Things to Do in Pennsylvania
If you want to learn about the history of this great state, there are many things to do. From visiting the infamous Pennsylvania Dutch to experiencing the region’s rich culinary history, Pennsylvania offers a great variety of activities. No matter how old you are, there are things to do in Pennsylvania that captivate any taste. Here are some of the best. Let us help you plan your Pennsylvanian vacation by listing great activities for every age.
Reading Terminal Market
If you are looking for something to do during your vacation in Pennsylvania, you may want to visit Reading Terminal Market. This historic market features a model railroad in the center and low lighting. You can enjoy a variety of foods at reasonable prices. While you are there, you might also want to take advantage of some of the many attractions in the city, including several breweries and beer gardens. If you are visiting during the holiday season, you can shop for various goods at the market and even visit a working model railroad!
Philadelphia’s markets date back to the late 1600s and are among the largest public markets in the country. In fact, they were ranked as the best public market in the country in 2021 by USA Today’s 10Best. There are over 80 merchants and 26 restaurants in the market, making it a must-visit for foodies and history buffs. It’s a great way to get to know a city through its history and culture.
If you’re planning a trip to Philadelphia, visit Reading Terminal Market for some great food. This public market was named a Great Public Space by the Project for Public Spaces, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring public spaces. And while you’re there, check out Fox and Son, FYI, a new restaurant in Reading Terminal Market. They produce delicious food that is perfect for your next holiday party.
Valley Forge National Historic Site
Visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park can take in the sights and sounds of this Pennsylvania town. The reconstructed log cabins are a popular attraction, and the park’s “Once Upon a Nation” benches are staffed by seasonal volunteers. The park also features a ranger-led tour that begins at the Park Theater near the visitor center and ends at the replica log huts of the Muhlenberg Brigade.
The ruins of Valley Forge are surrounded by open spaces and provide habitat for countless species. More than three hundred species of plants and animals live in the forest and fields of this national historic site. The site is also home to Washington’s headquarters and the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts, which are popular spots for tours. Walking tours of the site are also available, and the Park offers guided trolley tours of some areas.
In addition to the battlefields, visitors can enjoy the surrounding park and its historic buildings. Valley Forge National Historic Park is a wonderful place for hiking or cycling. There are over 26 miles of trails to explore. Visitors can walk, bike, or even take a horse. While exploring the park, visitors can also enjoy the park’s visitor center and short film. At the visitor center, there are also exhibits that highlight the life of the soldiers and their contributions to the country.
Steamtown National Historic Site
If you’re traveling to Pennsylvania, you’ll likely want to see the Steamtown National Historic Site. It is a railroad museum and heritage railroad on 62 acres in downtown Scranton, the former Scranton yards of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad. You can learn about the railroad’s history and get up close to the engines and cars of yesteryear. It’s an ideal place to take the family to learn about railroading and the history of our nation’s transportation system.
Visitors can check out exhibits in the Visitor Center of the Steamtown National Historic Site. There are both indoor and outdoor exhibits. While you’re exploring, keep an eye out for trains and make sure you have your camera ready! The site is well worth the visit, but remember to plan ahead and arrive early, as the steam trains may be moving! Just be aware of this when visiting, as the site will have a sign posted informing visitors of this.
For a family outing, the Steamtown National Historical Site is an ideal place to bring children. The Roundhouse transports visitors to the era of steam and industry in Northeast PA. The Roundhouse offers many interactive exhibits for younger visitors, and there’s even a Junior Ranger booklet for kids to learn more. The Steamtown Museum is open daily, except for major holidays. There are seasonal hours.
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park
For an animal lover and kid, this Pennsylvania attraction is a must-see! The Park’s 150 acres feature reptiles, a safari ride, and a petting zoo. If you have the time, you can also take a horseback ride through the park. If you’re visiting with a group, you can organize a special event for your group at the Park.
The park features safari tours and hands-on experiences, including catch-and-release fishing. While there are a number of exhibits in the zoo and safari section, the park’s petting zoo offers the chance to get up close to a variety of animals. Whether you’re a family, singles, or a group of friends, you’ll be able to learn a lot from a trip to this park.
The park’s safari ride is a highlight of the visit, and visitors can see a variety of exotic animals from around the world. There are also petting zoos for children and African pygmy goats and llamas. Unlike zoos, visitors can get up close to these animals because they’re housed in cages, rather than in a large cage. The animals are safe in these cages, and the staff is on hand to supervise them.
Chanticleer Garden
The Chanticleer Garden is a great place to get outdoors and relax. Its colorful contemporary garden is nestled in an historic setting, and the grounds are perfect for picnicking. If you’re planning a visit on a rainy day, you can also enjoy a ball game in the nearby Willows Park. This beautiful garden is just 30 minutes from Philadelphia. For more information, visit the website.
While visiting the state’s capital, you’ll want to take the time to visit the Chanticleer Garden. This forty-acre garden is less than half an hour’s drive from Philadelphia. The Chanticleer Garden is directed by Bill Thomas, who was previously the head gardener at Longwood Gardens. You can learn more about the garden by taking a 45-minute tour during the week. The Garden is open Fridays and Saturdays from May through Labor Day.
When visiting the Chanticleer Garden, make sure you pack a picnic lunch. Its breathtaking gardens are the perfect way to get fresh air on a Pennsylvania rainy day. After visiting the Chanticleer Garden, head to the nearby Delaware River Gorge. This stunning gorge spans over 70,000 acres and has a waterfall higher than any other waterfall in Pennsylvania. You can also hike or horseback ride along the trails.
Longwood Gardens
The 1,077-acre gardens, woodlands, and meadows of Longwood Gardens will take your breath away. Its picturesque setting in the Brandywine Creek Valley makes it a must-see destination for visitors of all ages. It is located in the Kennett Square area of Pennsylvania. After visiting the gardens, make sure to spend some time shopping or eating along the Brandywine River.
The grounds were first purchased by William Penn in 1700, but it was not until the 1850s that the gardens really became what they are today. In 1798, twin brothers Samuel and Joshua Peirce began planting trees. The gardens quickly became one of the country’s best tree collections and became a popular destination for visitors. The park’s famous Illuminated Fountain was added in 1870, and its performance constantly changes.
Longwood Gardens is a long-term attraction in the area. Even if you don’t plan to spend the whole day there, you will want to eat something. While it’s not cheap to visit the gardens, there are plenty of dining options. The gardens have picnic areas outside of the main grounds and some inside. You’ll need to bring a picnic if you’re planning on visiting for the day, but there are also restaurants and coffee shops nearby.
Best Sightseeing in Pennsylvania
Looking for some of the best sightseeing opportunities in Pennsylvania? You can check out Longwood Gardens, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Fallingwater, and the Andy Warhol Museum. These attractions are sure to delight nature lovers of any age. And if you’re looking for a fun family trip, consider taking the train to Pittsburgh! These attractions are a great choice for a day trip, too. To plan your day trip, use these tips to find the best sightseeing opportunities in Pennsylvania.
Longwood Gardens
The Longwood Gardens are over 1,077 acres of woodlands, meadows, and gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. During your stay in Kennett Square, you can take a picnic lunch in one of the many gardens, or enjoy a relaxing stroll through the meadows. You may even enjoy a relaxing swim in the lake or a romantic dinner overlooking the Brandywine Creek.
In addition to its gardens and museum, Longwood is also home to world-class shows, including the Summer of Spectacle fountain show, which combines a beautiful music performance with intricate fountain choreography. During the warmer months, the gardens also host live music, theater performances, and group tours. There is something for everyone at Longwood Gardens, whether you want to spend a quiet afternoon in the trees or watch a thrilling fireworks display.
While visiting Longwood Gardens, you can visit the Chimes Tower, located near the waterfall in the Main Fountain Garden. During your visit, you’ll notice couples relaxing on the lawn in front of the tower, and people walking on the bridge above the waterfall. Children can ride on the electric scooters and enjoy the gardens from a different perspective. Parents should be sure to watch their children closely around the windows, as the fountains are quite loud.
The garden offers a wide range of programs, including continued education for adults. Children can attend specialized courses, while educators can benefit from the resources and workshops the Longwood Gardens offer. The gardens also offer internships and training courses in horticulture and science for students. If you have a passion for learning, Longwood Gardens is a great choice. The Gardens are open year-round, so you can enjoy your visit whenever you want.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
If you love art, you can’t pass up a visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This world-renowned museum has over 200 galleries and is designed to let you explore it in your own style. Here are 15 essential works to see in Philadelphia. Timothy Rub, the museum’s director, is partial to a diptych with a spiritual energy that captures the essence of Philadelphia. It also features works by European and American masters as well as Asian creativity.
Independence National Historical Park – This beautiful park is an important landmark in Pennsylvania. In 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. It met again here 11 years later to write the United States Constitution. Another famous landmark in Philadelphia is the Liberty Bell, which was first rung in this park in 1776. George Washington was later chosen as the country’s Commander-in-Chief. This museum offers free admission to the general public and is located at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The collection of art includes works by French impressionists, Renaissance and Baroque eras. There is also a huge selection of 20th century art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and Matisse. The collection also includes works by Thomas Eakins and Charles Wilson Peale. And if you’re traveling with children, make sure to take them to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The Barnes Art Museum opened in 1886. The museum’s permanent collection contains over 4,000 objects, from works by Cezanne and Matisse to Greek antiquities. It also displays African and Indigenous art. The museum also features classrooms and a restaurant. The grounds are also home to a reflecting pool. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and watch a movie with your children. If you’re visiting Philadelphia, you’ll find this one of the best places to spend your time in Pennsylvania.
Fallingwater
Visitors can tour the multi-level house or relax on outdoor decks while listening to a waterfall. This historical attraction is located in the heart of a forest and used to be the home of a prominent Pittsburgh family. The historic house also features a cafe that serves locally sourced cuisine and delicious desserts. The grounds include restrooms. The cafe also features an exhibit about the history of the house. The surrounding area is a natural haven that once served as a refuge for the residents of the Steel City.
The Falls can be viewed from different vantage points. The Birds-Eye View is one of the most popular vantage points. The viewpoint does not provide an enviable waterfall view, but is a unique way to appreciate the beauty of Fallingwater. Regardless of your view, you will want to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and disappointment. You can also explore the property on your own.
The Conservancy has been responsible for continuing the preservation of the house since the Kauffman family donated it to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. You can also enroll in adult-learning programs at the Fallingwater Institute. The institute also offers hour-long guided house tours daily, except Wednesdays. The house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, a noted architect who believed in organic architecture and a harmonious life in nature.
In addition to being a world heritage site, Fallingwater is one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful houses. Wright was widely regarded as the greatest American architect of the twentieth century and Fallingwater was submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage List in January 2015. The committee voted to refer the United States submission to the World Heritage List for future consideration. Fallingwater is also available for events, conferences, and residency programs.
Andy Warhol Museum
If you’re visiting Pittsburgh, you’ll definitely want to take in the Andy Warhol Museum. The museum is the largest of its kind in North America, with an extensive permanent collection of Andy Warhol art and archives. You’ll be able to see some of the most iconic pieces of his art, as well as the archives and artworks that he created. The museum is located in North Shore, Pittsburgh.
While visiting the Andy Warhol Museum, don’t miss the “Silver Clouds” exhibit, which features over two dozen metallic pillow-shaped balloons propelled by fans in the corners. Visitors can even hit the balloons, turning themselves into part of the piece! Other highlights include a special exhibit dedicated to the artist’s magazine Interview and his famous giant Brillo boxes. The museum also hosts guest exhibits.
Pittsburgh is a walkable city, so visiting the Andy Warhol Museum is easy. The museum is located near two baseball stadiums within a few blocks of downtown. The Warhol Bridge connects the museum to the city’s waterfront. In fact, the Warhol Museum is just steps away from the waterfront! The museum is typically accessible via seven flights of stairs, but there is an elevator available for those who want to save time.
You’ll want to go to Pittsburgh’s Andy Warhol Museum if you love art. This museum features more than 500 works by the famed pop artist. The museum also includes a cafe and museum store. Visiting the Andy Warhol Museum is one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania! Once you’ve visited this Pittsburgh museum, you’ll be able to appreciate his work as well as the art he created during his lifetime.
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
If you’re looking for some great Pennsylvania sightseeing, the Railroad Museum of PA is definitely worth visiting. This historical museum is located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and is part of the Network of Pennsylvania Railroad Museums. Visitors will learn about the evolution of the railroad industry in the US and the history of the state. The museum offers many interactive exhibits, including the renowned train simulator. There’s also a full-sized replica of Pennsylvania’s oldest locomotive, the Strasburg.
The Railroad Museum of PA is the premier rail history museum in the country. The museum features an impressive collection of operating steam locomotives. You can also take a ride on the Strasburg Railroad, which features preserved steam locomotives. You can choose to ride the train from the simple coach class to the full-service dining car. A train ride along the Strasburg Railroad is one of the best Pennsylvania sightseeing ideas. It’s the best way to enjoy the history of the state’s railways and train transportation system.
The Railroad Museum of PA is a huge attraction. Spread across 18 acres in the Amish countryside, it contains more than 100 historic locomotives and railroad cars. Besides its permanent exhibits, there’s also a large library, extensive archives, and an educational center. Visitors can take part in hands-on activities and browse through train-themed memorabilia. A good train museum includes a gift shop as well.
Besides the Railroad Museum of PA, you can take a train ride to Lancaster or Philadelphia. You can choose between scenic train rides or a simulated train ride. You can ride on the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad in Lancaster County. They operate on 14 miles of track and even offer murder mystery trains. Consider the Electric City Trolley Museum if you’re looking for other Pennsylvania sightseeing. Founded in June 2013, it preserves the history of eastern Pennsylvania’s interurban rails.
Places to Visit in Pennsylvania
There are many fascinating places to visit in Pennsylvania. Some of them are listed below: Longwood Gardens, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Parks, Amusement parks, and Art museums. But there are more attractions in Pennsylvania than just those listed. Read on to learn more about these attractions. You’ll be glad you did! Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or a nature lover, there’s sure to be a place for you in Pennsylvania.
Longwood Gardens
Over a thousand acres of beautiful gardens, meadows, and woodlands are a must see when in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. A visit to Longwood Gardens will leave you inspired and rejuvenated. The Gardens are located in Brandywine Creek Valley in a small town of the same name. To visit Longwood Gardens, make sure to plan plenty of time in advance.
When visiting Longwood Garden, you can choose to park your car in the free lot located at the eastern side of the garden or pay for parking on the street. If the parking lot is full, there are shuttles available for easy access to the gardens. A handicapped parking lot is available for visitors with electric vehicles. In addition, a free bus service runs through West Chester and Oxford and makes stops in Kennett Square and West Grove.
If you are looking for other entertainment during your visit to Longwood Gardens, consider visiting the Delaware Art Museum, located on the grounds. This museum features over 12,000 pieces of art and a nine-acre sculpture park. You can also attend workshops and musical performances. The museum is only 30 minutes away from Longwood Gardens, and is also open every day except Tuesdays. Despite the park’s name, you will have to eat. Luckily, there is a cafe and restaurant in the garden where you can grab a bite to eat.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Among the many cultural institutions in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia’s Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-visit. This epic museum features great works of art from around the world. The museum also features an impressive collection of Rembrandt van Rijn’s paintings, including seven of his famous Jesus portraits. The museum is open for self-guided tours and timed-ticketing tours. If you have some time to spare, be sure to visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art while you’re in the area.
As part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, visitors can also view the nearby Rodin Museum, which is home to a collection of more than 5,000 sculptures by the artist. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday and offers guided tours. Make reservations well in advance. During peak seasons, you can also catch new exhibits. The museum is free to enter; however, advance booking is required. For a guided tour, make sure to call at least two weeks before the scheduled tour.
Visitors can enjoy the gardens of Philadelphia’s Magic Garden, which is home to the largest mosaic work by Isaiah Zagar. Previously closed due to health concerns, the gardens have recently reopened with new health and safety protocols. For your convenience, you can purchase tickets online in advance. You can also take the Philadelphia Trolley System or tour buses to get to the museum. In case you don’t want to drive, there is a direct walk from City Hall to the museum. It is a good idea to purchase tickets online to make sure they’re not sold out before you go.
Amusement parks
The state of Pennsylvania used to have more than 50 amusement parks, but due to the Great Depression, the introduction of the automobile, and the rise of destination theme parks, many of these places closed. One of the state’s most well-known old amusement parks is Willow Grove Park, which opened in 1896 and closed its doors in 1975. Its rides included the Thunderbolt, the Scenic, and the Alps, which lasted the entire park’s 79 years.
Visitors can choose from a variety of water parks and amusement parks in Pennsylvania, including the popular Wildwater Kingdom. Some of these amusement parks offer lodging and camping. There are also special packages for groups of 15 or more. The entire family is sure to have a great time. Amusement parks in Pennsylvania are a great way to spend a day with your family, so plan ahead and start planning your trip to this fantastic state.
DelGrosso’s Amusement Park has roots in 1907. Brothers from the Rinard family brought a carnival to the Bland Family Farm in Tipton, Pa. More than six decades later, the DelGrosso family acquired the park and renamed DelGrosso’s Amusement Park. The park is known for its thrill rides, including Paratrooper and Scrambler. The park also offers a fun-filled carousel for kids.
Parks
If you love the great outdoors, a trip to one of the Pennsylvania Parks will highlight your trip. These state parks and national forests offer visitors an opportunity to experience nature at its best. They are ideal locations for any type of outdoor activity, whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city or an adventurous weekend. While visiting these state parks, keep in mind safety considerations.
Camping is possible at many state parks, including the Mammoth Mountain National Forest, which has twenty modern cabins equipped with a kitchen and furnished rooms. These cabins come with either two or three bedrooms and bathrooms. Visitors can even experience the snow in the wintertime. Camping facilities are located near the park’s hiking trails. The park is home to many species of trees, and visitors can hike or cross-country ski through natural habitats.
The park’s historic site contains three waterfalls and several hundred-year-old hemlocks. It also features a day-use picnic area on PA 192. It features an overlook of the river’s confluence. The park is classified as a Natural Area of Pennsylvania and is also a National Natural Landmark. You can also view rare elk and bald eagles from a viewpoint.
Nature areas
If you’re looking for some amazing places to spend your vacation, consider heading to Pennsylvania. This U.S. state is spread across the Mid-Atlantic, Northeastern and Appalachian regions. You’ll find many beautiful natural areas and parks in the state, ranging from pristine wetlands to mighty mountains. From the sylvan Allegheny Mountains, you’re sure to find something to suit your vacation interests.
There are a few major cities in Pennsylvania, but the state also has plenty of nature areas to visit. Pennsylvania’s forests are home to 16 million acres and make up 58 percent of its land. You’ll find everything you need for a relaxing getaway here, from waterfalls to cliffs to lakes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventure, there’s something for everyone in Pennsylvania.
The Glen Natural Area of Ricketts Glen State Park is a waterfall lover’s paradise. It spans three counties and is home to nearly two dozen waterfalls, some of them impressive and some surprisingly small. Hiking the Falls Trail System is the best way to see all 24 waterfalls in one place. The park is located near Lake Jean, so you can fish from shore, or rent a boat and take a picnic lunch.
You can explore a variety of wildlife in Pennsylvania’s parks and preserves. Many of these areas are accessible from local roads. Most are open sunrise to sunset. Most have websites and can be accessed through their websites. Many of these nature areas in Pennsylvania have boating facilities, swimming pools and fishing. All of these are perfect for families. Pennsylvania has it all if you’re looking for some unique places to spend your vacation.
Wineries
Pennsylvania may be the state for you if you’re looking for a great place to drink wine. The state boasts more than 300 wineries, some big, some small, and rustic, classy, and laid-back. You can find a winery within an hour’s drive from the Northeast to the South. Pennsylvania’s unique microclimate is perfect for many different kinds of wine. And because of that, you can find a vineyard in almost any area.
To find the best Pennsylvania wineries, start by visiting the state’s many wineries. Aside from a variety of wines, there are some that are only available in the state. Among the best are those from the Lehigh Valley. Many of these wineries offer tours of their vineyards. Visitors can sample their wines and discuss the wine-making process with a knowledgeable wine educator. Many of these tours start in the fall, so it’s a good time to visit.
If you’re a wine connoisseur, you can visit the Brandywine Wine Trail, which includes seven wineries within 50 miles of each other. You can also check out nearby attractions, such as Longwood Gardens, the Brandywine River Museum, and the Brandywine Battlefield Park. There are also nine family-owned wineries along the Endless Mountains Wine Trail. The Endless Mountains Wine Trail is another popular choice. It offers access to historic sites like Steamtown and Marie Antoinett Lookout, as well as many Pennsylvanians.
