10 Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania 2024

Known as both the Quaker State and the Keystone State, Pennsylvania is surrounded by New Jersey, New York, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware. It boasts a vast and varied landscape that encompasses bustling urban centers, expansive farmland, quaint Amish communities, and even beaches along one of the Great Lakes. Despite the common focus on Pittsburgh and Philadelphia when planning trips to Pennsylvania, it’s important to remember the numerous other captivating destinations waiting to be explored. Here are some best places to visit in Pennsylvania.

Map of Pennsylvania

Hickory Run State Park

Hickory Run State Park is located in the Pocono Mountains of Eastern Pennsylvania and is one of the beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania . The park, in Carbon County, has over 40 miles of hiking trails and some trails are used for cross-country skiing in the winter. Sand Spring Lake has a sandy beach for swimming in the summer. A notable feature of the park is the boulder field, which is over 20,000 years old and was formed by melting glaciers. Visitors can explore the Boulder Field Trail by hopping from boulder to boulder.

Hickory Run State Park is a great place to go camping. You can spend time with your family and friends in the beautiful outdoors. There are lots of things to do, like hiking, fishing, and swimming in the streams. Plus, you can see amazing sights like the Boulder Field, which is a big field of rocks. Camping at Hickory Run State Park is a fun adventure for everyone.

Ohio Pyle State Park

Ohio Pyle State Park is a small and beautiful park by the Youghiogheny River and is one of the cool places to visit in Pennsylvania . The river is a big draw for the park, offering activities like whitewater rafting. You can join a guided tour to experience the impressive rapids on the seven-mile stretch of the river known as Lower Yough. The park also has great hiking and beautiful waterfalls, including the popular Cucumber Falls. Don’t forget your camera to take pictures of the 30-foot bridal waterfall along the Great Gorge Trail.

Visiting Ohio Pyle State Park for camping is a fantastic outdoor experience. You can enjoy camping with your loved ones amidst stunning natural surroundings. There’s so much to do, like hiking along scenic trails, biking through the forest, or even trying your hand at fishing in the rivers. You can also marvel at the breathtaking waterfalls and relax by the peaceful streams. Camping at Ohio Pyle State Park is a wonderful way to connect with nature and make lasting memories with family and friends.

Delaware Water Gap

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is located on both sides of the Delaware River, spanning the state line between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. It offers numerous outdoor activities such as visiting the 19th century Millbrook Village, biking along the Old Mill Road, and hiking on over 100 miles of scenic trails. Additionally, there are three beaches for swimming: Milford Beach, Smithfield Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Camping at Delaware Water Gap is an awesome adventure for nature lovers. You can set up your tent or park your RV in beautiful campsites surrounded by trees and wildlife. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, like hiking along the trails to see stunning views of the river and mountains. You can also go fishing, swimming, or paddling in the river. At night, you can gather around a campfire, roast marshmallows, and stargaze. Camping at Delaware Water Gap is a great way to relax and reconnect with nature.

Erie

Erie, a city in Pennsylvania, is aptly named after the lake it sits beside: Lake Erie. It is the sole lake port in the state and marks the northernmost point of Pennsylvania. To delve into Erie’s history and understand the impact of its port on development, a visit to the Erie Maritime Museum is recommended.

The museum is also home to the U.S.S. Niagara, a remarkable historic warship that can be toured right at the port. One of the most popular activities in Erie is exploring Presque Isle State Park, located just off the coast, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, cycling, or simply relaxing on its beaches.For tourists visiting Erie, Pennsylvania, it’s important to be prepared for the weather, as it can vary throughout the year.

Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park in Pennsylvania is a huge natural area with 24 big waterfalls and many smaller ones and is one of the fun places to visit in Pennsylvania . The best way to see them is by hiking the Falls Trail System. You can also relax on the beach at Lake Jean and have a picnic with a view of the water. You can rent a boat or go fishing from the shore.

Ricketts Glen State Park Camping is like stepping into a nature wonderland. You can sleep under the stars, surrounded by lush forests and stunning waterfalls. Whether you’re in a tent, RV, or cozy cabin, there’s something for everyone. During the day, explore over 20 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Falls Trail with its jaw-dropping waterfalls.

Don’t forget to pack your camera for some epic nature shots! And when night falls, gather around the campfire for s’mores and stories under the twinkling sky. It’s the perfect outdoor adventure for families, friends, and nature lovers alike.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Lancaster County has a lot of Amish people in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The area is mostly rural with neat fences, barns, and horse-drawn buggies. A good way to see Amish country is to go to the local markets. The Bird in Hand Farmers Market is one of the most popular. You can get fresh produce and baked goods like apple butter and shoofly pie there.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country cabins offer a cozy retreat in the heart of Amish country. Nestled among rolling hills and farmland, these cabins provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can enjoy rustic charm with modern comforts, like fully equipped kitchens and comfortable bedding.

Bushkill Falls

Bushkill Falls in Pennsylvania is a great place to visit. The waterfalls are amazing and located in the pretty Pocono Mountains. There are eight waterfalls that you can reach by hiking trails and bridges. The Green Trail takes 15 minutes and goes to the main falls, while the Red Trail takes about two hours and goes to all eight waterfalls. You can also try the Bushkill Falls Mining Company Maze for some fun competition.

Gettysburg

The Battle of Gettysburg was a major event in the Civil War. It took place in July 1863 and lasted three days, causing many casualties and leading to the Confederate Army retreating. The Gettysburg National Military Park now stands at the site of the battle. At the Gettysburg Heritage Center, you can learn about the Civil War and its connection to Gettysburg. You should also visit the Jennie Wade House, where the only Gettysburg resident killed in the battle lived.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, also known as the Steel City, is a big city located where three rivers meet and is one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania for families. Many steel bridges cross the Ohio River, the Allegheny River, and the Monongahela River. The city has green hills that rise up from the rivers.

 Although Pittsburgh has a history of industry, there are many tourist attractions to see. The skyline in Downtown Pittsburgh is a must-see, with the U.S. Steel Tower being the tallest building in the city. In the middle of Downtown is Point State Park, a green park where you can visit the 19th century Fort Pitt Block House. Sports fans can go to the North Side of the city to watch the Steelers at Heinz Field or the Pirates at PNC Park.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is known for American history, Rocky, and cheesesteaks. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art for its great collection of works, and see the steps where Rocky trained. History lovers should visit the Independence National Historic Park to see iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, the cracked Liberty Bell, and the original U.S. Constitution in Constitution Hall. Finish the day with a Philly cheesesteak from Pat’s or Geno’s in South Philadelphia.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania has a lot of things to see and do, from historic sites in Philadelphia to the beautiful Pocono Mountains. Whether you like history, outdoor activities, or city life, Pennsylvania has it. It’s a great place to visit with its rich culture and beautiful scenery. Plan your trip to Pennsylvania today and see for yourself.