Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, anchors the American narrative with a blend of historic gravity and scenic charm. Philadelphia stands as the nation's birthplace, where visitors walk the cobblestones near Independence Hall and view the Liberty Bell. Across the state, Pittsburgh sheds its steel past for a vibrant arts scene, framed by its iconic yellow bridges. Between these urban poles lies the tranquil Dutch Country, where Amish buggies share the road and rolling farmlands offer a slower pace. Nature lovers flock to the Pocono Mountains for skiing, or hike the waterfall-laden trails of Ricketts Glen State Park. From the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg to the sweetness of Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers a diverse journey through the very heart of American heritage.
Pennsylvania, often called the Keystone State, serves as the geographic and historical bridge between the energetic East Coast and the industrial Midwest. For travelers, it offers a distinct mix of experiences: the urban density of Philadelphia, the rolling farmland of Lancaster County, and the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. To maximize your Pennsylvania tours, we've broken down all the essential information you need to plan your trip. Whether you're looking to explore the entire state or focus on major cities.
Top Cities in Pennsylvania
When planning Pennsylvania tours, most itineraries focus on three distinct regions. Understanding the difference between these cities in Pennsylvania will help you choose the right trip for your interests.
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is Pennsylvania's premier tourist destination. Here at Independence National Historical Park, you can visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, conveniently located in the heart of the city for easy access. The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers world-class collections and the famous "Rocky Steps."
Pittsburgh is located in western Pennsylvania and is now a hub for technology and culture. It also boasts magnificent terrain, featuring steep hills and three converging rivers. You can take the Duquesne Incline, which offers a funicular ride up Mount Washington for the best skyline views. And the Andy Warhol Museum and the Phipps Conservatory are major draws.
Lancaster is not a single city but a region centered around Pennsylvania Dutch Country. This is the heart of the Amish community, where horse-drawn buggies share the road with cars. Visitors come here for a slower pace. You can tour working farms, buy handmade quilts, and eat hearty, family-style meals.
Best Places to Travel in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's most worthwhile destinations also include natural and specific historical landmarks.
Gettysburg National Military Park: This is the site of the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War. It is not just a field; it is a massive, preserved landscape filled with monuments. The best way to understand the scale of the conflict is through a guided bus tour or a self-guided auto tour. The Museum and Visitor Center provides the necessary context before you head out to the battlefield.
Hershey: Known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," Hershey is built around the legacy of Milton S. Hershey. Hersheypark is a major theme park with roller coasters and water rides. Chocolate World, located next door, offers a ride-through tour showing how chocolate is made. It is a common stop for families.
The Pocono Mountains: For outdoor enthusiasts, the Poconos offer skiing in the winter and hiking or water sports in the summer. It is a resort-heavy region that serves as a weekend escape for residents of New York and Philadelphia.
Popular Pennsylvania Day Trips
Valley Forge: Located about 40 minutes from Philly, this park marks the 1777–1778 winter encampment of the Continental Army.
Longwood Gardens: Situated in Kennett Square, this is one of the premier botanical gardens in the United States, featuring massive conservatories and fountain shows.
How to Get Around Pennsylvania
Amtrak: The "Keystone Service" and "Pennsylvanian" lines run frequently between New York, Philadelphia, Lancaster, and Harrisburg. This is a reliable way to move between these specific cities.
Driving: To reach the Poconos, Gettysburg, or specific Amish markets, a vehicle is necessary. The Pennsylvania Turnpike is the main east-west toll road.
Autumn is hailed as Pennsylvania’s crown jewel, a sophisticated season bringing glorious relief from the summer haze. The air turns instantly crisp, offering visibility that stretches for miles. Temperatures cool significantly, averaging a comfortable 55°F to 68°F (13°C to 20°C) early in the season, then dip lower. The state boasts one of the world’s most spectacular foliage displays; the hardwood forests of the "PA Grand Canyon" ignite in a fiery palette of scarlet and gold. It is a time of harvest and heritage. Apple orchards in Adams County bustle with visitors picking fruit and drinking cider, while massive pumpkins appear on porches. As the leaves fall, the culture shifts toward two obsessions: hunting and football.
Winter in Pennsylvania imposes a rigorous chill that varies significantly across the state. While Philadelphia often endures a damp, penetrating cold, the northern tiers experience a true alpine climate. The "lake effect" phenomenon off Lake Erie is legendary, burying the region in feet of snow. Temperatures reflect this biting reality, with average highs hovering around 34°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C) and lows frequently dipping between 18°F and 24°F (-8°C to -4°C). This cold is the lifeblood of the Poconos, which transform into bustling hubs for downhill skiing. The forests fall silent, offering serene conditions for cross-country skiers. Culturally, the season is anchored by the spectacle of Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, where folklore and meteorology collide as the nation waits for a sign of relief from the frost.
Spring in the Keystone State is a season of volatility and awakening, often beginning with the famous "mud season." As snowpack melts, waterfalls in Ricketts Glen roar with power. The weather is notoriously fickle; residents frequently endure warm sun and snow squalls within the same week. By April, the mercury begins to climb, with average temperatures settling pleasantly between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C), though nights remain brisk. The landscape erupts in color as cherry blossoms along the Schuylkill River rival those in D.C., and Longwood Gardens attracts visitors to vast tulip displays. It is a critical time for agriculture, marked by the tapping of maple trees. For outdoor enthusiasts, the opening of trout season is a veritable holiday, lining the banks of limestone streams with anglers.
Summer delivers a thick, enveloping heat that transforms Pennsylvania into a jungle of green. Unlike the dry warmth found out West, the humidity here is palpable. Temperatures regularly soar, with daily averages ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), though heat waves frequently push the thermometer above 90°F (32°C). This moisture fuels magnificent afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the valleys, providing a dramatic break in the sweltering afternoons. Cities like Pittsburgh can feel oppressive, driving residents to seek relief in the cooling waters of the Delaware River or the breezy shores of Presque Isle State Park. It is the peak of tourism season; families flock to Hersheypark and the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg.
Getting soaked right next to the Falls at Cave of the Winds was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. You feel the power of the water like nowhere else. Bring a poncho!
The stop at Whirlpool State Park was a quick one, but the views were absolutely breathtaking. Watching the Niagara River churn through the whirlpool rapids was mesmerizing. It's a short visit, but definitely worth the stop. Another great addition to an already packed itinerary!
Jackson was an excellent tour guide. He exceeded our expectations. He made our tour so memorable and enjoyable. I will definitely recommend Tours 4 Fun!
This budget tour is incredible value! The Mandarin-English bilingual guide made everything clear for my parents. The optional Niagara night tour was worth every penny—the illuminated falls were magical. The Corning Glass Museum was a surprising highlight. Hotels were clean. For under $400, you can't beat this whirlwind trip covering 4 major cities!
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FAQs about Pennsylvania Tours
What is the best month to visit Pennsylvania?
October is undoubtedly the best time to visit Pennsylvania. This is when the state's autumn foliage is at its peak, offering scenery that rivals New England. Additionally, October brings lower humidity and average temperatures ranging from 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C).
Where is the best place to stay in Pennsylvania?
For Hershey, PA, we recommend The Hotel Hershey, a 1930s mountaintop resort featuring a top-tier spa. For Philadelphia, The Rittenhouse Hotel is centrally located in the heart of the city, just steps away from the finest dining and shopping.
What is the lowest rated tourist attraction in PA?
Fans of the TV show The Office often flock to Scranton expecting a Universal Studios-style experience or a museum. But there is no actual set to visit (the show was filmed in California). The "tour" is essentially a map of places mentioned in the show—a mundane paper company building, the mall, or a generic restaurant. Travelers often leave 1 or 2-star reviews feeling let down that there is "nothing to see" other than a few signs and a gift shop in the mall.
And the Liberty Bell Center. While historically vital, many clients rate the experience lower than expected because they wait 45 minutes in line to see a cracked bell for 30 seconds. Pro Tip: You can see the bell perfectly clearly through the glass window on the side of the building 24/7 without waiting in line.
What are some free things to do in PA?
Pennsylvania offers incredible value if you know where to look. Here are my top authentic recommendations that don’t cost a dime:
Ricketts Glen State Park (Benton): This is arguably the best hike in the state. The "Falls Trail" is free to enter and takes you past 21 distinct waterfalls. It is a world-class natural wonder that requires only sturdy boots.
Bicycle Heaven (Pittsburgh): This is the world’s largest bicycle museum and shop. It is a quirky, neon-lit labyrinth of vintage bikes (including the one from the movie Pee-wee’s Big Adventure). It is totally free, incredibly photogenic, and very "Pittsburgh."
Independence Hall (Philadelphia): While you need a ticket for a timed tour, the tickets are technically free (there is a $1.00 handling fee if you book online, but you can walk up for free tickets if you arrive early). Standing in the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed is a powerful experience.
The Rocky Steps (Philadelphia): Running up the 72 stone steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a rite of passage. It costs nothing to recreate the movie moment and offers one of the best skyline views of the city.
Elk Country Visitor Center (Benezette): Seeing the massive wild elk herd in PA is free. You can drive the roads of Benezette or visit the center's viewing grounds at dusk to hear the elk bugle in the fall.