- Pennsylvania plays an important part in American history. As one of the original 13 colonies, the state has been home to an early U.S. capital and numerous war sites. This state features not only a rich history but also a noteworthy landscape. Mountains, rivers and lakes are scattered around the state. People looking to visit Pennsylvania have several ideal vacation spots to choose from that can fit a variety of interests.
- Philadelphia skyline at sunsetcity sunset image by kds from Fotolia.com
As the nation's original capital, Philadelphia offers a wealth of history and culture to travelers. History buffs can visit the Liberty Bell Center, home of the Liberty Bell, and discover the reason behind its famous crack. Philadelphia also houses the National Constitution Center, a museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution. Inside the museum, a rare original public print of the Constitution sits on display. For people who enjoy a high-stakes atmosphere, Philadelphia offers three casinos along I-95 -- SugarHouse, Parx and Harrah's Chester -- that give visitors a place to play the slots, enjoy spa treatments or take in live events. Families may enjoy visiting the Philadelphia Zoo or Adventure Aquarium, located just across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey.
Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation
30 S. 17th St.
Suite 1710
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-599-0776
visitphilly.com - Hershey's kisses are made in Hershey, PA.Kisses image by Julie Balderston from Fotolia.com
Hershey is best known as being the home of the Hershey chocolate factory. The factory is one of the largest draws to Hershey, but the city offers more than just sweets. Hersheypark is Hershey's amusement park, which features several roller coasters, a children's section and a boardwalk. Hotel Hershey's spa is famous for its chocolate and Cuban-themed body treatments. Hershey Gardens allows visitors to stroll through 23 acres of flora, including specially-themed gardens and a butterfly house. Hershey has its own zoo as well, called ZooAmerica.
Hershey-Harrisburg Regional Visitors Bureau
17 S. 2nd St.
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-231-7788
hersheypa.com - A cannon used in the Battle of GettysburgArmy of Northern Virginia - Gettysburg image by Gr??nig Frank from Fotolia.com
Gettysburg has been the site of several major historical events in the United States. Lincoln's famous Gettysburg address was given here, and the bloodiest battle on North American soil took place here. The Gettysburg battlefield receives numerous visitors every year, many of whom come to watch or participate in war reenactments. Tours also highlight General Robert E. Lee's headquarters and the site of the Gettysburg address. Gettysburg also houses the Adams County Winery, which hosts wine tastings and a summer concert series. Families can enjoy a day at Cherry-Crest Adventure Farm picking produce and taking a wagon ride. Those with paranormal interests may want to take a "Ghosts of Gettysburg" tour.
Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau
102 Carlisle St.
Gettysburg, PA 17325
717-334-6274
gettysbg.com - For a more outdoors-oriented vacation, many people head to the Poconos region of Pennsylvania. Located in the northwestern region of the state, the Pocono Mountain range stretches across Wayne, Carbon, Pike and Monroe counties. The official tourism site for the area lists numerous things to do while staying in the region. Enjoy natural settings such as Bushkill Falls, known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania, or hike within the Pocono Mountains. Sample some of the area's rich history at the one-room schoolhouse called Bell School House or the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center, located within a former church. Claws 'n' Paws Wild Animal Park and Costa's Family Fun Park are just two of several popular amusement parks in the Poconos.
Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau
1004 Main St.
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
1-800-762-6667
800poconos.com
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