Looking for the best things to do in Pennsylvania?? Here’s the list with all the travel information that you need to plan a family vacation.
Pennsylvania or Keystone State is undoubtedly one of the picturesque and vibrant states in the United States. It contains many historical landmarks, world-class museums, stunning lakes, scenic beaches, natural parks, famous shopping malls, and plenty of entertaining opportunities.
Some of the top tourist attractions are Eastern State Penitentiary, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Hersheypark, Fulton Theatre, Presque Isle State Park, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Lancaster Central Market in Pennsylvania.
Let’s discover the complete list of best and fun things to do in Pennsylvania.
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
1. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia
As mentioned in the introduction, Pennsylvania contains an abundance of historic landmarks. Here’s a good example.
Eastern State Penitentiary or ESP is a former American prison in Philadelphia, PA. Located at 2027 Fairmount Avenue, it was operational from 1829 until 1971. And it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
It is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pennsylvania, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
Once, it was housed for some of the most notorious criminals in the United States.
For example, famous American gangsters and robbers like Al Capone and Willie Sutton were there in the past. Therefore, it considers a haunted attraction too.
Just book a Daytime Prison Tour with your family and friends to explore Eastern State Penitentiary, its cells, various art installations, and know more information about history.
Address: 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States Phone: +1 215-236-3300
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
2. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Independence National Historical Park and the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia
Independence National Historical Park is a historic district in Philadelphia, PA. Established in 1956, it preserves several important historical sites related to America’s founding history and American Revolution.
It features Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the Constitution was drafted. And also, you can see the historical Liberty Bell as well.
During the Independence National Historical Park tour, you can see a series of exhibits that shows more information about history. (Ex: short informative films)
Aside from that, you will find historic buildings like Old City Hall, Congress Hall, the Independence Visitor Center, and impressive museums like the National Museum of American Jewish History and the Ben Franklin Museum.
Are you ready to know more about America’s history??
Address: Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States Phone: +1 215-965-2305
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
3. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Pittsburgh
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a City of Pittsburgh historic landmark and a gorgeous garden that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
Built in1893, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens feature colorful flowers, a magnificent greenhouse, an extensive collection of plants, several indoor and outdoor gardens, many art installations, a cafe, and many other attractive places.
Actually, it promises you a tropical rainforest experience. So, you can take unlimited photos in these scenic gardens.
Aside from that, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens organize many programs for the visitors. For example, class on floral arrangements, culinary lessons, arts and crafts.
Come along with friends and family.
Address: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States Phone: +1 412-622-6914
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
4. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Hersheypark, Hershey
Here’s the most popular family theme park in Pennsylvania, Hersheypark.
Since the park is just 15 miles east of Harrisburg and 95 miles west of Philadelphia, it attracts thousands of families annually.
Actually, Hersheypark was started by Milton S. Hershey in 1906as a leisure park for the employees of his company, Hershey Chocolate Company. And since this park is closely associated with chocolate, kids will love to visit.
Spreading for 49 ha, Hersheypark features many thrilling rides. For example, kiddie rides include a carousel, train, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, water rides, and more than a dozen roller coasters.
And also, the park features two large video arcades and midway-style games for entertainers.
Aside from that, Hersheypark offers admission to ZooAmerica, a zoo that contains over 200 North American animal species, including roadrunners, mountain lions, and bald eagles.
Therefore, surely add Hersheypark to your bucket list.
Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States Phone: +1 800-437-7439
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
5. Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley
Lake Wallenpaupack is a scenic reservoir in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Being the second largest lake in Pennsylvania, Lake Wallenpaupack features 52 miles of spectacular shoreline. Resting on the Pocono Mountains, this lake offers breathtaking views of nature as well.
If you are looking for a family getaway, consider Lake Wallenpaupack, as it offers plenty of fun outdoor activities on land and water.
For example, you can camp on its excellent campgrounds, swim, kayak, boat, paddleboard, fish, water ski, jet-ski, and wakeboard during the summer.
If you visit Lake Wallenpaupack during winter, it features a winter wonderland with winter activities including ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, snow tubing, and ice skating.
Whenever you visit here, it is filled with fun. So, just plan a weekend tour with your family to Lake Wallenpaupack and have fun.
Address: Route 6, P.O. Box 150 Hawley, PA 18428, United States Phone: (570) 226-3191
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
6. Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg
The Gettysburg National Military Park is an attractive national park in Pennsylvania. It is the place where the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg has happened during the American Civil War. Therefore it calls Gettysburg Battlefield too.
That historical battle was continued for three days with a tragedic result of 51,000 casualties. Now you can see hundreds of monuments and markers throughout the park.
The Gettysburg National Military Park’s key highlights are Oak Ridge, the opening site of the battle; Seminary Ridge, which was the primary Confederate position west of Gettysburg; and Cemetery Ridge, the location of the final two days of battle.
After that, you can visit checkout one of the largest collections of Civil War artifacts at the Park Museum. It includes Civil War weapons, uniforms, personal items, many other memorable things. Also, the park’s visitor center is always ready to provide the information that you need.
Aside from that, the Gettysburg National Military Park features living history programs and horseback riding opportunities.
If you are a history buff, do not miss this amazing military park.
Address: 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, United States Phone: +1 717-334-1124
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
7. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Fulton Theatre, Lancaster
Here’s the oldest working theatre in the United States, Fulton Theatre.
The Fulton Opera House or The Fulton is a League of Regional Theatres located in historic downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was added to the National Historic Landmark in 1964.
If you like to watch a world-class live show, definitely visit the Fulton Opera House. It features operas, dramas, Broadway-quality musicals, comedy shows, and many other entertaining shows.
All you have to do is to visit their official website and check the updated list of the shows.
Although the Fulton Theatre is the oldest theatre in the country, it contains state-of-the-art equipment. Therefore, it plays fantastic shows for the visitors.
Aside from that, the theatre’s comfortable seating, other modern amenities, and impressive Victorian architecture attract more visitors annually.
Some of the most popular shows featured at the Fulton Opera House are Titanic, Peter Pan, and Beauty and the Beast.
If you like to learn more about the theater, its history, architecture, just take a guided tour. They will take you even backstage.
So, definitely visit the Fulton Theatre with your family.
Address: 12 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603, United States Phone: +1 717-394-7133
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
8. Presque Isle State Park, Erie
Presque Isle State Park is one of the most stunning parks in Pennsylvania.
Stretching for 3,112-acres, the park is located on a sandy peninsula in Lake Erie. Actually, this peninsula creates Presque Isle Bay, an important shipping center.
Presque Isle State Park features eleven miles of pristine beach and plenty of exciting hiking trails.
You can swim, sunbathe, collect colorful sea glass, kite fly, watch scenic sunset, join summer concerts, seasonal events, and many other fun outdoor activities.
After that, surely visit the Tom Ridge Environmental Center that features informative exhibits related to the local history and ecosystems. And it also has a 75-foot observation tower that shows stunning views of Lake Erie, the park’s surroundings, and the Lighthouse on Presque Isle.
If you are looking for a fun weekend getaway, plan it to Presque Isle State Park.
Address: 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, United States Phone: +1 814-833-7424
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
Looking for more beaches in Pennsylvania?? Here’s the list of the best and fun beaches in Pennsylvania.
9. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Dutch Wonderland, Lancaster
Dutch Wonderland is a fantastic amusement park in Pennsylvania. Spreading for 48-acres, the park attracts families with small children explicitly.
Opened in 1963, Dutch Wonderland features more than 35 rides for kids of all ages. For example, there are a canal cruise, water rides, slides of varying sizes and lengths, scenic sky rides, a Merry-Go-Round, a dino dig area, bumper cars, roller coasters, and many others.
Aside from that, the park also features a variety of kid-friendly shows, fun events, lively mascots, candy shops, eateries, and shops.
Take your kiddos to Dutch Wonderland this holiday; You can have so much fun together.
Address: 2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States Phone: +1 866-386-2839
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
10. Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest and most impressive art museums in the United States. It was established for the Centennial International Exhibition of 1876. And it was the first official World’s Fair held in the United States.
Located in Philadelphia, the museum represents attractive Greek Revival architecture designed by Howell Lewis Shay and Julian Abele.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art contains a permanent art collection, including an impressive European collection. It features admirable artworks done by world-famous artists like Manet, Rembrandt, Chagall, Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, Matisse, and Picasso.
On the other hand, the museum contains other galleries with American colonial furniture, fashion, textile, and an outdoor sculpture garden.
Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States Phone: +1 215-763-8100
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
11. Lancaster Central Market, Lancaster
Visiting Lancaster Central Market is one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania to know more about the local lifestyle.
It is a historic public market that opened in 1889, and therefore it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Since it is located in Penn Square, in downtown Lancaster, you can quickly get there. And it contains plenty of local vendors that sell fresh products, including cheese, poultry, meat, vegetables, fruits, snacks, bakery food, pastries, chocolates, local handicrafts, flowers, garden supplies, and so much more.
If you plan to stay in Pennsylvania for a few days, you can buy anything from Lancaster Central Market for affordable prices.
Address: 23 N Market St, Lancaster, PA 17603, United States Phone: +1 717-735-6890
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
12. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Fallingwater, Mill Run
Fallingwater is another attractive historical landmark in Pennsylvania.
It is an impressive house designed by the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939. Located in the Laurel Highlands of southwest Pennsylvania, Fallingwater represents modern architecture and organic architecture.
Fallingwater is known for its impressive organic architecture and calm natural surrounding. Who owned it? Well, it was the Kauffman family’s former resident.
When it comes to the interior, Fallingwater contains various sculptures representing Mexican folk art, Cubist sculptures, a cast-iron Buddha head, Hindu fertility goddess Parvati sculpture, an Austrian-Bohemian Madonna craft, and many more.
On the other hand, the furniture is unbeatable. And also, it contains an impressive international art collection, including designs done by Diego Rivera and Picasso.
Just take a guided tour to see Fallingwater’s architecture, interior, and stunning natural surroundings.
Address: 1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464, United States Phone: +1 724-329-8501
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
13. The National Civil War Museum, Harrisburg
Do you like to know more about American Civil War? Visit the National Civil War Museum in Pennsylvania.
The National Civil War Museum is a permanent, nonprofit educational institution located at One Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park in Harrisburg. And it features more than 24,000 exciting exhibits of the American Civil War.
Along with that, it has many galleries and a library too. Especially, the galleries show exciting stories about women, the musical instruments, and music styles heard during the war era.
Address: 1 Lincoln Cir, Harrisburg, PA 17103, United States Phone: +1 717-260-1861
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
14. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Raystown Lake, Hesston
Here’s the largest lake in Pennsylvania, Raystown Lake.
Located in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, it results from a hydroelectric project done by the Simpson family. Raystown Lake spreads for 8,300-acres and features scenic surroundings with tons of fun things to do.
Its pristine water, towering trees, green landscapes, marinas, and picturesque environment attracts many nature lovers annually.
So, you can experience swimming, sunbathing, splash in the water, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, jet-skiing, camping, picnicking, mountain biking, building sandcastles with kids, and many other fun outdoor activities.
Address: 6993 Seven Points Road, Hesston, PA 16647, United States Phone: (814) 658-0060
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
15. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Philadelphia
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden present you with an impressive 17th century-style Japanese garden in West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.
Opened in 1954, this Japanese garden offers you a chance to travel to Japan without leaving the country. So, it will be a unique experience for sure.
Actually, Shofuso Japanese House and Garden honor the post-war relationship between the United States and Japan.
You can have a relaxing time with your family in the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden. And most importantly, it offers a chance to feel the authenticity of Japan.
The garden features a koi pond, 75 years old cherry tree, a Japanese house with impressive Japanese architecture, traditional tea ceremonies, and many other attractive things.
Address: Lansdowne Dr &, Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131, United States Phone: +1 215-878-5097
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
16. The Hershey Story Museum, Hershey
The Hershey Story Museum is one of the must-see tourist spots in Pennsylvania because it is the museum for all-things Hershey.
And also, this museum is a chocolate wonderland that features galleries about the world-famous chocolate founded by American chocolatier Milton S. Hershey. Actually, it tells you the whole story about Milton Hershey and how he turned the Hershey brand into one of the most successful chocolate brands in the world.
So, you can see machinery used in chocolate-making, photos of Hershey products in the past, and many exciting things.
Aside from that, Hershey Story Museum features shops, activity areas, and many other fun activities too. Also, you can join with chocolate taste testing events, discover your own chocolatey flavors at the Chocolate Lab, and do some other fun activities.
Come along with your kids. They will love Hershey Story Museum.
Address: 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States Phone: +1 717-534-8939
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
17. Pennsylvania State Capitol, Harrisburg
Pennsylvania State Capitol is the seat of government for the U.S. state of Pennsylvania.
Located in downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania State Capitol shows an impressive architectural style (Beaux-Arts style with Renaissance themes) designed by the famous architect Joseph Miller Huston in 1902.
Spreading for 45 acres, the Pennsylvania State Capitol complex houses a natural history museum, historical exhibits, a planetarium, and a collection of artifacts and documents related to the state’s history.
Aside from that, there are many statues and memorials throughout the building. For example, the Pennsylvania War Veterans Memorial Fountain, Soldier’s Grove Quadrangle, and a replica of the Liberty Bell.
One of the most highlighted things in the Pennsylvania State Capitol is the grand dome sitting atop the building.
Just book a guided tour and discover everything.
Address: 501 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17120, United States Phone: +1 800-868-7672
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
18. American Music Theatre, Lancaster
The American Music Theatre is an attractive live music venue in Pennsylvania. Having a capacity for 1,600+ visitors, it features comedy acts, music concerts, theatrical performances, Broadway tours, and many more.
You are getting a chance to watch award-winning performances on the stage of the American Music Theatre.
If you like to catch an entertaining live show, just visit the American Music Theatre.
Address: 2425 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States Phone: +1 800-648-4102
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
19. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks
Here’s the oldest continuously operating railroad in the western hemisphere, Strasburg Rail Road.
Strasburg Rail Road is located in Lancaster County, which is mainly known for its Amish culture and railroad history. You can take a 45-minute scenic ride on an ancient steam train along the Strasburg Rail Road with your family.
After that, you can visit the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, which exhibits historic railroad artifacts including more than 100 locomotives, 19th and 20th-century cars, and many more.
On the other hand, Strasburg Rail Road is home to the National Toy Train Museum. It displays model train collections of the 1800s, other modern train collections, hands-on educational exhibits, and some special events too.
So, come and grab the chance.
Address: 301 Gap Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, United States Phone: +1 866-725-9666
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
20. Allegheny National Forest, Marienville
The Allegheny National Forest is a huge and beautiful national forest located in the northwestern region of Pennsylvania. Since it offers unlimited recreational opportunities, it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
This stunning natural forest features gorgeous beaches, postcard-perfect landscapes, cerulean reservoirs, and many more.
So, you can enjoy hiking through the scenic woods, spending a replacing beach day, kayaking, boating, swimming, canoeing, fishing, camping, biking, horseback riding, and many other fun outdoor activities.
If you are looking for a scenic and fun weekend getaway with friends, plan it for the Allegheny National Forest.
Address: Allegheny National Forest, Marienville, PA 16239, United States Phone: +1 814-927-5700
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
21. Valley Forge National Historical Park, King of Prussia
Being one of the National Registered Historic Places in Pennsylvania, Valley Forge National Historical Park is a Revolutionary War encampment site.
Being an admirable symbol of the suffering, sacrifice, and triumph of the American Revolutionary War, this historical place features some touching exhibits, guided tours, and a movie.
Some of the most highlighted spots in Valley Forge National Historical Park are a National Memorial Arch, a stone house on the Schuylkill River, Muhlenberg Brigade’s recreated log-cabin barracks, and Washington’s Headquarters.
Aside from that, the site contains plenty of trails that connect the key monuments and recreational space too.
If you are looking for a great day trip from Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park is perfect.
Address: 1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406, United States Phone: +1 610-783-1077
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
22. The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh
The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. This museum features a permanent collection of impressive art done by the iconic Andy Warhol in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
So, you can see some of his most famous artworks, including the Tomato Soup Cans and the Marilyn and Elvis portraits. It contains 17 galleries, over 900 paintings, many sculptures, photos, and published unique prints.
And also, the Andy Warhol Museum shows you the whole life story of Andy Warhol, who was born in Pittsburgh.
If you are an art lover, surely add this museum to your list.
Address: 117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States Phone: +1 412-237-8300
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
23. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Intercourse, Lancaster Country
Located just 10 miles east of Lancaster on Pennsylvania Route 340, Intercourse is a quaint town with an old-style country atmosphere.
Tourists and locals visit Intercourse to experience the authentic old lifestyle of Pennsylvania. For example, its Old Country Store sells local crafts and tasty, homemade bakery items, and many other things.
And also, Quilt Museum exhibits amazing traditional handcrafted patchwork quilts.
After visiting there, you can take a buggy ride on Main Street to get to People’s Place, where you can learn about local cultures’ history, traditions, and folk crafts. For example, Amish, Mennonites, and Hutterites.
Aside from that, Intercourse contains the American Military Edged Weaponry Museum, which features an impressive collection of bayonets, knives, swords, and similar weapons.
Apart from that, this exciting village has some other attractive things to see too. So, bring your kids to Intercourse in Lancaster Country.
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
24. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: The Catacombs at Bube’s Brewery, Mount Joy
The Catacombs at Bube’s Brewery is one of the best dining restaurants in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. Located in a 19th-century building, it is ideal for a romantic dinner.
Sitting 43 feet below the surface, The Catacombs at Bube’s Brewery features candlelit tables, stone-lined walls, and an intimate ambiance.
So, if you are looking for a perfect romantic escapade, just reserve your table at The Catacombs at Bube’s Brewery.
They are always ready to offer mouth-watering dishes like steaks, crab cakes, pasta, and many delicious desserts.
Address: 102 N Market St, Mount Joy, PA 17552, United States Phone: +1 717-653-2056
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
25. Things to Do in Pennsylvania: Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square
Longwood Gardens is a gorgeous botanical garden that spreads for over 1,077 acres in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
It is filled with colorful flowers, picturesque meadows, and beautiful woodlands every season of the year. So, one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania whenever you are there is to visit Longwood Gardens.
Its jaw-droppingly beautiful surrounding attracts thousands of visitors from various parts of the country. If you join a guided tour at Longwood Gardens, you can see many beautiful gardens and Instagrmmable photos.
Aside from that, Longwood Gardens hosts many classes and workshops for visitors. For example, guiding how to make honey, herbal cocktails, training the art of floral arrangements, a workshop on wreath making, and many more.
Address: 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States Phone: +1 610-388-1000
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia
- Independence National Park and the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia
- Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Pittsburgh
- Hersheypark, Hershey
- Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley
- Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg
- Fulton Theatre, Lancaster
- Presque Isle State Park, Erie
- Dutch Wonderland, Lancaster
- Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia
- Lancaster Central Market, Lancaster
- Fallingwater, Mill Run
- The National Civil War Museum, Harrisburg
- Raystown Lake, Hesston
- Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Philadelphia
- The Hershey Story Museum, Hershey
- Pennsylvania State Capitol, Harrisburg
- American Music Theatre, Lancaster
- Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks
- Allegheny National Forest, Marienville
- Valley Forge National Historical Park, King of Prussia
- The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh
- Intercourse
- The Catacombs at Bube’s Brewery, Mount Joy
- Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square
Things to Do in Pennsylvania
