A Guide to Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Pennsylvania
If you are looking for a vacation destination in the United States, Pennsylvania is one place you should check out. From the beautiful, eye-catching monuments of Philadelphia to the nature-breathing greenery in Gettysburg, the Keystone State, as it is popularly known, is filled with many attractions and historical landmarks that would pique your interest.
In this guide, we have put together a list of the top five places to visit in Pennsylvania. Let’s dive right in!
Philadelphia
As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Philadelphia is home to many iconic landmarks and historical monuments. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one place you’d love to check out. The 148-year-old museum currently holds over 240,000 objects. Its collection includes various kinds of decorative arts, paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, etc, from different parts of the world. You can also check out these other places:
- The Liberty Bell was commissioned in 1752 as a symbol of American independence.
- Independence Hall is the historic 1753 civic building where the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed.
- Betsy Ross House, the birthplace of the American flag.
- The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History.
- The National Constitution Center, etc.
Besides these monuments, you should also experience Philadelphia’s vibrant cultural and recreational environment. You can check out the Reading Terminal Market, a popular location for locals to buy goods, culinary treats, and other unique merchandise. Other similar locations to visit include:
- The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
- Rittenhouse Square.
- Philadelphia Zoo (One of the oldest zoos in the country)
- Fairmount Park, etc.
Hershey
Hershey is a small town in Derry Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. Many people would call it the world’s chocolate capital, as it is home to the legendary Hershey chocolate. It is also sometimes referred to as the sweetest place on earth.
As you would have guessed, one of the major attractions in Hershey is Hershey’s Chocolate World, a popular destination for chocolate lovers and families visiting the Hershey area. The Hershey’s Chocolate World offers various interactive experiences, including a tour ride explaining the chocolate-making process, a 4D chocolate mystery show, a chocolate tasting experience, and a chance to create your personalized chocolate bar. Additionally, shops, restaurants, and other attractions are centred around Hershey and chocolate brands.
Beyond the chocolate-filled experience, you should also check out Hershey Park, which features a variety of roller coasters, thrill rides, family rides, and water attractions. The park offers live entertainment, dining options, and annual special events.
The Poconos
Whether exploring waterfalls or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, the Poconos inspire a deep appreciation for the natural world. It is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with many attractions.
The Poconos is an ideal vacation location all year, but if you like the snow, you should check it out in the winter. You could check out the Camelback Mountain Resort, where you can carve down snowy slopes in winter and splash through waterpark adventures in summer. There are several other slopes and trails in the area, which is why a high number of skiers and snowboarders always visit in the winter. Other beautiful attractions to explore Include:
- The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- Asa Packer Mansion Museum
- Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark
- Bushkill Falls
- The Jim Thorpe Memorial
- Pocono Raceway
- The Stourbridge Line,.etc.
If you’re into casino games, one place you should check out is the Mount Airy Casino Resort. This luxurious resort offers you the best gaming experience you could ever have. It also provides spa services, live entertainment, fine dining, and live performances. If you prefer online gambling, you can read more here about the best real-money online casinos.
Gettysburg
If you are interested in and know history, you would love Gettysburg. It is a compelling destination for those interested in American history, military history, or the Civil War era.
As a visitor, you get to tour the 6000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park. This park was established to preserve the historic battlefield where the famous American battle of Gettysburg occurred during the American Civil War in July 1863. You can see significant landmarks such as battlefield monuments, memorials, cannons, and markers and learn about the events that unfolded during the pivotal battle. Additionally, the park features a museum and visitor center that provides further insight into the battle and its impact on American history.
You can also check out other historical attractions, including:
- The Jennie Wade House housed the only Gettysburg citizen killed during the Battle of Gettysburg.
- The Eisenhower National Historic Site preserves the U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s farm home.
- The Gettysburg Heritage Center
- Gettysburg majestic theater
- National Apple Museum, etc.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania, the second most populous after Philadelphia. The City of Bridges, as it is sometimes called for its characteristic 446 bridges, is known for its rich industrial heritage, which is a significant part of its history and identity. This industrial history is responsible for the city’s fair share of incredible architecture.
One of the major attractions in this industrial context is the steel tower, the tallest building in the city. Although the industrial environment in Pittsburgh has dwindled today due to the Deindustrialization in the late 20th century, many architectural masterpieces still stand. Examples include the Allegheny County Courthouse and Jail, the Frick Building, and the Union Trust Building, among others.
Besides these major buildings, other major attractions to check out in the city include:
- The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium houses over 4,000 animals, representing 475 species.
- Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History
- Mount Washington
- The Andy Warhol Museum, etc.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania offers diverse attractions and experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. From the rich history of Philadelphia to the natural beauty of the Poconos and the industrial heritage of Pittsburgh, there’s something for everyone in the Keystone State.