8 Incredible Vacation Spots In Pennsylvania

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a dynamic tourist destination shaped by rich industrial heritage, captivating colonial and war history, and a colorful art scene. Its big cities, including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, are cultural meccas that draw droves with world-class museums, professional theater venues, and state-of-the-art music arenas. But beyond the major metro areas, the Keystone State is awash with hidden gems that will breathe life into your vacation.

From underexplored state parks to luxurious resorts and idyllic small towns with enthralling backstories, these exciting points of interest are spread out across the state. Whether a history lover, culture connoisseur, culinary enthusiast, or outdoor thrill seeker, there is no shortage of fun places to fit into your itinerary. To get you started, discover incredible vacation spots in Pennsylvania to consider for your next getaway in the United States.

Lititz

This beautiful Lancaster County borough entices vacationers with an all-encompassing experience that takes advantage of its captivating history, culinary delights, and cozy nature areas. Lititz's curious beginnings date back to the mid-1700s, a fascinating heritage you can learn more about at the Lititz Historical Foundation. The museum interprets historical displays and organizes tours of vintage markers, including the 18th-century Johannes Mueller House.

The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery is a notable point of interest downtown, oozing historical charm and culinary niceness. Constructed in the 1800s, it is America's maiden pretzel-making bakery and continues cooking these delicious snacks for guests to try out.

Tourists and locals alike love to hang out in the serene atmosphere of Lititz Springs Park. This urban oasis impresses with its clean environment, lush picnic spaces, shady trees, and adorable fountains, creating the perfect spot to relax and people-watch. Finally, one of the best places to spend the night in the town is the Lititz Springs Inn.

Pottstown

Pottstown has a lovely blend of history and the arts that draws visitors from around the state. Tracing its beginning to the 1750s, the town's rich heritage manifests through a couple of markers and landmarks, such as the Pottsgrove Manor. This rustic homestead sports gorgeous Georgian architecture and maintains original elements from the 18th century. The arts are alive and kicking in Pottstown, entertaining audiences with compelling stage presentations at Steel River Playhouse. It is the perfect spot to watch and support local talent.

Meanwhile, shoppers can anticipate a gratifying retail therapy session at Philadelphia Premium Outlets. With over 500,000 square feet of shopping, dining, and entertainment space, it has everything to excite all ages. Finally, consider staying at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Pottstown Limerick.

Gettysburg

Gettysburg is nationally recognized as a haven for history lovers and American war enthusiasts, thanks to its unmatched Civil War heritage. It hosted one of the most consequential battles of the iconic war, and visitors can explore relics from the Battle of Gettysburg at the Gettysburg National Military Park. The park has a museum showcasing an extensive collection of original artifacts associated with the infamous conflict.

Downtown Gettysburg is full of historical markers and sites, including the David Wills House. This red-brick home, built in the 1810s, houses useful resources depicting the battle's aftermath and President Lincoln's iconic address.

Meanwhile, the Dobbin House Tavern boasts an amazing history and delicious dishes to grant tourists a unique experience. The restaurant is housed in Gettysburg's oldest building, dating back to the 1770s, and serves hearty meals around furnishings and decor with an 18th-century theme. Lastly, comfortable lodging is readily available at the Best Western Gettysburg.

Easton

Strategically located where the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers interact, this adorable community caters to all types of travelers with its impressive diversity of attractions. Easton beckons theater enthusiasts to watch captivating stage shows at the State Theatre Center for the Arts, a local cultural hub for concerts, dramas, and musicals. The Crayola Experience ensures young guests can access tailored fun inside an exciting theme park with kid-centric activities and hands-on interactions with peers.

But if you want to meet the locals, visit the Easton Farmers Market. This gathering brings together over 60 local crafters and vendors, who invite willing buyers to check out their fresh produce, baked goods, artisan cheese, and other merchandise. At the end of the day, remember to book a stay at the Hampton Inn Easton.

Hershey

If you are planning a nice family holiday getaway, Hershey is a suitable option among vacation spots in Pennsylvania. The "Sweetest Place on Earth" promises remarkable experiences centered around the famous Hershey Chocolate Company. One of the top visitor pursuits awaits at Hershey's Chocolate World, featuring multifaceted tours, rides, and tastings with a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating America's most popular chocolate brand. Meanwhile, the Hershey Theatre invites guests for riveting live shows on stage, ranging from kids' performances, dances, and Broadway shows in an intimate venue.

The kids will relish visiting ZooAmerica for exotic encounters with diverse wildlife. This special sanctuary provides a habitat for over 200 animals representing at least 70 species, including bears, deer, birds, and more. For accommodation, you'll find elegant family rooms and customizable service at The Hershey Hotel.

West Chester

This Chester County borough is known for harboring a rich history and bustling downtown district with a blend of restaurants, galleries, and museums. Guests can enjoy an eye-opening look into its past at the Chester County History Center. A rotating collection of photographs, manuscripts, documents, and memorabilia reveals everything about West Chester's evolution since the 19th century. Elsewhere, art connoisseurs are drawn to the electric performances staged inside the Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center. These range from jazz to opera arrangements and always feature a sold-out audience, resulting in a must-have experience.

An escape to the great outdoors awaits at the 570-acre Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve, which offers numerous trails cutting through meadows, woodlands, grasslands, and streams, ideal for a secluded hike. Lastly, Hotel Warner is one of the numerous lodging options in the area.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe is often by travel magazines among the cutest small towns in America, a credit to its old-fashioned passenger train, elaborate Victorian mansions, and spectacular natural surroundings. The city lies in the Pocono Mountains region, which features a picturesque wilderness guests can explore by riding the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. This rustic locomotive takes guests on a 70-minute round trip into the heart of the Lehigh Gorge State Park and exposes deep gorges, stunning cliffs, and mountainous woodlands.

Jim Thorpe's colorful heritage is well preserved at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center. Stored inside the Victorian venue are exhibits documenting the town's dynamic history and culture. You can take advantage of a classic experience at the Mauch Chunk Opera House to watch an entertaining musical stage show in an 1800s venue. For the icing on the cake, spend the evening at the Victorian Harry Packer Mansion Inn.

Lansdale

If you need a break from the chaos in Philadelphia, a 50-minute drive north of the city will bring you this quaint suburb with a vibrant craft brewery scene. Lansdale allows tourists to drown their thoughts with refreshing ciders, beers, and ales at Round Guys Brewing Company. The mood is always lively, and patrons are receptive to newcomers. Meanwhile, historians can take a trip down memory lane at the Peter Wentz Farmstead. This mid-18th-century homestead provides a vivid window into the period and represents Colonial German architecture.

Lansdale's artsy side shines brightest during the Lansdale Festival of the Arts. This annual celebration attracts thousands of musicians, artists, crafters, and other creatives to Memorial Park, where attendees enjoy exhibitions, food, live music, and other entertaining activities. When it's time to call it a night, check out Courtyard Philadelphia Lansdale.

Whether planning a solo trip to explore the state, a vacation getaway with family, or a romantic escape with your better half, Pennsylvania has the diversity to deliver the perfect vacation for your preference. Between its exciting state parks and charming small towns, guests can look forward to exciting experiences alone or with loved ones that truly bring out the charm that lies outside the big cities. So remember to plan your next trip to the state around these vacation spots in Pennsylvania for an unforgettable adventure.