Pennsylvania with Kids

Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science, and Art was established in 1908 and still stands today as Northeastern Pennsylvania's largest public museum. Founder, Dr. Everhart, was intrigued by ornithology which reflects in the vast portion of the museum devoted to birds of the Northeastern Pennsylvania region. The museum collections present an exploration of America's artistic history through a collaboration of galleries and exhibits.

Visitors can go back in time through the collections of mammals, rocks, fossils, minerals, plant specimens, shells, and coral. Art enthusiasts can admire a collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles, drawings, and photographs from a range of cultures and eras.

Everhart Museum, 1901 Mulberry Street, Scranton, PA, Phone: 570-346-7186

A trip to the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center in West Chester presents children with the chance to hop inside a real-life helicopter and experience what it is like to fly an American aircraft by operating a realistic flight simulator inside. The research center features over 20,000 rotary-wing aircraft pieces of worldwide aviation history.

Children of all ages learn about the evolution of rotorcraft in Philadelphia through a variety of exhibitions and video productions, introducing them to the many wonders that helicopters bring to the nation. Aviation History Magazine has ranked this museum as the "Best Scientific Outing for Kids."

American Helicopter Museum and Education Center, 1220 American Boulevard, West Chester, PA, Phone: 610-436-9600

Unique Attractions

Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles are among the many forms of transport which have shaped American history. America on Wheels dedicates numerous exhibitions and galleries in honor of these motorized vehicles for the public to view.

A new addition to this motor museum sees the opening of a kids’ car restoration center where mini motorists can get under the hood of a fabricated car to explore the ins and outs of the engines. They can also discover the fascinating history of these amazing automobiles and how they are made, making it a memorable day out for the entire family.

America on Wheels, 5 North Front Street, Allentown, PA, Phone: 610-432-4200

A place where learning and playing go hand-in-hand, Carnegie Science Center offers a combination of science and technology to inspire little ones to unleash their scientific side. The Little Learner Clubhouse features an assortment of interactive exhibits created to encourage kids’ interest in science, making learning exciting.

Children can enjoy a hands-on experience by exploring the clubhouse, learning tree, water table, tomato stand, book cove, baby garden, and button wall. Aspiring scientists will be in their element on this day out. This museum shines bright on service which shows from their National Award for Museum Service.

Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, Phone: 412-237-3400

Going back to 1946 when Herr's Snacks were simply a home-crafted recipe, the company now welcomes guests today to explore their factory for a glimpse into how they make these savory snacks. Personal Herr's Snack Factory Tours start off with a fun and informative clip at Chipper's Theater for an insight into the history of Herr's.

From there, families go on a tour of the factory with points of interest around the production journey of Herr's potato chips, pretzels, tortilla chips, cheese curls, and popcorn. Guests can leave with a tasty complimentary gift from the factory, and an unforgettable souvenir from the gift store.

Herr's Snack Factory Tours, 271 Old Baltimore Pike, Nottingham, PA, Phone: 800-284-7488

Originally built in 1969, Gettysburg's Lincoln Train Museum was redesigned in 2013 by Sheriff James F. Kralik, who showed a deep interest in American history icons. Exhibitions today display insights into American history and the heroes involved during the Civil War, the US Military, World Wars, and a timeline of railway history – all surrounding President Lincoln.

Only a few steps from the museum, visitors can discover the exact location where Abraham Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address. All age groups can enjoy this attraction with a choice of pre-created itineraries for the perfect day full of adventures.

Lincoln Train Museum, 425 Steinwehr Avenue, Gettysburg, PA, Phone: 717-334-5678

One of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, this Carnegie Museum of Natural History remains on top. With a tremendous collection of antiques, items, and scientific specimens, this tourist attraction educates children on all things evolutionary and conservation-based.

The museum itself arouses scientific curiosity in children and inspires an interest in both nature and world cultures. Known for its extensive dinosaur collection, Carnegie Museum holds the world's largest collection of Jurassic dinosaurs and the world's first-ever species of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Children are encouraged to read, explore, and discover at this fascinating historical hotspot.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Phone: 412-622-3131

Explore & More Children's Museum was created to encourage and educate the youth of Pennsylvania on history, geography, culture, agriculture, architecture, athletics, industry, and innovation through a form of play. The 43,000 square foot Museum features four interactive floors for children to explore with hundreds of activities that guarantee fun for kids of all ages.

Natural explorers can follow their curiosity and gain knowledge from any of the seven educational play zones. A unique experience at any of the three educational studios tells the story of Buffalo and its importance in American history.

Explore & More Children's Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, Phone: 716-655-5131

Recommended Attractions

A visit to the delightful Pennsylvania Dutch country offers insight into the oldest pretzel baking family in America. Lititz is home to Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery where visitors can roam around the original bakery and get a behind-the-scenes experience on how these twisted treats are made. Visitors are invited to get hands-on as the staff shares their pretzel twisting techniques.

Children can put their skills to the test by making their own playdough pretzel. Of course, a trip to Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery wouldn't be complete without a visit to the bakery gift store for memorable souvenirs and delicious goodies.

Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, 219 East Main Street, Lititz, PA, Phone: 717-626-4354

Visitors can take a tour along Lancaster County in an authentic Amish buggy, A Is For Amish Buggy Rides, to discover the scenic Amish countryside. Drivers of an Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren background share their knowledge on the Amish lifestyle while pointing out Amish sights along the way. Tourists can customize their voyages by choosing from a variety of hotspots including an actual Amish dairy farm, a miniature horse stable, a woodworking studio, and a craft store. Children can have a go at feeding goats and chickens at the petting farm, running around the playground, or enjoying some lunch at the picnic spot.

A Is For Amish Buggy Rides , 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA, Phone: 717-725-8664