When people think of Pennsylvania, they may think of Hershey's chocolate in Harrisburg, the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, or Amish residents in Lancaster. Many tourist attractions surround Pennsylvania. This state even has rare train rides for the entire family. Surprise yourself by seeing what Pennsylvania has to offer in the tourism industry.
Philadelphia is rich in our nation's history, and the Constitutional Walking Tour self-guides you with an interactive map for three miles where you can visit various historical places, including the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House. Thirty-two locations make up this free self-guided tour. Fees vary depending on where you visit. Just as Rocky Balboa did in the movie "Rocky," climb the 72 steps and raise your hands at the top at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Home to the Dutch Amish country, Lancaster has plenty of things to do and see. Thomas the Tank Engine waits for riders at its home, namely the Choo Choo Barn, which opened in 1961. With 22 trains running today, The Choo Choo Barn boasts Thomas the Tank Engine as the most popular ride for kids. Rare oddities lie on shelves in the gift shop. Admission prices for adults 12 and up are $7 and $4 for kids 3-11 as of January 2011. Kids under 3 enter free.
Before entering the park, head into Chocolate World, where you can take a free tour in a trainlike ride and see thousands of assorted chocolates. If you like the smell of chocolate, the aroma produced in Chocolate World will make you crave chocolate all day. Then, head into Hershey Park; if you want to avoid long lines and a crowd, visit Hershey Park on a Sunday, according to its website. Prices vary depending on age, time of day and promotions.
Do something a little unusual and visit Cherry Crest Farm. Try to make your way through their "maize maze" of corn. In 2007, it made a Sports Illustrated for Kids list of "25 cool things to do" for kids. Take a guided wagon tour, watch a singing chicken show or jump on a gigantic pillow. Cherry Crest Farm has more than 50 activities, including harvesting festivals.
