Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the most historically rich and scenic states in the United States, offering a memorable mix of major cities, small towns, battlefields, mountains, forests, waterfalls, rivers, Amish Country, covered bridges, museums, railroads, food markets and family attractions. Known as the Keystone State, Pennsylvania is ideal for road trips, heritage travel, outdoor adventures, romantic weekends and family holidays.

From the historic streets of Philadelphia to the skyline views of Pittsburgh, the battlefield landscapes of Gettysburg, the rolling farmland of Lancaster County, the waterfalls of Ricketts Glen, the whitewater rivers of Ohiopyle, the lakefront beaches of Presque Isle and the mountain resorts of the Poconos, Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of places to explore in every season.

Why Visit Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania is perfect for travellers who enjoy history, nature and regional variety. Official Visit Pennsylvania highlights regions such as the Pocono Mountains, Philadelphia and the Countryside, Pennsylvania Wilds, Great Lakes Region, Laurel Highlands, Alleghenies, Valleys of the Susquehanna, Pittsburgh and its Countryside, Lehigh Valley, Upstate PA and Dutch Country Roads. 2

A Pennsylvania trip can include American Revolution history, Civil War sites, Amish farms, coal and steel heritage, mountain trails, river towns, amusement parks, wineries, covered bridges and some of the best city food scenes in the Northeast.

Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the most important historic cities in the United States and a must-visit destination for first-time travellers to Pennsylvania. Visit Philadelphia describes the city as the place where America began, with links to the Founding Fathers, the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross, Benjamin Franklin, murals, food and neighbourhood culture. 3

Top things to do include visiting Independence Hall, seeing the Liberty Bell, walking through Old City, exploring the Philadelphia Museum of Art, eating at Reading Terminal Market, visiting Eastern State Penitentiary, strolling along the Schuylkill River Trail and exploring neighbourhoods such as Fishtown, Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square and South Street.

Best for: history, food, museums, architecture, walking tours, first-time visitors, families and city breaks.

Independence National Historical Park

Independence National Historical Park is the heart of historic Philadelphia. It includes some of the most significant Revolutionary-era sites in the United States, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell area.

Visitors can walk between major landmarks, learn about the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution, explore nearby museums and enjoy the compact historic district on foot.

Best for: American history, families, school trips, walking tours and first-time Philadelphia visitors.

Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is one of Philadelphia’s best food destinations. It is a historic indoor market filled with food stalls, bakeries, sandwiches, Pennsylvania Dutch foods, seafood, sweets, coffee and casual dining options.

It is a great place to try local favourites such as cheesesteaks, roast pork sandwiches, soft pretzels, Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods and classic deli foods.

Best for: food lovers, casual meals, families, local flavours and rainy-day sightseeing.

Philadelphia Museum of Art and Fairmount

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the city’s signature cultural attractions, known for its broad collection, grand building and famous steps. The surrounding Fairmount area also includes riverfront paths, gardens, historic houses and nearby cultural institutions.

Visitors can combine the museum with the Schuylkill River Trail, Boathouse Row and a walk through Fairmount Park.

Best for: art, architecture, photography, river walks, museums and cultural travel.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is one of Pennsylvania’s most distinctive cities, known for its rivers, bridges, skyline views, museums, sports, food, neighbourhoods, universities and industrial heritage. Set where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio River, Pittsburgh offers dramatic views and a strong sense of place.

Top things to do include riding the Duquesne Incline, visiting the Strip District, exploring the Andy Warhol Museum, walking around Point State Park, visiting Phipps Conservatory, seeing the Carnegie Museums, enjoying local food and exploring neighbourhoods such as Lawrenceville, Shadyside, South Side and the North Shore.

Best for: skyline views, museums, food, sports, bridges, neighbourhood exploring and weekend breaks.

Duquesne Incline and Mount Washington

The Duquesne Incline is one of Pittsburgh’s classic experiences. It carries visitors up Mount Washington for sweeping views over downtown, the rivers, bridges and stadiums.

The overlook is especially impressive at sunset or after dark, when the city lights reflect on the rivers.

Best for: skyline photography, couples, families, short visits and first-time Pittsburgh sightseeing.

Strip District

The Strip District is one of Pittsburgh’s best food and shopping neighbourhoods. It is known for markets, international grocers, coffee, bakeries, restaurants, street food, local shops and a lively weekend atmosphere.

It is a great place to sample Pittsburgh flavours and browse local goods before exploring the city’s riverfront or museums.

Best for: food, markets, shopping, casual dining, coffee and local culture.

Gettysburg

Gettysburg is one of the most important historic destinations in the United States. It is best known for Gettysburg National Military Park, which preserves the battlefield landscape of the 1863 Civil War battle.

The National Park Service visitor information recommends stopping at the information desk to learn more about visiting the battlefield, making the visitor centre a good starting point before touring the park. 4

Visitors can explore battlefield roads, monuments, museums, historic homes, downtown Gettysburg and nearby countryside. The town is especially meaningful for travellers interested in Civil War history, American memory and heritage travel.

Best for: Civil War history, museums, battlefield tours, families, educational travel and road trips.

Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg National Military Park is the main reason many travellers visit Gettysburg. The park includes battlefield routes, monuments, memorials, interpretive sites, walking areas and museum experiences.

Visitors can drive the battlefield route independently, take a licensed guided tour, join ranger programs when available and spend time understanding the scale and significance of the battle.

Best for: history lovers, military history, school trips, reflective travel and national park sites.

Lancaster County and Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Lancaster County is one of Pennsylvania’s most distinctive regions, known for Amish Country, farmland, covered bridges, markets, theatres, small towns, local food, quilts, furniture, buggies and scenic countryside. Discover Lancaster describes the region as home to America’s oldest Amish settlement and provides official visitor information for Amish Country attractions and Lancaster County getaways. 5

Visitors can explore Lancaster city, visit Central Market, drive country roads, see covered bridges, shop for handmade goods, eat traditional Pennsylvania Dutch food and learn about Amish culture respectfully.

Best for: Amish Country, food, farms, covered bridges, family trips, scenic drives and cultural travel.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a lively small city surrounded by Amish farmland. It has restaurants, galleries, historic buildings, markets, theatres and easy access to rural attractions.

Top things to do include visiting Lancaster Central Market, exploring downtown, enjoying local restaurants, visiting nearby farm experiences and driving through surrounding countryside.

Best for: food, markets, history, theatre, families and Amish Country access.

Strasburg

Strasburg is one of the best small towns to visit in Lancaster County. It is known for railroad history, farmland views, family attractions and Amish Country scenery.

Visitors can enjoy train-related attractions, browse local shops, drive country roads and combine the town with nearby farms and covered bridges.

Best for: families, rail history, countryside drives, Amish Country and relaxed weekends.

Hershey

Hershey is one of Pennsylvania’s best family destinations, famous for chocolate, amusement rides, gardens, resorts and family-friendly attractions. It is a popular stop between Harrisburg, Lancaster and Gettysburg.

Visitors can enjoy Hersheypark, chocolate-themed attractions, Hershey Gardens, local resorts and nearby historical sites.

Best for: families, amusement parks, chocolate, gardens, resorts and weekend getaways.

Harrisburg

Harrisburg is Pennsylvania’s capital and a useful stop for history, river views, museums and access to Hershey, Gettysburg and the Susquehanna River region.

Visitors can see the Pennsylvania State Capitol, walk along Riverfront Park, visit museums, explore City Island and use Harrisburg as a base for central Pennsylvania travel.

Best for: state history, river walks, museums, families and central Pennsylvania road trips.

Pocono Mountains

The Pocono Mountains are one of Pennsylvania’s classic getaway regions, known for forested hills, lakes, waterfalls, resorts, cabins, skiing, hiking, spas, romantic stays and family activities.

Popular places include Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Delaware Water Gap, Lake Wallenpaupack, Bushkill Falls and mountain resort areas. The Poconos are especially popular for weekend trips from Philadelphia, New York City and New Jersey.

Best for: cabins, resorts, waterfalls, skiing, couples, families, lakes and mountain escapes.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe is one of Pennsylvania’s prettiest small towns, often called the “Switzerland of America” because of its hillside setting and historic architecture. It is known for Victorian buildings, scenic railways, shops, restaurants, museums and outdoor access.

Visitors can walk through town, ride a scenic train, explore nearby trails, go whitewater rafting or enjoy a romantic weekend in the mountains.

Best for: small-town charm, architecture, rail history, couples, shopping and outdoor weekends.

Delaware Water Gap

The Delaware Water Gap region offers some of Pennsylvania’s best scenery along the Delaware River. It is popular for hiking, paddling, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, camping and drives through the Pocono foothills.

Visitors can hike portions of the Appalachian Trail, paddle the river, visit small towns and enjoy forested mountain views.

Best for: hiking, river trips, scenic views, camping, photography and nature escapes.

Lehigh Valley

The Lehigh Valley combines historic towns, arts, food, colleges, museums, parks and family attractions. Major destinations include Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton.

Visitors can explore Bethlehem’s historic district, visit museums, enjoy restaurants, attend music festivals and use the region as a base for nearby outdoor areas and small towns.

Best for: history, food, festivals, museums, families and eastern Pennsylvania travel.

Bethlehem

Bethlehem is one of Pennsylvania’s most atmospheric historic cities, known for Moravian heritage, preserved buildings, Christmas events, music, restaurants and arts venues.

The city is especially popular during the holiday season, but it is also enjoyable year-round for history, dining and cultural events.

Best for: history, Christmas travel, food, music, couples and cultural weekends.

Erie and Presque Isle State Park

Erie is Pennsylvania’s main Great Lakes city, located on Lake Erie in the northwest corner of the state. Its biggest attraction is Presque Isle State Park, a peninsula known for beaches, trails, birdwatching, boating, fishing, sunsets and lake views.

Visitors can swim in season, cycle or drive around the peninsula, watch birds, explore Erie’s waterfront and enjoy one of Pennsylvania’s best summer lake destinations.

Best for: beaches, lake views, families, cycling, birdwatching, boating and summer trips.

Allegheny National Forest

Allegheny National Forest is one of the best places in Pennsylvania for forest scenery, camping, scenic drives, hiking, fishing, paddling and peaceful outdoor travel. Located in northwestern Pennsylvania, it offers a quieter and wilder feel than many of the state’s busier regions.

Popular experiences include driving the Longhouse National Scenic Byway, visiting the Kinzua Dam area, exploring the Allegheny Reservoir and enjoying forest trails.

Best for: camping, forests, scenic drives, fishing, paddling, solitude and outdoor road trips.

Kinzua Bridge State Park

Kinzua Bridge State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s most dramatic and unusual state park attractions. The park features a skywalk built on part of the historic railroad viaduct, offering views over the Kinzua Gorge.

Visitors can walk the skywalk, learn about the bridge’s history, photograph the valley and combine the stop with Allegheny National Forest or Pennsylvania Wilds road trips.

Best for: views, engineering history, photography, families and Pennsylvania Wilds itineraries.

Pennsylvania Wilds

The Pennsylvania Wilds region covers a large, forested part of northern Pennsylvania. It is known for dark skies, elk viewing, state parks, forests, scenic drives, rivers, small towns and outdoor recreation.

Highlights include Elk Country around Benezette, Cherry Springs State Park, Kinzua Bridge, Pine Creek Gorge, Cook Forest and many quiet backroads.

Best for: wildlife, stargazing, forests, scenic drives, camping and quiet nature escapes.

Cherry Springs State Park

Cherry Springs State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s best places for stargazing. Located in the Pennsylvania Wilds, it is known for dark skies and astronomy-focused experiences.

Visitors should check weather and moon phases before planning a night-sky trip, and bring warm layers even in warmer months.

Best for: stargazing, astronomy, photography, camping nearby and quiet rural travel.

Benezette and Elk Country

Benezette is the centre of Pennsylvania’s elk-viewing region. It is one of the best places in the state to see elk, especially during the autumn rutting season.

Visitors can stop at viewing areas, visit the Elk Country Visitor Center, drive scenic rural roads and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of north-central Pennsylvania.

Best for: wildlife, photography, autumn trips, scenic drives and Pennsylvania Wilds travel.

Pine Creek Gorge

Pine Creek Gorge is often called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. It offers dramatic canyon views, forested hillsides, hiking, cycling, paddling and scenic overlooks.

Popular access areas include Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park. The Pine Creek Rail Trail is one of the region’s best cycling and walking routes.

Best for: canyon views, cycling, hiking, photography, autumn colour and outdoor escapes.

Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s most famous waterfall parks. It is especially known for its Falls Trail, which passes a series of waterfalls through forested gorge scenery.

The trail can be steep, rocky and slippery, so visitors should wear proper footwear and check conditions before hiking. The park also has modern rental cabins available year-round through the Pennsylvania state park system. 6

Best for: waterfalls, hiking, photography, cabins, forest scenery and outdoor weekends.

Worlds End State Park

Worlds End State Park is a rugged and scenic park in Sullivan County, surrounded by Loyalsock State Forest. Pennsylvania reservation information describes the park as a 780-acre park in a narrow S-shaped valley of Loyalsock Creek, surrounded by rugged natural beauty. 7

Visitors can hike, camp, swim in season, enjoy forest roads and photograph the park’s deep valley scenery.

Best for: hiking, camping, forest scenery, photography, autumn colour and quiet outdoor travel.

Ohiopyle State Park

Ohiopyle State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s best outdoor adventure destinations. Located in the Laurel Highlands, it covers about 20,500 acres of rugged natural beauty and is known for the Youghiogheny River, waterfalls, hiking, biking, whitewater rafting and access to the Great Allegheny Passage trail. 8

Visitors can see Ohiopyle Falls, hike to Cucumber Falls, raft the river, cycle the rail trail and explore nearby Laurel Highlands attractions.

Best for: whitewater rafting, waterfalls, cycling, hiking, families, adventure travel and weekend escapes from Pittsburgh.

Laurel Highlands

The Laurel Highlands are one of southwestern Pennsylvania’s best scenic regions, known for waterfalls, mountains, state parks, historic sites, resorts, architecture and outdoor recreation.

Highlights include Ohiopyle State Park, Fallingwater, Laurel Hill State Park, Seven Springs, Flight 93 National Memorial and scenic country roads.

Best for: waterfalls, architecture, hiking, skiing, historic sites, resorts and Pittsburgh-area road trips.

Fallingwater

Fallingwater is one of the most famous houses in the United States and one of Pennsylvania’s most important architectural attractions. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the home is built dramatically over a waterfall in the Laurel Highlands.

Visitors should book tours in advance, especially during popular travel seasons. It pairs perfectly with Ohiopyle State Park and other Laurel Highlands stops.

Best for: architecture, design, photography, history, couples and Laurel Highlands itineraries.

Flight 93 National Memorial

Flight 93 National Memorial near Shanksville is a solemn and important place of remembrance. It honours the passengers and crew of United Flight 93, who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Visitors can walk through the memorial landscape, visit the visitor centre and spend time reflecting on the events and legacy of that day.

Best for: reflection, modern history, educational travel and Laurel Highlands road trips.

State College

State College is a lively university town, home to Penn State University. It offers restaurants, sports culture, museums, gardens, shops and easy access to central Pennsylvania outdoor areas.

Visitors can explore campus, enjoy local food, visit the Palmer Museum of Art when available and use the town as a base for central Pennsylvania drives.

Best for: university-town atmosphere, sports, food, families and central Pennsylvania stays.

Hershey, Harrisburg and Dutch Country Loop

A loop linking Hershey, Harrisburg, Lancaster and Gettysburg is one of Pennsylvania’s best family-friendly road trips. It combines chocolate attractions, state history, Amish Country, markets, farmland and Civil War heritage.

This region is particularly good for travellers who want a mix of easy driving, major attractions and small-town countryside.

Best for: families, history, food, farmland, markets and first-time Pennsylvania road trips.

Best State Parks and Natural Areas in Pennsylvania

• Ricketts Glen State Park: Best for waterfalls, gorge hiking, photography and forest scenery.
• Ohiopyle State Park: Best for whitewater rafting, waterfalls, cycling and Laurel Highlands adventure.
• Presque Isle State Park: Best for Lake Erie beaches, cycling, birdwatching and sunsets.
• Worlds End State Park: Best for rugged forest scenery, camping, hiking and autumn colour.
• Cherry Springs State Park: Best for stargazing and dark-sky photography.
• Kinzua Bridge State Park: Best for skywalk views, engineering history and Pennsylvania Wilds road trips.
• Cook Forest State Park: Best for old-growth forest scenery, cabins, canoeing and peaceful nature stays.
• Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks: Best for Pine Creek Gorge views and rail-trail access.
• Delaware Water Gap region: Best for river views, hiking, paddling and Appalachian Trail access.
• Promised Land State Park: Best for Poconos cabins, lakes, hiking and family outdoor stays.

Best Places in Pennsylvania for Families

• Philadelphia: Historic sites, museums, markets, parks and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
• Hershey: Chocolate attractions, Hersheypark, gardens and resorts.
• Lancaster County: Farms, train rides, markets, Amish Country and family attractions.
• Gettysburg: Battlefield tours, museums and educational history experiences.
• Pittsburgh: Museums, inclines, sports, parks and riverfront attractions.
• Erie: Presque Isle beaches, lake activities and family summer stays.
• Poconos: Resorts, lakes, waterfalls, skiing and outdoor activities.
• Ohiopyle: Rafting, biking, waterfalls and family adventure.
• Knoebels: A classic family amusement park experience in central Pennsylvania.
• Lehigh Valley: Museums, festivals, historic towns and family attractions.

Best Small Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania

• Jim Thorpe: Victorian architecture, scenic railways, shops and mountain scenery.
• Lititz: Historic streets, bakeries, boutiques and Lancaster County charm.
• Gettysburg: Civil War history, museums, shops and battlefield access.
• New Hope: River views, galleries, restaurants, theatre and romantic weekends.
• Wellsboro: Pine Creek Gorge access, gaslit streets and small-town charm.
• Strasburg: Railroad history, Amish Country scenery and family attractions.
• Bedford: Historic springs, architecture, resorts and scenic drives.
• Milford: Delaware River scenery, historic buildings and gateway access to outdoor areas.
• Doylestown: Museums, castles, restaurants and Bucks County charm.
• Ligonier: Laurel Highlands charm, historic sites and mountain road-trip appeal.

Best Outdoor Adventures in Pennsylvania

• Hike the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen: See some of the state’s best waterfall scenery.
• Raft the Youghiogheny River: Enjoy whitewater adventure at Ohiopyle State Park.
• Cycle the Great Allegheny Passage: Ride through river valleys, small towns and mountain scenery.
• Explore Pine Creek Gorge: Hike, bike or photograph Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon.
• Stargaze at Cherry Springs: Plan a night-sky trip in the Pennsylvania Wilds.
• Beach day at Presque Isle: Swim, cycle, kayak or watch sunset on Lake Erie.
• Hike in the Poconos: Explore waterfalls, lakes, forests and scenic overlooks.
• Visit the Delaware Water Gap: Paddle the river, hike the Appalachian Trail or enjoy scenic drives.
• Look for elk near Benezette: Visit Pennsylvania’s elk country in the Wilds region.
• Explore Allegheny National Forest: Camp, paddle, fish and drive forest byways.

Best Scenic Drives in Pennsylvania

• Route 6: A classic northern Pennsylvania road trip through small towns, forests, mountains and the Pennsylvania Wilds.
• Laurel Highlands route: Best for Ohiopyle, Fallingwater, Flight 93, mountain roads and waterfalls.
• Lancaster County backroads: Best for farmland, covered bridges, markets and Amish Country scenery.
• Delaware River route: Best for New Hope, Bucks County, river towns and historic villages.
• Lake Erie shoreline drive: Best for Erie, Presque Isle, wineries and Great Lakes scenery.
• Poconos mountain roads: Best for resorts, waterfalls, lakes and forested weekend escapes.
• Pennsylvania Wilds drive: Best for elk viewing, forests, Kinzua Bridge, dark skies and quiet landscapes.
• Susquehanna River route: Best for river towns, covered bridges, Harrisburg and central Pennsylvania views.

Best Places in Pennsylvania for History and Culture

• Philadelphia: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, museums, murals, food and Revolutionary-era history.
• Gettysburg: Civil War battlefield, museums, monuments and historic town streets.
• Lancaster County: Amish Country, Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, markets and covered bridges.
• Pittsburgh: Steel heritage, art museums, music, sports and riverfront neighbourhoods.
• Bethlehem: Moravian history, preserved architecture, music and holiday traditions.
• Harrisburg: State Capitol, riverfront and central Pennsylvania history.
• Scranton: Rail history, coal mining heritage and industrial-era attractions.
• Fallingwater: Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and Laurel Highlands design history.
• Flight 93 National Memorial: Modern American history and remembrance.
• State College: University culture, sports, museums and central Pennsylvania energy.

Best Places in Pennsylvania for Food Lovers

• Philadelphia: Best for cheesesteaks, roast pork sandwiches, soft pretzels, markets, Italian food and fine dining.
• Pittsburgh: Best for pierogies, sandwiches, markets, breweries, Eastern European foods and neighbourhood dining.
• Lancaster County: Best for Pennsylvania Dutch food, baked goods, farmers markets, pretzels and farm-to-table meals.
• Hershey: Best for chocolate-themed treats, family dining and resort restaurants.
• Lehigh Valley: Best for breweries, markets, historic dining rooms and festival food.
• Erie: Best for lake fish, wineries, casual waterfront dining and summer food stops.
• Poconos: Best for resort dining, diners, breweries and mountain-town restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania can be visited year-round, but the best season depends on your itinerary.

• Spring: Good for Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, gardens, waterfalls, Amish Country, hiking and quieter road trips.
• Summer: Best for Hersheypark, Presque Isle, Poconos lakes, whitewater rafting, family trips and festivals.
• Autumn: Excellent for fall foliage, Gettysburg, Lancaster County, the Poconos, Pennsylvania Wilds, Ohiopyle and scenic drives.
• Winter: Best for museums, city breaks, Christmas markets, Poconos skiing, Hershey holiday events and cosy inn stays.

For a first visit, late spring through autumn is usually the easiest period. Autumn is especially scenic in the Poconos, Laurel Highlands, Allegheny National Forest and Pennsylvania Wilds.

Suggested 7-Day Pennsylvania Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Philadelphia

Start in Philadelphia. Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Old City, Reading Terminal Market and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Spend the evening in Rittenhouse, Fishtown or South Street.

Day 2: Lancaster County

Drive to Lancaster County. Visit Lancaster Central Market, explore Amish Country backroads, stop in Strasburg or Lititz and enjoy Pennsylvania Dutch food.

Day 3: Hershey and Harrisburg

Spend the day in Hershey for chocolate attractions, Hersheypark or gardens, then continue to Harrisburg for the State Capitol and Susquehanna River views.

Day 4: Gettysburg

Travel to Gettysburg. Begin at the visitor centre, tour the battlefield, visit museums and spend time walking through the historic town.

Day 5: Laurel Highlands and Ohiopyle

Drive west toward the Laurel Highlands. Visit Fallingwater, Ohiopyle State Park, Cucumber Falls or the Great Allegheny Passage. Stay in the Laurel Highlands or continue toward Pittsburgh.

Day 6: Pittsburgh

Explore Pittsburgh. Ride the Duquesne Incline, visit the Strip District, walk Point State Park, see museums and enjoy dinner in one of the city’s neighbourhoods.

Day 7: Pennsylvania Wilds or Lake Erie

Choose a nature-focused finish. Head north to the Pennsylvania Wilds for elk, stargazing or Kinzua Bridge, or continue to Erie and Presque Isle State Park for Lake Erie beaches and sunsets.

Longer 10-Day Pennsylvania Itinerary

• Days 1 to 2: Philadelphia, Independence sites, museums, markets, neighbourhoods and riverfront walks.
• Day 3: Bucks County, New Hope, Doylestown or Valley Forge.
• Day 4: Lancaster County, Amish Country, Strasburg, Lititz and covered bridges.
• Day 5: Hershey, Harrisburg and the Susquehanna River region.
• Day 6: Gettysburg National Military Park and historic Gettysburg.
• Day 7: Laurel Highlands, Fallingwater, Ohiopyle and Flight 93 National Memorial.
• Day 8: Pittsburgh, inclines, museums, food and riverfront views.
• Day 9: Erie, Presque Isle State Park or Allegheny National Forest.
• Day 10: Pennsylvania Wilds, Kinzua Bridge, Cherry Springs, Pine Creek Gorge or Ricketts Glen.

Travel Tips for Visiting Pennsylvania

• Rent a car for road trips: Philadelphia and Pittsburgh can be explored without a car, but rural regions, state parks and small towns are best reached by driving.
• Book popular stays early: Hershey, Gettysburg, Lancaster County, the Poconos and fall foliage regions can be busy in peak seasons.
• Respect Amish communities: Drive carefully near horse-drawn buggies and avoid intrusive photography.
• Wear proper shoes: Waterfall trails, battlefield walks, cobblestone streets and forest paths can be uneven or slippery.
• Check park conditions: Trails and roads can be affected by weather, flooding, snow, ice or maintenance.
• Plan for varied weather: Conditions can differ between Philadelphia, the mountains, Lake Erie and northern forests.
• Allow time for history: Gettysburg, Philadelphia and Flight 93 National Memorial are best visited slowly and thoughtfully.
• Try regional foods: Look for cheesesteaks, roast pork sandwiches, pierogies, soft pretzels, scrapple, shoofly pie, whoopie pies, Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods and local craft beer.
• Mix city and nature: A strong Pennsylvania itinerary includes at least one major city, one historic site, one small town and one outdoor region.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a state of remarkable variety, with historic cities, scenic mountains, river towns, Amish farmland, Civil War battlefields, waterfalls, forests, lake beaches and family attractions. It is one of the best states in the Northeast for travellers who want a mix of culture, history, food and outdoor adventure.

For a first visit, consider Philadelphia, Lancaster County, Hershey, Harrisburg, Gettysburg, Ohiopyle, Pittsburgh, Erie and the Poconos. Travellers with more time should add Jim Thorpe, Delaware Water Gap, Bethlehem, Ricketts Glen, Pine Creek Gorge, Cherry Springs, Kinzua Bridge, Allegheny National Forest, Fallingwater and the Pennsylvania Wilds.

Whether you are planning a family holiday, history-focused road trip, romantic mountain escape, city weekend or waterfall adventure, Pennsylvania offers memorable places to visit in every season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Pennsylvania

What is the prettiest place in Pennsylvania?

Some of the prettiest places in Pennsylvania include Ricketts Glen State Park, Ohiopyle State Park, Pine Creek Gorge, Presque Isle State Park, the Poconos, Jim Thorpe, Kinzua Bridge State Park, Allegheny National Forest, Lancaster County and Cherry Springs State Park.

What is Pennsylvania best known for?

Pennsylvania is best known for Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Gettysburg, Pittsburgh, Hershey, Amish Country, the Poconos, Pennsylvania Dutch food, historic railroads, state parks, covered bridges and major American history sites.

Is Pennsylvania good for a family holiday?

Yes, Pennsylvania is excellent for families. Families can visit Philadelphia, Hershey, Lancaster County, Gettysburg, Pittsburgh, Presque Isle, Ohiopyle, the Poconos, Knoebels and many state parks.

How many days do you need to visit Pennsylvania?

You can enjoy one region in 2 to 3 days, such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Gettysburg or Lancaster County. For a broader road trip covering cities, history, Amish Country and outdoor areas, 7 to 10 days is ideal.

What is the best time of year to visit Pennsylvania?

Spring and autumn are the best overall seasons for comfortable weather, road trips and sightseeing. Summer is best for amusement parks, Lake Erie, rafting and family holidays. Winter is good for museums, city breaks, holiday markets and Poconos skiing.

Is Pennsylvania good for a road trip?

Yes, Pennsylvania is excellent for road trips. Popular routes include Philadelphia to Gettysburg, Lancaster County backroads, the Laurel Highlands, Route 6 through northern Pennsylvania, the Poconos, Lake Erie shoreline and the Pennsylvania Wilds.

Where should first-time visitors go in Pennsylvania?

First-time visitors should consider Philadelphia, Lancaster County, Hershey, Harrisburg, Gettysburg, Ohiopyle State Park, Pittsburgh, Erie, Presque Isle State Park and the Poconos.

Does Pennsylvania have good hiking?

Yes, Pennsylvania has excellent hiking, especially at Ricketts Glen, Ohiopyle, Delaware Water Gap, Pine Creek Gorge, Worlds End, Cook Forest, Allegheny National Forest, the Poconos, Laurel Highlands and sections of the Appalachian Trail.

What are the best small towns in Pennsylvania?

Some of the best small towns in Pennsylvania include Jim Thorpe, Lititz, Gettysburg, New Hope, Wellsboro, Strasburg, Bedford, Milford, Doylestown and Ligonier.

What should I pack for a Pennsylvania trip?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, a rain jacket and a refillable water bottle. For state parks and waterfall trails, bring sturdy shoes and insect repellent. For winter mountain trips, bring warm layers and snow-ready clothing.