There are so many adventures waiting in Pennsylvania that finding just the trip is a challenge of choices. This sprawling state is full of breathtaking scenery, history, art, science and diverse cultures. From the shores of Lake Eerie to the Allegheny Mountains, from Pennsylvania Dutch Country to historic Philadelphia, pick any part of the nation's 33rd largest state and start planning.
Thrills and chocolate are the main the attractions in Pennsylvania's sweet spot. Hershey Park, which got its start as an employee-only leisure park in 1907, has grown to include about 60 rides. Hershey's Chocolate World, the visitor's center adjacent to the park, offers a a simulated tour of chocolate making on the Omnivore dark ride, a chocolate tasting group and shops hawking Hershey products and souvenirs. The nearby Hershey factory is no longer open for public tours, but admission includes tickets to the adjacent Zoo America.
Hershey Park
100 W. Hersheypark Dr.
Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033
800-242-4236
hersheypark.com
A single ticket price for Pittsburgh's Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Carnegie Museum of Art (located in one building) is an unbeatable deal for world-class fun. Kids love the massive dinosaurs on display at the Museum of Natural History, including the puzzled-together bones of a five-ton T-Rex. The art museum's Hall of Architecture has reproductions of Roman, Greek and medieval buildings. Its permanent collection contains more than 35,000 works representing every medium. Two other Carnegie Museums--The Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Science Center--are housed in separate locations.
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Carnegie Museum of Art
4400 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
412-622-3131
carnegiemuseums.org
The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall offer a glimpse into history in Philadelphia. The famous 2,000-pound bell is on display in the glass-walled Liberty Bell Center. It's easily seen from the street, but go inside the center for a full picture of the cracked icon, it's history and inner workings. Liberty Bell Center also features hands-on exhibits for kids, films and an x-ray look inside the bell. Independence Hall, across the street, is the home of ideas. George Washington, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin spent immeasurable hours talking philosophy and drafting the blueprint of American ideals there. Admission for both attractions is free. Snag park maps and free tickets to Independence Hall at the Independence Visitor Center.
Independence Visitor Center
1 N. Independence Mall W.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106
215-925-6101
indepencdencevisitorcenter.com
