Pennsylvania Story Ideas

Making History in PA
The Keystone State earned its nickname because of the instrumental role the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has played in our nation’s history. Early colonial sites, such as Washington’s Crossing in Bucks County, the Liberty Bell (and associated sites) in Philadelphia, and the battlefields of Valley Forge National Historical Park have all contributed to the birth of a nation. While many are familiar with the battlefields at Gettysburg, some of the lesser-known sites also offer a glimpse into the past. In Montgomery County, Peter Wentz Farmstead recreates a working German farm, while the Daniel Boone House in Berks County uncovers the life of the famed pioneer. But more contemporary historic sites, such as the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, the Carrie Blast Furnaces in Pittsburgh, or No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum in the Poconos share the state’s diverse industrial and social history. The Flight 93 National Memorial in Stoystown honors those who lost their lives on 9/11. Pennsylvania also boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Fallingwater in the Laurel Highlands, and the Moravian Church Settlements in Bethlehem.

Dive into PA's Quirky and One-of-a-Kind Festivals
Pennsylvania’s quirky festivals are an invitation to celebrate life’s more whimsical moments. Join the locals in Punxsutawney for the annual Groundhog Day celebration, where the nation anxiously awaits to learn if Punxsutawney Phil spots his shadow. In Harrisburg, experience the excitement of the Pennsylvania Farm Show, the largest indoor agricultural event in the U.S. Butter sculptures and tractor square dancing capture the state’s rich farming heritage in a fun and inviting environment. The Little League World Series in Williamsport is a must-see for sports fans and families, combining thrilling games with a family-friendly atmosphere. Goose Day in Juniata is held each September, celebrating good fortune by dining on geese raised in small flocks by Amish herders. State College Arts Fest is a giant celebration of independent artists with sidewalk art sales and music. Musikfest, the largest non-gated music festival in the country, takes over Bethlehem each August, with more than 500 diverse performances in 10 days. Foodies can’t miss Picklesburgh in Pittsburgh, PA Bacon Fest in Easton, and the Mushroom Festival in Kennett Square.

A Culinary Adventure: PA Palate-Pleasing Destinations
​Pennsylvania has all the right ingredients for epicureans and gourmands searching for a food-centric getaway. Its diverse culinary scene reflects its melting pot of cultures. Embark on a Philadelphia food tour where classic cheesesteaks and Tastykake merge with farm-to-fork cuisine and James Beard-honored restaurateurs. Traditional Amish dishes, such as shoofly pie and homemade pretzels, are hallmarks of Lancaster County. Visit the world’s largest smorgasbord, Shady Maple, featuring 200 feet of authentic Pennsylvania Dutch appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Scour the many public markets in Pittsburgh where global flavors are on display at the savory Strip District and learn about America’s favorite condiment at the Heinz History Center. Pennsylvania’s culinary landscape is as varied as its regions, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Discover PA's Under-the-Radar Destinations
Pennsylvania has plenty of pockets that have yet to be overrun by the masses. Stroll through the quaint streets of downtown York where you can admire 30+ murals and the new York History Center, named one of the top new museums by USA Today 10Best. Head to Huntingdon County for a classic summertime getaway. Here, you’ll find Raystown Lake, the largest lake within the state, offering 118 miles of unspoiled lake shoreline with opportunities for water sports, houseboat stays, and more. State College is well-known as the home of Penn State University, but visitors must add a stop at the 150-year-old Berkey Creamery to their list as well. This location has helped educate makers, such as those from Baskin-Robbins to Häagen-Dazs, on the ideal ice cream creations. Crystal Cave in Kutztown is the state’s first “show cave” dating to 1871 while the National Watch and Clock Museum in Colombia (near Harrisburg) is one of the few timepiece museums in the nation. Explore PA’s forgotten Swedish connections at the American Swedish Museum in Philadelphia and discover the nation’s oldest beer makers at Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville. If those aren’t quirky enough, Mr. Ed’s Elephant Museum, a nondescript wooden building near Gettysburg, features a range of “elephantania” from plaster elephants to elephant salt and pepper shakers—because, well, just because.

Art & Culture: On Stage & Display
Culture is big in PA, where theaters, such as the Bucks County Playhouse, give rise to Broadway stars, and the Warner Theater in Erie delights with its Art Deco charm. Philadelphia’s Academy of Music and Kimmel Center are mainstays for big acts, while the Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall welcomes comedy and music in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh’s host of Carnegie Museums also displays art and natural wonders, while the Philadelphia Art Museum is the stop for major national shows (beyond the Rocky Balboa steps, of course). Also in Philadelphia, the curious medical mysteries of the Mütter Museum await. The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg preserves the history of the nation’s most decisive war, and visitors can explore the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg just a short distance away.
 

A Holiday Escape to PA's Timeless Towns
The magic of the holidays awaits in Pennsylvania’s charming small towns where timeless traditions are brought to life. Imagine strolling through Bethlehem, known as “Christmas City,” where the streets are lined with twinkling lights and festive markets. In Lititz, the warmth of hot cocoa is the drink of choice as visitors flock to the historic Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. The sound of hooves signals the arrival of a horse-drawn carriage, a favorite mode of transportation for visitors exploring the snow-covered streets of Jim Thorpe. For one of the most impressive light displays around, take a drive through the countryside to Koziar’s Christmas Village in Bernville. These destinations conjure up memories of holidays past with nostalgic experiences, perfect for those seeking an escape from the commercialization of the season.

Finding Joy in PA's Winter Escapes
The snow-covered landscapes and icicle-laden eaves effortlessly transform Pennsylvania into a winter wonderland. Glide down the slopes at Seven Springs Mountain Resort in the Somerset and Fayette counties—a region known as the Laurel Highlands—or explore the powdered trails of Cook Forest State Park in the PA Great Outdoors, where the hush of snow-covered woodlands offers a perfect setting for reflection. Take a relaxing winter retreat to The Lodge at Woodloch, named one of the best destination spas in the world. Whether seeking adventure or searching for solace, Pennsylvania’s winter escapes provide a serene and joyful experience.

Spring Break Bliss: Multigenerational Getaways to PA
Springtime in Pennsylvania provides endless opportunities for multigenerational families to bond. In the Laurel Highlands, Ohiopyle State Park offers scenic waterfalls and accessible hiking trails, perfect for grandparents and kids alike. Families can also visit Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic architectural masterpiece, which combines nature, history, and art into one inspiring experience. A short drive away in Pittsburgh, a ride on the historic Duquesne Incline offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, while nearby Moraine State Park provides kayaking and fishing adventures at Lake Arthur. In Lititz, the Wolf Sanctuary of PA offers a unique chance to see these majestic creatures up close. Families can continue their adventure at the Turkey Hill Experience in Columbia, where kids and adults alike can create their own ice cream flavors. For a mix of history and nature, the Allegheny Mountains beckon with the Ghost Town Trail that stretches across Indiana and Cambria Counties. This former rail-trail passes through charming small towns, and Horseshoe Curve, a marvel of 19th-century engineering that captivates all generations.

Spring Awakening: Solo Travel & Wellness Retreats
For solo travelers seeking renewal, Pennsylvania’s spring landscapes offer tranquility and rejuvenation. The Laurel Highlands is home to Nemacolin Resort, where luxury spa treatments and art-inspired wellness activities provide a perfect escape. Adventurers can also hike or bike the Great Allegheny Passage, with its breathtaking springtime views of the rolling countryside. In Lawrence County, McConnells Mill State Park offers a serene solo hike through mossy gorges and past the historic gristmill, while the Lancaster County region invites visitors to Speedwell Forge Lake for quiet kayaking and birdwatching. Over in Claysburg in Blair County, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, Blue Knob All Seasons Resort offers a digital detox amid the mountain air, where mindfulness and reflection come naturally in the peaceful surroundings.

Rooted in PA: Botanical Gardens & Arboretums
Near Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is one of the world’s premier gardens featuring massive outdoor displays, seasonal exhibits, and stunning indoor greenhouses and conservatories. A new Mediterranean-inspired greenhouse the size of a football field just opened in 2024 after years of development. The Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens is one of the nation’s largest gardens by area that educates visitors on the importance of conservation while also hosting events for all ages. Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh is on the National Register of Historic Places and features Chihuly glass installations among its magnificent greenhouses and blooms. Tyler Arboretum in Media blossoms with magnolia and cherry collections. Chanticleer Garden in Wayne (just 30 minutes from Philadelphia) is one of the most celebrated gardens in the state, which one magazine touted as being “planted to perfection.” Visitors to Happy Valley can enjoy The Arboretum of Penn State with its gardens and event spaces that are always decked out with seasonal flare.

Adventures in PA's Mountains & Lakes
Pennsylvania’s lesser-known regions shine during the summer months with unparalleled outdoor experiences. In Erie, visitors to Presque Isle State Park can enjoy sandy beaches, sparkling waters, and scenic lighthouses. Visitors can rent paddle boards or kayaks to explore Lake Erie or try their hand at some of PA’s top fishing locations where you might catch species like walleye and perch. The Pennsylvania Wilds—a 13-county landscape in north-central PA covering two million acres of public land—offers a truly magical experience at Cherry Springs State Park, renowned as one of the darkest places on the East Coast for stargazing. Nearby, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon provides breathtaking vistas and scenic hiking trails at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks. In Upstate PA, Ricketts Glen State Park impresses with its network of more than 20 waterfalls, making it a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For a more relaxed vibe, Frances Slocum State Park offers picturesque lakefront camping, perfect for canoeing and birdwatching.

Summer Road Trips & Detour-Worthy Stops Across PA
Summer road trips in Pennsylvania are as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Scenic highways, such as Route 6 and I-79, lead to unforgettable adventures, from rolling vineyards on the Lake Erie Wine Trail to sandy beaches at Presque Isle State Park. Travelers can uncover hidden gems like quirky art installations in Meadville or the gas-lit streets of Wellsboro near the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. In the north-central region of public lands known as Pennsylvania Wilds (larger than Yellowstone National Park!), the Elk Country Loop offers the chance to spot majestic wild elk, while Hyner View State Park provides breathtaking vistas. Head east to Williamsport, where you can take a scenic ride on the Susquehanna River aboard the historic Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat. Whether chasing waterfalls, wildlife or whimsical roadside attractions, Pennsylvania’s highways promise a road trip filled with scenic beauty and delightful surprises.

PA's Summer Thrills & Theme Parks
Pennsylvania is the ultimate destination for families seeking adventure, entertainment, and unforgettable summer memories. Start in Hershey, home to Hersheypark, where thrilling roller coasters, water attractions at The Boardwalk, and endless sweet treats await visitors of all ages. Beyond the rides, explore The Hershey Story Museum for interactive exhibits on Milton Hershey’s legacy, the famous Chocolate World, or visit ZooAmerica to get up close with North American wildlife. In Allentown, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom offers a perfect mix of high-energy roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and one of the region’s largest water parks. Little ones will love a trip to Sesame Place in Bucks County, where they can see favorite characters like Elmo and Big Bird alongside family- friendly rides and water attractions. In Easton, the Crayola Experience is a family favorite for kids to discover everything they never knew they could know about crayons. Continue your journey to Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster County, a park designed specifically for young families with its medieval theme and pint-sized attractions. For classic amusement, head to Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, where free admission and pay-as-you-go rides make for a budget-friendly outing. Knoebels boasts some of the top-ranked wooden roller coasters in the world! Just outside Pittsburgh, you’ll find Kennywood. This National Historic Landmark Park has been entertaining visitors of all ages for more than 125 years.

Chasing Autumn Colors in PA
With foliage awash in rich hues displaying a palette of autumn colors, no other state does fall quite like Pennsylvania. Witness fiery reds and bursts of yellows bright enough to dazzle even the most discerning of leaf-peepers. Hike the rolling hills of the Laurel Highlands region that cross Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties or bike the winding roads of the Pocono Mountains. Visitors can embark on an epic and colorful road trip rambling along Route 6 in the Endless Mountain or enjoy a scenic hike in Ricketts Glen State Park. For an exploration on wheels, take a drive through the 200+ historic covered bridges peppered throughout the Commonwealth. Whether exploring solo or with friends and family, the season’s vibrant shades of gold and garnet promise a profound connection to nature and a perfect refuge from the daily grind.

Savor the Flavors: PA's Fall Festivals of Wine & Beer
The arrival of fall to Pennsylvania results in hearty fare, fabulous festivals, and flavors of nutmeg and pumpkin spice. Oenophiles, beer enthusiasts, and spirit seekers will discover a destination with a rich heritage of winemaking, brewing, and distilling. With more than 350 wineries, “Pennsylvino” is now the fourth-largest wine-producing state in the country. Visitors can take a sip trip through the Lehigh Valley AVA—a dedicated American Viticultural Area—where plump grapes dangle from vines and winemakers open their vineyard doors to offer tastings of their prized vintages. In Erie County, Lake Erie Wine Country hosts harvest festivals exploding with live music, grape stomping, and vineyard tours. Oktoberfest celebrations are aplenty in Pennsylvania with craft ales and lagers, oom-pah-pah bands, and authentic German fare, most notably in Pittsburgh, Bethlehem, and Washington County. The fall experience isn’t complete without a stop at Hershey’s Wine & Food Festival, where food and wine pairings are served alongside craft beer and chocolate treats. Pennsylvania’s roster of seasonal and savory events only further solidifies the state’s broad culinary appeal.

Pick Your Peace in PA's Untamed Wilderness
Visitors can immerse themselves in Pennsylvania’s vast wilderness, providing proof that there is a camping experience for everyone. Whether it’s a sequestered site in Allegheny National Forest or the family-friendly campgrounds peppered throughout Ohiopyle State Park, the experiences are priceless. Pitch a tent under the towering trees belonging to Pine Creek Gorge, often touted as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” or enjoy the camaraderie of group camping along the Delaware Water Gap in the Pocono Mountains. Whether seeking solitude or a shared adventure, Pennsylvania’s bucolic landscapes offer a rejuvenating respite from modern-day living. For those who love nature but can’t do without the creature comforts of a luxury retreat, Pennsylvania offers a collection of glamping and soft camping experiences that blend the great outdoors with stylish amenities. Escape to Under Canvas in the Pocono Mountains, where safari-style tents provide a serene escape amidst nature’s beauty. The Yurts at The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort pair cozy interiors with riverside views. These alternative camping options allow visitors to enjoy the splendor of the wilderness without sacrificing all the comforts of a fine hotel, making the outdoors exciting and accessible to anyone who wishes to experience it.

Journey Through Time: Scenic Train Experiences in PA
All aboard for an unforgettable journey through Pennsylvania’s rich rail history and stunning landscapes. Step aboard the Strasburg Rail Road in Lancaster County, where vintage steam trains take travelers through the heart of Amish Country on the oldest continuously operating railroad in the U.S. In the Laurel Highlands, the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad winds through historic oil fields, illustrating the history of America’s first petroleum boom. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in the Pocono Mountains offers breathtaking views of autumn’s vibrant colors. The Northern Central Railway in York offers a time travel experience, from historic presidential encounters to the untamed Wild West. These train experiences are more than just a means of transportation—they are a journey through Pennsylvania’s past and present, perfect for travelers seeking nostalgia and adventure.