What Is Pennsylvania Famous For - Top Highlights Revealed
From world-class cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Lancaster County, discover the most popular and famous highlights in Pennsylvania for an unforgettable trip.
Author:Liam JonesReviewer:Sophia HarperMar 27, 2025311 Shares12.4K Views
Some people call it the Quaker State, while others call it the Commonwealth or just plain old Pennsylvania. The Keystone State is much more than America’s Beltway. It is a living treasure of America’s past and a preview of the future. From world-class cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Lancaster County, discover the most popular and famous highlights in Pennsylvania for an unforgettable trip.
1. A Monument To The American Revolution
Did you know that Philadelphia was the original capital of the United States? Through the Philadelphia metro, you will find plenty of monuments and museums dedicated to the American Revolution. You can begin your journey into America’s founding at Independence Hall.
Besides admiring the fantastic architecture and the cobblestones from the 1700s, you can step into the room where Samuel Adams and other Founding Fathers of America signed The Declaration of Independence. Also, inside Independence Hall is the chance to visit the early congressional rooms to soak in all the fantastic American history.
Right around Independence Hall is the iconic Liberty Bell. Visitors from around the world come to visit this bell in person, specifically for the large crack in the middle of the bell that has prevented it from ringing. The name Liberty Bell actually came during the Civil War, when the Yankees used it for inspiration in the fight against slavery.
If you don’t mind walking, take in more of the American Revolution, walking down the 18th-century cobblestone to the Betsy Ross house. While General George Washington and other brave American soldiers like the Minute Men in Concord and Massachusets got all the attention, women like Betsy Ross played an invaluable role in Pennsylvania and America’s founding.
Besides working to maintain the fighting spirit, Betsy Ross holds a special place in American history with her designing and sewing one of the earliest versions of the American flag. In fact, her home is well-preserved and serves as a public museum for others to visit and learn more about her intriguing life. If you don’t mind some ancient sewing lessons, you can also pick those up at the Betsy Ross House.
2. Hershey’s Chocolate Factory
We hope you have a sweet tooth because the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory and theme park has all the chocolate you can handle and then some. Located a short distance away from Philadelphia is the small townof Hershey, the home of the world-famous Hershey’s Chocolate Factory. Named in honor of Milton Hershey, the Hershey Factory has been part of the Pennsylvania fabric since the 1900s. Before being renamed to Hershey, the town was originally called Derry Church.
Besides taking tours of the Hershey Factory, you can also take tours of the homes and other structures that Milton Hershey built to support his chocolate enterprise and to redefine Derry Church to be renamed in his honor. After taking the tour, you can also build your own candy bar.
Perfect for the family, while visiting Hershey, you can also take a ride or two at Hershey Park. Hershey Park features more than 70 rides, with the centerpiece being Storm Runner. Hershey Park also has plenty of water rides to bond with the family.
To learn more about Milton Hershey, you can visit the Hershey Story Museum. The Hershey Story Museum offers plenty of exhibits and a chocolate laboratory to learn more about the man behind the chocolate and his obsession with it.
Believe it or not, there is still plenty more chocolate to explore. The Hershey Gardens features 23 acres of botanical gardens, and the Hershey Theatre is used for first-class plays and ballet. However, the highlight is the Chocolate Spa, which includes chocolate massages.
3. Lancaster County
For a medium-sized state, traveling through the Commonwealth can literally take you into a different world. Lancaster County more than fits the build. Lancaster County is more than just a rural county; it is home to one of the largest Amish populations outside of Holland.
Even though Pennsylvania was founded by the Quaker William Penn, Lancaster County dates back to 1729. Also, Lancaster County played a major role during the American Revolution, with many influential and decisive battles being fought on those grounds.
Join a guided tour to gain an understanding of the Amish way of living and their historical practices. The tours provide visitors with knowledge about Amish household management without modern amenities and expose them to their agricultural practices and living spaces.
People know Lancaster County for its fresh produce grown locally alongside handcrafted items and yummy baked products. The Lancaster Central Market holds the title of the longest-running farmers' market that has operated continuously throughout United States history. Local flavors await, along with homemade goodies at this wonderful location.
Visitors experience a picturesque tour through the Amish countryside while observing traditional farms and buggies and gaining knowledge about the Amish lifestyle from expert guides. The family-friendly amusement park Dutch Wonderland resides in Lancaster. The park caters to younger kids and features over 35 rides along with numerous shows and attractions. The park offers numerous family-friendly activities, such as water rides and roller coasters, along with an exquisite castle.
The Ephrata Cloister served as a living place for members of the Germanic Ephrata sect during the 18th century. The site has achieved National Historic Landmark status and showcases stunning architecture alongside museum displays and landscaped gardens. This location documents the history of this distinctive religious community and how it impacted the surrounding area.
Strasburg Rail Road holds the distinction of being one of the nation's oldest operating railroads while providing nostalgic train journeys through the picturesque landscapes of Lancaster County. Passengers can experience vintage steam train rides while visiting the railroad museum or arranging special themed excursions that cater to families or seasonal interests.
4. Gettysburg
While Philadelphia gets most of the attention for the American Revolution, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is another equally impressive monument to America’s shaping. Gettysburg played a major role during the Civil War, and the entire town works as a monument from that bloody four-year period. Gettysburg is home to the site of the famous Gettysburg Address by former President Abraham Lincoln on the eve of the battle that turned the tide of the war in the North’s favor.
You can take a private tour of Gettysburg and interact with many of the cannons and artillery that were used during that period. The Gettysburg Museum is another coveted location where you learn more about the Confederates and the Yankees.
5. Pittsburgh
Also known as the Steel City, Pittsburgh is home to one of the largest Polish populations. Also, even though the steel industry no longer functions in the city, you can’t help but take in all the former and massive steel industry structures to better appreciate this bygone era. Besides many pubs, local casinos, artisan cafes, and restaurants loaded with artisan ale and exquisite cuisine, including Polish food, Pittsburgh is also home to many museums.
Art enthusiasts must visit The Andy Warhol Museum located in Warhol's hometown of Pittsburgh. The Andy Warhol Museum is the biggest American museum focused on a single artist by displaying Warhol's famous works alongside his earliest creations and personal items through various special exhibitions. The museum, situated on the Allegheny River, provides visitors with comprehensive insights into his artistic methods and impact on modern art.
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History showcases a collection of dinosaur exhibits along with gems, minerals, and North American wildlife dioramas for visitors to enjoy. If you still have time, visit the Carnegie Museum of Art to explore a broad range of American and European art pieces alongside contemporary art collections. The Carnegie Science Center provides family-friendly activities, including interactive exhibits, and features both a planetarium and a WWII submarine tour.
6. Philadelphia
The City of Brotherly Love is much more than just a living monument to the American Revolution. Like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia is a major sports town and a cultural hub. The Philadelphia Museum of Art ranks as one of the nation’s most famous art museums, with an extensive collection surpassing 240,000 works, including Renaissance-era pieces and American and modern art. The collection showcases masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh alongside works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Andy Warhol.
As you exit the museum, make sure to sprint up the renowned steps outside as Rocky Balboa did in the movie Rocky. The top provides a breathtaking view of both the museum and the city. A Rocky statue sits at the base of the steps to capture perfect photos.
Reading Terminal Market is the largest food markets in the U.S. This location stands in the downtown center where visitors can sample Pennsylvania Dutch foods such as soft pretzels and scrapples alongside hoagies. The market features fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international cuisine.
The Delaware River runs alongside Penn’s Landing, which offers beautiful waterfront scenery as you stand on the border with the nearby state of Delaware. This location provides an excellent environment for walking and unwinding while admiring the river views and bridge structures.
Choose between a Spirit of Philadelphia river cruise or exploring the National Museum of American Jewish History. Throughout summer, the waterfront hosts various outdoor festivals, concerts, and events.
FAQs About Pennsylvania
Besides the top-name destinations listed in this article, Lake Erie, The Pocono Mountains, and Scranton are other popular tourist destinations.
How Did Pennsylvania Get Its Name?
Pennsylvania is named in honor of the Quaker William Penn. You might already know him as the face of the Quaker Oats brand of oatmeal and other products.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is a state that has harsh winters, so if you don’t like the cold, you might want to avoid the winter months. For outdoor people, spring and summer are the best times to go exploring, catch a ball game, or visit amusement parks.
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania is one of the few states claiming it has it all. With legendary sports teams and living monuments to the once-dominant steel industry in Pittsburgh, all throughout the Commonwealth, you have plenty of museums and exhibits like The Franklin Institute to honor America’s founding and a glimpse of her future.
Liam Jones
Author
Liam Jones has made it his mission to prove that adventure doesn’t need a hefty budget. Having traveled to over 40 countries, he specializes in finding affordable ways to experience the world, from the best street food in Bangkok to hidden gems in Lisbon.
Liam’s travel tips have reached thousands of readers, empowering them to see the world on a shoestring budget without sacrificing quality. With a deep passion for local cultures, he continues to share his travel hacks, ensuring adventure remains accessible to all.
Sophia Harper
Reviewer
Sophia Harper’s photography acts as a portal to the soul of the places she visits. Drawn to South America’s landscapes and cultures, she has spent years capturing everything from the majesty of ancient ruins to the vibrancy of urban streets.
Sophia’s work isn’t just about documenting moments; it’s about evoking the emotions and stories behind them. A dedicated photographer, she has worked with local communities across South America to capture their rich cultural narratives through her lens.
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