Discover Pennsylvania: The Keystone State's Top Attractions

Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, played a pivotal role in the founding of the United States and is steeped in history, from the drafting of the Declaration of Independence to the Gettysburg Address. It's also known as the Quaker State, named after William Penn's religion. Tourists flock to Pennsylvania to experience its rich past, visit the Amish in Dutch country, and enjoy various historic landmarks and attractions.

1. Independence National Park and the Liberty Bell

Philadelphia's Independence National Historical Park is a treasure trove of American history, featuring the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were created. The park also includes historic buildings and museums like Congress Hall and the National Museum of American Jewish History.

Official site: www.nps.gov/inde/index.htm

2. Hershey Park

Hershey Park, a 90-acre amusement park, offers a variety of rides and entertainment for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides, and a zoo with over 200 North American animals.

Official site: www.hersheypark.com

3. Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg National Military Park commemorates the pivotal Civil War battle with numerous monuments and exhibits, including the Rosensteel collection of Civil War artifacts.

4. Presque Isle State Park

This park boasts 11 miles of beaches, hiking trails, and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, which offers exhibits and an observation tower.

Official site: www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PresqueIsleStatePark/Pages/default.aspx

5. Philadelphia Museum of Art

Home to one of the largest art collections in the U.S., the museum features works by European masters, American colonial furniture, and an outdoor sculpture garden.

Official site: www.philamuseum.org

6. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, harmonizing with nature and housing the Kauffman family's art collection.

Official site: www.fallingwater.org

7. Reading Terminal Market

A historic Philadelphia market offering fresh local produce, meats, and artisanal goods, along with unique crafts and gifts.

Official site: https://readingterminalmarket.org

8. Phipps Conservatory

This 15-acre botanical garden and glasshouse in Pittsburgh showcases diverse plant collections and sustainable practices.

Official site: www.phipps.conservatory.org

9. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

One of the premier natural history museums in the U.S., known for its extensive dinosaur collection and interactive exhibits.

Official site: www.carnegiemnh.org

10. Eastern State Penitentiary

A former prison that once housed Al Capone, now a museum offering tours and exhibits on the U.S. prison system.

Official site: www.easternstate.org

11. Pennsylvania State Capitol

The grand Capitol Building in Harrisburg features a dome inspired by St. Peter's in Rome and houses the State Museum of Pennsylvania.

Official site: www.pacapitol.com

12. The Philadelphia Zoo

The first zoo in the U.S., it offers a variety of habitats and focuses on conservation and education.

Official site: www.philadelphiazoo.org

13. Strasburg

A Lancaster County town known for its Amish culture and railroad history, featuring scenic train rides and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.

14. Valley Forge and Valley Forge National Historical Park

A symbol of American perseverance, this park commemorates the Revolutionary War's winter encampment with historical exhibits and trails.

15. Intercourse

This charming town offers a glimpse into Amish life, with attractions like the Old Country Store and the American Military Edged Weaponry Museum.

16. Andy Warhol Museum

In Pittsburgh, this museum celebrates the life and art of Andy Warhol, showcasing his most famous works and personal history.

Official site: www.warhol.org

For more information on Pennsylvania's best tourist attractions, visit Excurzilla.