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Pennsylvania

Carmen Willings
​itinerantjoy.com
​April 25, 2025
​Pennsylvania is known for its rich history, including the birthplace of American independence with Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. The state also boasts significant natural landmarks like the Pocono Mountains and Gettysburg, a key Civil War site. Additionally, Pennsylvania is famous for its Amish culture, Hershey chocolate, and vibrant cities like Pittsburgh, known for its steel industry history. The state's diverse landscapes offer a mix of history, nature, and cultural heritage.
Painting of Pittsburgh

​National Historic Sites


Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

110 Federal Park Rd, Gallitzin, PA 16641​
Website: ​Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
Preserves the first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, a key link in early 19th-century transportation. Visitors can explore the Summit Level Visitor Center, the restored Lemon House tavern, and Engine House No. 6, which showcases how stationary steam engines hauled canal boats over steep terrain. The site also includes trails and the historic Staple Bend Tunnel, offering insight into early engineering feats that helped connect eastern and western markets.
a two story brick building with covered porch with white trim on a green lawn surrounded by trees
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

532 N 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123​
Website: ​Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
Preserves the only surviving residence of the famed author during his time in the city. Poe lived here from 1843 to 1844, a period considered among his most productive, during which he published notable works like "The Gold-Bug" and "The Spectacles" . The house remains unfurnished, allowing visitors to experience the space much as Poe did. An adjoining building features exhibits on his life and literary contributions. 
a three story brick building with white trim windows surrounded by trees.
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Eisenhower National Historic Site

243 Eisenhower Farm Rd, Gettysburg, PA 17325​
Website: ​Eisenhower National Historic Site
Preserves the home and farm of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States. Purchased in 1950, the 690-acre property served as a weekend retreat and a meeting place for world leaders during his presidency, offering a peaceful setting adjacent to the Gettysburg Battlefield.
a two story white house with a covered porch and green shutters on a well manicured lawn surrounded by trees
Eisenhower National Historic Site

​Friendship Hill National Historic Site

223 New Geneva Road, Point Marion, PA 15474​
Website: ​​Friendship Hill National Historic Site
Preserves the historic home and estate of Albert Gallatin, an influential early American statesman and longtime Secretary of the Treasury. Overlooking the Monongahela River, the site includes the Gallatin House and over 600 acres of wooded trails and meadows. Visitors can explore the grounds year-round and learn about Gallatin's role in shaping U.S. fiscal policy, the Louisiana Purchase, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 
a two story split level house with a well in front on a well manicured lawn surrounded by trees
​Friendship Hill National Historic Site

Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church NHS

916 S Swanson St, Philadelphia, PA 19147​
Website: ​​Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church NHS
The oldest church in Pennsylvania, constructed between 1698 and 1700 by Swedish settlers. Originally serving as a Swedish Lutheran church, it became part of the Episcopal Church in 1845. Designated a National Historic Site in 1942, the church and its historic cemetery offer visitors a glimpse into over 300 years of history.
a brick church with a spire surrounded by trees with tombstones in the front
​Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church National Historic Site

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA 19520​​
Website: ​Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
Preserves an early American industrial community known as an "iron plantation." Established in 1771 by ironmaster Mark Bird, the site operated until 1883, producing iron goods such as stove plates and cannon for the Continental Navy during the Revolutionary War. The 848-acre park features restored structures including a charcoal-fired blast furnace, ironmaster's mansion, blacksmith shop, company store, and workers' houses, offering insight into the business, technology, and lifestyle of the era. The site also highlights the diverse workforce, including free and enslaved African Americans, women, and children, who contributed to the furnace's operations.
historic simple white one and two story buildings with orange roofs on a green lawn surrounded by trees
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

​Steamtown National Historic Site

350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503​
Website: ​​Steamtown National Historic Site
A unique destination dedicated to preserving the history of steam railroading in America. The site features a working roundhouse, turntable, and a vast collection of steam locomotives and railcars. Highlights include the Union Pacific "Big Boy" No. 4012, one of the world's largest steam locomotives, now on static display after a cosmetic restoration. Visitors can explore museum exhibits, watch the park film "Steel and Steam," and enjoy seasonal train rides like the Scranton Limited.
a black steam engine on tracks under a metal walkway
Steamtown National Historic Site

​National Monument


Carlisle Indian School National Monument

870 Jim Thorpe Road, Carlisle Barracks, PA 17013
​Website: 
Carlisle Indian School National Monument
Honors the resilience of Indigenous communities affected by the federal Indian boarding school system. Between 1879 and 1918, over 7,800 Native American and Alaska Native children from more than 140 tribes were forcibly enrolled at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, the first off-reservation boarding school in the U.S. The school aimed to assimilate Indigenous children by eradicating their native languages and cultures, a policy encapsulated in the phrase "Kill the Indian, save the man."
Historical red brick building with an attached white building with covered patios, surrounded by a manicured lawn and trees at Carlisle Indian School National Monument.
Carlisle Indian School National Monument

​National Historical Parks, Military Parks & Battlefields


Fort Necessity National Battlefield

National Pike, Farmington, ​PA 15437
Website: ​Fort Necessity National Battlefield
Preserves the site of George Washington's first military engagement—the Battle of Fort Necessity on July 3, 1754. This pivotal skirmish marked the beginning of the French and Indian War and set the stage for future conflicts leading to the American Revolution.
Reconstructed circular wooden stockade at Fort Necessity National Battlefield, set in a wide green field surrounded by forested hills under a partly cloudy sky.
Fort Necessity National Battlefield

Gettysburg National Military Park

1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325
​Website: 
Gettysburg National Military Park​
Preserves the site of the pivotal Civil War Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863. The park encompasses over 6,000 acres, including the Gettysburg National Cemetery, and offers visitors a comprehensive experience of this significant historical event. 
Monument and historic cannon at Gettysburg National Military Park, set on a grassy battlefield with scattered trees under a blue sky with light clouds.
Gettysburg National Military Park

Independence National Historic Park

Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: ​Independence National Historic Park
Preserves key landmarks from America's founding. It includes iconic attractions like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, and the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom. Other notable sites include Congress Hall, Franklin Court (the former home of Benjamin Franklin), and the Independence Visitor Center. 
Front view of Independence Hall at Independence National Historical Park, featuring a red brick building with white trim, a central clock tower, and American flags, surrounded by a green lawn and flowers
Independence National Historic Park

​​Valley Forge National Historic Park

1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406​
Website: ​​​Valley Forge National Historic Park
Commemorates the 1777–1778 winter encampment of General George Washington and the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This challenging winter marked a transformative period for the troops, who emerged more disciplined and unified, largely due to the training provided by Baron von Steuben. 
​Stone arch monument at Valley Forge National Historical Park, known as the National Memorial Arch, standing tall against a blue sky with trees and grass surrounding the base.
​Valley Forge National Historic Park

​National Memorials


Flight 93 National Monument

Stonycreek Township, PA 15563​
Website: ​Flight 93 National Monument
Honors the 40 passengers and crew members of United Airlines Flight 93, who heroically thwarted a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. The grounds encompass the Memorial Plaza, Wall of Names, Tower of Voices, and the crash site.
Flight 93 National Memorial featuring the white marble Wall of Names curving gently through an open field under a cloudy sky, commemorating the passengers and crew.
Flight 93 National Monument

Johnstown Flood National Monument

733 Lake Rd, South Fork, PA 15956​
Website: Johnstown Flood National Monument
Commemorates the tragic 1889 flood caused by the failure of the South Fork Dam. This disaster resulted in the loss of over 2,200 lives and remains one of the deadliest man-made catastrophes in U.S. history. The memorial site includes the remains of the dam, the Lake View Visitor Center, and various exhibits detailing the events and aftermath of the flood.
Overlook view of Johnstown Flood National Memorial, featuring a white building with red trim nestled among green hills and surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Johnstown Flood National Monument

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Monument

301 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19106​
Website: ​Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Monument
The smallest unit in the U.S. National Park System. This historic house was the residence of Polish military engineer and revolutionary Thaddeus Kosciuszko during his stay in Philadelphia in 1797–1798. The site commemorates his contributions to American and Polish independence.
Statue of Thaddeus Kosciuszko standing atop a tall stone monument, depicting him in military uniform holding a sword, with trees and sky in the background.
Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Monument

​National Heritage Areas


Oil Region National Heritage Area

Oil City, PA 16301​​
Website: ​Oil Region National Heritage Area
Recognized as the birthplace of the modern petroleum industry. It commemorates Edwin Drake’s 1859 drilling of the world’s first successful commercial oil well near Titusville, an event that ignited a global energy revolution. Visitors can explore the Drake Well Museum and Park, which features a replica of the original oil derrick and exhibits detailing the industry's history . 
Historic wooden building with a large stone chimney, surrounded by trees and greenery, located at Oil Region National Heritage Area.
Drake Well Museum and Park

Schuylkill River Valley National Heritage Area

Pottstown, PA 19465​​
Website: ​Schuylkill River Valley National Heritage Area
Played a pivotal role in the American, Industrial, and Environmental Revolutions, with landmarks like Valley Forge National Historical Park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, and Independence National Historical Park highlighting its rich history. The Schuylkill River Trail serves as the backbone of the heritage area. 
Rocky river flowing beneath a stone arch bridge surrounded by green trees in the Schuylkill River Valley National Heritage Area.
Schuylkill River Valley National Heritage Area

​Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

2750 Hugh Moore Park Rd, Easton, PA 18042​
Website: ​​Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor
Preserves and celebrates the region's rich industrial history and natural beauty. Stretching from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol, the corridor follows historic transportation routes—including canals and railroads—that once carried anthracite coal and iron to fuel America's Industrial Revolution. 
River and canal flowing beside a historic brick building with red trimmed windows, surrounded by trees, in the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.
​Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

​National Historic & Scenic Trails


Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Website: Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Spans approximately 229.6 miles through Pennsylvania, making it the fourth-longest segment among the 14 states the trail traverses. Beginning at the Maryland border near Pen Mar and extending to the Delaware Water Gap at the New Jersey line, this section is renowned for its rocky terrain, earning it the nickname "Rocksylvania" among hikers.
large boulders on mountain top overlooking a valley
Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Captain John Smith Chesapeake NHT

Website: Captain John Smith Chesapeake NHT
The Pennsylvania segment of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail highlights the historical and cultural significance of the Susquehanna River, the Chesapeake Bay's largest tributary. Although Captain John Smith's 1608 explorations did not extend far up the Susquehanna, the trail encompasses the river's entire length to honor its importance as an Indigenous trade route and its contribution of approximately 50% of the Bay's freshwater.
Clear river with reflection of dirt coast, trees, and blue sky
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Website: Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
Marks the expedition's starting point, beginning in Pittsburgh. In 1803, Meriwether Lewis launched the keelboat here that would carry the Corps of Discovery down the Ohio River, initiating their historic journey to the Pacific Ocean. This eastern portion of the trail, known as the "Eastern Legacy," was officially added in 2019, extending the trail's length to approximately 4,900 miles and encompassing the preparatory phase of the expedition.
circular plate in cement of point of renewal along lewis and clark national historic trail
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

North Country National Scenic Trail

Website: North Country National Scenic Trail
Offers a diverse and scenic hiking experience across the state's northwestern region. Entering from Ohio near Beaver Falls, the trail meanders through a variety of landscapes, including state game lands, state parks, and national forests, before reaching the New York border near the Allegheny Reservoir. Notable segments include passages through McConnells Mill State Park, Moraine State Park, and the Allegheny National Forest, where hikers can explore dense hardwood forests, glacial rock formations, and serene river valleys. 
North Country National Scenic Trail sign surrounded by autumn folliage
North Country National Scenic Trail

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Website: Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
In Pennsylvania, the trail includes the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (LHHT) and a segment of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). The LHHT offers a 70-mile journey through the Laurel Ridge, featuring dense forests, scenic vistas, and diverse wildlife. The GAP provides a 73-mile rail-trail route between Ohiopyle, PA, and Cumberland, MD, passing through the Allegheny Highlands, including notable landmarks like the Eastern Continental Divide and Big Savage Tunnel.he state's southwestern region, connecting natural beauty with historical significance.
a converted railroad turned into walkway with wooden rail leading into a tunnel in the side of mountain
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

​Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail

​Website: Washington-Rochambeau Rev. Route NHT 
The Pennsylvania segment of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail commemorates the 1781 march of American and French forces from Philadelphia to Virginia, culminating in the pivotal Siege of Yorktown. On September 3 and 4, 1781, the French army paraded down Chestnut Street in Philadelphia, impressing the public as they encamped west of the city. The route traversed key locations such as Valley Forge, where the Continental Army had wintered in 1777–78, and extended into New Jersey, continuing southward toward Yorktown.
close up of historic brick building with with a flag of Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route
​Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail in Pennsylvania

​Historic & Cultural Landmarks


Anthracite Heritage Museum and Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504
Website: ​Anthracite Heritage Museum and Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour
Offers an immersive exploration into the region's coal mining legacy. The museum showcases exhibits on hard coal mining, related industries, and the immigrant culture of northeastern Pennsylvania, highlighting life in the mines, mills, and factories . Adjacent to the museum, the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour allows visitors to descend 300 feet underground into a real anthracite coal mine, providing firsthand insight into the challenging work conditions of miners from the past.
Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour grey building with glass surrounded by trees
Anthracite Heritage Museum and Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

Bryn Athyn Historic District

1005 Cathedral Rd, Bryn Athyn, PA 19009​
Website: ​Bryn Athyn Historic District
A National Historic Landmark renowned for its exceptional architecture and cultural heritage. Developed between 1892 and 1938 by the Pitcairn family, prominent industrialists and Swedenborgian church leaders, the district features four significant structures: Cairnwood Estate, a Beaux-Arts mansion designed by Carrère and Hastings; Bryn Athyn Cathedral, a Gothic-style church known for its handcrafted artistry; Glencairn Museum, a Romanesque-inspired former residence now housing religious art collections; and Cairncrest, a residence that now serves as church offices.
Ornate stone Bryn Athyn Historic Building with arched windows, decorative carvings, and tall spires, surrounded by green lawns and trees.
Bryn Athyn Historic District

Brandywine Battlefield

1491 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA 19317​
Website: ​Brandywine Battlefield
Commemorates the site of the largest single-day land battle of the American Revolutionary War, fought on September 11, 1777. This pivotal encounter saw General George Washington's Continental Army clash with British forces under General Sir William Howe, resulting in a British victory that led to the capture of Philadelphia. Key attractions include the Benjamin Ring House, which served as Washington's headquarters, and the Gideon Gilpin House, providing insights into 18th-century life.
Stone historic building with red trim and white shutters at Brandywine Battlefield, surrounded by green grass and trees.
Brandywine Battlefield

​Daniel Boone Homestead

400 Daniel Boone Rd, Birdsboro, PA 19508​
Website: ​​Daniel Boone Homestead
Preserves the birthplace of Daniel Boone, born in 1734. It includes a restored colonial house, exhibits on frontier life, and walking trails through historical landscapes. The homestead tells the story of early settlers and later families.​
Stone Daniel Boone Homestead with a gabled roof, shuttered windows, and a wooden porch, set among trees and grassy lawn.
​Daniel Boone Homestead

Eastern State Penitentiary

2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130​
Website: ​Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary was the world’s first penitentiary, known for its radial design and focus on solitary confinement. It housed famous inmates like Al Capone and operated from 1829 to 1971. Now a museum, it explores prison reform and justice.
Exterior of Eastern State Penitentiary featuring tall stone walls, arched entryway, and a castle-like appearance with towers, under a cloudy sky.
Eastern State Penitentiary

Grey Towers National Historic Site

151 Grey Towers Dr Drive, Milford, PA 18337​
Website: ​Grey Towers National Historic Site
The home of Gifford Pinchot, founder of the U.S. Forest Service and two-time Pennsylvania governor. The 1886 mansion, designed in French château style, sits on 102 scenic acres. Visitors can tour the home, gardens, and learn about conservation history.
Close-up view of Grey Towers National Historic Site, showing the stone chateau-style mansion with round turrets, slate roof, and detailed architectural features surrounded by trees.
Grey Towers National Historic Site

Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle

84 S Pine St, Doylestown, PA 18901​
Website: ​Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle
Historic landmarks that showcase the vision of Henry Chapman Mercer (1856–1930), an archaeologist, tilemaker, and antiquarian. Fonthill Castle, built between 1908 and 1912, served as Mercer's home and displays his collection of handcrafted ceramic tiles and prints. The Mercer Museum, constructed in 1916, houses over 60,000 artifacts representing early American trades, tools, and crafts. 
View of the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle, featuring concrete castle-like structures with multiple towers, arched windows, and intricate architectural details, surrounded by green lawn and trees.
Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle

Molly Pitcher’s Grave

273 Cemetery Ave, Carlisle, PA 17013​
Website: ​Molly Pitcher’s Grave
Honors the Revolutionary War heroine who is said to have fought alongside her husband in the Battle of Monmouth. Known for her bravery in delivering water to soldiers, she later took over her husband's cannon when he was wounded. The grave site is a tribute to her contributions to the American Revolution.
 Molly Pitcher’s Grave marked by a tall stone monument with an American flag beside it, located in a grassy cemetery surrounded by trees.
Molly Pitcher’s Grave

National Civil War Museum

1 Lincoln Cir, Harrisburg, PA 17103​
Website: ​National Civil War Museum
Offers a comprehensive view of the Civil War, presenting both Union and Confederate perspectives. Through exhibits and artifacts, it explores the war's causes, battles, and significant figures, making it a key educational resource on American history.
Front view of the National Civil War Museum, a large red-brick building with tall white columns and a central dome, set against a blue sky and surrounded by a well-kept lawn.
National Civil War Museum

National Watch and Clock Museum

514 Poplar St, Columbia, PA 17512​
Website: ​National Watch and Clock Museum
Houses an enormous collection of clocks and timekeeping devices. Spanning centuries of horological history, it offers visitors a fascinating look at how timepieces have evolved and their cultural significance throughout history.
Exterior of the National Watch and Clock Museum, a modern building with a light-colored facade, surrounded by neatly trimmed bushes and trees.
National Watch and Clock Museum

Pennsylvania Lumber Museum

5660 US-6 W, Ulysses, PA 16948​
Website: ​Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
The Pennsylvania Lumber Museum showcases the history and impact of the lumber industry on the state. Through exhibits and interactive displays, visitors learn about logging, sawmills, and the role of forests in Pennsylvania's development.
Exterior of the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, featuring a rustic wooden building with a gabled roof, surrounded by tall pine trees and a grassy lawn
Pennsylvania Lumber Museum

Philadelphia’s Elfreth’s Alley

Philadelphia, ​PA 19106
Website: ​Philadelphia’s Elfreth’s Alley
The oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, dating back to the 1720s. This charming alley offers a glimpse into colonial life with its historic row homes and remains a living piece of Philadelphia’s rich history.
Narrow cobblestone street lined with rows of historic red brick and white-painted colonial-era houses with colorful doors and window shutters, flower boxes, and wrought iron railings, under a hazy sky.
Philadelphia’s Elfreth’s Alley

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

300 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579​
Website: ​Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Boasts a vast collection of historic locomotives, showcasing the development of American railroads. Adjacent to the Strasburg Rail Road, it allows visitors to explore the history of trains and their impact on the nation's growth
Bright blue Conrail locomotive engine displayed indoors at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, sitting on train tracks with museum lighting highlighting its bold colors and detailed features.
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

The Andy Warhol Museum

117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212​
Website: ​The Andy Warhol Museum
The largest museum dedicated to a single artist, celebrating the life and work of the pop art icon. Through vibrant and sensory exhibits, visitors experience Warhol's groundbreaking influence on art, culture, and media.
A close up of the Andy Warhol Museum, a building with dark gray glass windows
The Andy Warhol Museum

Washington Crossing Historic Park

​1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing, PA 18977
Website: Washington Crossing Historic Park ​​
The site where George Washington famously crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776. This pivotal moment in American history is commemorated with reenactments and exhibits that bring the revolutionary event to life for visitors.​
Monument at Washington Crossing Historic Park
Washington Crossing Historic Park

Ephrata Cloister

​632 W Main St, Ephrata, PA 17522
Website: Ephrata Cloister ​
Founded in the 1700s, was a unique religious community known for its simple lifestyle, distinctive Germanic architecture, and beautiful, peaceful grounds. It served as a spiritual center and later as a Revolutionary War hospital.
Historic Ephrata Cloister, showing several simple, weathered wooden buildings with steeply pitched roofs surrounded by green grass and trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Ephrata Cloister

Fallingwater

​1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464
Website: ​Fallingwater
Founded in the 1700s, was a unique religious community known for its simple lifestyle, distinctive Germanic architecture, and beautiful, peaceful grounds. It served as a spiritual center and later as a Revolutionary War hospital.
Fallingwater, the iconic modern house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, built over a cascading waterfall with cantilevered terraces extending above the flowing water, surrounded by lush green forest.
Fallingwater

Christ Church Burrial Ground

340 N 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106​
​Christ Church Burrial Ground
The final resting place of several prominent figures, including Benjamin Franklin. The historic cemetery provides insight into colonial history and early American leaders.
Christ Church Burial Ground with rows of historic weathered gravestones on grassy ground, surrounded by mature trees
Christ Church Burrial Ground

Wharton Esherick Museum

1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern, PA 19355
Website: ​Wharton Esherick Museum
Preserves the home and studio of the innovative wood artist. The space itself is a creative work of art, blending sculpture, architecture, and handcrafted design.
Wharton Esherick Museum, featuring a unique, sculptural wooden building with flowing organic shapes and large windows, set among trees and natural landscaping under a blue sky.
Wharton Esherick Museum

​Nature & Scenic Locations


Allegheny National Forest

Northwestern Pennsylvania
​Website: 
Allegheny National Forest
The Allegheny National Forest spans over 500,000 acres and offers a wide range of recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. With its scenic byways, deep forests, and peaceful surroundings, it's a year-round retreat for outdoor lovers.
View from a railing overlooking Allegheny National Forest, showing dense green trees extending to a calm body of water below under a clear sky.
Allegheny National Forest

Kinzua Bridge State Park

​296 Viaduct Rd, Mt Jewett, PA 16740
Website: ​Kinzua Bridge State Park
Home to the Kinzua Sky Walk, a stunning walkway built on the remains of a 19th-century railroad trestle that was partially destroyed by a tornado. Visitors can walk out over the gorge on a glass platform, explore the visitor center, and learn about the bridge’s history and engineering marvels.
Aerial view of the Kinzua Bridge spanning a deep forested valley, showing the tall steel structure stretching part way across the gorge on lush green trees below.
Kinzua Bridge State Park

Pine Creek Gorge

​Watson Township, PA 17740
Website: ​Pine Creek Gorge
Often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” Pine Creek Gorge stretches over 45 miles and reaches depths of nearly 1,500 feet. Located near Wellsboro, it features overlooks, waterfalls, and the scenic Pine Creek Rail Trail, ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying dramatic natural vistas.
Pine Creek Gorge
Pine Creek Gorge

Poconos Mountains

Website: Poconos Mountains
Offers four seasons of recreation, from hiking, fishing, and boating in summer to skiing and snow tubing in winter. The region also includes picturesque towns like Jim Thorpe, rich in Victorian charm, as well as resorts, lakes, and state parks perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Expansive view of Pine Creek Gorge featuring steep forested cliffs and a winding river cutting through the vibrant autumn-colored trees below. A boardwalk with red rails crosses the gorge.
Poconos Mountains

Ricketts Glen State Park

695 PA-487, Benton, PA 17814​
​Website: Ricketts Glen State Park
Famous for its Falls Trail, a challenging yet rewarding hike past 22 named waterfalls, the tallest being 94 feet. The park also offers camping, swimming in Lake Jean, and a variety of scenic trails through old-growth forests.
 A cascading waterfall surrounded by lush green foliage at Ricketts Glen State Park, with water tumbling over moss-covered rocks into a clear pool below.
Ricketts Glen State Park

Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival

​252 Twin Lakes Rd, Latrobe, PA 15650
Website: ​Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival
Held each summer near Latrobe, the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival celebrates regional culture with four days of live music, traditional crafts, art exhibits, and ethnic food. Set in Twin Lakes Park around the Fourth of July, it’s a family-friendly event that draws thousands for its festive, community-focused atmosphere.
View of the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival from across a calm lake, showing colorful tents and booths along the shoreline with trees and a clear sky in the background.
Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival

​Unique Locations


Hershey Chocolate World

​101 Chocolate World Wy, Hershey, PA 17033
​Website: Hershey Chocolate World
Offers immersive chocolate-themed experiences including a free ride through a simulated chocolate factory, chocolate tastings, create-your-own candy bars, a 4D movie, and massive chocolate-themed retail space—all right next to Hersheypark.
“Home of Hershey Chocolate” sign in front of a brick building with tall smokestacks, part of Hershey Chocolate World, with giant chocolate bar under a clear blue sky.
Hershey Chocolate World

Idlewild & Storybook Forest

​2574 Lincoln Hwy, Ligonier, PA 15658
Website: ​Idlewild & Storybook Forest
America’s oldest children’s amusement park, offers a mix of gentle rides, water fun, and a nostalgic atmosphere ideal for younger children. Story Book Forest is a beloved section where families walk through charming, life-sized fairy tale scenes and nursery rhymes.
Crooked house at Idlewild & Storybook Forest with crooked sign in foreground of the crooked man story
Idlewild & Storybook Forest

Kennywood Park

​4800 Kennywood Blvd, West Mifflin, PA 15122
Website: ​Kennywood Park
A historic amusement park and National Historic Landmark, known for its mix of classic wooden roller coasters, modern thrill rides, and family-friendly attractions. Its blend of old-time charm and exciting rides makes it a Pittsburgh-area favorite.
Kennywood Park sign always a good time
Kennywood Park

Sight & Sound Theatres

​300 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks, PA 17572
Website: ​Sight & Sound Theatres
Presents large-scale, biblically themed stage productions featuring elaborate sets, live animals, and immersive sound and lighting. Located in Lancaster County, it’s a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience that appeals to all ages.
Sight & Sound Theatre building lit at night
Sight & Sound Theatres


​Dark Sky Places

Cherry Springs State Park. Due to its exceptionally dark skies, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places in the eastern US for stargazing. Located in the largely undeveloped Susquehannock State Forest.

​Iconic Pennsylvania Foods

  • Apple Butter. A thick, smooth spread made from slow-cooked apples and spices.
  • Birch Beer. A regional soft drink similar to root beer but with a wintergreen bite.
  • Cornmeal Mush is a cornmeal dish often eaten for breakfast, especially Pennsylvania Dutch areas
  • Hand-rolled Soft Pretzels. Auntie Anne’s started in Lancaster County, but hand-rolled Amish pretzels are a more traditional experience.
  • Hershey’s Chocolate. Hershey, PA is home to the famous chocolate brand.
  • Lebanon Bologna. A semi-dry fermented sausage with a smoky, tangy flavor, traditionally from PA Dutch country.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch Pickled Foods. Pickled red beet eggs, chow-chow (pickled vegetable mix), and more.
  • Philly Cheesesteak. Thinly sliced beef with melted cheese (often Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American) in a long roll.
  • Pierogies. Dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or sauerkraut, popular in Pittsburgh and across Eastern PA.
  • Pittsburgh-style Sandwich (Primanti Bros.). Sandwich with meat, coleslaw, and French fries inside the bread.
  • Scrapple. A Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast food made from pork scraps and cornmeal, formed into a loaf and fried.
  • Shoofly Pie. A molasses pie with a crumb topping, common in Amish cooking.
  • Soft Pretzels (Philadelphia-style). Chewy, doughy, often twisted into a knot and sprinkled with coarse salt.
  • Tastykakes. Snack cakes that were invented in Philly.
  • Whoopie Pies. Soft, cake-like chocolate cookies sandwiched around creamy filling.

​Sensory Souvenirs 

  • Amish Handwoven Baskets – Baskets made by the Amish, providing a textured, hand-crafted experience.
  • Amish Quilts – Pieces of quilted fabric that offer various textures and patterns for students to explore.
  • Folk Art from the Pennsylvania Dutch Region. Hand-painted signs, plates, hand-painted tiles with traditional motifs.
  • Handmade Leather Goods from Bucks County. Leather wallets, belts, or bags handmade by local artisans.
  • Handmade pottery from the Pocono Mountains
  • Hershey Chocolate. Pennsylvania is the home of Hershey, the "Chocolate Capital of the World." Hershey's chocolates, including classic Hershey's bars and unique products.
  • Incline Car Models (Mount Washington)
  • Lancaster County Amish Goods. The Amish communities in Lancaster County are known for their handcrafted goods, such as quilts, furniture, and baked goods. These items make unique, high-quality souvenirs.
  • Local River Rocks. Unique rocks from areas like the Delaware River, which offer interesting textures and shapes.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch Pretzels. Soft pretzels from local bakeries or packaged hard pretzels from Lancaster County.
  • Pennsylvania Maple Syrup. A bottle of locally made maple syrup, or maple syrup candies.
  • Ralph Stover State Park Stoneware. Stoneware pottery like mugs, bowls, or pitchers from local potteries in rural Pennsylvania.
  • Shoofly Pie. A Pennsylvania Dutch dessert, this molasses pie has a sweet, rich filling and a crumbly top. It’s an iconic treat in the state.
  • Slate/stone from Slate Belt Region (Bangor)
  • Teddy Bear from the Teddy Bear Shop in Kutztown. A teddy bear from the shop, or other stuffed animals made locally.
  • Vibrant Art from Philadelphia’s Art Scene. Prints, paintings, or sculptures from local galleries.
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