Have you ever had an adrenaline rush while on a sugar high? Now’s your chance. What began as a perk for Hershey’s Chocolate Factory employees way back in 1906 is today a world-class amusement park with a sweet twist. The sprawling, T-shaped Hersheypark features 13 twisting, flipping, dropping roller coasters including the Cocoa Cruiser and SooperdooperLooper, plus 65 other rides and attractions scattered throughout its 121 acres (49 hectares). More than 20 rides are specifically for young kids.
A multi-use recreational trail that runs along the eponymous waterway, the Schuylkill River Trail extends for some 75 miles (121 kilometers) from Montgomery, Chester, and Berks Counties to Center City Philadelphia. Projected to reach 120 miles (193 kilometers) upon its completion, the trail passes by scenic towns and historical landmarks.
The country’s only amusement park dedicated toSesame Street, Sesame Place is one of the Philadelphia area’s top family-friendly attractions. Located in Langhorne, Penn.—roughly 20 miles (33 kilometers) northeast of Center City—its offerings including water rides, meet-and-greets with popular characters such as Elmo, and more.
Philadelphia’s larger-than-life memorial to Benjamin Franklin sits on a white marble pedestal in the rotunda of The Franklin Institute. Crafted between 1906 and 1911, the 20-foot-high (6-meter-high) statue is the centerpiece of the famed Memorial Hall. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about Philadelphia’s favorite founding father.
The largest and grandest of Philadelphia’s transit hubs, 30th Street Station—which now goes by William H. Gray III 30th Street—serves numerous train routes, including Amtrak lines that connect the city with other destinations on the east coast. Renowned for its neoclassical design, the station is on the National Register of Historic Places.
The University of Pennsylvania is one of the United States’ most historically significant universities. Founded by Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation’s Founding Fathers, between 1740 and 1750, it was one of the nine original colonial colleges founded prior to the Declaration of Independence.
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church is a still-functioning historic church in the Society Hill area of downtown Philadelphia. First built around 1761, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is uniquely designed to feature an altar on one end and an elevated pulpit on the other—so there’s no front or back to the church.
Explore more than a century of American automotive history, from the 1890s to the 2000s, at the AACA Museum. Located in Hershey, Penn., the AACA Museum features a collection of more than 150 vintage vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, and motorcycles, around 85 to 100 of which are on display at any given time.
Encounter presidential history at Wheatland, President James Buchanan's 19th-century Pennsylvania property on the grounds of LancasterHistory. Explore a mansion replete with period details. See objects from the 15th president of the US, learn about Civil War America, and enjoy a guided tour free with general admission.
What began as one American café in London has spread around the world. Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh offers the classic food and rock ’n’ roll atmosphere found in the franchise’s many restaurants. With an industrial interior and outdoor patio, the eatery offers a comfortable spot to grab a bite. Plus, its exposed-brick stage hosts live entertainment on a regular basis.
The center of the Hershey’s Chocolate universe, the 2-story redbrick Hershey’s Chocolate World delves into the company’s history and production process. Located in aptly named Hershey, Pennsylvania, the venue offers free tours that reveal the how-it-happens details of their luscious products—and, naturally, offers chocolate tastings.
Jennie Wade was the only civilian who died during the Battle of Gettysburg, while taking shelter here with her family. At this historic house, guides in period costume provide retellings of the tragedy. Learn about the woman’s story and the impact of the battle on local residents. Artifacts are also on display, including the bullet shell that pierced the house.
The Gettysburg Museum of History houses an extensive collection of wartime artifacts, from the Civil War through the 20th century, and presidential items. See personal objects from soldiers, battle relics, and exhibits on the broader American experience. The museum offers a unique, intimate perspective that attracts history buffs, Civil War enthusiasts, and those interested in American military and political history.
The Eisenhower National Historic Site, inside the Gettysburg National Military Park, is the former home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Visitors can explore the house, its original furnishings, and the grounds, while learning about Eisenhower’s life, including his role as a military leader and statesman, and his presidency.
America's largest aviary—and the only “national” one in the country—this Pittsburgh destination gets visitors up close to more than 150 species of birds from across the globe, many of which are endangered or threatened. From the Andean Condor to the fairy bluebird, plenty of wild and colorful winged creatures make the aviary their home.
With nearly 40,000 fans clamoring in the stands, PNC Park—home to the Pittsburgh Pirates—should be a mega-stadium, but the highest seat is just 88 feet (27 meters) from the field. And with views to downtown Pittsburgh, plus an endless supply of Primanti Bros. sandwiches, it’s easy to spend a day at the ballpark.
Lancaster Central Market, a historic public market located in Penn Square in downtown Lancaster, is home to more than 65 vendors selling farm-fresh produce, meats, dairy, and ready-to-eat fare, as well as local Lancaster County crafts and collectibles. Located in the 1889 Market House, the Pennsylvania market also serves as a communal gathering spot, hosting seasonal events throughout the year.
Sitting at the confluence of three rivers, Point State Park is one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved landmarks. With a fabulous public fountain, excellent trails, boating, fishing, and kayaking opportunities, and even ruins of 18th-century forts—never mind the great views in nearly all directions—this is one Pittsburgh spot where there’s plenty to see and do.
Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 3,500 Union soldiers who died in the Civil War's pivotal battle. Visitors come here to honor these fallen heroes, see the historic landscape, and reflect on the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg. This southern Pennsylvania site includes the Soldier’s National Monument and a memorial to Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address.
Located at Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, Devil’s Den is a rocky hill that played a vital role during the Battle of Gettysburg. Visitors come here to climb the large boulders, hike the trails, and learn about Civil War history. With its striking views of the surrounding battlefield, the site is popular among photography enthusiasts and history buffs.
Located in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Fulton Theatre is known for producing and showcasing Broadway caliber musicals, comedies, and dramas. A restored historic landmark, this regional theater features ornate Victorian architecture with modern amenities. Among the many names who have tread its boards are Sarah Bernhardt, Mark Twain, Debbie Reynolds, Lily Tomlin, Lionel Barrymore, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and W.C. Fields.
Family-owned Waldameer Park & Water World is the fifth-oldest continuously operating amusement park in the US. Opened in 1896 at a popular picnic spot in Erie, its initial attractions were a beer garden, dance hall, and carousel. Today, this award-winning amusement and water park has 52 attractions ranging from waterslides and roller coasters to a wave pool and flying swings.
Set against the backdrop of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark is a scenic place to have fun and take a break from the summer sun. The outdoor park has a range of rides, waterslides, and pools where you can cool off, all with varying levels of adventure and speed. Plus, kiddie pools and splash zones offer fun for the little ones.
One of the region’s loveliest nature escapes, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve in New Hope, Pennsylvania, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its verdant habitats. Sprawling across 134 acres (54 hectares) and comprising everything from woodlands and ponds to wetlands and meadows, this protected nature park is home to 700 of the state’s 2,000 native plant species, plus diverse birds and insects.
Little Round Top, a key battlefield site in Gettysburg, offers both sweeping views and rich history. This rocky hill was crucial during the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg, as Union forces defended a critical position. Here, visitors can take in the monuments and the scenery, and learn more about this pivotal moment in US history.
The Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center showcases exhibits on the Civil War, focusing on the Battle of Gettysburg and the site’s medical history as one of the battlefield's largest field hospitals. Occupying the historic Lutheran Theological Seminary building, here you can learn about the pivotal role the seminary played, explore interactive exhibits, and gain insight into the war's impact.
A giant purple-trimmed castle welcomes families to Dutch Wonderland, a fairytale-themed amusement park on the eastern outskirts of Lancaster in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country. Its 30-plus rides are tame compared to larger amusement parks like Six Flags or Cedar Point, and most of its daily shows like “Bubba Bear & the Badland Band” or “Adventure of the Frog Prince” are geared toward younger children.
The site of a former gristmill, the Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, Pennsylvania, is known for having hosted theatrical luminaries including Helen Hayes, Angela Lansbury, Bob Fosse, Bernadette Peters, and Liza Minnelli. Today, the venue continues to present theater productions, concerts, and even circus shows. The Playhouse also offers a range of classes, workshops, and educational programs for all ages.
Nested in the Poconos in northeastern Pennsylvania, Camelback Resort is one of the region’s most popular outdoor retreats. During the winter months, it draws skiers, snow tubers, and those looking to hit the slopes, while its two water parks, shopping and dining options, and outdoor summer activities round out the calendar.
One of the grandest historic homes in Pennsylvania’s Poconos region, the Asa Packer Mansion Museum was built by the eponymous former railway magnate, philanthropist, and founder of Lehigh University. Constructed more than 160 years ago in the Victorian Italianate style, it boasts exceptional period interiors and splendid hilltop views overlooking the quaint town of Jim Thorpe and the Lehigh River.
