The state of Pennsylvania is home to a diverse range of cities, each with its own unique character and charm. From the historic streets of Philadelphia to the scenic beauty of Pittsburgh, there’s no shortage of exciting places to visit in PA. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top cities to visit in Pennsylvania, highlighting their must-see attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
Why Visit Cities in PA?
Pennsylvania is a state with a rich history, dating back to the colonial era. Many of its cities are steeped in history and culture, with landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell drawing millions of visitors each year. But PA cities are more than just historic attractions – they’re also hubs of innovation, art, and entertainment. From world-class museums to vibrant music scenes, there’s always something new to discover in the Keystone State.
Top Cities to Visit in PA
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top cities to visit in Pennsylvania, including:
- Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history and culture.
- Pittsburgh: Known for its steel industry heritage, Pittsburgh is now a thriving city with a vibrant arts and cultural scene.
- Harrisburg: The state capital of PA, Harrisburg is a charming city with a rich history and a growing downtown area.
- Erie: Located in northwestern PA, Erie is a scenic city with a beautiful lakefront and a rich history.
- Scranton: This northeastern PA city is known for its coal mining heritage and its role in the development of the American railroad.
In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each of these cities, highlighting their top attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply exploring new places, there’s something for everyone in the cities of Pennsylvania.
Cities to Visit in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania, a state in the northeastern United States, is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the scenic mountains of the Poconos, there are countless cities to visit in Pennsylvania that offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top cities to visit in Pennsylvania, including their attractions, landmarks, and things to do.
Philadelphia
Birthplace of American Independence
Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and is steeped in history. Visit Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed. Take a stroll through Independence National Historical Park, which includes other historic sites such as the Liberty Bell and the Old City Hall.
Attractions: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art
Landmarks: Independence National Historical Park, Old City Hall
Things to do: Take a guided tour of the city, visit the Reading Terminal Market for fresh produce and local specialties, or catch a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park
Pittsburgh
Steel City (See Also: Top Cities To Visit In Idaho)
Pittsburgh is a city with a rich industrial past, but it’s also a city with a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Andy Warhol Museum, which showcases the life and work of the famous pop artist. Take a ride on the Duquesne Incline for panoramic views of the city and the three rivers.
Attractions: Andy Warhol Museum, Carnegie Science Center, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Landmarks: Duquesne Incline, Mount Washington, Point State Park
Things to do: Take a stroll along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, visit the famous Primanti Bros. sandwich shop, or catch a Pirates game at PNC Park
Scranton
The Electric City
Scranton is a city with a rich industrial history, and it’s also the birthplace of the electric trolley. Visit the Houdini Museum, which showcases the life and work of the famous magician. Take a ride on the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, which takes you deep into the mines.
Attractions: Houdini Museum, Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, Everhart Museum
Landmarks: Steamtown National Historic Site, Nay Aug Park, Scranton Iron Furnaces
Things to do: Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, visit the Scranton Fraternal Order of Police, or catch a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders game at PNC Field
Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg
Gettysburg is a city with a rich history, and it’s the site of the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park, which commemorates the battle and features a museum and a self-guided driving tour. Take a tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield, which includes the famous Little Round Top and the Wheatfield.
Attractions: Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg Battlefield, Eisenhower National Historic Site
Landmarks: Gettysburg Memorial, Gettysburg Cemetery, David Wills House
Things to do: Take a guided tour of the battlefield, visit the Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War, or catch a show at the Gettysburg Community Theatre (See Also: Cities To Visit In Bosnia)
Other Cities to Visit in Pennsylvania
In addition to these cities, there are many other cities to visit in Pennsylvania that offer a range of attractions and activities. Some of these cities include:
Harrisburg, the state capital, which is home to the Pennsylvania State Capitol building and the Susquehanna River
Lancaster, a city with a rich Amish heritage and a vibrant arts scene
Bethlehem, a city with a rich history and a vibrant downtown area
Erie, a city on the shores of Lake Erie with a rich maritime history
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there’s a city to visit in Pennsylvania that’s sure to meet your interests. So come and explore the Keystone State!
As we conclude our journey through the best cities to visit in Pennsylvania, it’s clear that the Keystone State has a plethora of exciting destinations to offer. From the vibrant cityscapes of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to the charming small towns of Lancaster and Gettysburg, there’s something for everyone in PA.
In this article, we explored the top cities to visit in Pennsylvania, highlighting their unique attractions, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. We discovered the rich history of Philadelphia, from Independence Hall to the Liberty Bell, and the stunning architecture of Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle. We also delved into the Amish country of Lancaster, where visitors can experience a simpler way of life, and the historic battlefields of Gettysburg, where the Civil War’s turning point was fought.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, Pennsylvania has something to offer. From the scenic beauty of the Pocono Mountains to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, each city has its own unique charm and character. As you plan your trip to Pennsylvania, remember to prioritize these must-visit cities to get the most out of your experience.
In conclusion, Pennsylvania is a state that seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering a mix of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural wonders that make it a must-visit destination. With its rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to explore and discover new experiences. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to fall in love with the Keystone State!
Here are five FAQs related to “Cities to Visit in PA”: (See Also: Best Cities To Visit In May)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular cities to visit in Pennsylvania?
Some of the most popular cities to visit in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Scranton. These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and entertainment options that appeal to a wide range of interests.
Is Philadelphia worth visiting?
Philadelphia is a must-visit destination in Pennsylvania. As the birthplace of American democracy, it’s home to many historic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Visitors can also explore world-class museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute.
What are some unique attractions in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is known for its unique attractions, including the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Science Center, and the Duquesne Incline, which offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can also take a ride on the historic Monongahela Incline or explore the city’s many neighborhoods, such as the Strip District and Lawrenceville.
Are there any family-friendly cities in Pennsylvania?
Yes, many cities in Pennsylvania are family-friendly. Hershey is a popular destination for families, with its theme parks, Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World. Lancaster is another great option, with its Amish countryside, farmers’ markets, and children’s museums. Harrisburg also has a number of family-friendly attractions, including the State Museum of Pennsylvania and the National Civil War Museum.
Can I visit Pennsylvania’s cities on a budget?
Yes, it’s possible to visit Pennsylvania’s cities on a budget. Many of the state’s cities offer free or low-cost attractions, such as parks, museums, and historic landmarks. Visitors can also take advantage of affordable accommodations, such as hostels or budget hotels, and eat at local restaurants or food trucks. Additionally, many cities offer free or discounted admission to attractions on certain days of the week or month, so it’s worth doing some research before planning a trip.
