Stretching from the Pocono Mountains to Lake Erie, Pennsylvania has an important place in the history of United States. It is nicknamed the “keystone state” as it was centrally located among the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States and also because many of the original documents such as the Declaration of Independence from the British was signed in this state. Harrisburg is the capital of Pennsylvania although the largest city in the state is Philadelphia.
The weather here is varied depending on the geography. The southeastern corner of the state has a warmer climate than the northern parts with mountainous areas and cooler climate. Lake effect snow coupled with the winter snowfall can add up to over 100 inches of snow and abundant rainfall yearly. April through October is a good time to visit this state.
Major cities in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Hershey, Erie, Scranton, Allentown and Lancaster.
Philadelphia
The Philadelphia International airport is located in Pennsylvania. The major attraction here is the Independence National Historic Park where the old cracked Bell proclaims Liberty and Independence for all. Here, visitors can learn how the United States of America was formed and the struggle to prove that every citizen has equal rights.
Other attractions in Philadelphia are the Franklin Mills Mall, Longwood gardens, Museum of Art, The Zoo, Valley Forge National Park, Reading Terminal Market, Sesame Place and Fairmount Park.
Pittsburgh
This city has over 2 million people and is surrounded by the rivers Alleghany, Monongahela and the Ohio. It is called the “City of Bridges” as it has over 446 bridges and was formerly a steel manufacturing location. For the outdoors enthusiasts, along with the astounding natural beauty of the city, there are many parks, a whitewater adventure and the three rivers to choose from for kayaking, cycling, paddling, rowing, climbing and hiking.
This area of Western Pennsylvania is also famous for its “Underground railroad” which was a euphemism for helping slaves attain freedom from their “masters”.
Pittsburgh International airport is also a route through which travelers can enter the country. From the Duquesne Incline, visitors can see the entire view of Downtown’s Golden Triangle. The Gateway clipper fleet is a company that offers cruises on the beautiful Monongahela River for visitors all year. Other attractions include Carnegie Museums, Children’s Museum, Kennywood Park with its roller coasters and Frick Art and Historical Center.
Hershey
Famous for its chocolate industry, Hershey was known as “Derry Church” before the popularity of chocolate changed it. Now it is also called “Chocolate town, USA” and “The sweetest place on Earth”. The popular Hershey names are “Chocolate kisses” and Reese’s peanut butter cups” which was portrayed in the movie E.T.
Pennsylvania is known for its numerous attractions including an exciting night life, performances, spectator sports and tours. It also has a tremendous variety in outdoor sports including Golf, beaches and parks including John Heinz national wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, Morris Arboretum, Fairmount park, Bartram’s Garden, Washington Square park, Penn’s landing, Wyck Historic house, Horticultural Center and Awbury Museum.
Other lesser known attractions in Pennsylvania include Toy Robot Museum in Adamstown, Space Acorn in Kecksburg, Drake Well Museum in Titusville, Weather Capital in Punxsutawney, Insectarium in Philadelphia, Tiny world in Shippensburg, Crayola crayon factory in Easton, The Pagoda in Reading.
For visitors interested in the arts, there are many choices including the Painted Bride Art Center, Arden Theatre Company, Kimmel Center for Performing Arts, Mummers’ Museum, Lights of Liberty, Philadelphia’s Gay Bingo, Academy of Music, Prince Music Theater, Academy of Vocal Arts, Mann Center for the Performing Arts and Opera Company of Philadelphia.
