Pennsylvania

The state that's famous for being the home of Punxsutawney Phil, the weather-predicting groundhog; a complete travel guide to Pennsylvania.

Location

Pennsylvania is a diverse and captivating destination in the northeastern U.S., rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural charm. Whether you're walking the cobblestone streets of Philadelphia, hiking through the Pocono Mountains, or enjoying the small-town charm of Lancaster’s Amish Country, the Keystone State has something for every type of traveler. From iconic landmarks and vibrant cities to scenic drives and world-famous snacks, this travel guide to Pennsylvania will help you uncover the best of the state.

Pennsylvania DESTINATIONS

What to Expect in Pennsylvania

Getting to Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is well-connected by air, road, and rail, making it accessible for travelers from all over the country.

By Air: Major airports include Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), all offering domestic and international flights.
By Car: Interstates like I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike), I-95, and I-80 provide convenient access. Scenic byways like Route 6 and the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway offer picturesque road-trip experiences.
By Train: Amtrak serves several Pennsylvania cities, including Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Lancaster via its Keystone, Pennsylvanian, and Cardinal routes. SEPTA and NJ Transit also connect to regional areas.

Best Time to Visit Pennsylvania

Each season in Pennsylvania offers its own charm:

Spring (March–May): Perfect for cherry blossoms in Philadelphia and early hikes in the Poconos.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy lakeside retreats, county fairs, and vibrant city festivals.
Fall (September–November): Ideal for leaf-peeping, harvest festivals, and Gettysburg ghost tours.
Winter (December–February): Great for skiing in the Poconos and cozy winter escapes in small towns.

Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Historical Exploration: Walk through American history in Philadelphia, Gettysburg, and Valley Forge.
Outdoor Adventures: Hike the Appalachian Trail, bike the Great Allegheny Passage, or explore Pennsylvania’s many state parks.
Cultural Attractions: Visit the Barnes Foundation, Fallingwater (by Frank Lloyd Wright), or the Reading Terminal Market.
Festivals: Enjoy the Kutztown Folk Festival, the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, and the Philadelphia Flower Show.

Scenic view of the Delaware Water Gap with lush green mountains, the Delaware River winding through the valley, and clear blue skies—capturing the natural beauty of this iconic outdoor destination on the Pennsylvania–New Jersey border; travel guide to Pennsylvania

Travel Tips for Pennsylvania

Weather Prep: Seasons can vary greatly—pack layers in spring/fall and bring snow gear in winter.
Public Transport: SEPTA is great for getting around Philadelphia. In rural areas, a car is highly recommended.
Toll Roads: Be aware of tolls, especially on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76).
Park Passes: Many state parks are free, but some attractions may require advance booking or a fee.