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17 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania (Nature, Food & Culture)

17 Ways Pennsylvania Will Steal Your Heart: Trails, Tastings & Timeless Culture

Pennsylvania is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the United States. From misty mountain trails and dramatic waterfalls to historic battlefields, world-class museums, and legendary food traditions, the Keystone State offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re hiking through ancient forests, tasting handmade Amish pastries, or exploring vibrant city neighborhoods, Pennsylvania blends outdoor adventure with rich culture and unforgettable flavors.

In this guide, you’ll discover 17 of the best things to do in Pennsylvania for travelers who love nature, food, and culture. Expect scenic parks, iconic American landmarks, charming small towns, and local culinary gems. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a road trip through the Appalachians, or a city-nature combo vacation, these experiences showcase the very best the state has to offer.

1. Chase Waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park

If you love dramatic landscapes and waterfalls, Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most breathtaking places in Pennsylvania. The park’s famous Falls Trail takes hikers through a stunning gorge where more than 20 waterfalls cascade through old-growth forest. Towering hemlocks, mossy rocks, and misty cliff faces create a magical atmosphere that feels almost untouched by time.

The star attraction is Ganoga Falls, the park’s tallest waterfall at 94 feet, but the trail reveals a new scenic cascade around nearly every bend. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with stone steps, wooden bridges, and scenic overlooks offering perfect photo spots. Autumn transforms the park into a fiery display of red and gold foliage, making it one of Pennsylvania’s most spectacular fall destinations.

During summer, visitors can also swim, kayak, or picnic around Lake Jean, a peaceful mountain lake inside the park.

Practical details:

• Location: Benton, northeastern Pennsylvania
• Activities: Hiking, waterfall photography, swimming, kayaking
• Best time to visit: Late spring through fall
• Fees: Free park entry; small parking fees in some areas

Insider tip: Start the Falls Trail early in the morning to avoid crowds and slippery sections later in the day.

2. Step Into History at Gettysburg National Military Park

One of the most powerful historical sites in America, Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the battlefield where the Civil War’s turning point occurred in 1863. Walking across these rolling fields gives visitors a profound sense of history and reflection.

More than 6,000 acres of preserved battlefield allow travelers to explore the locations where key moments of the battle unfolded. Highlights include Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, and the Gettysburg National Cemetery, where President Lincoln delivered the famous Gettysburg Address.

The park offers self-guided driving tours, ranger programs, and museum exhibits that bring the story of the battle to life. Even if you’re not a history buff, the landscape itself—quiet farmland dotted with monuments and cannons—makes the experience moving and memorable.

Nearby Gettysburg town also offers charming inns, historic taverns, and candlelit ghost tours that explore the town’s fascinating past.

Practical details:

• Location: Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Battlefield tours, museum visits, ranger programs
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather
• Fees: Park grounds are free; museum and visitor center tickets cost about $15–$20

Fun fact: Gettysburg has over 1,300 monuments, making it the largest collection of Civil War memorials in the U.S.

3. Eat Your Way Through Philadelphia’s Legendary Food Scene

Philadelphia is a dream destination for food lovers. While the Philly cheesesteak may be the city’s most famous export, its culinary scene goes far beyond sandwiches.

Start your adventure at Reading Terminal Market, one of America’s oldest public markets. Inside, you’ll find Amish baked goods, roast pork sandwiches, handmade chocolates, and international cuisine under one historic roof.

Beyond the market, explore Philly’s booming restaurant scene—from award-winning fine dining to casual neighborhood favorites. Italian restaurants in South Philly, modern eateries in Fishtown, and cozy BYOB bistros make the city a playground for adventurous eaters.

Of course, no visit is complete without sampling a cheesesteak at iconic spots like Pat’s or Geno’s—or trying a local favorite like roast pork with broccoli rabe.

Practical details:

• Location: Philadelphia, southeastern Pennsylvania
• Activities: Food tours, market visits, restaurant hopping
• Best time to visit: Year-round
• Fees: Varies by restaurant

Insider tip: Visit Reading Terminal Market in the morning when Amish vendors arrive with freshly baked pies and breads.

4. Experience Chocolate Heaven at Hersheypark

Nicknamed “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. At the heart of town is Hersheypark, a thrilling amusement park created by chocolate magnate Milton Hershey.

The park features more than 70 rides, including high-speed roller coasters, family rides, and water attractions. But the real highlight for many visitors is the chocolate-themed experience.

Nearby Hershey’s Chocolate World offers an immersive chocolate tour where guests can see how chocolate is made—and sample plenty along the way. Interactive attractions allow visitors to design their own candy bars or star in a chocolate commercial.

Beyond the park, Hershey also offers gardens, museums, and a luxury spa featuring chocolate treatments.

Practical details:

• Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Roller coasters, chocolate tours, family attractions
• Best time to visit: Summer or fall
• Fees: Park tickets typically cost $50–$80

Fun fact: Hershey was originally built as a model town for chocolate factory workers.

5. Explore Amish Culture in Lancaster County

Lancaster County offers one of the most fascinating cultural experiences in Pennsylvania. This region is home to the largest Amish community in the United States, where horse-drawn buggies still travel quiet country roads.

Visitors can explore farm markets, quilt shops, and roadside stands selling homemade jams, pies, and soft pretzels. Traditional Amish cooking—like chicken pot pie, shoofly pie, and fresh bread—is a highlight of any trip.

Farm tours and buggy rides provide a glimpse into the Amish lifestyle, which emphasizes simplicity, faith, and community.

The surrounding countryside is equally beautiful, with rolling farmland, covered bridges, and charming villages that feel frozen in time.

Practical details:

• Location: Lancaster County, southeastern Pennsylvania
• Activities: Farm tours, Amish markets, buggy rides
• Best time to visit: Spring through fall
• Fees: Some tours $10–$30

Insider tip: Visit Central Market in Lancaster, the country’s oldest continuously operating farmers market.

6. Hike the Famous Appalachian Trail Through Pennsylvania

Hiking the famous Appalachian Trail through Pennsylvania offers a rugged, memorable stretch of one of America’s most iconic long-distance trails. Often nicknamed “Rocksylvania,” this section challenges hikers with miles of uneven, rocky terrain that test balance and endurance. Yet the effort is rewarded with beautiful ridgelines, dense hardwood forests, and sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains.

Along the way, hikers pass notable landmarks such as the historic town of Boiling Springs, the dramatic boulder field of Lehigh Gap, and the scenic heights of Bake Oven Knob. Wildlife sightings—deer, hawks, and black bears—add to the sense of wilderness.

Shelters spaced along the trail offer simple rest spots where hikers share stories and camaraderie. Spring brings blooming mountain laurel, summer fills the woods with birdsong, and autumn paints the hills in vivid color.

Though physically demanding, Pennsylvania’s section of the Appalachian Trail provides a deeply rewarding experience of endurance, solitude, and natural beauty.

Practical details:

• Location: Multiple access points across Pennsylvania
• Activities: Hiking, backpacking, photography
• Best time to visit: May–October
• Fees: Free

Insider tip: Pennsylvania sections are nicknamed “Rocksylvania” by hikers due to the rocky terrain.

7. Discover Art at The Andy Warhol Museum

The Andy Warhol Museum showcases the bold, playful, and thought-provoking art of Andy Warhol, a leading figure in Pop Art. The museum displays vibrant works that transform everyday objects and celebrities into iconic images. Visitors see famous silkscreen prints like Campbell’s Soup Cans and colorful portraits of Marilyn Monroe, which highlight Warhol’s fascination with fame and consumer culture.

Inside the galleries, paintings, photographs, films, and multimedia installations reveal Warhol’s creative experimentation. Repetition, bright colors, and commercial imagery blur the line between advertising and fine art. The museum also explores his studio, The Factory, where artists, musicians, and celebrities collaborated.

Through immersive exhibits and rotating displays, the museum presents Warhol’s lasting influence on modern art, media, and popular culture. It invites visitors to rethink how ordinary images can become powerful artistic statements.

Practical details:

• Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Art exhibits, workshops, film screenings
• Best time to visit: Year-round
• Fees: Around $20 admission

Fun fact: Warhol was born and raised in Pittsburgh, making the museum especially meaningful to the city.

8. See the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania at Pine Creek Gorge

The Pine Creek Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” is a breathtaking natural canyon carved by Pine Creek through the Allegheny Plateau. Stretching about 47 miles and reaching depths of nearly 1,000 feet, the gorge features steep forested cliffs, dramatic overlooks, and a winding creek below. Visitors enjoy panoramic views, hiking trails, wildlife watching, and seasonal beauty—especially in autumn when the forests turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.

The best viewpoints are located in Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park, both offering scenic overlooks and hiking paths along the rim.

To get there, travel to Wellsboro, the nearest town. From Wellsboro, drive about 10 miles west on PA-660 to Leonard Harrison State Park for the most accessible overlook of this spectacular natural landmark.

Practical details:

• Location: Tioga County, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking
• Best time to visit: Fall foliage season
• Fees: Free

Insider tip: Sunrise views from Leonard Harrison State Park are absolutely spectacular.

9. Tour the Historic Streets of Jim Thorpe

Touring the historic streets of Jim Thorpe feels like stepping into a charming 19th-century mountain town. Nestled in the Lehigh Gorge, the town is known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, narrow streets, and scenic hillside views.

Visitors can stroll along Broadway, where colorful buildings house cozy cafés, antique shops, art galleries, and small boutiques. A highlight is the Asa Packer Mansion, an elegant hilltop mansion that reveals the lifestyle of a wealthy railroad magnate. Nearby, the Old Jail Museum offers fascinating stories about the town’s coal-mining past.

Walking through town, visitors often hear the distant whistle of trains from the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.

To get there, drive about two hours north of Philadelphia via the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Route 209, or about two hours west of New York City by car.

Practical details:

• Location: Carbon County, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Train rides, hiking, sightseeing
• Best time to visit: Fall foliage season
• Fees: Train tickets around $20–$30

Fun fact: The town was named after Olympic athlete Jim Thorpe.

10. Explore the Museums of Pittsburgh

Visiting the museums of Pittsburgh offers a rich mix of art, science, and history experiences. One of the most popular stops is the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, where visitors can explore impressive dinosaur skeletons, ancient fossils, and exhibits about Earth’s natural past. Right next door, the Carnegie Museum of Art features contemporary and classic works, photography, and rotating exhibitions that highlight both American and international artists.

Another must-see attraction is the Andy Warhol Museum, dedicated to the life and work of pop art icon Andy Warhol. Visitors can see vibrant prints, films, and multimedia installations that showcase his influence on modern culture. Families often enjoy the Carnegie Science Center, which offers hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and interactive technology displays.

To get there, travelers can fly into Pittsburgh International Airport, about 20 miles from downtown, or drive into the city via major highways like I-76 and I-79.

Practical details:

• Location: Pittsburgh
• Activities: Museum hopping, science exhibits
• Best time to visit: Year-round
• Fees: $15–$25, depending on the museum

Insider tip: Many museums offer discounted admission on certain evenings.

11. Go Wildlife Watching in Elk Country Visitor Center

Wildlife watching at the Elk Country Visitor Center offers one of the best opportunities to observe free-roaming elk in the northeastern United States. Located in the forests of Benezette, the center overlooks open fields where herds of Elk frequently graze. Early morning and sunset are the most exciting times, especially during the autumn rut when bulls bugle and compete for mates.

Inside the visitor center, interactive exhibits explain elk ecology, conservation, and the history of their reintroduction to Pennsylvania. Large viewing windows and outdoor observation areas make it easy to comfortably watch wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy short nature trails, photography, guided tours, and educational programs.

Besides elk, you may spot deer, wild turkeys, foxes, and various bird species.

To get there, drive about two hours northeast of State College via PA-255 to Benezette, then follow signs to the Elk Country Visitor Center parking and viewing area.

Practical details:

• Location: Benezette, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Wildlife watching, photography
• Best time to visit: September–October
• Fees: Free entry; some tours cost extra

Fun fact: Pennsylvania’s elk population was reintroduced in 1913 after extinction in the region.

12. Ride the Duquesne Incline

Riding the Duquesne Incline in Pittsburgh is a memorable way to experience the city’s history and skyline. Built in 1877, this historic cable car carries passengers up the steep side of Mount Washington. As the wooden cable car climbs the hillside, riders can look through large windows and watch the city gradually come into view below.

At the top, visitors are rewarded with one of Pittsburgh’s most famous panoramic views. You can see the downtown skyline, the meeting of the Allegheny River and Monongahela River forming the Ohio River, along with several iconic bridges. The upper station also features a small museum displaying photos and machinery from the incline’s early years.

To get there, travel to the lower station on West Carson Street across the river from downtown Pittsburgh. Visitors can reach it by car, bus, or a short ride-share trip from the city center.

Practical details:

• Location: Pittsburgh
• Activities: Scenic rides, photography
• Best time to visit: Sunset
• Fees: Around $5 round trip

Insider tip: Visit at night for glittering city views.

13. Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park

Visiting Valley Forge National Historical Park offers a powerful glimpse into the struggles and resilience of the American Revolutionary War. This historic site marks the winter encampment of George Washington and the Continental Army during the harsh winter of 1777–1778. Despite cold weather, food shortages, and disease, the army trained here and emerged stronger.

Visitors can explore reconstructed soldiers’ huts, walk through scenic meadows, and see landmarks such as the National Memorial Arch, which honors the army’s perseverance. The park also features the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts, which show how soldiers lived during the encampment. Biking, hiking, ranger-led tours, and visiting the museum are popular activities.

To get there, drive about 25 miles northwest of Philadelphia via I-76 and US-422, then follow signs to the park’s main visitor center.

Practical details:

• Location: Near Philadelphia
• Activities: Biking, history tours
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall
• Fees: Free

Fun fact: Valley Forge hosts living history events throughout the year.

14. Explore the Caves of Penn’s Cave

Exploring Penn’s Cave offers a unique underground adventure through the only all-water cavern in the United States. Visitors experience the cave by guided boat tour, gliding through calm, crystal-clear water beneath dramatic limestone formations. Inside the cavern, you’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, and natural rock columns illuminated by soft lights while guides share legends and geological stories about how the cave formed thousands of years ago.

One highlight is the famous “Statue of Liberty,” a rock formation that naturally resembles the iconic monument. The cave also features Cathedral Hall, a large chamber with impressive ceilings and echoes that add to the atmosphere. Above ground, the surrounding Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park offers wildlife viewing areas where visitors may see bison, elk, wolves, and deer.

To get there, travel about 18 miles east of State College along PA-192 to Centre Hall, then follow signs to Penn’s Cave. The scenic countryside drive adds to the experience.

Practical details:

• Location: Centre Hall, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Boat cave tours, wildlife park visits
• Best time to visit: Spring through fall
• Fees: Around $25

Fun fact: The cave was opened to visitors in 1885, making it one of America’s oldest attractions.

15. Attend a Festival in Bethlehem

One of the most famous celebrations in Bethlehem is Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, a festive event inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. Held during the holiday season, the festival transforms the city into a lively winter village filled with lights, music, and handcrafted gifts.

Visitors can browse dozens of artisan stalls featuring ornaments, jewelry, glasswork, and holiday decorations. Seasonal food is a major highlight—guests can enjoy roasted nuts, sausages, pretzels, and warm drinks while listening to live Christmas music. Families often visit to see holiday displays, take photos with Santa Claus, and watch glassblowing demonstrations. The market reflects the city’s Moravian heritage and its nickname, “Christmas City.”

An interesting fact is that Bethlehem was named on Christmas Eve in 1741 by Moravian settlers, which is why the holiday festival is especially meaningful here.

To get there, drive about 90 minutes north of Philadelphia via I-476 or about two hours west of New York City.

Practical details:

• Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Music festivals, food tasting
• Best time to visit: August (Musikfest)
• Fees: Many events are free

Fun fact: Bethlehem is nicknamed “Christmas City USA.”

16. Kayak the Delaware Water Gap at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Kayaking at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a scenic outdoor adventure that lets visitors experience the Delaware River up close. Paddling through the famous Delaware Water Gap, kayakers glide between forested mountains where the river cuts through the Appalachian Mountains. The water is usually calm, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Along the route, visitors often spot bald eagles, herons, deer, and turtles along the riverbanks. Many people combine kayaking with short stops at small river islands or pebble beaches for swimming and picnicking. Outfitters in nearby towns offer kayak rentals, guided trips, and shuttle services for longer paddling routes.

To get there, travel to Stroudsburg, about 75 miles west of New York City via I-80. From there, follow signs to the recreation area and river access points.

Practical details:

• Location: Eastern Pennsylvania
• Activities: Kayaking, hiking, camping
• Best time to visit: Summer and early fall
• Fees: Mostly free

Insider tip: Rent a kayak for a full-day river float.

17. Wander the Gardens at Longwood Gardens

The gardens at Longwood Gardens offer one of the most spectacular botanical experiences in the United States. Spread across more than 1,000 acres, the gardens feature beautifully designed landscapes, colorful flower displays, and elegant fountains that change with the seasons. Visitors can stroll through the famous Longwood Conservatory, a grand glasshouse filled with tropical plants, orchids, waterfalls, and lush greenery from around the world.

Outside, guests can explore the Italian Water Garden, the peaceful Flower Garden Walk, and scenic woodland trails. One of the highlights is the spectacular fountain shows at the Main Fountain Garden, where water, music, and lights create a stunning display in the evening. Seasonal events such as spring blooms, summer concerts, and dazzling holiday light displays make every visit unique.

To get there, drive about 30 miles southwest of Philadelphia via US-1 to Kennett Square, then follow signs to Longwood Gardens.

Practical details:

• Location: Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
• Activities: Garden walks, seasonal events
• Best time to visit: Spring blooms or the Christmas season
• Fees: Around $25

Insider tip: Visit during the evening fountain shows for a magical experience.

Why Visit Pennsylvania?

From dramatic mountain landscapes and wildlife encounters to world-class museums and unforgettable food, Pennsylvania offers an incredible variety of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Ricketts Glen, tasting Amish treats in Lancaster County, or exploring historic streets in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the Keystone State delivers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine.

The best way to experience Pennsylvania is through a road trip, connecting charming towns, scenic parks, and culinary hotspots along the way. With four distinct seasons, rich history, and endless outdoor adventures, it’s a destination that rewards curious travelers again and again.

No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, these 17 best things to do in Pennsylvania will help you discover the very heart of this fascinating state.

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17 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania (Nature, Food & Culture)

Melo Villareal

Out of Town Blog

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