhere. 

This top Pennsylvania attraction offers over 200 galleries that showcase works of classic and contemporary artists like Jasper Johns, Jackson Pollack, Monet, Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Renoir, and many others.  Outside the museum, you will find the famous Rocky statue, as the steps of the museum were featured in the movie's famous training montage.   

• 3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19104
• 215-243-1100
• http://www.philadelphiazoo.org/

Philadelphia Zoo

One of the Top 25 Family Attractions in PA!

If you're looking for the best family attractions in PA, the Philadelphia Zoo should be at the top of your list.  The Philadelphia Zoo contains more than 1,300 rare and endangered animals, including more than 300 different species and subspecies.  The 42-acre Victorian garden houses all those wonderful animals. 

The zoo offers a large variety of rides including the Zooballoon, a safari that allows you to view the animals from 400 feet in the sky.  The Philadelphia Zoo is ideal for group outings and school field trips.  It's no mystery why the Philadelphia Zoo is the leading family attraction with over 1.2 million visitors last year alone! 

• 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, 19131
• 215-581-3181
• http://www.pleasetouchmuseum.org/

Please Touch Museum

The Best Children's Attraction in PA!

Nearly 1 million visitors have made memories at the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia.  The museum provides children with the foundation for basic life skills like building relationships, cooperation, negotiation, and compromise.  It allows children of all ages to develop their imagination and creativity, and become more familiar with the world in which they live. 

Allow your children to explore the multitude of enlightening exhibits and activities.  They can ride the carousel, participate in arts and crafts, play on the big floor piano, and visit the wonderful Alice in Wonderland exhibit.  If you're looking for children's attractions in PA, the Please Touch Museum should be #1 on your itinerary!

• 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA, 19047
• 215-752-7070
• http://www.sesameplace.com/sesame2/

Sesame Place

One of the Top 25 Attractions in PA for Kids!

Play all day at Sesame Place, a fun-filled PA attraction!  The kids can play around in Big Bird's Court, clear a path in the Monster Maze, and slide down Snuffy's Slides.  Embark upon the action-packed steel roller coaster, Vapor Trail.  The water park includes fun slides, pools with fountains and wet surprises, and a multi-level interactive water-play attraction called The Count's Splash Castle.

Along with all of the fun rides are shows, parades, and games!  The kids will love "Elmo Rocks!", a hilarious musical starring Elmo, Zoe, Cookie Monster, Bert, and Ernie.  Don't miss the new Neighborhood Street Party Parade.  These fun shows and parades allow your children to dance along with their favorite characters!

• 300 North Latchs Lane, Merion, PA, 19066
• 610.667.0290
• http://www.barnesfoundation.org/

The Barnes Foundation

View the Finest Works of Art at this Top PA Attraction!

The Barnes Foundation is home to one of the finest collections of 19th and 20th century French paintings in the entire world!  View masterful works by such artists as Renoir, Cezanne, and Matisse.  Established by Albert C. Barnes in 1922, the museum's mission is to promote the advancement of education and a greater appreciation of the fine arts.

Visit the Barnes Foundation's 12-acre Arboretum, where you'll find an exceptional collection of rare and unusual trees and woody plants from all over the globe!  In addition to being a greatly visited PA attraction, the museum serves as a forum for students to debate and exchange ideas about the fine art on display.

• 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19103
• 215-448-1200
• http://www2.fi.edu/

The Franklin Institute

One of the Top 25 Scientific Attractions in PA!

The Franklin Institute of Pennsylvania has been a national landmark since 1934.  In the year of its opening, it was one of the first hands-on science museums in the U.S.  Due to its engaging approach to science and technology, The Franklin Institute continues gaining in popularity and remains a must-see Pennsylvania attraction for the entire family. 

The Tuttleman IMAX Theater continues to amaze viewers, presenting them educational films in a panoramic format.  Whether you listen to one of the insightful lectures, visit the Fels Planetarium, take part in exciting discussions, or participate in the interactive presentations, you will always find ways to entertain yourself at The Franklin Institute!  

• 143 South Third Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19106
• http://www.nps.gov/inde/liberty-bell-center.htm

The Liberty Bell Center

The Top Historical Attraction in PA!

The Liberty Bell is visual evidence of Philadelphia's rich history that spans several centuries.  Open year-round, the Liberty Bell Center offers a wide array of video presentations and exhibits.  The Liberty Bell itself is encased in a glass chamber and the inscription on the bell delivers a profound message about American freedom.  It was named the Liberty Bell by a group of abolitionists who outlawed slavery in the 1830's. 

For more than 200 years, people have been deeply moved by the message of this old state bell.  You cannot pass up the chance to learn the history behind this 2,080-pound bronze bell that continues to serve as a pillar of the great state of Philadelphia!

• 1 Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park, Harrisburg, PA, 17103
• 717-260-1861
• http://www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org/

The National Civil War Museum

One of the Best Historical Pennsylvania Attractions!

The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg is the only U.S. museum that presents its visitors with a balanced and unbiased view of the infamous war.  No museum in the United States will give you a better understanding of the Civil War, and its effect on the nation and people.  

Encompassing the period between 1850 and 1876, the museum incorporates large collections of artifacts, manuscripts, documents, photographs, and other printed matter.  View materials on common soldiers, men and women on the homefront, and the experiences of African-Americans.  Whether you're a Civil War buff or possess the simplest curiosity about the history of this great nation, the National Civil War Museum is a must-see attraction in PA!

• 220 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA, 16505
• 814-838-3591
• http://www.waldameer.com/

Waldameer & Water World

One of the Best Free Admission Attractions in PA!

After you enjoy the many great attractions at Waldameer, get wet and wild at Water World.  The top-quality PA waterpark contains a unique array of slides and attractions for all ages, including 16 slides of varying thrill levels.  There's also a kiddie pool area for your little ones to enjoy.

Welcome to Fun Pennsylvania!

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The Great Philadelphia Comedy Magic Walking Tour

Repeats: Every Weekend

Philly Magic Tours 4th and Ranstead Streets Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106 (267) 566-8897 Region: Philadelphia & The Countryside Hours of operation: 3:00 PM Admission fee: $32.40

This is one of Philly's most unique attractions, a walking tour that is also a moving magic show. You are lead by an award winning magician to historic and offbeat locations. Each stop is the inspiration for a comedic and mind-bending magic trick. Learn why we are getting so many 5 star reviews like, "The most fun I had during my trip to Philly" (TripAdvisor TM). Runs most Saturdays and intermittent Sundays. Group tours are available by appointment any day. Recommended for ages 13 and up.

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