Pennsylvania Travel Guide: From History to Hidden Trails

Intro to Pennsylvania Travel Guide

Pennsylvania is a state that surprises at every turn. From Revolutionary War history in Philadelphia to the rolling Amish farmlands of Lancaster, and from Pittsburgh’s industrial rebirth to the misty mountains of the Poconos, the Keystone State is a patchwork of cultures and landscapes. It is both fiercely historic and quietly innovative — a place where you can walk the Liberty Bell’s shadow in the morning and hike past waterfalls in Ricketts Glen by afternoon.

Whether you’re planning your first East Coast road trip or returning for a deeper dive, this guide will walk you through cities, nature, food, culture, and practical tips to make your Pennsylvania adventure effortless. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the heart of the Keystone State.

Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Allentown | Bethlehem | Erie | Gettysburg | Harrisburg | Hershey | Jim Thorpe | Lancaster | Philadelphia | Pittsburgh | Scranton | State College | York

Pennsylvania Cities and Major Destinations

Philadelphia — A cradle of American democracy, Philadelphia offers Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and neighborhoods alive with murals and cheesesteaks. Its museums, like the Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art, mix classical depth with modern energy.

Pittsburgh — Known for its steel heritage, Pittsburgh has transformed into a hub for tech, arts, and sports. The city’s skyline glows over three rivers, its bridges are iconic, and attractions like the Andy Warhol Museum and Duquesne Incline showcase its creative spirit.

Lancaster & Amish Country — Rolling farmland and horse-drawn buggies highlight the slower rhythms of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Lancaster blends contemporary art galleries with traditional Amish markets.

Gettysburg — This battlefield town offers solemn reminders of the Civil War. Gettysburg National Military Park and its living history experiences give travelers insight into America’s past.

Harrisburg — The state capital on the Susquehanna River mixes history and politics with a growing craft beer scene. Its central location makes it a base for exploring Hershey, Lancaster, and the Susquehanna Valley.

Erie — On the shores of Lake Erie, this Great Lakes city has Presque Isle State Park, sandy beaches, and a maritime museum. It’s a summer getaway for families and boaters.

Allentown & Bethlehem — The Lehigh Valley balances industry and culture, with Bethlehem’s Musikfest drawing global performers and Allentown boasting a lively downtown.

How to Choose Where to Go in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is best understood through its regions:

• For history lovers: Philadelphia and Gettysburg deliver the nation’s most important heritage sites.
• For outdoor enthusiasts: The Poconos, Alleghenies, and Endless Mountains bring waterfalls, hiking trails, and winter skiing.
• For cultural explorers: Pittsburgh, Bethlehem, and Philadelphia host world-class museums, festivals, and performing arts.
• For slow travelers: Amish Country and small towns like Jim Thorpe or Lititz reveal traditions, markets, and countryside tranquility.

Your choice depends on whether you crave the rush of cities, the quiet of farmland, or the adrenaline of mountain trails.

Natural Escapes and Scenic Highlights

• The Pocono Mountains — Rolling forests, lakes, and waterfalls make the Poconos ideal for year-round escapes. Winter skiing in Camelback, summer lake resorts, and autumn foliage drives create four distinct experiences.
• Allegheny National Forest — A vast landscape of hardwood forests, scenic byways, and wildlife. It’s perfect for camping, kayaking, and stargazing in Pennsylvania’s only national forest.
• Delaware Water Gap — Straddling the Pennsylvania–New Jersey border, this area features dramatic river-carved cliffs, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, and canoeing on the Delaware River.
• Presque Isle State Park — Erie’s peninsula is lined with beaches and bike trails. Sunset over Lake Erie feels more like the ocean than inland America.
• Ricketts Glen State Park — Famous for its 20+ waterfalls, this park in northeastern Pennsylvania offers some of the best hiking in the state.

Cultural and Historic Landmarks

• Independence National Historical Park — Philadelphia’s centerpiece, home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and America’s founding documents.
• Gettysburg National Military Park — Walking the battlefield or attending a ranger-led tour brings the Civil War to life. The visitor center’s cyclorama painting is breathtaking.
• Fallingwater — Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece built into a waterfall near Ohiopyle. It’s a blend of modern design and nature.
• Amish Country Experiences — Markets, farms, and traditional buggy rides offer glimpses into a way of life unchanged for centuries.
• Steel Heritage Sites — Pittsburgh’s Carrie Furnaces and The Frick tell the story of America’s industrial power and its transformation.

Local Food, Arts, and Regional Experiences

• Philadelphia Cheesesteaks & Soft Pretzels — No trip is complete without sampling these street staples. Try rival cheesesteak shops Pat’s and Geno’s, or seek out locals’ favorites.
• Hershey’s Chocolate Town — A sweet spot for families, Hershey mixes chocolate tours with roller coasters at Hersheypark.
• Craft Beer & Cider — From Pittsburgh’s microbreweries to cider houses in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania is a pioneer in craft brewing.
• Amish Markets & Quilts — Lancaster’s Central Market blends local produce with traditional crafts.
• Music & Festivals — Bethlehem’s Musikfest, Philadelphia’s Made in America, and Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers Arts Festival celebrate creativity across genres.

Must-See Experiences in Pennsylvania

• Stand before the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.
• Hike the waterfall trail in Ricketts Glen.
• Tour Gettysburg at sunset with a licensed guide.
• Ride the Duquesne Incline for panoramic views of Pittsburgh.
• Ski or snowboard in the Pocono Mountains.
• Take a buggy ride through Lancaster’s Amish Country.
• Marvel at Fallingwater’s architectural harmony.

Discover top-rated Pennsylvania tours and experiences, and explore the best things to do in Pennsylvania — from Gettysburg battlefield walks and Philadelphia food tours to Pocono mountain adventures and Hershey’s chocolate-filled fun. Book early to lock in availability and enjoy flexible cancellation.

Getting Around Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is accessible yet sprawling.

• By Air: Philadelphia International (PHL) and Pittsburgh International (PIT) are the main gateways. Harrisburg and Erie also have regional airports.
• By Train: Amtrak’s Keystone Service links Philadelphia to Harrisburg and Pittsburgh; the Pennsylvanian route continues west.
• By Car: Interstates like I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) and I-80 cross the state. Driving is often the easiest way to explore smaller towns and nature.
• By Bus: Greyhound, Megabus, and regional carriers connect cities affordably.
• Local Transit: SEPTA in Philadelphia, Port Authority in Pittsburgh, and small-town trolleys or ride-shares cover urban needs.

Best Time to Visit Pennsylvania

• Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom in state parks; Philadelphia’s Cherry Blossom Festival shines. Weather is mild but unpredictable.
• Summer (June–August): Best for beaches at Presque Isle, Hersheypark thrills, and city festivals. Expect crowds and humidity.
• Fall (September–November): Stunning foliage in the Poconos, Endless Mountains, and Alleghenies. Harvest festivals abound.
• Winter (December–February): Ski resorts in the Poconos and Laurel Highlands draw snow lovers. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh glow with holiday markets.

Best Travel Itineraries in Pennsylvania

3-Day Itinerary

Start in Philadelphia. Explore Independence Hall, stroll Old City, and indulge in Reading Terminal Market. Take a day trip to Lancaster for Amish culture before returning for Philly nightlife.

5-Day Itinerary

Combine Philadelphia with Gettysburg. Spend two days in the city, drive west to Gettysburg for battlefield tours, then add Hershey for chocolate and theme parks.

7-Day Itinerary

Philadelphia (2 days), Lancaster Amish Country (1 day), Gettysburg (1 day), Pittsburgh (2 days), Fallingwater & Laurel Highlands (1 day).

10-Day Itinerary

Explore Philadelphia and its museums (3 days), drive to the Poconos for hiking and waterfalls (2 days), continue to Pittsburgh for culture (3 days), end in Erie for beaches and Presque Isle sunsets (2 days).

Travel Safety and Cultural Etiquette

Pennsylvania is generally safe, though urban areas require typical city awareness. In rural Amish communities, be respectful — avoid photographing people without permission. Tipping 15–20% in restaurants is standard. Winters can bring icy roads, so plan extra travel time.

Final Planning Checklist for Pennsylvania

• Book early: Popular tours at Gettysburg and Fallingwater sell out.
• Pack layers: Weather swings from humid summers to snowy winters.
• Rent a car if exploring widely: Public transit works in cities but is limited in rural areas.
• Download apps: SEPTA, Port Authority, and regional trail maps help navigation.
• Bring cash: Some Amish markets and rural attractions don’t accept cards.
• Check festivals: Align your trip with Musikfest or Hershey’s seasonal events.
• Reserve accommodations in advance: Especially during fall foliage season.
• Carry ID: Some breweries and bars card regardless of age.
• Use travel insurance: Coverage helps in case of weather disruptions.
• Stay flexible: Pennsylvania’s size and variety mean detours often lead to discoveries.

Plan Smarter, Travel Better

Pennsylvania is more than a bridge between New York and Washington — it’s a state where history breathes in cobblestones and nature unfolds in forest canopies. Plan thoughtfully, embrace its contrasts, and you’ll come away with stories as diverse as its landscapes.

Choose Your Next Adventure

New York — Just east of Pennsylvania, New York offers the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and of course, the buzz of New York City.

New Jersey — From Atlantic City’s boardwalk to quiet Pine Barrens, New Jersey balances beaches with hidden wildlands.

Ohio — To the west, Ohio offers Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Amish Country, and Lake Erie shorelines.

Canada — A short flight away, Québec’s cobbled old town and French heritage provide an international twist to your Northeast itinerary.

It’s Time to Experience Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania rewards travelers who dig a little deeper. Whether you’re here for battlefields, breweries, or backroads, the Keystone State’s mix of heritage and natural beauty leaves a lasting impression. Start planning your journey today — Pennsylvania is waiting.