Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Best Attractions in the Keystone State
Known for its essential role in the birth of America, as well as for its essential roles in the petroleum industry and railroads, there’s no shortage of amazing, interesting, and exciting things to do in Pennsylvania.
History buffs, gearheads, art junkies, and nature nuts will have no problem finding Pennsylvania attractions to delight and enrapture, from Presque Isle State Park to the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Pennsylvania’s most famous town. Let’s take a look at all the wonderful things to do in Pennsylvania, all across the state!
Philadelphia
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
Lansdowne Dr and Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Enjoy a moment of Zen on the stunning grounds of Shofuso, where you can meander through a traditional Japanese home and explore meticulously designed gardens. Built in Japan in 1953, this structure was shipped to America and originally displayed in the courtyard of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Now, it boasts a tea garden with a tea house, bathhouse, and a beautiful koi pond.
What to know before you go: Admissions are by timed ticket only, and you can make your reservations up to a month in advance.
Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
This is one of the most famous – or, more appropriately, infamous – historic buildings in Philadelphia. It’s an essential part of prison reform in the United States, as well as a testament to Quaker influence in the area. Eastern State Penitentiary is so named because it aimed to instill “penitence” in prisoners through isolation and reflection. Due to its long and tragic history, it’s considered the most haunted prison in America.
During October, Eastern State Penitentiary hosts Halloween Nights, which includes five separate haunted houses sure to thrill and chill.
What to know before you go: You can purchase tickets online or in person; all the daytime programs are available for one admission price. The site is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
The Mütter Museum
19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Dedicated to the mysteries of the human body, the Mütter Museum explores rare diseases and the history of medicine through preserved specimens, wax models, and antique medical equipment. Check out real equipment used by Marie Curie to study radioactivity, as well as the skeleton of a man suffering from fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, which turned his soft tissue into bone.
What to know before you go: The museum is closed on Tuesdays; it’s open the rest of the week from 10 am to 5 pm. The museum offers dual admission with the Penn Museum if you’d like to visit two museums for the price of one.
Independence National Historical Park
520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
This iconic area is a cornerstone of American history, with numerous buildings and attractions that will delight American history buffs. The Declaration of Independence was signed in Independence Hall, and the Constitutional Convention met there to frame the United States Constitution.
Congress Hall was the site of the US Congress while Philadelphia was the temporary capital; it was also the site of Thomas Jefferson’s inauguration, which represented the first peaceful transfer of power for the fledgling nation.
Lastly, Old City Hall once served as Philadelphia’s city hall; it’s a gorgeous building in the Federal style with numerous interactive exhibits.
The park also includes the Liberty Bell Center, where you can see the world-famous icon first rung in 1753.
What to know before you go: You must pass through security in order to visit Independence National Park. From March to December, you’ll need tickets, but during summer extended hours, you won’t need a ticket. Be sure to visit the visitor center for more information on the entire complex.
Reading Terminal Market
1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
No visit to Philly is complete without a visit to the terminal market! Buy fresh produce, get a world-renowned Cheesesteak, and hunt for unique housewares in this bustling indoor market that has been a city staple since 1893.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
One of the largest art museums in the United States, the Philadelphia Museum of Art boasts an extensive permanent collection of art from all over the world, including works from masters such as Renoir, Van Gough, and Gaugin. Be sure not to miss out on their satellite museums of smaller, more focused holdings, such as their Rodin Museum.
What to know before you go: Because they have such an extensive collection, your ticket gives you access for two days – and trust us, you’ll need it! Advanced reservations are strongly encouraged.
Awbury Arboretum
Need a breath of fresh air? Stroll across the 56 acres of natural bliss. This botanical garden is focused on the collection and preservation of trees and shrubs,
1 Awbury Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19138
What to know before you go: The Awbury Arboretum is free and open to the public from dawn to dusk. You don’t need reservations, though you’re encouraged to get there early.
Southeastern Pennsylvania
Home to Harrisburg, Lancaster County, and the tastiest famous amusement park, when thinking of what to do in Pennsylvania, don’t stop at Philadelphia! There are many great options nearby as well.
The Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s capital, the SAM has numerous permanent exhibits representing contemporary art from all over the world, as well as fascinating exhibits and educational outreach programs. Be sure to check out the gift shop to get one-of-a-kind gifts for your friends and family!
What to know before you go: The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is incredibly affordable at only $8 per person. Free parking is available onsite.
Mercer Museum
84 S Pine St, Doylestown, PA 18901
Explore an eclectic collection of artifacts from pre-industrial America, housed in a stunning castle made of reinforced concrete. You can see everything from 2,000-year-old whale oil lamps to 19th-century cigar store figurines in this fascinating funhouse of archaeology.
It’s also associated with the Fonthill Castle, the home of founding archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer. Both are well worth a visit!
What to know before you go: Both the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle require their own separate tickets. When booking, be sure you choose the right reservation, as they have different hours and tour styles.
Gettysburg National Military Park and Museum
1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325
The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal turning point in the Civil War, where Union Major General George Mead forced Robert E Lee’s Confederates to retreat, preventing further capture of Union territory. It’s also the inspiration behind the Gettysburg Address, where President Abraham Lincoln commemorated those who lost their lives and sketched a grand vision for the future.
Explore the visitor center for more information about the battle, or take part in programs designed to teach about this key moment in the American Civil War.
What to know before you go: The roads in the park are open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year; however, you should check for information about road closures before visiting. There’s no fee to visit the park or the museum, but know that backpacks are not permitted in the visitor center.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406
George Washington encamped here with his men during the Revolutionary War, struggling through a brutal winter and adverse conditions. Valley Forge National Historical Park encompasses 3,500 acres, with numerous preserved buildings used by the Continental Army, which you can enter and explore.
What to know before you go: There is no fee to enter the park, and it’s open from 7 am to dark all throughout the year. Washington’s Quarters, also known as the Isaac Potts house, is open from 10 am to 5 pm throughout the year.
Eisenhower National Historic Site
243 Eisenhower Farm Rd, Gettysburg, PA 17325
Right outside of Gettysburg is the Eisenhower National Historic Site, which is the preserved farm and home of former President Dwight D Eisenhower. It’s managed by the National Park Service and serves as a fascinating time capsule of American history.
What to know before you go: The grounds are open every day from sunrise to sunset, and there are tours of the home at select times of the year. Leashed pets are welcome on the grounds.
The National Civil War Museum
1 Lincoln Cir, Harrisburg, PA 17103
The National Civil War Museum is one of the largest museums dedicated entirely to the American Civil War. It seeks to tell the story of this time from every perspective, from Northern and Southern soldiers to slaves and abolitionists. Part of the Smithsonian Institute Affiliate Program, expect high-quality exhibits and programming meant to provide a balanced, comprehensive understanding of the issues which led to America’s bloody civil war.
What to know before you go: The museum is open 10 am-5 pm Monday through Saturday, and 12 pm-5 pm on Sundays. It’s open on major holidays, but it closes at 2 pm on Christmas Eve.
The Amish Farm and House
2395 Covered Bridge Dr, Lancaster, PA 17602
Learn all about the laid-back Amish life by touring a real Amish house and farm! Feed and play with farm animals, try out an Amish scooter, and enjoy a relaxing bus ride through Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Creek Valley. You can even enjoy farm-fresh meals with their sunset dinner tour.
While in the area, you can also check out the Sight & Sound Theatre, a Christian theater company that aims to bring the Bible to life, or Dutch Wonderland, a family-friendly theme park.
What to know before you go: Reservations are recommended, and you can book online for added convenience. Bus tours depart at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm every day.
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
300 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579
Pennsylvania has a rich railroad history, and you can learn all about it here! See locomotives up close and personal and enjoy interactive exhibits that encourage you to think more deeply about what it takes to get your favorite products to you. They hold numerous special events, including special sensory events meant for those who need a quieter, more relaxing experience.
What to know before you go: The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; for the rest of the week, they are open 10 am-4 pm. Last admission is at 3:30 pm.
Hershey Park and the Hershey Story Museum
100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033
Dip into a sweeter world at one of the largest theme parks in America, and the biggest amusement park in Pennsylvania. With roller coasters, flat rides – and, of course, plenty of chocolate – there’s fun for everyone here, no matter your speed. Be sure to visit Hershey’s Chocolate World, located a bit outside of the park, to tour the factories and sip on ultra-luscious milkshakes!
What to know before you go: The theme park, Hershey Park, is open from 10 am to 9 pm every day. For nearby Chocolate World, you can select from several different tours, each lasting between 1.5 hours and 3.5 hours.
Longwood Gardens
1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348
Beautiful Longwood Gardens strives to make elegance accessible to all. With echoes of the luxurious pleasure gardens of Europe, its stunning facades, majestic fountains, and carefully manicured vistas will remind you of why Longwood is considered one of the world’s greatest gardens. Enjoy five separate special events that celebrate the flowers in the park, and hear the enormous carillon sound throughout the summer.
What to know before you go: The park’s hours vary by year, but it is always closed on Tuesdays, and admission is timed. Check hours and for any special events at their website before you head off!
The Catacombs at Bube’s Brewery
102 N Market St, Mount Joy, PA 17552
For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, enjoy a sumptuous meal underneath the historic Bube’s Brewery. You’ll descend several stories below ground and tour the historic brewery before sitting down to gourmet dishes cooked with care. There’s nothing quite like the rustic ambiance of an old wine cellar, combined with fresh ingredients and, of course, plenty of great craft beer.
What to know before you go: While reservations aren’t required, this is an incredibly popular attraction, so call ahead before you visit.
Lehigh Valley
Lost River Caverns
726 Durham St, Hellertown, PA 18055
This lovely cave takes about 45 minutes to walk through, making it a great option for a quick afternoon trip. You’ll learn about the geology and history of the cave, including its stunning underground river that lends its name to the attraction. Don’t forget to visit Gilman’s “At The Cave” for those who love jewelry and gemstones!
What to know before you go: Reservations are required. The cave is a constant 52 degrees throughout the year, so wear a jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Dorney Park
4000 Dorney Park Rd, Allentown, PA 18104
Dorney Park is a small but mighty park that provides fun for the whole family! With a water park and many roller coasters, everyone will find something to enjoy here. Be sure to check out the beautiful Antique Carousel, which opened in 1921 and features a friendly cast of characters from throughout the animal kingdom.
What to know before you go: Dorney Park is entirely cashless, so be sure to have your debit or credit card handy. You can use their Cash-to-Card kiosk to load a prepaid debit card.
Northeastern Pennsylvania
Ricketts Glen State Park
695 PA-487, Benton, PA 17814
This state park boasts over 13,000 acres of gorgeous temperate forest, including the Glens Natural Area, which shelters the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, and hunting, all while surrounded by old-growth forests and a variety of wildlife species.
What to know before you go: The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources asks all visitors to be aware that the invasive spotted lanternfly has been seen in the area. Check your belongings for any signs of the pest and destroy them before you leave.
Steamtown National Historic Site
350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503
Hear the roaring engines and appreciate our country’s rich locomotive history at this railroad museum and heritage railroad. With both indoor and outdoor displays, Steamtown National History Site seeks to preserve old railcars and share the story of those who designed, built, and preserved these engineering wonders. You can climb into an old railroad engine, or even catch a ride on a real locomotive!
What to know before you go: Some of the buildings are undergoing long-term repairs and are not currently open to the public, though the majority of the site is open. The park museum is free, but train rides require a small fee.
Anthracite Heritage Museum
22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504
This museum tells the story of how coal changed Pennsylvania, including the immigrant communities that came here to make a better life. It features dioramas, recreations, and real machinery that was used in the mines, and it also hosts a variety of events throughout the year to reinvigorate the local community and share more about Coal Country’s contributions to America as a whole.
What to know before you go: The museum is open from March to December on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. No reservations are required.
Central Pennsylvania
Raystown Lake
6993 Seven Points Road, Hesston, PA 16647
If you need a breath of fresh air, you’ve come to the right place. Raystown Lake is the largest lake entirely within the confines of Pennsylvania, and it’s a naturalist’s paradise. Enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and more. You can take a tour on the Proud Mary Showboat to get a relaxing view of the scenery and the fresh pine air. The Raystown region is also home to a number of small towns, perfect for shopping and strolling.
What to know before you go: The Proud Mary Showboat only runs from June through September, so plan accordingly. Make park reservations online to be sure that you get a camping spot.
Appalachian Trail Museum
1120 Pine Grove Rd, Gardners, PA 17324
The only museum dedicated to the iconic Appalachian trail, this museum is around the midpoint of the trail and tells the story of those who built, maintained, and traversed this region. It discusses the unique culture that has developed around the A.T. and even has an Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame! There are walking trails around the park as well, so put your hiking shoes on and get ready to explore!
What to know before you go: The museum is open from April to October and is entirely volunteer-run. They encourage and welcome donations.
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park
760 Tobias Rd, Halifax, PA 17032
Take a walk on the wild side at this wildlife park, where you can pet barn animals, take a safari, and roam through habitats teeming with exotic plants and animals. With over 1,000 animals from six continents, you’re sure to enjoy seeing this menagerie of beautiful beasts from all over the world.
What to know before you go: The wildlife park is open from May to October and is only open on weekends after Labor Day until the end of the season.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is renowned for its integral contributions to steelmaking, but it has a fun side too!
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
The gem of Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, the Phipps Conservatory is a charming, 14-room greenhouse featuring plants from all around the world. The park’s Center for Sustainable Landscapes is the first and only building in the world to meet seven different green certifications.
What to know before you go: As this is a very popular attraction, advance reservations are strongly recommended. The conservatory is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm every day except Friday when it’s open until 10 pm.
Andy Warhol Museum
117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Celebrating Pittsburgh’s favorite son, this is the largest one-artist-dedicated art museum in North America. Visitors can confront his vibrant pop art, but it doesn’t just end there – the Andy Warhol Museum is committing to transforming Pittsburgh’s eastern North Shore into a place of culture and creativity. With so much of his art in their archives, the displays are constantly changing!
What to know before you go: The museum is closed on Tuesdays, but open from 10 am to 5 pm every other day. On their ‘Good Fridays,’ they’re open until 10 pm, which half-price admission beginning at 5 pm.
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History
4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
With over 22 million specimens, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History boasts one of the most extensive and well-curated paleontological displays in the world. It includes the world’s first T. Rex specimens and publishes its own magazine detailing the tireless work of its curators in archiving and preserving the world’s history.
What to know before you go: Timed tickets are recommended. You’ll enter at a specific time and are free to roam for as long as you please!
Southwestern Pennsylvania
Rivers of Steel: Bost Building National Historic Landmark
623 E 8th Ave, Homestead, PA 15120
Appreciate the pivotal importance of Pittsburgh’s steelworks by visiting the Rivers of Steel National Heritage area. Located in the historic Bost Building, a centerpiece of the American labor movement, you’ll learn about how Pittsburgh and the Rivers of Steel played an essential role in ushering in the Age of Steel.
Be sure to visit other River of Steel sites as well! There are numerous guided tours, including a tour through a real working machine shop!
What to know before you go: The Bost Building is open Monday through Friday, with admissions at 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, and 2 pm. While it’s free to enter, a $5 donation is recommended.
Flight 93 National Memorial
6424 Lincoln Hwy, Stoystown, PA 15563
This site honors the heroic actions of the passengers of Flight 93, who wrestled control of the plane back from the 9/11 hijackers to prevent it from crashing into federal buildings in Washington, DC. While they lost their lives in the process, their courage protected America’s capital from further harm.
The beautiful, stark site features a memorial wall honoring the victims, and it serves as a place of contemplation on all that we hold dear.
What to know before you go: The visitor center is open from 9-5 on all days except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. There is no fee to visit.
Fallingwater
1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464
Built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935, this Mid-Century Modern marvel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of only 24 in the entire United States. Wright designed it to blend harmoniously with the Laurel Highlands; from a distance, it appears to be just one of the enormous rock wedges which form the waterfall at its base. It serves as a time capsule for a long-gone American aesthetic based on minimalism and naturalism.
What to know before you go: You have several different options depending on whether you want to see only the exterior or the interior as well; you can choose an in-depth guided tour, an interior or exterior tour, or a park pass for self-guided viewings. Book early, as this incredibly popular attraction sells out fast.
Northwestern Pennsylvania
Presque Isle State Park
301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505
This windswept peninsula lets you appreciate the timeless majesty of Lake Erie, which is the smallest of the Great Lakes but the 15th largest lake in the world. You can enjoy boating, hiking, fishing, and even surfing and SCUBA diving! Be sure to visit the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, which introduces visitors to the ecology and history of this unique state park, and the Perry Monument, which celebrates Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, the hero of the War of 1812.
What to know before you go: Presque Isle is day use only. You can enjoy boat tours that launch from near the Perry Monument; check their site for schedules.
Pymatuning Deer Park
804 E Jamestown Rd, Jamestown, PA 16134
With over 250 animal species, this family-owned park has been delighting visitors for over 70 years. You can feed parakeets in the Budgie Barn, take a ride on the Deer Park Express, and pet farm animals in their petting zoo. Little travelers can enjoy pony rides along a wilderness trail, while everyone enjoys keeping their eyes peeled for deer peaking through the leafy canopy.
What to know before you go: The park is closed from November through April. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the park is open seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm; after Labor Day, the park is open only on weekends through the end of October.
With so many things to do in Pennsylvania, you’re sure to find something amazing to share with family and friends!
Whether you’re a local or coming from far away, your next unforgettable memory is right around the corner. Pursue Your Happiness in the beautiful state of Pennsylvania, where magic is waiting for you.