Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania
Searching for the best places to visit in Pennsylvania? Well, you are in the right place! Often overlooked in favor of New York’s excitement or the sweeping coasts of New Jersey, I think that Pennsylvania quietly hides some of the most enchanting landscapes and historic gems in the Northeast.
From rolling Appalachian ridges to quirky small towns, the Keystone State is brimming with surprises. Choosing where to go can feel overwhelming, but after winding my way across Pennsylvania on many weekend getaways, day trips, and ten-day road trips while living in NYC, these are the must-visit spots I highly recommend.
Best Places to Visit in Central Pennsylvania
Central Pennsylvania is the heart of the Keystone State, where rolling farmland, wooded mountains, and historic towns come together at a slower, more authentic pace.
1. Hershey
This town, often called “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” is one of my favorite places to visit when I want a blend of fun, history, and outdoor adventure (and lots of chocolate!).
My husband, son and I drove from our apartment in New York City (a little under 3 hours) but you can also get here in 20 minutes from Harrisburg on a family day trip.
We headed straight to Hersheypark first, and this was hands down one of the best experiences (and also super unique!). The rides were awesome, and it felt like pure magic walking around with music and chocolate everywhere.
After that we explored Hershey’s Chocolate World (just 4 minutes away). Next we walked through the town itself, which is small but interesting.
Later in the day we visited Hershey Gardens, which was a spectacular hidden spot that was relaxing for me personally and I loved all the flowers.
For dinner we stayed nearby at the 5-star Hotel Hershey (AAA Four-Diamond winner!). Right after we checked in, I treated myself at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey, famous for its cocoa-based treatments like a whipped cocoa bath and chocolate fondue wrap (though I just went for the classical massage)!
The next morning we checked out The Hershey Story Museum for a bit of history. Learning about Milton Hershey made the whole place feel more meaningful, and honestly kind of inspiring and unique. Before leaving we grabbed chocolate souvenirs (of course!), and it felt like the absolute best ending.
My best food moment: I had a sweet breakfast at The Circular at Hotel Hershey, my favorite highlight. I ordered lemon-ricotta pancakes with blueberry compote and mascarpone cream. We ate under a stained-glass dome with garden views. The meal was decadent and truly memorable.
What I loved best:
For me, Hershey is one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania because it's exciting, unique, and hope you will love it too!
Making my own chocolate bar at Hershey’s Chocolate World (we were smiling like kids again!) was my favorite highlight.
2. Gettysburg
Chris and I both absolutely love Gettysburg, and have been many times. This is one of the most quietly beautiful places I’ve visited in Pennsylvania. Why do I love it here? First off, as a history buff, I've enjoyed exploring Civil War sites with my family. In addition, this remarkable town delivers beautiful views, trails, and a reflective atmosphere far removed from busier tourist areas.
We drove in on a day trip from Harrisburg (in the past I also caught a regional bus which I thought was cheap and convenient since it only takes about 1 hour and costs around $15).
First, we wandered through the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum, the air thick with stillness.
Next, we discovered something unexpected and in fact, I didn’t expect the most moving moment to come from a model town. But when the lights dimmed at the Gettysburg Diorama, the the battle came alive with sound and shadow. The Diorama told the full story in 30 quiet minutes which I thought was impressive!
Next, I browsed Civil War relics in downtown antique shops, then we toured the David Wills House where Lincoln stayed before his speech, and stood where Lincoln spoke at the Soldiers' National Cemetery.
We finished the evening with a hearty, delicious Pennsylvania Dutch meal. We stayed at Hotel Gettysburg ($247) directly on Lincoln Square for two days and then found an affordable vacation rental for a week.
What I loved best:
Exploring Lincoln Square, where history lingered behind every storefront window, was my favorite highlight.
3. Lancaster
I was instantly charmed by this city (nicknamed the "Red Rose City") that beautifully balances its rich heritage with an outdoorsy vibe.
Instead of driving, I caught an Amtrak Keystone Service train from Philadelphia (about 1 hour 15 minutes, $20). I based myself at 3-star Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square (from $180/night) for three relaxing days.
What instantly stood out to me as soon as we got there was how walkable and welcoming Lancaster is. There’s such a warm community atmosphere here!
First, we strolled along the scenic Lancaster Canal, then enjoyed browsing the quirky shops and cafés in the city centre, and visited a local market for cheap snacks. Later, I checked out the atmosphere around Dalton Square. We especially appreciated that there was plenty of easy parking in nearby garages (Prince Street Garage, Penn Square Garage, or the Hager Lot), plus metered street parking!
For a dose of nature, in the afternoon, I wandered through Williamson Park, with its magnificent Ashton Memorial. Next, we drove to the nearby Forest of Bowland.
What I loved best:
Exploring the impressive Lancaster Castle was a standout for me.
4. Bedford
I thought this was such a unique and picturesque spot and it quickly became one of my favorite weekend getaways from Pittsburgh (about 2 hours east)!
I learned that Bedford has played an important role in early American history since the 18th century. In fact, if you love history like me, Bedford (Founded in 1766!) is an easy place to fall in love with and perfect for a relaxed day trip or a 2-day weekend getaway.
One of the town’s biggest claims to fame is the historic beautifully restored Omni Bedford Springs Hotel (from $255/night). In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, people traveled from all over the country to visit the mineral springs to relax.
There are a few standout places I’d definitely recommend seeing while you’re in Bedford. The Fort Bedford Museum is a great starting point to learn about the town’s colonial roots. Lunch was delicious corn chowder at family-friendly Jean Bonnet Tavern.
Next, just outside of town, Old Bedford Village ($12 adult admission, $7 for kids) is a living-history museum that recreates life in rural Pennsylvania during the 18th and 19th centuries. In the evening, walking through downtown Bedford itself was also a highlight, with its well-preserved architecture, locally owned shops, and cozy cafés.
If you want to dive deeper into the stories behind the buildings and landmarks, I strongly recommend taking a guided historical tour or visiting the local museums with knowledgeable staff who are passionate about the town’s past.
What I loved best:
Hiking in Shawnee State Park was my personal highlight because it offered peaceful lakeside trails and scenic mountain overlooks.
On my second visit, winter added another layer of charm with quiet snowy streets, holiday lights, and downhill skiing not far away at Blue Knob Resort.
Best Places to Visit in Eastern Pennsylvania
I head here when I'm in the mood for colonial history, outdoor adventures, arts and shopping.
5. The Poconos
I was completely taken with this mountain region on my first trip here decades ago - trust me, it's easy to be once you see the lakes and waterfalls! I instantly felt like I’d uncovered a spectacular hidden treasure in the Northeast and we've visited many times since!
When we lived in NYC for 10 years, we usually caught a Martz Trailways bus from New York Port Authority to Mount Pocono (about 2.5 hours, $40 one way) because it was affordable and easy.
One of our first stops was a waterfall hike. Later, we spent time by a lake.
We stayed in a cozy affordable cabin for five blissful days, complete with a fireplace and wide windows looking out into the trees. Evenings were spent cooking simple meals, and listening to the sounds of the forest outside.
What I loved best:
One night, we stargazed from the porch, wrapped in blankets, amazed at how clear the sky was compared to our apartment in NYC, my personal highlight.
6. Easton
Ready for a riverside getaway? Check out Easton, a real gem of the Lehigh Valley! I found this spot to be one of the best romantic day trip from Philadelphia, about one hour and 30 minutes by car.
First, I loved walking around downtown Easton. When it was time to think about lunch, we discovered River Grille steps from the historic circle.
In addition, beyond the downtown and riverfront, being so close to the Lehigh Valley made Easton feel like the absolute best base for exploring nearby towns and nature.
What I loved best:
To end the day, the riverfront area was delightful and my favorite highlight.
7. Philadelphia, PA
I thought this city was a brilliant choice for a family-friendly city escape, and for me, definitely one of the best places to Visit in Pennsylvania!
We took an Amtrak Northeast Regional train from Washington, D.C. (about 1 hour 45 minutes, $40) early in the day for a long weekend in the "City of Brotherly Love".
My first stop was Awbury Arboretum (free admission) which felt like discovering a hidden sanctuary right within the city! Tucked into Germantown, the Arboretum is 55 acres of meadows, woodlands, and historic landscapes that feel worlds away from Philadelphia’s busy streets. Free and open to the public every day, this is one of the must-visit stops! Afterwards, we stopped for a delicious sweet treat at Tranzilli Real Italian Water nearby.
Independence Seaport Museum ($23 adult admission, $18 for children) was our next (afternoon) stop where my son's favorite thing to do was visiting the cruiser USS Olympia (the world’s oldest floating steel warship!). Dinner was nearby at Moshulu overlooking the water and one of the most fascinating restaurants ever (it's actually the world’s oldest and largest four-masted tall ship!).
That evening, I found Bob and Barbara's Lounge to be the perfect late-night spot where we stopped after dinner, grabbed a Citywide Special ($5), and settled into the sounds of Hammond B3 organ-driven jazz.
Just a heads up that if you are new to Philly, it's easiest to get to see a lot in a short time by following a local guide on a tour. In fact, a great way to get to know the city through a local's lens is by taking an Armond Scavo Photography Tour of Philadelphia.
Locals told me the city has something in every season: cherry blossoms and baseball in spring, lively festivals in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and twinkling holiday markets and light shows in winter.
What I loved best:
One of the area’s most enchanting discoveries for me was the Wharton Esherick Museum, tucked into the wooded hills just a 25-minute SEPTA train ride from Philly. The museum—once the home and studio of the visionary wood sculptor—is like stepping into a living piece of art. Wandering through those warm, wooden spaces, surrounded by Esherick’s whimsical, organic designs, left me feeling inspired and grounded at the same time. It’s the kind of place that reveals Paoli’s creative undercurrent, hidden just beneath its suburban surface.
8. Doylestown, PA
Ready for a history-rich, creativity-filled escape? Doylestown is a real standout! Instead of driving, we caught the SEPTA Lansdale/Doylestown regional rail line from Philadelphia (about 1 hour 15 minutes, $7) which was super convenient.
We arrived first thing in the morning and walked around downtown with cute shops and cafes everywhere.
After getting our bearings, our first stop was the Mercer Museum, which was such a unique experience, filled with cool artifacts.
After that we headed over to Fonthill Castle, another delightful stop.
After lunch in the afternoon we explored the James A. Michener Art Museum ($15 Adult admission, $5 for kids, Free under 5 years old), which was an underrated gem and such a calm, joyful break filled with brilliant art and peaceful gardens.
As evening came, we had dinner downtown and it was exciting seeing how lively the town became.
What I loved best:
Visiting in the fall to admire fall foliage was my favorite highlight.
est Places to Visit in Western Pennsylvania
This region is defined by rolling hills, river valleys, and a proud industrial heritage reshaped into a vibrant cultural scene.
9. Pittsburgh
I thought this city was such a dynamic and picturesque city, and I think it’s one of the best city escapes in the region!
I discovered it in western Pennsylvania, where the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers converge, giving Pittsburgh its iconic nickname “The City of Bridges” (there are over 400!).
After a 5-hour drive from Washington, D.C., I stayed for four days at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Pittsburgh Mt. Lebanon (from $129/night). In the morning, I enjoyed great breakfast pancakes at Dor-Stop Restaurant just 6 minutes by car. Next, I toured the fascinating Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens ($22.95 Adult admission, $13.95 for Children) with my husband and son.
After lunch, we rode the historic Duquesne Incline for breathtaking skyline views, wandered around the Strip District’s quirky markets and restaurants where we had dinner.
Next day, we admired masterpieces at the Carnegie Museum of Art.
In addition, I loved exploring the habitats at the National Aviary ($20.95 general admission), especially the tropical rainforest habitat, and the wetlands.
Later, stopping at Bicycle Heaven (the world’s largest bicycle museum and bike shop in the world!) is a must for any bike lover. Containing over 4,000 vintage and collectible bikes, this place has unique themed bikes, such as bikes representing The Beatles, Elvis, and bobbleheads, and there are bikes that were used in movies such as A Beautiful Mind and Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.
What I loved best:
For me, Pittsburgh is one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania.
We returned in winter and loved the cozy atmosphere of holiday lights at PPG Place, and ice skating downtown, my favorite highlight.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
