Pennsylvania Scenic Drive Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a road trip through Pennsylvania, there’s no better way to experience the beauty of the state than by taking a scenic drive. Pennsylvania is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, from rolling hills and lush forests to impressive mountains and stunning waterfalls.
Top Attractions
No matter where you go in Pennsylvania, there are a few must-see attractions that you simply can’t miss. One of the top destinations in the state is Hershey’s Chocolate World, a candy-filled wonderland that offers tours, tastings, and plenty of sweet treats to bring home. The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is also a must-see, as is the Gettysburg Battlefield, where you can relive the famous Civil War battle.
Hidden Gems
While there are plenty of popular attractions in Pennsylvania, there are also a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out. For example, Ricketts Glen State Park is a stunning natural wonder that boasts 22 waterfalls along its hiking trails. If you’re looking for a unique art experience, check out the Philadelphia Magic Gardens, a whimsical outdoor gallery filled with mosaics and sculptures.
Food Scene
Pennsylvania is home to some delicious food, from classic Philly cheesesteaks to hearty Amish fare. For a true taste of Pennsylvania cuisine, head to Lancaster County for some homemade shoofly pie or scrapple. If you’re a beer lover, be sure to check out the state’s craft breweries, which offer everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Don’t worry – Pennsylvania has plenty of affordable options. One great way to save money is by camping in one of the state’s many parks, which offer scenic campsites at a fraction of the cost of a hotel room. You can also save money by visiting some of the state’s free attractions, like the Philadelphia Museum of Art or the Pennsylvania State Capitol Building.
Outdoor Adventures
From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, Pennsylvania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the state’s top outdoor destinations include the Pocono Mountains, where you can go zip-lining, white-water rafting, and hiking, and Ohiopyle State Park, which offers some of the best whitewater kayaking in the country.
Historical Landmarks
Pennsylvania played a crucial role in American history, and there are plenty of landmarks throughout the state that pay homage to its past. One of the top historical sites in the state is Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. You can also visit the Valley Forge National Historical Park, which played a key role in the Revolutionary War.
Family-Friendly Activities
Pennsylvania is a great place for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and adults will love. One of the top attractions for families is the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, a hands-on museum where kids can learn and play. You can also visit the Pittsburgh Zoo or take a ride on the Strasburg Railroad, a historic steam train that chugs through the countryside.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, Pennsylvania has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. For example, you can take a tour of the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, a notorious prison that once housed Al Capone. Or, you can visit the Mercer Museum in Doylestown, a quirky museum that showcases the tools and crafts of early American life.
Natural Wonders
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country. For example, the Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places in the world to go stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States. You can also visit the Kinzua Bridge State Park, which boasts a breathtaking skywalk that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Vibrant Nightlife
From trendy bars and clubs to live music venues and theaters, Pennsylvania has a vibrant nightlife scene that’s sure to please. Some of the top spots for a night out include Pittsburgh’s South Side, which offers a variety of bars and clubs, and Philadelphia’s Old City, where you can find everything from craft cocktails to live music.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs or locally made products, Pennsylvania’s farmers’ markets and artisanal shops are the perfect place to start. The Lancaster Central Market is the oldest farmers’ market in the country, and offers everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. You can also check out the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, which features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from baked goods to fresh seafood.
Beaches and Mountains
Whether you prefer sand and surf or snow and skiing, Pennsylvania has something for everyone. The state’s beaches, like Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie, offer miles of sandy shoreline and plenty of water sports. Meanwhile, the state’s mountains, like the Poconos and the Alleghenies, offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region.
Cultural Immersion
From its rich Amish heritage to its thriving arts scene, Pennsylvania offers plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. You can take a tour of Lancaster County’s Amish country, where you can learn about Amish culture and enjoy some delicious homemade food. Or, you can visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of American and European art.
Art and Music Scene
If you’re a fan of the arts, Pennsylvania won’t disappoint. The state is home to a thriving arts scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. You can visit the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, which features the largest collection of Warhol’s artwork in the world, or catch a show at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Pennsylvania’s cities is by taking a walking tour. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or food. You can take a ghost tour of Philadelphia’s historic district, or explore the city’s murals on a guided walking tour.
Architectural Marvels
Pennsylvania is home to some stunning architectural marvels, from historic homes and mansions to modern skyscrapers. One of the top architectural destinations in the state is Fallingwater, a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. You can also visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol Building in Harrisburg, which features stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and beautiful murals.
Historical Sites
If you’re a history buff, Pennsylvania is the perfect destination. The state is home to plenty of historical sites, from Civil War battlefields to Revolutionary War landmarks. One of the top destinations for history lovers is the Gettysburg Battlefield, where you can explore the site of the famous Civil War battle.
Biking Routes
Pennsylvania’s scenic roads are perfect for biking, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride. The Great Allegheny Passage is one of the state’s top biking routes, with 150 miles of car-free trail that runs from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. You can also explore the Schuylkill River Trail in Philadelphia, which offers 26 miles of scenic biking along the river.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and unwind, Pennsylvania has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. The Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in the Laurel Highlands is a luxurious spa and resort that offers everything from yoga classes to holistic treatments. You can also visit the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, which offers yoga and meditation retreats in a peaceful mountain setting.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Pennsylvania offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. You can go white-water rafting on the Lehigh River, or tackle the rapids on the Youghiogheny River. If you’re looking for something a little more extreme, check out the Pocono Raceway, where you can drive a NASCAR race car or take a high-speed ride in a stock car.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing getaway, Pennsylvania has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the state is one of the top destinations in the country.