20 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania – Keystone State

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Pennsylvania has got it all!

If you’re looking for rich history, culture, and iconic landmarks like the Pittsburgh inclines and Gettysburg’s legendary battlefield, then you’ll want to visit Pennsylvania.

From Independence Hall in Philadelphia to Randyland in Pittsburgh and everywhere in between, there are tons of cool places in Pennsylvania that it could take a lifetime to see them all!

Not to mention the exciting activities in Pennsylvania like the Kinzua Bridge and Eastern State Penitentiary. There are so many unique things to do in Pennsylvania – Keystone State!

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture buff, or a history nerd, this Pennsylvania bucket list has it all! So, let’s dive in!

Ride the Monongahela Incline in Pittsburgh

The Monongahela Incline in Pittsburgh is more than just a historic railway; it’s a unique, bucket-list-worthy experience in Pennsylvania, offering a journey back in time and a thrilling ride.

As one of the oldest continuously operating funiculars in the United States, the Pittsburgh Funicular is charming not only because of its rich history, which dates back to 1870, but also because of the fantastic views of the city. It’s definitely a top thing to do in Pittsburgh!

As you climb Mount Washington, you’ll see panoramic views of Pittsburgh’s skyline and the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers.

Once you’re at the top, grab a bite at one of many restaurants along Shiloh Street.

Visit Pennsylvania’s Tallest Waterfall, Milford PA

Raymondskill Falls, located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Pennsylvania.

As the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, cascading down three tiers totalling approximately 150 feet, it captivates visitors with its beauty.

The trail to Raymondskill Falls is relatively easy and is less than a 1/2-mile total. Two lookout decks require navigating stairs to reach both of them.

Raymondskill Falls is a popular destination, especially in the summer and weekends.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: I highly recommend that you arrive early to find parking in the small lot.

Ride the Strasburg Railroad, Ronks PA

As America’s oldest operating railroad, dating back to 1832, the Strasburg Railroad in Ronks, PA offers a nostalgic and enjoyable experience aboard vintage steam locomotives or historic diesel trains.

The scenic ride through the beautiful Lancaster County countryside shows the region’s rich heritage and stunning farmland. Passengers can relive the golden age of steam railroading, taking in the sights and sounds of the locomotive as it chugs along the rails, passing through verdant landscapes and past working farms.

Strasburg Railroad runs throughout the year and offers themed train rides like a fall foliage train and Santa trains, plus murder mystery trains for the adults.

Visit Independence Hall, Philadelphia PA

You can only visit Pennsylvania by visiting the birthplace of America!

You feel like you’re stepping back in time as you walk through the halls where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted.

The adjacent structures of Independence Hall welcome visitors for tours as well. You’ll find authentic historical documents within these buildings, including the esteemed Declaration of Independence!

One of the top attractions in PA, tickets are required to enter Independence Hall from March through December and holidays on weekends in January and February, and they can be reserved in advance through the National Park Service for $1 each.

However, tickets are optional for evenings after 5:00 PM in the summer or during non-holidays in January and February.

Read the article: Enjoying Philly with a Philadelphia Big Bus Tour

Explore Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia PA

Eastern State Penitentiary, once renowned as the most famous prison globally, attracts visitors worldwide.

With a nearly 200-year-old history, this prison boasts remarkably unique and captivating architecture. Built in the distinct “Pennsylvania” style, the facility was designed to keep prisoners in isolation around the clock.

Visitors can explore the prison at their own pace through a self-guided audio tour, which highlights ten main stops and lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Additional tour stops are available on the audio guide for those eager to explore more. Due to the tour’s content, Eastern State advises against it for children under eight, suggesting that middle school-aged children and older individuals are better suited for the experience.

Read more in this article: A Visit to Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia PA – If you Dare

Visit Longwood Gardens, Philadelphia PA

Longwood Gardens is a cherished regional attraction drawing numerous visitors to Kennett Square, PA. Spanning over 1000 acres, it is the most extensive garden near Philadelphia.

As spring and summer bloom, the garden dazzles guests with hundreds of plants and flowers. However, the entire property sparkles with enchanting twinkling lights during the Christmas season.

Longwood Gardens offers many attractions for children, with various captivating spots and play areas. Among these are several intriguing “tree houses” awaiting exploration and an indoor children’s garden within the conservatory, ensuring endless entertainment.

Visitors should attend the spectacle of the dancing fountains! The garden’s opening hours vary across seasons, and timed-entry tickets can be acquired through their website.

Given its popularity, especially during weekends and the Christmas celebration, you’ll want to secure tickets well before your visit.

Hersheypark and Chocolate World, Hershey PA

With over a dozen rollercoasters, Hersheypark is one of the best amusement parks in Pennsylvania. They have rides for everyone, including tons of kids rides and plenty of rides for thrill seekers.

Plus, they have fun shows and animal performances.

The Boardwalk area is a bug hit during the summer, with all the water slides and splash areas.

While you’re there, you’ll want to head next door to Chocolate World, the world’s largest Hershey store. But there’s more than just shopping! Guests can ride the free Chocolate Tour ride, make their candy bar, and enjoy a 4D experience.

Take a Train Through an Old Coal Mine in Ashland PA

The Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train in Ashland, Pennsylvania, is a blast from the past!

To tour the old mine, you’ll get to ride in a battery-operated open mine car. Once inside, you’ll hop out and walk around as the guide describes the history of the mine.

You also have the option to take a ride on an old-school steam train. It takes you past an old strip mine on Mahanoy Mountain and the Centralia mine fire. The ride lasts about 30 minutes.

This place is a hidden gem in Pennsylvania that offers a unique and immersive glimpse into the state’s industrial past. Make sure to take advantage of this one-of-a-kind adventure.

Spend a Day in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

For history buffs, a trip to Gettysburg is a must-do in Pennsylvania. The town gained fame due to the pivotal Civil War battle fought here, yet its allure has kept visitors pouring in for over a century!

You can spend a weekend soaking in the town’s atmosphere and exploring the battlefield—it’s a treat for history enthusiasts and casual travellers alike.

In Gettysburg town, there’s a plethora of museums, shops, and eateries to fill your day. The Shriver House tour is a gem you shouldn’t miss; it offers a poignant glimpse into locals’ hardships during the battle.

And when in Gettysburg, visiting the battlefield is a must. Start your battlefield tour at the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center, where you can grab a battlefield map.

For the best experience, you’ll want to watch the film and see the cyclorama and museum displays that bring the battle to life. After the Visitor Center, hop in your car to explore the battlefield to take a self-guided driving tour. Don’t miss Devil’s Den! It’s a fun stop.

See Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon

Pine Creek Gorge, also known as Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, is 45 miles long and up to 1,500 feet deep.

You’ll want to visit Colton Point State Park and walk the Rim Trail, a one-mile, easy trail connecting several gorge overlooks to get some of the best views of the gorge.

You can find waterfalls along the Turkey Path Trail in Leonard Harris State Park. The 3-mile trail leads to the bottom of the gorge and is considered difficult. It is closed in winter and early spring.

Walk On the Remnants of a Railroad Bridge

Kinzua Bridge State Park is home to the Kinzua Bridge and Sky Walk. The bridge was once part of the highest and longest railroad viaduct in the world but was struck by a tornado in 2003.

Visitors can walk out on the remaining support towers to stand and look down through the glass platform on the viewing deck or look out at the Kinzua Gorge.

Also at the park is a visitor center with exhibits about the bridge’s history.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: You can also hike to the bottom of the gorge to view the destroyed bridge from below.

Take a Tour of Fonthill Castle, Doylestown PA

Henry Mercer’s residence, Fonthill Castle in Doylestown, is a unique experience in Pennsylvania.

Made primarily from concrete and enveloping an original farmhouse, this distinctive residence showcases walls adorned with vibrant, gorgeous tiles crafted at Mercer’s tile works next to the home. They are on the floors, walls, and ceilings; many tell a story.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: You can take a guided tour throughout the year, but Christmas is when it shines! The rooms are decorated with themed trees, emphasizing the unique charm of Mercer’s castle-like home.

Visit the Mid Point of the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is almost 2200 miles long, stretching from Maine to Georgia. And the midpoint is near Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Pennsylvania!

You can hike to the midpoint marker and see notes from other hikers. Or you can visit the Appalachian Trail Museum within the park.

While there, check out the beautiful overlooks near the Appalachian Trail, like Pole Steeple and Sunset Rocks.

Make Music at Ringing Rocks County Park, Bucks County PA

Bring your hammer to this park in Bucks County. Ringing Rocks is known for its rocks that make “music” when you bang them. The boulder field has hundreds of stones ready to ring out!

It’s a short walk from the parking area to the boulder field, though it’s unpaved with stones in the path. Once you reach the field, you’ll climb over and on the rocks, so wear sneakers or hiking boots with a good grip. Then you can go wild, hitting the rocks with hammers to make them sing!

Once you’ve finished your musical fun, follow the trail leading to the waterfall. The top of the waterfall has some pretty views, and the 1-mile loop is easy enough for almost everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy the Spirit and Colors of Randyland, Pittsburgh PA

The most colourful house you will ever see is at the corner of Jacksonia and Arch Streets in Pittsburgh.

Randyland is the epitome of trash turned into treasure, and you can’t help but smile as you walk through the displays. There are several displays made up of unique objects and bright colours. It’s a lot to take in!

If you get lucky and meet Randy himself, you’ll meet a kindhearted person who wants to bring some joy to the world. We think he succeeded.

While you are in the area, read: Finding the Hidden Gems of Small Town USA, DuBois Pennsylvania

Take a Boat Ride Through Penns Cave, Centre Hall PA

Have you ever taken a boat ride through a cavern? Penn’s Cave in Centre Hall is a unique experience in Pennsylvania that allows you to cruise through the underground wonderland by boat.

You’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, and formations with descriptive names such as the “Statue of Liberty” and “The Garden of the Gods.”

The tour lasts 45-50 minutes and is entirely done by boat, except for the 48 steps to the dock entrance. Don’t forget to dress warmly, as the cave is always 52°F inside, no matter the weather outside.

There is more to do at Penn’s Cave, including a wildlife tour, gem mining, and a fun maze for kids.

Climb Bowman’s Hill Tower, New Hope PA

Bowman’s Hill Tower stands apart from the conventional “historical” features within the Washington’s Crossing Historic Park. Built between 1929 and 1931, this 125-foot tower isn’t older than the other structures in the park. But it’s still awesome to visit.

You’ll have to climb up 100+ steps to experience the Tower’s heights. From there, on a clear day, you can enjoy a breathtaking 14-mile view that stretches across Bucks County and its neighbouring state to the east, New Jersey.

Take a Snack Chip Tour, Hanover PA

Located in Hanover, the Utz Potato Chip Factory tour is a treat for anyone who loves crispy, crunchy snacks.

You’ll witness the whole process of making potato chips, seeing the magic happen right before your eyes. You’ll even see how they are packaged up and ready to ship.

The free self-guided tour lasts about 30 minutes and uses a push-to-talk audio program and closed-circuit TV monitors to guide you. At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a free sample of chips. But you can also purchase more at the factory outlet store a few minutes away.

Explore an Old Mining Town in Weatherly PA

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Pennsylvania, Eckley Miners’ Village is it.

This village is like stepping into a living history book that takes you back in time to the coal mining era. You’ll get to stroll through well-preserved buildings and streets of this 19th-century village. It’s been frozen in time, giving you a glimpse into the lives of coal miners and their families.

There are more than 50 structures and 100 outbuildings along the one-mile street. It’s recommended to plan 2-3 hours to tour the village. Remember that the buildings are open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Tour Pop-Culture Items in Oaks, PA

The American Treasure Tour Museum in Oaks is a must-see in Pennsylvania. This enormous private collection features pop-culture items from the mid-1800s through the 21st century.

The walk-through display includes dollhouses, phones, and play pianos, while the tram tour takes you by several Wurlitzer organs, classic cars, and old department store displays, to name a few. It’s such a unique museum that allows you to travel through pop-culture time!

Final Thoughts on This Pennsylvania Bucket List

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone seeking new adventures, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see in Pennsylvania. The list above should inspire you to explore more of the Keystone State and enjoy its hidden gems and historic places. There are plenty of amazing things to do in PA, but these are some of the best!

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Lauren from Where the Wild Kids Wander has been hitting the road, exploring the nooks and crannies of the United States alongside her family for the past decade. Her passions include visiting big cities and small towns, trekking through nature’s trails, and exploring her home state of Pennsylvania.