Pennsylvania
State

Pennsylvania

Revolutionary history meets Amish country and urban sophistication

Pennsylvania surprises people. You might come for Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell, but you'll leave talking about the best cheesesteak you've ever had and that Amish farmer who let you pet his horses. The state packs Revolutionary War history, world-class museums, and rolling farmland into one surprisingly diverse package. Philadelphia gives you big-city energy on the east side, Pittsburgh serves up steel-town charm in the west, and Lancaster County offers a glimpse into 18th-century life that's still happening today. Plus, the Pocono Mountains deliver four-season outdoor fun without the Colorado price tag. Here's the thing – Pennsylvania works for almost any trip style, and your dollar stretches further than you'd expect.

Explore Subregions

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains

Southeastern Pennsylvania

Southeastern Pennsylvania

Southwestern Pennsylvania

Southwestern Pennsylvania

Explore the Region

Map showing 4 destinations
Subregions
4 destinations

Pennsylvania Itineraries

Pittsburgh Celebration: Steel City Romance Days 1-2

Pittsburgh Celebration: Steel City Romance Days 1-2

Weekend · $$$

Minimalist Cultural Escape in Lancaster PA

Minimalist Cultural Escape in Lancaster PA

Week · $$

Philadelphia's Old City puts you walking distance from Independence Hall and Reading Terminal Market. Expect $120-180 per night for decent hotels here. The Northern Liberties neighborhood offers hipper vibes and better restaurant scenes for about $20 less per night. Pittsburgh's Strip District gives you easy access to Heinz Field and the Andy Warhol Museum, with hotels running $90-150. Look, if you're doing the Amish country thing, Lancaster city center beats staying on a farm unless you're really committed to the experience. Farm stays run $80-120 but you're stuck driving everywhere. The Pocono Mountains work best as a long weekend base – Lake Harmony and Jim Thorpe have the most dining options. Avoid the big chain resorts unless you're into that scene. They're overpriced and feel like you never left New Jersey.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Buy a Philadelphia CityPASS for $59 – it covers 5 major attractions and saves about $40 if you hit them all
  • 2.Lancaster County farm stands sell fresh produce at half the grocery store prices
  • 3.Free walking tours run daily in both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh – tip your guide $10-15
  • 4.Pennsylvania state parks charge just $4 for day use parking, way cheaper than private attractions
  • 5.Yuengling brewery tours cost $10 including tastings – best beer deal in the state
  • 6.Many Amish businesses only accept cash, so hit an ATM before exploring Lancaster County
  • 7.Philadelphia's BYOB restaurants let you skip expensive wine markups – bring your own bottle
  • 8.Pocono Mountains ski resorts offer half-price lift tickets after 2pm during weekdays

Travel Tips

  • •Download the SEPTA app before arriving in Philadelphia – paper tickets cost extra
  • •Lancaster County businesses close on Sundays, so plan accordingly
  • •Book Fallingwater tours at least 2 weeks ahead, especially during fall foliage season
  • •Pennsylvania Dutch country roads get clogged with tour buses – start early or visit weekdays
  • •Parking meters in Philadelphia accept credit cards, but many still require quarters as backup
  • •The PA Turnpike uses electronic tolling – rent cars include toll transponders or you'll get mailed bills
  • •Philadelphia's Reading Terminal Market closes early on Sundays and some vendors take Monday off
  • •Bring cash for Pennsylvania state park admission – many don't accept cards at entrance gates
  • •Pittsburgh's steep hills make walking challenging – wear good shoes and plan routes carefully
  • •Amish horse-drawn buggies have right of way on Lancaster County roads – be patient and keep distance

Frequently Asked Questions

Late April through May offers perfect weather for sightseeing, while early October delivers peak fall colors. Summer works great for families but gets humid. Winter brings cheap hotel rates but some Amish country attractions close.

Explore Pennsylvania

Things to Do in PennsylvaniaWhen to Visit Pennsylvania3 Days in Pennsylvania7 Days in Pennsylvania

Ready to explore Pennsylvania?

Get a personalized itinerary in seconds with Takeoff.

Free on iOS. No credit card required.