Fantastic Things to Do in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania known for its historical locations, dating to the time of the American Revolution. It might seem as though every stone you step on and building you see is hundreds of years old. It’s also home to some of the country’s most modern and populous cities.
The most visited attractions include historic locations. Like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Gettysburg National Park. Don’t forget to take a break from visiting the past to explore other places, new and old. Including beautiful natural areas and some of the country’s best amusement parks.
Hershey Park
Hershey Park the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. Hersheypark features 15 roller coasters and counting. Including Laff Trakk, the first indoor, spinning glow coaster in the U.S. The amusement park also features an outdoor water park and kiddie rides, plus rides and attractions the whole family can enjoy together. Make a splash at the 11-acre water park inside Hersheypark.
No visit to Hershey Park is complete without stopping by Chocolate World located next to Hershey Park. Unwrap your Chocolate Adventure with Chocolate World’s FREE Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, one-of-a-kind Create Your Own Candy Bar.
Valley Forge National Historic Park
The famous Valley Forge National Historic Park was created to preserve the site. Where the American army lodged during the winter of 1777 to 1778. The park contains historical buildings as well as recreated structures to replicate how the fort appeared during the time of the war.
The park features 3,500 acres of monuments, meadows, and woodlands commemorating the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation and honoring the power of people to pull together during extraordinary times.
Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls, a series of eight cascading waterfalls, is one of the state’s most popular outdoor destinations. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the Falls – known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania –are a favorite of hikers, fishermen, birdwatchers and all those who treasure the nature’s beauty.
The Poconos, also known as the Pocono Mountains, are located in the northeastern part of the state covering 2,400 square miles. The mountains area includes six natural areas and seven state parks. The Bushkill Falls is among the Keystone State’s most famous scenic attractions.
Independence National Historical Park
One of the most popular attractions in this state is Independence National Historical Park. The park nicknamed “America’s most historic square” is filled with some of the country’s most important landmarks. Including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed inside Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Independence Visitor Center is located in Independence National Historical Park. Enjoy interactive exhibits about the park’s stories. Imagine signing the U.S. Constitution, touch a replica of the crack in the Liberty Bell, and use the map to orient yourself to the park sites.
Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens consists of gardens, woodlands, and meadows in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. The Gardens consists of outdoor gardens, ranging from formal to naturalistic in their landscape design. Explore nearly 200 acres of lush, formal gardens, open meadows, and winding paths.
Six districts represented are meant to help guests direct their visit to the Gardens. Each district is unique, from the formal layout and highly manicured plantings of the Main Fountain Garden District. The sweeping vistas across natural lands in the Meadow & Forest District. You’ll be sure to find something new every time you visit.
Sesame Place
Sesame Street is the theme for Sesame Place in Langhorne. The park has more than 25 attractions, live character shows, parades, an interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood, and everyone’s favorite furry friends.
With family-friendly rides, water attractions and live Sesame Street shows, your entire family will be entertained all day long. From your child’s first roller coaster to a family-sized water slide, there will be plenty of whirls & splashes to experience together.
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium
Winding through 77 acres, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium starts with Forest Passage, where you will be introduced to lynx, tigers, and red pandas. Journey up the hill to take in the scenic view of the African Savanna, with favorites like elephants and giraffes. The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is home to more than 8,000 animals representing over 600 species.
Take a trip to the Islands and get a view of warty pigs, Philippine crocodiles, and clouded leopards. Venture into the Jungle for an Odyssey of fun where you’ll discover a giant anteater, the elusive fossa, and the pygmy hippo. Head to the aquarium and Water’s Edge, home of polar bear and penguins.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia Museum of Art is located in Philadelphia with multiple buildings along Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The museum includes a main building, the Rodin Museum, and several historic houses. Collection’s showcase some of the world’s finest European and American paintings, prints, and drawings.
Get some fresh air in the Sculpture Garden, which features large-scale works like Giant Three-Way Plug by Claes Oldenburg. Visit architectural settings from around the world, from a Japanese teahouse and a French medieval cloister to a Philadelphia parlor and a Gilded Age drawing room.
Eastern State Penitentiary
This former prison Eastern State Penitentiary is one of Pennsylvania’s most popular tourist attractions. Opened in 1829 Eastern State Penitentiary quickly became one of the most expensive and most copied buildings in the young United States.
It’s fascinating history incarcerating some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Al Capone’s Cell is on view during all public tour hours. The prison offers informative and exciting tours where visitors learn about criminals. Haunted House tours, view art exhibits, and learn about the history of the prison.
Gettysburg National Military Park
This important historic location. The site of the famous Gettysburg Battlefield and the Gettysburg National Cemetery. Today visitors to the Gettysburg National Military Park can view most of the battlefield including support structures like supply locations, hospitals, and other areas associated with the battlefield.
Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is the place to begin your visit to the battlefield. Here you will learn how to visit the park and what to see around Gettysburg.
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a land of contrasts. So, when you plan a visit spend some time visiting some of the nation’s most important landmarks. Don’t get bogged down in history, because Pennsylvania is also the place to go to relax and let loose at theme parks that are playgrounds for all ages.