Pennsylvania is one of the best places to live in the United States. It has a wealth of cultural offerings and is conveniently located. It’s not very far from Washington D.C. or New York.
The schools in Pennsylvania make it very family friendly. There are also many outdoor activities that make it great for kids and adults.
Here are some of the many places to visit in Pennsylvania.
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1.Amish Area
There aren’t many places with a thriving Amish community.
Pennsylvania is home to one of the country’s largest Amish groups. It’s really incredible. You’ll feel like you’re in another century.
Don’t be surprised when you see horses and buggies going down the street. And don’t be surprised if you see people doing things the old fashioned way.
To get away from the noise of the city, Amish country is really the best place. You won’t miss your phone or the internet at all. There’s so much to do that you won’t need the distractions of social media.
This is a great place to take kids. You can learn crafts or take a traditional cooking course. Everything goes at a slower, more relaxed pace here.
It’s a great place to buy traditional souvenirs.
2.Wine Trail
The Pennsylvanian wine trail is fairly small.
But the quality here is very good. The land is excellent for agriculture. It’s even become a popular location for cannabis dispensaries.
Here’s an overview from Veriheal on the status of cannabis in Pennsylvania.
While cannabis has not been legalized for recreational use, most of the big cities have decriminalized possession in small amounts. There is sometimes a small fee, but it’s not very large.
Cannabis tourism is on the rise alongside wine tourism. Considering Pennsylvania is much cheaper than Colorado and California, that’s not very surprising. It’s also a much friendlier state.
Most of the dispensaries and wineries here are very small. The wineries are usually family-run. Most of them are also bed and breakfasts.
There’s no better place to get away for the weekend. It’s a great destination for couples, small groups, and even families.
If you live in Pennsylvania, it’s a great place to take a day trip, too. You’ll enjoy great food, authentic hospitality, and an escape from the city.
It’s always good to support small local businesses.
3.Fallingwater
If you’re interested in architecture, you have to see Fallingwater.
Since it’s a house, this isn’t technically an outdoor activity. However, that’s the idea behind Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural style.
His architectural philosophy was all about integrating the human world with the natural world. Nowhere is that more evident than at Fallingwater.
The house is located in the woods, so it takes a little while to get here. But it’s worth the drive. You won’t forget this trip.
Once privately owned, the house is now a museum dedicated to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture. You’ll learn about him and his influence on architecture all around the world.
Ask any architect and he’ll be on their list of favorites.
4.National Parks
There are several small national parks in Pennsylvania.
They may not be as big as Yosemite or Yellowstone, but that’s exactly what makes them so charming.
Here’s a list from World Atlas of the state’s national parks. Some are more focused on history and have historical tours. Others are really about an escape into nature.
National parks make for great activities with kids. Head for hikes and do a tour with a park ranger.
It’s a great place to stay healthy and do sports, too.
5.Gettysburg
Most people have heard of the famous Gettysburg address.
Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech was recited after the battle at Gettysburg. The battlesight now hosts reenactments.
It can get pretty crowded during the weekend, but a reenactment is something you won’t forget. It’s a great place to learn about history and have fun. The town is also worth a visit, too.
If you have the time, consider staying the night at one of the small inns. Definitely stop by for lunch or at least a cup of coffee.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania is a great destination no matter what you’re interested in. It’s great for families, couples, and solo travelers.
