Pennsylvania Bucket List: Places to Visit

Nothing like distance to make the heart grow fonder. Speaking as a local, here’s my personal bucket places to visit in Pennsylvania!

I truly had no appreciation for PA growing up to the point that I refused to apply to college instate. Back then I had this insane fear that if I did not leave, I never would. And, honestly, I’ve seen it happen to a lot of friends whether willingly or unwillingly, and I am glad 17-year-old me at that kind of foresight. I’ve left my heart all over the world since going to college (a whole two hours away in Maryland haha), and I have a list of places I’d love to call home.

CURRENT NOTE: If you come across this in the next few days, I’m doing some major updating and rewrites and adding each section as I go!! Apologies if some info is out of date or numbers don’t add up until then!

But you know what’s funny? At some point around 2016, I found myself talking to someone about where I’d want to set up roots in the US and, almost involuntarily, “or Pennsylvania” slipped out of my mouth.

WHAT?!

Fast forward about a decade, and I’ve lived in Philly coming up on two years and have plans to eventually buy my own place (romantically, I’d love a trinity home; realistically I’d love a 2bed, 1br apartment situation). Don’t get me wrong, I’m not 100% sold on staying in the USA and PA’s election breakdown has me feeling a certain way about a good chunk of this state but… as a whole but home is home, ya know? And I friggin’ love Philly more than I thought I could love a city!

Back when I first moved home, I wrote this huge bucket list of things I wanted to do and places I wanted to see in Pennsylvania. Since then I’ve moved three more times and that list has changed and grown! Below is my most updated version.

Enjoy and let me know what else I need add. If you can’t tell from the map below, I know way more about Eastern PA than I do Western!

Pennsylvania Bucket List Map

Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

I’m breaking this up between the following to make things a *little* easier to organize and then I’ll note the counties within each section. To give you an organizational map for this guide: Pennsylvania (which, fun fact, is technically a Commonwealth not a state) -> Regions/Big Cities –> Counties -> Small Cities, Boroughs, Towns, Townships, etc. There are other administrative divisions, etc but unless you’re running for local government you don’t need to worry about the specifics.

• Northeastern PA
• Southeastern PA
• Philadelphia
• Central PA
• Western PA
• Pittsburgh

Northeastern PA

When it comes to Northeastern PA, I’d summarize the area as a mix of mountains and a coal mining/industrial past. Though I will say, a lot of towns here have done a lot towards revitalization and tourism! It’s a really beautiful area if you’re looking for a city escape (either from NYC or Philly) and particularly gorgeous in the fall.

Countys Included: Bradford, Carbon, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Montour, Northumberland, Pike, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming

1. The Pocono Mountains (AKA The Poconos) ✓

I don’t know about Western or Central PA, but to me whenever someone talked about going to the mountains growing up, they were referring to the Poconos. The whole area is spread between at least four counties but I’m not sure there’s strict boundaries. It either borders or overlaps with the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area which itself overlaps with New Jersey.

I’ll get into some specific spots below but the whole area is popular for big group getaways including girls’ trips and bachelorettes. Since everyone needs a car to get around and it’s roughly 1.5 – 2 hours from one end to the other, most people look for big, remote cabins to share and then drive to wherever they want to go! (Though if you’re a fan of kitschy hotels, Cove Haven Resort is the one that goes viral every once in a while!)

2. Honesdale

Wayne County

Officially dubbed the “Birthplace of American Railroad,” Honesdale is on my list of cute Pennsylvania small towns I want to get to know. It’s about 40 minutes north of Scranton in the Poconos and, yes, it was here on August 8th, 1829 that the very first commercial steam locomotive ran. Another fun fact? The writer of “Winter Wonderland” is from Honesdale and wrote the song in Scranton. Oh, and naturally as I do with all my small town research, I started with “Honesdale Bookstore” and came to Known Grove Books & More which had a cat photographed there. So, ya know, the urge to visit is even stronger.

3. Grey Towers National Historic Site

Milford, Pike County

Grey Towers (not to be confused with Arcadia University’s castle of the same namE) is a very cute chateau-inspired historic home designed by Richard Morris Hunt (he of Biltmore fame). It was home to the very first chief of the US Forest Service and twice-elected governor of PA, Gifford Pinchot. You can tour both the house and enjoy the property via the Grey Towers Tree Trail. The town of Milford itself also looks very cute!

4. Raymondskill Falls

Dingman Township, Pike County

Further south of Milford is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania! Raymondskill Falls is three tiers with two viewing platforms and around 150ft last I checked. The nice thing is it’s like a 0.3 mile loop trail from the main parking lot but if you want to make a hiking day of it, you can easily add on the Hackers, Cliff, and Buchanan Trails as well. The Cliff Trail will take you to a Tristate Overlook and then the Hackers ones goes to the smaller Hackers Falls along the creek.

5. Dingmans & Silverthread Falls ***CLOSED TIL JULY 2026**

Dingmans Ferry, Pike County

Further south from here, is another gorgeous waterfall trek! Park at Dingmans Falls Visitor Center and then follow the trail to the 80ft tall Silverthread Falls. Keep following the trail along the creek and you’ll soon get to the 130ft tall Dingmans Falls before you can retrace your steps back. The whole thing is less than half a mile with most of it ADA accessible!

6. Bushkill Falls ✓

Lehman, Pike County

Between the Poconos and Del Water Gap, are you really that surprised I have a bunch of waterfalls back to back in NEPA section? Bushkill Falls is a privately-owned area with eight waterfalls spread around 300 acres. Its nickname is the “Niagara of Pennyslvania,” and there are multiple trails you can follow depending on how much you want to work. When my mom and I went, I think we went up the longest trail backwards!

7. Camelback Mountain/Big Pocono ✓

Tannersville, Monroe County

Despite its name, Camelback Mountain isn’t really a mountain, but it’s part of the Pocono Pleateau. (If someone has better geology understanding, please feel free to explain this to me like I’m five!) It’s home to a few major spots, and I’m like 99% sure I’ve been as a kid either in summer or winter but I’m not actually sure! It’s home to Camelback Resort, which is a ski resort in winter and turns into a waterpark in summer. It shares land with Big Pocono State Park which has some pretty trails you can follow.

8. Columcille Megalith Park

Bangor, Northampton County

You want some whimsy in NEPA? Here’s some whimsy — Columcille Megalith Park. The park was built by Bill Cohea and Fred Lindkvist and inspired by the Isle of Iona in Scotland. It just seems like a unique place to visit and get out into nature for a bit. Plus they host events like a Celtic Wood and Wires Concert or Full Moon Yoga all through the year! Nearby is Kirkridge Retreat and Study Center which also feels like a lovely place to escape for a bit.

9. Easton ✓

Northampton County

Did you like coloring growing up? Welcome to Easton, aka home to the Crayola Experience. Yes, crayola crayons come from Pennsylvania! I have distinct memories of visiting as a small kid as I’m sure anyone within an hour of Easton does. The town itself also seems quite cool and is home to Lafayette College. If you come on a Saturday, you can check out the oldest, continuous open-air farmers market in the US! I’m also kind of obsessed that they have a Garlic Fest and PA Bacon Fest come fall.

10. Hickory Run State Park ✓

White Haven, Carbon County

Hickory Run State Park is a pretty massive park with like 40 miles of hiking trails in the western Poconos region! There’s a lot to do here especially if you want to camp, but I just drove up the day for some light fall hiking! First I did the the Hawks Fall Trail which was so short I thought I’d went the wrong way at first! Then I did the 2-mile out and back Shades of Death Trail, which also lead to some waterfall, though they were made via dams. My favorite view, though, was right at the beginning with the Hickory Run Chapel! The big thing to see is the Boulder Field but for whatever reason I didn’t go on my trip.

11. Jim Thorpe ✓

Carbon County

Not the athlete who was the first Native American to win Olympic gold for the US, but the Poconos gateway town named after him and where his remains are controversially laid to rest. Jim Thorpe is constantly named one of the most charming small towns in America and for good reason — it’s really friggin’ cute. I’ve been up three times now first on my own and then to show two different sets of friends around. Promise a guide is coming!

12. Lehigh Gorge State Park

Carbon County

Leigh Gorge State Park is another long park that goes from Jim Thorpe to Walter Dam along the Lehigh River. The big thing to do is take the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway from town but I believe you can also hike (and bike?) the trail as well. It’s supposed to be stunning in fall but, of course, that train sells out asap once the foliage is out! Another cute area is the Rockport Trailhead which will go to Butermilk Falls and Luke Falls!

** Also Glen Onoko Falls is often touted as a place to hike to or visit but it’s been officially closed since 2019. It sounds like there are plans to work on construction though**

13. Country Junction ✓

Lehighton, Carbon County

I’m trying to avoid specific shops or restaurants in this list because otherwise I’d be filling a small novel, but I have to single out Country Junction, aka the World’s Largest General Store. It is insane and huge and incredible. Brought my friends from rural Oklahoma and their jaws were on the ground. You just have to go and experience it. It’s right outside of Jim Thorpe, so combine it with your trip!

14. Endless Mountains ✓

Wyoming & Susquehanna Counties

The Endless Mountains are another region in NEPA that spans Wyoming and Susquehanna counties. Like the Poconos, they’re also part of the Appalachian Mountains chain and is supposed to be one of the prettiest drives. I’ve driven through them a few times but haven’t had a chance to stop and explore. I can confirm though the drive is gorgeous! If I were to plan a visit, I’d stay in the town of Tunkhannock and plan my adventures from there.

15. Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct

Nicholson, Wyoming County

Speaking of Tunkhannock, about 20 minutes away by car in Nicholson is the Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct. It’s a really cool arched cement bridge that’s over a hundred years old. At 2,400 feet long and is 240 feet high, it’s also the world’s largest concrete railroad bridge. And, listen, a photo of a bridge got me to one of my favorite places ever, so I’m very intrigued by this viaduct. It’s part of the Viaduct Valley Way Scenic Byway if you want a pretty drive.

16. Eagles Mere

Sullivan County

Eagles Mere is another small town I want to visit and it’s another option for the Endless Mountains. Its name comes from the nearby lake, and it just looks like such an idyllic little escape! To give you an idea of just how small this town seems, the main bookstore and main hotel are both called Eagles Mere. It’s also a good base if you want to hike the next spot on this list…

17. World’s End State Park

Forksville, Sullivan County

World’s End State Park is all of a 10-minute drive from Eagles Mere, and has what looks like some really gorgeous views! It’s in an S-shaped valley in Loyalsock Creek and surrounded by Loyalsock State Forest, so I imagine it’s insane when the fall colors are at their peak! You can drive to the main viewpoint at the Loyalsock Canyon Vista but there are quite a few pretty vistas and hiking trails!

18. Ricketts Glen State Park

Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia Counties

A place that is high on my Pennsylvania bucket list to this day! Just imagine this — a park with 22 waterfalls spread over 13,000 acres and 26 miles of trails. Hello?? Ricketts Glen State Park kind of reminds me of a bigger Watkins Glen State Park up in New York. I really want to take a day to hike the Falls trail, which is a 7.2-mile loop and out-and-back trail that goes to 21 of the waterfalls.

19. Scranton, the Electric City!!

Lackawanna County

I mean… when I first wrote this post, I’d also just finished my first marathon watch of “The Office,” so I kept wanting to visit the random places they mention or go to in the show. I know most of it is filmed in California, not Scranton, but they do have quite a few references to the electric city. Not to mention you can visit the iconic Scranton Welomes You sign at The Marketplace at Steamtown.

Southeastern PA

20. Bethlehem ✓

Northampton & Lehigh Counties

Didn’t you know, Jesus was born in PA? Kidding! But we really do have a town of Bethlehem, and it’s very cute. I used to go to swim camps at Lehigh University, so I’m kind of familiar with Bethlehem but it’s still on my bucket list to spend a proper day or weekend there! It’s a very cute small city with a ton of history. On the one hand you’ve got the Moravian Church Settlement. It’s part of a series of them around the world, and the one in Bethlehem is the most important and best-preserved. It’s also home to the oldest bookstore in the country, the Moravian Bookshop. 

Its other big landmark is the SteelStacks. Steel was a big business here back in the day and some of your favorite US landmarks were built with Bethlehem steel (re: the Golden Gate Bridge and Rockefeller Center!). These days the SteelStacks is used as a venue for festivals and just looks like a cool way to enjoy an outdoor concert!

Honestly, I could keep going on Bethlehem because I haven’t even touched on its Main Street, the Historic Hotel Bethlehem, and the fact that it’s one of the top places to visit in PA for Christmas!!

21. Mercer Monuments ✓

Doylestown, Bucks County

Kind of obsessed with Henry Chapman Mercer after learning about him. Talk about a guy who got rich by chance and then spent his money in the most whimsical way! Mercer was born in Doylestown, traveled around Europe, studied law, and eventually inherited a massive fortune from his Aunt Elizabeth Chapman Lawrence. He was basically passionate about two things (well, three, if you include dogs) — collecting pre-Industrial American artifacts and learning about pottery and ceramics.

He brought all this home to Doylestown in a few different ways which are now referred to as the Mercer Monuments. The first is Mercer’s home, Fonthill Castle, which is one of my favorite castles in America. He essentially wanted to build a castle and fill the interior with the most incredible mosaics and tiles. Right next door is the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum, which highlights his tile company and still actively creates tiles today. In town, is the Mercer Museum, which houses his collection of over 40,000 pre-industrial items and is a very cool way to learn about life pre-Industrial Revolution. All three spots are SO worth the visit. Give yourself at least an hour for Fonthill and the Tile Works Museum and then give yourself another two hours for the Mercer Museum!!

22. Peace Valley Lavender Farm ✓

Doylestown, Bucks County

Back when I first moved home in 2016, I kept seeing gorgeous summery photos of Provence’s lavender fields all over my feed. Naturally, I thought, “Surely there’s some sort of lavender option in PA?” And sure enough Peace Valley Lavender Farm popped up. It’s a very cute farm with a small lavender field out front just outside downtown Doylestown. 

Honestly, I’m working on a whole post on Doylestown because I could’ve filled this section just with landmarks from there! 

23. New Hope

Bucks County

Ahhh, New Hope, my white whale bucket list spot! I swear I first heard about it in 2018 and have been trying to visit ever since. For whatever reason my efforts get thwarted each time, but I swear I will go soon. From what I understand, New Hope is like one of the top small towns in the country and has a very fun, bohemian type history with artists and the gay community. It’s also got a growing reputation for being a bit of a celebrity escape ground.

24. Ringing Rocks

Multiple Locations

So… funny story. Where I grew up, there were three public elementary schools that fed into one big middle and then high school. One of those schools was named Ringing Rocks Elementary School and not once in my entire childhood did I question its name. (To be fair, I went to another school that had mold issues, so it wasn’t ever in my direct circle of thought). 

Turns out the name isn’t just some charming alliteration. It’s actually a real natural phenomenon where certain rocks will sound like bells when struck with a hammer. They’re all over the world but very notably in three main places in Pennsylvania:

• Ringing Rocks County Park in Upper Black Eddy, Bucks County
• Ringing Rocks Park in Lower Pottsgrove, Montgomery County (if you’re from Pottsgrove it’s where the old skating rink is!)
• Stony Garden near Quakertown, Bucks County

25. Washington Crossing Historic Park ✓

Bucks County

Okay, when I say George Washington in the American Revolution, what image do you think of immediately? I bet you picture him standing proudly at the bow of a small boat crossing a river, right? Because most American schoolchildren were taught the story of how Washington and the Continental Army surprise attacked Hessian forces on Christmas by crossing an icy river in the dead of night. Right? 

Well, anyway that’s what I picture! And the actual location of that revolutionary moment is now known as Washington Crossing Historic Park. The park is split into an Upper Park and Lower Park, and both are worth driving around to see! The Upper Park is gorgeous and more park than landmarks. In the summer go to the Wildflower Preserve and regardless of the time of year, head up Bowman’s Hill Tower for the incredible view. I went in the fall, and it immediately became one of my favorite fall foliage spots. The Lower Park has more of the different preserved homes and landmarks and sits right on the river. 

26. Colebrookdale Railroad

Boyertown, Berks County & Pottstown, Montgomery County

Never in my days did I think something related to Boyertown and Pottstown would make this list but here we are. (I grew up in Pottstown and hated it, so I’ve had to overcome a lot of preconceived notions as an adult). The Colebrookdale Railroad is a really gorgeous train ride between the two towns and through a “secret valley.” It was built back in the 1800s and began a tourist train service in 2014! The train looks gorgeous, so I’ve been wanting to go for a while and see the cute Boyertown Train Station as well.

27. Crystal Cave ✓

Kutztown, Berks County

I distinctly remember visiting Crystal Cave as a kid during the summer and being surprised at how humid it was despite the cold! The cave was founded in the 1800s and is now considered PA’s most popular natural wonder.

28. Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Elverson, Berks County

I’m so curious what makes Hopewell Furnace a National Historic Site! According to the NPS site, it was an iron plantation and is an example of industrial operations from 1771 – 1883. The whole property stretches 848 acres and has a number of restored buildings to show how the US was able to grow to be such a prominent country during the Second Industrial Revolution.

29. Historic Ephrata Cloister

Ephrata, Lancaster County

Ephrata Cloister was a religious community that dates back to 1732 when its founder built the area to escape worldly desires. The last member passed away in 2008, and now it’s a museum that preserves its unique culture. You can do an audio guide or guided tour but the guided tour gets you access to the Sisters’ House and Meetinghouse.

30. Shady Maples Smorgasbord

East Earl, Lancaster County

Ask anyone who grew up within an hour of Shady Maples Smorgasbord, and their eyes will light up with fondness. It’s a massive Pennsylvania Dutch buffet though in my memory it was also Amish. Either way it’s apparently the largest buffet in the entire continent and a pilgrimage for every high schooler I knew! 

My Shady Maple story is that when I was probably around ten, we had a swim meet somewhere in Lancaster County and stopped for dinner here. When I tell you my little eyes bugged outta my face and I drank six slushies in probably less than an hour… My other distinct memory is driving up with friends and having to lay in the back of their car with my pants fully unzipped because I ate too much in one go. Ahh bliss. 

31. Amish Country ✓

Lancaster Country

Long before tradwives were ever a thing, we had the Amish! They’re essentially an ethnoreligious group that live without modern technology, and Lancaster is home to the oldest settlement in the country. I do think things are a little more blended these days, but I have very little knowledge of the culture outside of driving by them whenever I’m in Lancaster. I just know it’s not unusual if you see a horse and buggy with an Eagles logo on the back!! There are a lot of ways to learn more about the culture and to this day I want to spend a day or two doing all of them. I read a trilogy by Lurlene McDaniel as a preteen and so the interest has always been there!

32. Lititz ✓

Lancaster County

If you’re in Lancaster, Lititz is a very cute town within the county. I went with my cousin when I last visited her, and it was so charming. Along with Bethlehem (and Emmaus and Nazareth), it was also one of the main Moravian communities in PA. Its biggest claim to fame, though, is Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery where the hard pretzel originated in 1850!

33. Bryn Athyn Historic District

Montgomery County

Less than 2 miles north of Philly, Bryn Athyn is another town in Pennsylvania that got its start as a religious community for something known as The New Church or Swedenborgianism. It’s notable because for such a tiny borough, its historic district is home to three incredible examples of religious architecture from the late 1800s — Cairnwood Estate, a Beaux Arts style mansion, Gothic Bryn Athyn Cathedral, which looks like the Gloucester Cathedral in England, and the Glencairn Museum, which is home to a huge collection of religious art from all sorts of cultures. It also looks like a castle itself!

34. Corropolese Bakery ✓

Montgomery County

If there’s one thing you must try when in Pennsylvania, it’s tomato pie. I guess to differentiate from a pie crust filled with tomatoes, you could say Italian tomato pie but if you’re in PA, you can leave out the “Italian” part. I feel very passionately about everyone eating this at least once. It was a mainstay for every event and football game in my home growing up! 

The pie is made with focaccia-type dough, tomato sauce, and a light dusting of cheese. It’s served at room temperature and friggin’ delicious!! I guess it’s mostly a thing around Philly and nearby counties, so this is where you want to try it. I’m only putting it in the Southeastern PA section of the post because everyone has their preferred bakery and mine is Corropolese Bakery. They have three locations in Norristown, Limerick, and Audubon, but can also be found in random grocery stores as well. Ahh writing this made me want some!!

35. King of Prussia Mall ✓

Montgomery County

Ah, briefly my homebase! For a small time the King of Prussia Mall (aka KOP) was the largest mall in the US by retail space, but I believe it’s since fallen to fourth. My grandma had a house not even ten minutes down the road, and since it was only thirty minutes from where I grew up, it was the mall you arranged to go with friends for the afternoon. Even Taylor Swift went as a kid! 

I only include it on this list for its sheer size and all they’ve been adding to the area (ala the Netflix House, Escape Rooms, etc). You really could spend a whole day and get in like 20,000 steps while shopping every known brand to man. 

The best tip I have to offer is where I like to park — the parking lot outside of DSW. I almost always can find parking close to the door!

36. Valley Forge National Historic Park ✓

King of Prussia, Montgomery County

Did everyone learn about the harsh winter of 1777-1778 when the Revolutionary army was forced to stop and almost froze and starved to death? Or did I just learn that because I grew up near Valley Forge National Historic Park? Maybe ten minutes from KOP Mall, if you have any interest in the American Revolution, you must stop here! You can drive to all the main parts, but my favorite is the Cathedral. Get tomato soup and grilled cheese from the shop there! 

37. Koziar’s Christmas Village

Jefferson, Berks County

There are a lot of Christmas spots in PA on my list but Koziar’s Christmas Village gets its own spot because it’s supposed to be one of the most epic Christmas lights displays ever. The whole thing started back in 1948 when William M. Koziar decorated his property in such a cool way that neighbors recognized it. He just added and added to it until it became the phenomenon it is today. 

38. Longwood Gardens ✓

Kennett Square, Chester County

Longwood Gardens is another spot on this list known for its Christmas displays but really Longwood is known for its year-round beauty. It started as an arboretum back in the 1700s and was transformed into the thousand-acre grandeur you see today thanks to Pierre du Pont in the 1900s. It’s seriously gorgeous!

39. West Chester ✓

Chester County

Not too far from Longwood, West Chester is a super cute town with a really cute downtown. I’ve only been in winter when the weather was shit, and even then I remember thinking it was cute! Grab a bite at the really gorgeous Turk Head Wines. If you’re a QVC fan, this is where they’re headquartered and you can see how to be part of their live shows here.

40. Pennhurst Asylum

Spring City, Chester County

Here’s a spooky place for you. Pennhurst Asylum was once a controversial school for the “feeble-minded and epileptic” for over a century before shutting down in 1987. It now operates as a haunted house-type attraction and, hey, you can even join an overnight paranormal investigation. 

41. The Reading Pagoda ✓

Reading, Berks County

Did you know there was a Japanese pagoda in Pennsylvania? Me neither and I grew up kind of nearby! Overlooking the city of Reading is this huge pagoda! It was originally built as a luxury resort. Though the resort part never happened, it managed to survive even through the anti-Japanese sentiments of World War II. Back when I visited, all you could really do was drive up and walk around the exterior. It sounds like it’ll open up for tours after it finishes some maintenance work!

42. Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre

Orefield, Lehigh County

Oldest operating drive-in theater in the country! Another weird thing — I used to romanticize drive-in movie theaters as a kid. Probably because of Grease, even though that scene wasn’t actually romantic at all. I always thought it was a cool way to go on a date. Little did I know Shankweiler’s Drive-In wasn’t that far away (and also that I would not go on a single date in high school). 

43. St. Peter’s Village ✓

Chester County

I’ve been to St. Peter’s Village twice now and when I say it’s small, I mean small. The first was in college because a friend worked at The Inn, and even back then I loved a whimsical town! More recently I met another friend for lunch at the same Inn and was reminded just how cute and tiny this place is. Like I’m pretty sure you can throw a rock from one end to the other small. Basically grab lunch and then head off on one of the trails nearby! I distinctly remember climbing a bunch of rocks in a short dress and sandals. Back in the day, kids would jump off a cliff into the nearby quarry. It was always officially not allowed but in between my visits, it looks like they fenced it off and will enforce the trespassing laws.

44. Ambler

Montgomery County

Ambler is one of those super tiny towns that’s a hop and a skip away from Philly on SEPTA’s regional rail! The whole town is less than a square mile but has a really lovely Main Street with a gorgeous theater. What sticks out to me is how many events they have annually!! And if you want to get outside, it’s right by Four Mills Nature Reserve. 

45. Grey Towers Castle

Glenside, Montgomery County

Funny to think but there’s an alternate universe where I lived in Grey Towers Castle for a year! Back when I was in high school, I looked at some universities in PA to humor my parents, and Arcadia University got me with a gorgeous image of this castle, inspired by Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England. It also promised that they were one of the best study abroad schools in the country, and I could swim there while studying English. Unfortunately, I thought the rest of the campus was kind of ugly (sorry, Arcadia!), and the drive between our home and Glenside was way too short for my liking. But the castle is quite gorgeous and the town of Glenside looks so cute. It’s another one that’s a very easy ride on SEPTA! 

46. Skippack Village

Montgomery County

Skippack Village is a super picturesque area made of all sorts of small businesses usually tucked away in 18th and 19th century buildings. I’ve always kind of driven through it and even spent my 30th birthday at a pottery class here, but I need an afternoon where I can properly explore! 

47. Swarthmore

Delaware County

Step back in time (kind of) in Swarthmore! This is another “what-if” town because my mom did want me to look at Swarthmore College, and one of their reps even spoke at my high school. I never did apply but I would swim against them for my ultimate alma mater and had a small crush on one of their swimmers so… alas. 

Anyway, what I mean when I say step back in time is that its Town Center looks quite medieval (just with, you know, modern stores and a road with cars). Scott Arboretum also looks gorgeous and Crum Woods just sounds like a fun place for a little nature walk.

48. Wayne

Delaware County

Wayne is one of my favorite small towns in PA, but if I were to give you one specific reason to go, it’s this. The main bookstore, Main Point Books, is Madeline Miller’s local bookstore. Yes, Madeline Miller of Circe and The Song of Achilles fame. If you visit, you’re likely to find signed copies of her books and short stories!!

Philadelphia

See More: How to Spend a Weekend in Philly

Barnes Foundation

I actually remember visiting the Barnes Foundation back around when its Philly first opened in 2012! It’s home to a ton of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist art. It’s got one of the biggest collections of Renoir, with nearly 200 paintings.

Bartram’s Garden

Bartram’s Garden is actually the oldest surviving botanic garden in North America, dating back to 1728. It’s over 46 acres and just looks like the prettiest place to spend a spring day in PA.

Philadelphia City Hall

The current City Hall began construction back in 1871 and was the tallest building in Philly until 1987. Fun fact, at the top of the building is a statue of our state’s founder, William Penn, and because someone else built a tower taller than him, there was a rumor our sports team was cursed. Really! I grew up hearing about the curse of Billy Penn.

Anyway, in 2007, when construction workers were completing the latest tallest building, the Comcast Center, they placed a figurine of William Penn. In 2008, the Phillies won the World Championships ending 25 years of major sports league losses. They did the same thing in 2017 when they finished building the Comcast Technology Center, and the Eagles won their first ever Super Bowl! I’m not saying I believe in curses, buttttt…..

Besides admiring the architecture and enjoying the tales of the curse, you can also go up in City Hall’s observation deck for panoramic views of the city!

Betsy Ross’s House

Back when I was 8, my parents took us on an actual historical tour of Philly, and the one place I loved more than any other was Betsy Ross’s House. It’s said that Betsy Ross sewed the first ever American flag in this house. While that statement is pretty much considered myth now, it’s still a very cool historic site.

Boathouse Row

Lining the Schuylkill River are pretty 19th century boathouses! They make for an idyllic entrance to the city.

Citizens Bank for a Phillies Game

I mean, are you surprised I added this? Go Phillies!

Christ Church

This church goes all the way back to 1695 and was originally founded as a parish of the Church of England. Nearby, don’t miss Ben Franklin’s grave at the Christ Church Burial Ground. Bring a penny in honor of his famous aphorism, “A penny saved is a penny earned.”

Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary was a prison that operated from 1829 – 1971, and it’s also been featured on Buzzfeed Unsolved! What makes it unique is its wheel-like design and, of course, its infamous inmates. Even Al Capone was held here at one point. The big event is its “Terror Behind the Walls” event run each Halloween. I’m still scared of scary movies, so I’ve never been.

Elfreth’s Alley

Opened as a cart path in 1702, Elfreth’s Alley is the country’s oldest residential street. All of its 32 homes were built at some point between 1728 and 1836, and it’s a picturesque little section of the city.

Franklin Institute

Any kid who grew up in Philly or the Philly suburbs went on a field trip to this place at least once in their life. Named in honor of Ben Franklin, the science museum is home to various exhibits. There’s also a permanent Benjamin Franklin Memorial.

Fishtown

Fishtown is the hipster area of Philly. I’m going to be honest, I don’t know much else besides that, but I’m interested in exploring the neighborhood!

Independence Hall

If you visit Philly for the first time and don’t visit the Independence Hall, did you even come here? Kidding!

I’d argue no building should represent the American spirit like Independence Hall. This is the place that witnessed both the Declaration of Independence and our Constitution. Some of our greatest leaders have debated within its walls. Forget anything you’ll find in DC, that city was barely a twinkle in the country’s eye when Independence Hall was housing some of the most significant moments of US history!

The Liberty Bell

Building off that momentum, what’s a better symbol of all America stands for than the Liberty Bell? It once hung in the steeple of Independence Hall, and it now has its own center next door. I’d highly recommend visiting and taking the time to read about how it’s become such an important symbol over the centuries. For example, its name, “Liberty Bell,” was actually coined by abolitionist groups in the 1800s! I found the exhibits to be pretty moving when you realize just how far the US has come since 1776.

Lincoln Financial Field for an Eagles Game

Philly fans are notorious, and if you really want to see that in full swing, go to an Eagles game. I’d argue even more than a Phillies or Sixers game, you’ll really see that crazy passion come out at an Eagles football game. God help you if you’re wearing a jersey of the opposing team, though. And I’d specifically recommend avoiding any praise for the Giants or the Cowboys.

LOVE Park

Did you know Philly’s nickname is the “City of Brotherly Love”? The LOVE Park, also know as the JFK Plaza, holds one of the iconic LOVE statue, first designed by Robert Indiana. It’s been around since the mid-seventies.

Magic Gardens

Designed by Isiah Zagar, the Magic Gardens cover about half a city block. It has a cool mosaic design made of all sorts of things, like ceramic shards or bottles.

Morris Arboretum

The Morris Arboretum is connected to the University of Pennsylvania, and is 92-acres of wooded plants and sculpture gardens.

Mütter Museum

Ever wonder what happened to Albert Einstein’s brain? Me neither, but now I know! About 46 small portions of it lay on display in Philly’s very odd Mütter Museum, which has quite the collection of other medical oddities.

Penn’s Landing

As you might guess, Penn’s Landing gets its name because it’s the sight of William Penn’s landing in 1682. It sits along the Delaware River Waterfront, and always has different events and features no matter what time of year it is.

Penn Museum

Its full name is the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, so that’ll probably give you a better idea of what you’ll find here. With three floors of exhibits featuring artifacts from around the world, you could spend hours wandering around.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Once you’ve run up the stairs and pumped your fist ala Rocky, head inside and enjoy the actual museum! With over 240,000 objects, it’s one of the largest art museums in the country and it, itself, is work of art.

Reading Terminal Market

Whenever I visited Philly, we stop by and eat here! It’s one of the oldest continuously operating farmer’s market in the country, and it’s filled with over 80 delicious eateries!

Rodin Museum

While the largest collection of Rodin statues is in Paris, France, the second largest is right in Philly at the Rodin Museum.

The Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia

The Rosenbach is home to one of the world’s best collections of rare books and manuscripts. Some notable mentions: George Washington’s letters on the American Revolution, the only surviving copy of the 1733 first edition of Poor Richard’s Almanac, a first edition of Don Quixote, Lewis Carroll’s copy of Alice in Wonderland, a huge Dickens collection, and a manuscript of Ulysses.

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden

Located in the western section of Fairmount Park, Shofuso features a traditional-style Japanese structure and garden, including a weeping cherry tree. I imagine this is one of the best places to visit during cherry blossom season!

Central PA

Cherry Springs State Park

I had no idea you could actually see the stars the same way I saw them in the Atacama Desert in Pennsylvania, but you can! Cherry Springs is an international dark sky park where you’re able to see the Milky Way cast a shadow.

Clarence Schock Memorial Park

This park sits in Governor Dick Hill and has a number of hiking trails. The big feature, though, is its observation tower which will give you views of the area.

Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum

I love the idea of seeing history through one family’s lens. The Boal estate covers over 200 years and 8 generations of US history. The chapel comes about because at one point one of Christopher Columbus’s descendants married one of the Boals and brought the chapel with her.

Dauphin Narrows Statue of Liberty

Did you know we’ve got our own Statue of Liberty? It’s a 25-foot statue near Marysville bridge! You can access it if you kayak over.

Indian Echo Caverns

These are cool limestone caverns that were used back in the 1700s by the Susquehannock tribe. They’re a good detour if you’re in the area for Hersheypark.

Gettysburg National Military Park

Back to that “Office” marathon… Remember the episode where Andy tries to take them on a field trip to Gettysburg, and Dwight finds out he was totally wrong about Schrute’s Farm being the northernmost battle of the Civil War?

Anyway, the Battle of Gettysburg is perhaps one of the most memorable battles of the Civil War as it was considered a turning point, and it’s home to the one of our country’s most famous addresses. The park is a memorial to that battle and includes areas such as the Gettysburg Battlefield, Gettysburg National Cemetery, a Museum and Visitor Center, and more.

Haines Shoe House

I mean, this is exactly what it sounds like — a house shaped like a shoe! If you watched “The Amazing Race” back in the day, you might recognize it as one of the stops.

Happy Valley

If you’re ever curious about the US’s “university towns,” then definitely check out Happy Valley, which is where Penn State Main Campus is located. Go during football season to really see school spirit in full gear or visit for THON, which is the largest student-run philanthropic event in the world. I never even went to PSU, and I know about their football culture and THON from acquaintances alone!

Harrisburg

Our state capital! Visit to see more of PA’s history at the State Museum and enjoy how pretty the State Capitol building is. The home around there are really cute too, so I’d just walk around and enjoy them. Stop by Little Amps for coffee.

Hersheypark

I grew up with, “Hersheypark happy! The sweetest place on earth!” My family would go every summer from open to close, and even now it’s THE greatest place for Roller Coasters. Six Flags lines are too long, Disney World can’t even, and while Universal is close, it’s more of a mix with virtual and ride.

Hershey, though, that’s the perfect mix. Also you can go on a chocolate tour!

Knoebels Amusement Resort

Knoebels is known as the largest free-admission amusement park and has been around since 1926. I swear I’ve been here as a kid because the name is so familiar, but I’m not 100% sure! 

Lakemont Park – Oldest Wooden Coaster

Continuing with the amusement park theme, you can also visit Lakemont Park! Its biggest claim to fame is that its Leap-The-Dips ride is the oldest wooden roller coaster in the world. As in, it’s been around since 1902.

Penn’s Cave and Hotel

Just another cool cave in PA, but you can also stay here at the historic hotel.

Pine Creek Gorge

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge is 47-miles long and around 1,000 feet deep. You can drive along the east rim and stay in nearby Wellsboro.

Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Pine Grove Furnace State Park has four different trails and is considered one of the most beautiful places in PA. East of the park is also the official marker of the Appalachian Trail midpoint!

Rockhill Trolley Museum

Take in some of Central PA’s scenery via an old trolley! It’s supposed to be especially beautiful in the fall.

Tussey Mountain

Tussey Mountain is near Penn State and excellent for skiing in the winter and nature activities in the summer.

Western PA

Allegheny National Forest

The forest is a HUGE area and perfect to enjoy all of PA’s four seasons. It’s got a ton of trails that look perfect for getting outside. I think this is another area I really want to explore in the fall.

Big Mac Museum

When I first saw that this existed, I couldn’t laughing. And then I 100% put it on my Pennsylvania bucket list because — why not?! You can see a 14-ft model of a big mac, and, I mean, McDonald’s was my first job at 14!

Fallingwater

Of all of Frank Lloyd Wright’s buildings, Fallingwater is one of the most famous. It was built partly over a waterfall and is so beautiful and unique, it’s inspired a concerto!

Flight 93 Memorial

While 9/11 is most visually remembered in New York City, there were two other flights that crashed that day as well. One was into the Pentagon, but one, which was originally headed for the US Capitol building was thwarted by passengers on the plane and wound up crashing in rural Pennsylvania. The memorial is built to honor those passengers.

Jimmy Stewart Museum

Mr. George Bailey himself! Jimmy Stewart is one of our great actors, from It’s a Wonderful Life to Rear Window, he’s a Hollywood legend. Andddd he comes from Indiana, PA! Definitely want to visit the museum and see more of his life!

Kinzua Bridge

Kinzua Bridge was once the tallest railroad bridge in the world. Most of the bridge was destroyed in 2003 after a tornado, but you can still see a panorama shot of it from a lookout in the park of the same name.

Presque Isle Park

Did you know PA is the first landlocked state in the US? Presque Isle Park is one of the few places you can “go to the beach” so to say. It’s a little peninsula in Lake Erie that kind of closes around a body of water called Presque Isle Bay! Probably best during the summer.

Punxsutawney for Groundhog’s Day

One of the oddest mainstream holidays we celebrate in the US is Groundhog’s Day! It was first reported on in Punxsutawney, and so every year they hold a huge celebration on February 2nd to see if Phil will emerge or not.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort

While it’s more known for its ski slopes, I first found out about it as a beautiful places to enjoy the fall foliage since it’s an all-year resort!

Pittsburgh

Andy Warhol Museum

I’m also surprised by how many famous people have called Pittsburgh their hometowns! The iconic Andy Warhol is one of them. It spans 7 floors and is all about the Warhol’s life and legacy.

Canton Avenue

Why not try to walk up the steepest street in the world?

Carnegie Museum of Art

Can be considered the first modern art museum in the country.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one of the top natural history museums in the country and has one of the best dinosaur exhibits.

Carnegie Science Center

This is probably the most kid-friendly of the Carnegie museums, and it’s easily the most visited!

Cathedral of Learning

The Cathedral of Learning is a centerpiece of the University of Pittsburgh, and stands at 535-ft tall. Besides its gorgeous exterior, the interior is made up of themed-rooms you can visit! Pitt students even have classes in some of them.

Duquesne Incline

The Duquesne (pronounced doo-kane) Incline is in the South Side and has ben around since 1877! PS It’s featured in Flashdance for 80s movies lovers.

Frick Art + Historical Center

The Frick Art + Historical Center is actually a few buildings in one area from the historical mansion called Clayton, the Frick Art Museum, the Playhouse. the Greenhouse and Gardens, and more.

Heinz Field for a Steelers Game

I mean, I may bleed green, but I have come to appreciate the Steelers and their fandom. Still waiting for a Steelers vs. Eagles Superbowl! P.S. Pittsburgh was Gotham in the Christopher Nolan Batman movies, and you might recognize Heinz Field from The Dark Night Rises.

Kennywood

Kennywood is a traditional amusement park that has been around since 1898 and is considered a classic must-visit in Pittsburgh. Quite a few of the rides date back to the 1920s.

Monongahela Incline

The Monongahela Incline is the other incline up to the Mt. Washington neighborhood! It’s the oldest continuously operating funicular in the country.

Mt. Washington Neighborhood

Mt. Washington is where you go for the best view of Pittsburgh! It’ll give you the perfect view of the Golden Triangle, or Pittsburgh’s business district.

Phipps Conservatory + Botanical Gardens

Within Schenley Park is a gorgeous botanical garden that covers 15 acres and has been around since 1893. Where there’s a garden, I must go!

Pittsburgh’ Children Museum

Okay, I know. Unless you have kids, why the heck would you want to visit the Children Museum? Um, because Mr. Rogers’ puppets are here as well as a few exhibits dedicated to humanity’s favorite human being.

Point State Park

The Point got its name because it’s where the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers meet. There’s a fountain to mark the exact spot.

Randyland

Randyland is definitely high up on my list for when I go to Pittsburgh next! It reminds me a bit of Gamcheon, but a museum instead of a neighborhood with how fun and colorful it is. Even Anthony Bourdain and Fred Rogers were fans.

Schenley Park

Schenley Park is over 300 acres and is in kind of the most ideal spot in Pittsburgh! It’ll also give you really pretty views of the city.

And there you have it! My not-so-little Pennsylvania bucket list! I can’t wait to start writing more about PA as I finally visit some of these places for the first time!

Have you been to PA? What would you add to this list?

The USA is a massive country, and I always love discovering new places to visit. I’m actually pretty sure I’ll still be hearing of new gems when I’m 90 years old and need a wheelchair to get around! Since I’ve been interested in travel, I’ve visited a number of different places in the US alone. Check out some of posts:

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