Ready for your next Pennsylvania adventure? From Presque Isle’s beaches to Gettysburg’s battlefields, Philly’s history to Pittsburgh’s skyline, this guide outlines the perfect Pennsylvania itinerary.
These easy-to-use and curated itineraries help find the best things to do in Pennsylvania—featuring chocolate towns, covered bridges, Amish farms, mountain hikes, and founding father landmarks for your ultimate Pennsylvania vacation.
- Philadelphia: Birthplace of the nation and home of the Liberty Bell, cheesesteaks, cobbled streets, and Rocky steps.
- Pittsburgh: A city of bridges and transformation—steel roots, cutting-edge art, skyline views, and sports pride.
- Gettysburg: One of America’s most legendary battlefields—history buffs and ghost hunters alike feel the weight of the past here.
- Hershey: The Sweetest Place on Earth—home to Hersheypark, chocolate everything, and family-friendly fun.
- Lancaster: A peaceful countryside escape with Amish farms, rolling hills, farmers markets, and antique treasure hunts.
- The Poconos: Four-season fun in the mountains—skiing, lakes, hiking trails, waterfalls, and cozy cabin weekends.
- Valley Forge: A historic park where George Washington’s winter encampment meets beautiful trails and deep reflection.
- Erie: Pennsylvania’s lakefront playground with Presque Isle beaches, sunsets over Lake Erie, and water adventures galore.
- Jim Thorpe: A charming Victorian town tucked in the mountains—great for scenic railways, hiking, and boutique strolls.
- State College: Home to Penn State University and serious college town energy—fall football weekends are a whole vibe.
- Allentown: A growing urban hub in the Lehigh Valley with museums, minor league baseball, and nearby nature escapes.
- Bethlehem: A steel town turned arts destination, especially magical during the Christmas season with lights and historic markets.
- New Hope: A quirky riverside town known for its galleries, indie shops, LGBTQ+ friendliness, and romantic B&Bs.
- Bushkill Falls: The “Niagara of Pennsylvania”—a beautiful series of waterfalls and hiking trails in the Pocono wilderness.
📅 Pennsylvania Calendar
- Lancaster Central Market (Year-round, Tuesdays/Fridays/Saturdays): Local produce, Amish baked goods, and artisanal specialties
- Philadelphia Flower Show (March, Philly): The nation’s largest indoor flower show
- Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival (March, Lancaster): Multi-venue music festival featuring blues, rock, jazz, and more
- Amish Quilt & Craft Shows (Spring & Fall, Lancaster): Handmade quilts, woodworking, and folk art from local artisans
- Maple Festival (April, Somerset County): Celebrate spring with syrup tastings and tree tapping
- Muddy Run Powwow (May, nearby Holtwood): Native American drumming, dance competitions, and cultural demonstrations
- Three Rivers Arts Festival (June, Pittsburgh): 10 days of music, art, and food by the river
- Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts (July, State College): One of the top-ranked art festivals in the country
- Musikfest (August, Bethlehem): A massive free music festival with food and fireworks
- Little League World Series (August, Williamsport): Watch the world’s best young athletes compete
- Gettysburg Fall Festival (October, Gettysburg): Civil War reenactments, cider, and crafts
- Christmas Village in Philadelphia (Late November–December): German-style holiday market in LOVE Park
- Christmas in Lancaster County (December): Lights, carriage rides, holiday markets, and traditional Amish Christmas experiences