Pennsylvania completely caught me by surprise. The first time I stood at the edge of the Pine Creek Gorge (aka the Grand Canyon of PA), watching the sunset paint those endless forested valleys in gold, I couldn’t believe I was still on the East Coast. And exploring Fallingwater in fall, seeing Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece floating over a waterfall with red and orange leaves everywhere? Absolutely unreal!
After road tripping across the Keystone State, I’ve discovered some of the most beautiful places in Pennsylvania that totally deserve more attention. From watching fireflies light up the summer nights at Cherry Springs Dark Sky Park to seeing the morning mist roll through the endless valleys of the Poconos, this state is full of surprises. Here are 12 spots that’ll make you see PA in a whole new light!
Must-See Attractions in Pennsylvania
Visiting Pennsylvania? Spend the day taking in the breathtaking views of Pine Creek Gorge, explore the charming countryside of Lancaster County, or step back in time at Philadelphia’s Historic District. Stroll through local shops for unique finds and dining, embark on an outdoor adventure in Ohiopyle State Park, or uncover the rich past of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or scenic beauty, Pennsylvania has plenty to offer!
- Most Majestic Canyon: Pine Creek Gorge
- Best Beach Destination: Presque Isle State Park
- Top Waterfall Park: Ricketts Glen State Park
- Most Historic City Area: Philadelphia’s Historic District
- Best Year-Round Retreat: The Pocono Mountains
- Best Architectural Marvel: Fallingwater
- Most Significant Battlefield: Gettysburg National Military Park
- Best Cultural Heritage Experience: Lancaster County
- Most Historic National Park: Valley Forge National Historical Park
- Best Scenic River Views: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- Top Adventure Park: Ohiopyle State Park
- Best Stargazing Spot: Cherry Springs State Park
1. Pine Creek Gorge
Pine Creek Gorge is seriously mind-blowing – I can’t believe this 50-mile canyon that reaches 1,000 feet deep is actually in Pennsylvania and not out west somewhere. The “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania” stretches for 47 miles, and honestly, the views from Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park on opposite rims are absolutely spectacular.
Leonard Harrison is way easier to access and has better facilities including a visitor center and the Overlook Trail (about 1 mile). Colton Point is more rustic but offers incredible views without the crowds – just expect a twistier road to get there. The Turkey Path Trail is the real adventure – it’s a challenging 2-mile hike straight down to Pine Creek with an 800-foot descent, but you’ll see waterfalls and wildlife that make it totally worth it.
The Pine Creek Rail Trail runs 62.5 miles along the bottom of the gorge with a gentle 2% grade, perfect for biking. Pine Creek Outfitters near Ansonia rents kayaks and offers shuttle services, which is super convenient if you don’t want to bike back uphill. Fall foliage is incredible here – usually peak in early October – but I actually love summer mornings when mist rolls through the canyon. Just bring good hiking boots because the trails can be slippery year-round.
2. Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park in Erie is basically Pennsylvania’s version of a beach vacation, and it’s way better than most people expect. This 3,200-acre sandy peninsula on Lake Erie has 11 beaches, and Beach 11 is definitely the best for swimming with lifeguards during summer. The 13-mile multi-purpose trail loop is perfect for biking – you can rent bikes right in the park.
What makes this place special is the incredible birdwatching – over 370 species have been recorded here, making it one of the top birding spots in the country. Spring and fall migrations are insane if you’re into that. The Presque Isle Lighthouse from 1872 offers great views when it’s open for tours (usually weekends in summer).
During winter, the park transforms completely with cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and some seriously beautiful frozen shoreline views. Parking can be crazy during summer weekends, so I always recommend getting there early morning – plus that’s when you’ll see the best sunrise over Lake Erie. The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is worth checking out too, especially with kids. Just remember this is Lake Erie, so water temps are pretty chilly even in summer.
3. Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen is hands-down the best waterfall destination in Pennsylvania, and the Falls Trail with 22 waterfalls along 7.2 miles is absolutely incredible. Ganoga Falls at 94 feet is the showstopper, but honestly, every single waterfall on this trail is beautiful. This isn’t an easy hike though – it’s rated strenuous and takes most people 4-6 hours to complete.
The trail basically makes a loop, and you can go either clockwise or counterclockwise. I prefer counterclockwise because you hit Ganoga Falls earlier when you’re still fresh. Spring is definitely the best time when snowmelt makes the waterfalls roar, but fall foliage is also stunning here. The trail can be extremely slippery and dangerous when wet or icy, so definitely wear good waterproof boots.
Beach #2 area at the lake is perfect for families who want easier hiking options. The park also has great camping if you want to make a weekend of it. Just be prepared – this trail is no joke, and several people get injured here every year. Park rangers recommend being in good physical shape and bringing plenty of water. But if you can handle it, this is probably the most spectacular hike in all of Pennsylvania.
4. Philadelphia’s Historic District
Philadelphia’s Historic District is where American history comes alive, and I’m not just being dramatic. Independence Hall where they signed the Declaration of Independence and Constitution is absolutely incredible to see in person. The Liberty Bell is right across the street, and despite being touristy, it still gives you chills.
Elfreth’s Alley is America’s oldest residential street (dating to 1702) and feels like stepping back in time. Christ Church where Benjamin Franklin is buried is worth seeing, and the Betsy Ross House tells a great story whether or not she actually made the first flag. Entry to most historic sites ranges from free (Independence Hall) to around $5-8 for smaller attractions.
Start early morning to avoid crowds, especially during summer and on weekends. Free timed-entry tickets for Independence Hall are available day-of at the visitor center starting at 8:30 AM, but they go fast during peak season. The Constitutional Walking Tour is actually really good if you want the full story with a guide. After sightseeing, Reading Terminal Market has incredible food, and the whole area has amazing restaurants. Spring and fall are perfect weather-wise, but December holiday lights make the historic buildings look magical.
5. The Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains are way more than just honeymoon resorts (though those are still around if that’s your thing). This four-county region has incredible diversity – Bushkill Falls known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania” is absolutely stunning with eight waterfalls total. The main falls are about a 15-minute easy walk, but the full trail system can keep you busy all day.
Skytop Lodge is the classic luxury option if you want to splurge, but there are tons of cabin rentals and family resorts that won’t break the bank. Lake Wallenpaupack is great for boating, fishing, and swimming, while Mount Airy Casino Resort offers gaming and entertainment. Winter brings skiing at places like Jack Frost Big Boulder and Camelback Mountain.
Delaware Water Gap straddles Pennsylvania and New Jersey with incredible hiking, especially Mount Tammany Trail for panoramic views. The scenic railways through the mountains are perfect for fall foliage viewing when you don’t want to hike. Jim Thorpe is one of the prettiest Victorian towns you’ll see anywhere, with great restaurants and unique shops. Book accommodations way in advance for peak fall foliage season – mid-October is usually prime time here.
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6. Fallingwater
Fallingwater is absolutely mind-blowing, and I say that as someone who’s not usually super into architecture. Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1935 masterpiece built over a waterfall is just as incredible as you’ve seen in photos, maybe more so. Tours are open daily except Wednesdays from 10 AM to 3:30 PM (mid-March through Thanksgiving), but you absolutely must reserve in advance – they sell out constantly.
Basic house tours are $28 for adults and last about an hour, while in-depth tours ($55) give you two hours and access to more areas. The Grounds Pass ($12) lets you explore the exterior and walking trails if tours are sold out. I actually recommend doing both if you have time – the house is incredible, but the grounds and Bear Run Nature Reserve with 20+ miles of trails are beautiful too.
Currently there’s major preservation work happening through 2026, so you might see some scaffolding, but tours are still running. The Fallingwater Café has surprisingly good food with locally sourced ingredients. Fall foliage around the house is absolutely spectacular, but spring when everything’s lush and green is gorgeous too. It’s about 70 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, so you can easily combine this with other Laurel Highlands attractions like Kentuck Knob (Wright’s other nearby house).
7. Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the site of the Civil War’s most famous battle, and walking these fields where so much history happened is genuinely moving. The park has over 1,300 monuments and markers spread across the battlefield. Start at the Museum and Visitor Center where the Cyclorama painting depicting Pickett’s Charge is incredible.
The Auto Tour is 24 miles and hits all the major sites with excellent audio commentary. Licensed Battlefield Guides (about $75 for a 2-hour car tour) are totally worth it if you want the full story – they’re incredibly knowledgeable and bring the history to life. Cemetery Hill, Little Round Top, and Pickett’s Charge site are the must-see stops.
The town of Gettysburg itself has tons of ghost tours, historic taverns, and Civil War-themed attractions. The Gettysburg Address was delivered at the National Cemetery right in town. Spring and fall have the best weather for walking around, plus fewer tour buses. July anniversary weekend gets absolutely packed, so plan accordingly. The park is free, but the museum and Cyclorama cost $15 for adults. This place really makes you appreciate the sacrifices made for the country we have today.
8. Lancaster County
Lancaster County is honestly one of the most peaceful, beautiful places in Pennsylvania, and the Amish countryside is exactly as picturesque as you’d imagine. Amish Farm and House offers good tours ($17 adults) that explain the culture respectfully, while Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse has great shopping and food without feeling too touristy.
Central Market in Lancaster city (operating since 1730s) has incredible local produce, baked goods, and crafts – it’s open Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. The covered bridges are gorgeous for photos, especially Hunsecker’s Covered Bridge and Jackson’s Sawmill Covered Bridge. Shady Maple Smorgasbord is famous for its massive Pennsylvania Dutch buffet if you want the full experience.
Weekday visits are way better for authentic experiences since weekend tour buses can overwhelm the area. Strasburg Rail Road offers scenic train rides through Amish farmland, and Strasburg town itself is charming. Spring brings beautiful farmland views, summer has farmers markets in full swing, and fall harvest season is absolutely gorgeous. Just remember to be respectful when photographing – most Amish prefer not to be in photos, and their buggies have the right of way on roads.
9. Valley Forge National Historical Park
Valley Forge National Historical Park is where George Washington and the Continental Army spent that brutal winter of 1777-78, and it’s a really powerful place to visit. The Visitor Center does a great job explaining the historical context, and the Washington’s Headquarters at the Isaac Potts House is fascinating to tour.
The Encampment Trail is about 6 miles and shows you Muhlenberg Brigade huts, Artillery Park, and the National Memorial Arch. You can drive, bike, or hike between sites. The Joseph Plumb Martin Trail is shorter (1.4 miles) and perfect for families. Mount Joy and Mount Misery offer great views of the Schuylkill Valley.
The park is free and open year-round, and honestly, visiting in winter gives you a better sense of what those soldiers endured. Spring and fall are beautiful for hiking the 26+ miles of trails. The Revolutionary War Weekend in June is excellent if you want to see reenactors, but any time you visit, you’ll gain serious appreciation for the sacrifices that secured American independence. It’s also easily accessible from Philadelphia if you’re making a historical tour of the area.
10. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area spans Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. Mount Tammany on the New Jersey side is the classic hike (3.5 miles) with incredible views of the gap where the river cuts through the ridge, but Mount Minsi on the Pennsylvania side is less crowded with similar views.
The Delaware River itself is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing – Kittatinny Canoes and other outfitters rent equipment and provide shuttles. Dingmans Falls (130 feet) is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania and an easy 0.3-mile walk from parking. Bushkill Falls technically isn’t in the park but is right nearby and absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Summer weekends get crazy busy, especially at popular trailheads, so arrive early or visit weekdays. The Appalachian Trail runs right through here if you want to do some serious hiking. Millford Beach and Smithfield Beach are great for families, and there’s decent fishing throughout the river. Fall foliage along the river is spectacular, and winter cross-country skiing can be excellent when there’s snow. Just remember to check water levels if you’re planning to paddle – spring runoff can make things exciting.
11. Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle State Park is adrenaline central in Pennsylvania, and the Youghiogheny River whitewater rafting is absolutely incredible. The Lower Yough has Class III-IV rapids for experienced rafters, while the Middle Yough is perfect for beginners and families. Ohiopyle Trading Post and other local outfitters rent equipment and provide shuttles – expect to pay around $35-60 per person depending on the section.
Ohiopyle Falls right in town is a 20-foot waterfall that’s really impressive during high water. Cucumber Falls is gorgeous and just a short 1-mile hike from the Cucumber Falls parking area. The Great Allegheny Passage rail-trail runs right through the park and connects all the way to Washington DC if you’re into long-distance biking.
Ferncliff Trail (1.7 miles) has great river views and goes through unique ecosystems. Rock climbing at Dimple Rock and Sugarloaf Knob is popular with experienced climbers. The park gets absolutely packed during summer weekends, so weekdays or early morning visits are way better. Spring has the most exciting whitewater, summer is perfect for swimming holes, and fall colors along the river are incredible. Winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are excellent when conditions allow.
12. Cherry Springs State Park
Cherry Springs State Park has some of the darkest skies on the East Coast, and seeing the Milky Way here is absolutely mind-blowing. This Gold Level International Dark Sky Park offers incredible stargazing about 60-85 nights per year when conditions are ideal. The Overnight Astronomy Observation Field ($25 per night) is for serious stargazers with telescopes, while the Night Sky Public Viewing Area is perfect for casual visitors.
The park hosts two major Star Parties – the Cherry Springs Star Party in June and Black Forest Star Party in September – where hundreds of astronomers gather with high-powered telescopes. These events include public viewing sessions that are absolutely incredible even if you don’t own equipment. Regular stargazing programs happen throughout summer with park educators.
You’ll need red-filtered flashlights (white light is prohibited in observation areas) and warm clothes even in summer since you’re at 2,300 feet elevation. The rustic campground ($16+ per night) has no lighting restrictions, so it’s not ideal for serious astronomy. Check the Clear Dark Sky Chart online for current conditions before making the trip – cloudy skies obviously ruin everything.
New moon periods are best for viewing faint objects, though planets and bright stars are visible even with some moonlight. Nearby Coudersport has decent restaurants and accommodations if you need more amenities than the park offers. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people who’ve only seen city skies.
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