Pennyslvania Travel Information
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
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
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
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.
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