In Pennsylvania, striking landscapes and important sites in American history sit side by side. Waterfalls in rocky gorges, designated natural areas and trails of varying lengths give outdoor experiences a distinct character. Historic sites, in turn, trace the story from the Declaration of Independence to the Civil War. You can shape your trip around the themes that interest you most.
Explore landscapes and trails
The Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks manages 125 state parks covering more than 300,000 acres. They support popular outdoor recreational activities. Within this broad park landscape, the Glens Natural Area in Ricketts Glen State Park features a striking waterfall landscape: The area is a National Natural Landmark and includes 21 free-flowing waterfalls cascading through rocky gorges. The Falls Trail System is located within this natural area. Its complete loop is 7.2 miles long; a shorter option is the 3.2-mile loop via the Highland Trail and the Glen Leigh and Ganoga Glen sections, which leads to most of the waterfalls. Seasonal trail conditions may change; check them before your visit.
A different landscape defines the Ferncliff Peninsula in Ohiopyle State Park. This 100-acre National Natural Landmark was formed by a bend in the Youghiogheny River. Ohiopyle is also home to the Cucumber Falls Trail, which follows the river from Ohiopyle to Cucumber Falls. The peninsula tells the story of the river’s shaping force, while the trail leads to a specific destination along its banks.
At Presque Isle State Park, the paved Multi-Purpose Trail and its extension form a 13.5-mile loop designated as a National Recreation Trail. The park can be reached via PA 832 heading north or by boat. The paved surface and loop route set this trail apart from the shorter and longer hiking options at Ricketts Glen State Park. If you prefer to combine scenic views with exhibits, the visitor center and park office at Kinzua Bridge State Park offer expansive views, self-guided exhibits and information about the surrounding area. The Kinzua Bridge Scenic Byway is designated as a shared hiking and biking corridor.
Sites in American history
In Philadelphia, Independence Hall commemorates two foundational documents of the United States: the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed there. Independence Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For planning purposes, tours start every 20 minutes from 10 a.m.; the last tour begins at 4:20 p.m. Check the schedule before your trip.
Gettysburg also brings history to life through specific places and experiences. The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the American Civil War. At Gettysburg National Military Park, ranger-led programs offer insight into important moments and locations on the battlefield. Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 6,000 American soldiers and veterans. The battlefield and cemetery thus provide different perspectives on the commemoration of the war.
The Flight 93 National Memorial is the national memorial to the passengers and crew of Flight 93. The Flight 93 Visitor Center Complex includes exhibits, a viewing window, a bookstore, the Flight Path Walkway and the Overlook. Visitors can also explore the story through outdoor exhibits, a cell phone tour, ranger-led programs and conversations with rangers and park staff. These different ways to engage offer a range of experiences, from independent exploration to conversations with staff.
Fallingwater also brings architecture and history together: The structure is a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Guided Architectural Tour includes access to the interior of the house and the entire grounds. Times and availability may change; check tour options before your trip.
Local produce and choosing a base for your trip
Pennsylvania has hundreds of farmers markets and local farm stands selling fresh produce. Dates vary by market. If local products are among your travel interests, include the relevant market days in your plans.
When looking for a place to stay, let the experiences you want to focus on guide you: trails and waterfalls, historic sites, or both. The places described offer different points of interest; choose a base that fits your plans and check the relevant times and conditions for individual visits.
Explore more destinations: York, Adams, Delaware, Franklin, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Chester, Bucks, Montgomery, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, Westmoreland, Berks, Allegheny, Lehigh, Northampton, Beaver, Centre, Monroe, Carbon, Mercer, Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wayne, Juniata, Clearfield, Bedford, Washington, Butler, Northumberland, Erie, Blair, Williamsport, Columbia, Pike, Crawford County, Clarion County, Fayette County, Lawrence County, Union County, Wyoming County, Jefferson County, Mckean County, Clinton County, Snyder County, Schuylkill County, Montour County, Somerset County, Bradford County, Huntingdon County, Venango County, Cambria County, Perry County, Lycoming County, Elk County, Mifflin, Armstrong, Greene County, Sullivan County, Potter County, Tioga County, Susquehanna County, Fulton County, Indiana County.
For the broader travel overview: Usa.
