western pa places to visit

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10 unusual small towns to visit in Western Pennsylvania

All have at least one thing in common — a walkable core with main streets that invite you to get out of the car.

Mars, Butler County

Ohiopyle, Fayette County

Butler, Butler County

Saxonburg, Butler County

Zelienople, Butler County

Harmony, Butler County

Ligonier, Westmoreland County

Beaver, Beaver County

Leechburg, Armstrong County

Ambridge, Beaver County

Michael machosky.

Michael Machosky is a writer and journalist with 18 years of experience writing about everything from development news, food and film to art, travel, books and music. He lives in Greenfield with his wife, Shaunna, and 10-year old son.

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6 of Western Pennsylvania’s Best Attractions

Ann Abel , award-winning travel writer and editor for Forbes , Condé Nast Traveler, AFAR, National Geographic Traveler , and more, has traveled all over the world, and some of Western Pennsylvania’s finest attractions rival the ones she’s traveled much farther to experience.  

When I first visited Pittsburgh, I had no clue that I’d become a travel writer. I was there for a pre-college academic program at Carnegie Mellon—nerd camp, as we called it—in architecture. But a few college-major changes and lucky career breaks later, I’ve spent decades traveling the world and writing about it for the likes of Forbes and Condé Nast Traveler .  

I’ve seen a lot, but I still think fondly of that summer in Pittsburgh. It was my first time outside the 20th-century cities of the West. Pittsburgh is a place with a history almost as long as that of the United States, with solid foundations in culture and architecture, and a classic melting-pot heritage. And some of Western Pennsylvania’s best attractions stand up to the ones that I’ve traveled much farther to see.  

Fallingwater

1491 Mill Run Road,   Laurel Highlands Fallingwater is the most famous work by America’s most famous architect. Frank Lloyd Wright’s signature project was designed in 1935 for the Kaufmann family and is located in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, 70 miles from Pittsburgh. It’s hailed as an excellent example of organic architecture, a style meant to symbolize the harmony between people and nature—the boundary between indoors and out is a blurry one. Since it opened to the public in 1964, it has welcomed more than six million visitors, and in 2019 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage List.  

Allegheny County Courthouse and Jail

436 Grant Street Henry Hobson Richardson’s Allegheny County Courthouse and Jail has been called the best building of the 19th century. Richardson, who designed the building in 1883 but didn’t live to see its completion in 1888, is one of the greatest American architects in history, and his final work is his masterpiece. Along with its impressive Renaissance and Romanesque architecture, the building is distinguished by its 229-foot-high tower, soaring arches and dignified columns, and picturesque, turreted rooflines.  

The Andy Warhol Museum

117 Sandusky Street Spanning seven floors (plus an underground level), The Andy Warhol Museum showcases the Pittsburgh-born artist’s life story and explores his legacy through the largest collection of his work and archives in the world. Along with the permanent collection and rotating exhibitions, the museum has a robust events calendar, with talks, children’s workshops, music performances, and LGBTQ+ programming. Its latest project is the Pop District, a youth-led transformation of the city’s eastern North Shore through arts, creativity, and economic development.  

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1 Schenley Drive Phipps Conservatory has been delighting visitors for more than a century with its 14-room glasshouse and 15 acres of gardens. Even before sustainability became a buzzword, the conservatory has lived up to its name, promoting practices that tread lightly on the environment. The Welcome Center is LEED-certified, and the Center for Sustainable Landscapes is considered one of the greenest buildings on Earth. It’s refreshing to visit a botanical garden that isn’t just a Victorian throwback but shows a way to a better future.  

Laurel Caverns

1065 Skyline Drive, Farmington It’s not only the American West that has stunning caves and rock formations. Laurel Caverns in Farmington is Pennsylvania’s largest cave, with more than four miles of passages to explore. The limestone caves were likely formed before the building of the Pyramids, and arrowheads found near the entrance reveal that Native Americans used them. Spelunkers can sign up for caving excursions on weekends.  

Flight 93 National Memorial

6424 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown While it’s not a fun attraction, the monument bears witness to a day that changed history forever and pays tribute to the 40 heroic passengers and crew who prevented an attack on the US Capitol.  

Story by Ann Abel

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Things to Do in Laurel Highlands

The attractions in western Pennsylvania are just as unique as your interests.

Tour  Frank Lloyd Wright 's stunning works of architecture, explore  historic sites  and battlefields or enjoy great drinks with good company at  breweries, distilleries  and  wineries .

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5 Small Towns in Western Pennsylvania You Must Visit

By Kalena Thomhave

Western Pa. boasts small towns featuring natural beauty, charming historic districts, and thriving art scenes.

Pittsburgh and Philadelphia may be centers of history, culture, and diversity, but Pennsylvania is also home to dozens of small towns that pack a punch for their size. These towns may feature natural beauty, charming historic districts, or thriving art scenes. We’ve selected a handful of small towns on the western side of the commonwealth that you may want to take a day or a weekend to explore. Each is within driving distance of Pittsburgh, the biggest city on the western side of the state. Read on and get inspired for your next trip.

Population: 18,238

Johnstown is famous for a terrible reason. In 1889, a dam upstream from Johnstown failed, and  20 million  tons of water raced toward the town.  More than 3,000  people are thought to have died. The South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club—whose wealthy members included Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick—owned the dam and was blamed for the disaster in the court of public opinion. The club and its members, however, were never held legally responsible.

Today, Johnstown has multiple markers of that tragic history, including the  Johnstown Flood Museum , which tells the comprehensive story of 1889’s Great Flood, and the  Johnstown Flood National Memorial , where you can see the remains of the dam. You can also ride a very  steep incline —which was used to evacuate Johnstown residents during the floods of 1936 and 1977. For lighter activities, Johnstown is home to a branch of  the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art  as well as the children’s museum at the  Heritage Discovery Center . In the summer months, you can  tube  the Stonycreek River or watch a movie at the  Silver Drive-In . Johnstown is roughly an hour and a half from Pittsburgh.

Population: 1,497

This small town nestled in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern Pennsylvania, just over an hour from Pittsburgh, attracts visitors with its charming downtown and its place in American history. Fort Ligonier may be the biggest attraction, as the site was a British fortification during the French and Indian War. Indeed, Ligonier leans into this history: October’s  Fort Ligonier Days  hosts tens of thousands of visitors who come to see battle reenactments, a parade, and music. Like any good festival, there’s also plenty of shopping and eating—all against a backdrop of gorgeous fall foliage. The same can be said for the  Ligonier Highland Days , a Western PA version of the Scottish Highland Games.

Outside of the war that crept through Western PA, Ligonier’s old downtown is full of shops and restaurants to entice you inside. But outdoors, during the summer, Ligonier holds the Ligonier Country Market, a large outdoor market selling farmers’ goods as well as handmade art, jewelry, gifts, and more. If that’s not enough, there’s also  Idlewild Park , an amusement park geared towards kids that’s one of the oldest theme parks in the country. Idlewild first opened in 1878!

Population: 37

Ohiopyle may only have a permanent population of a few dozen people, but that changes on the weekends. This small town in Fayette County is the jumping off point for all sorts of outdoor recreation enjoyed by people in the Greater Pittsburgh Area, as the town is just over an hour from Pittsburgh. The central gem of Ohiopyle is the state park that shares its name,  Ohiopyle State Park . The name “Ohiopyle” derives from the name given to the park’s falls by the Lenape people:  Ohiopehhehle , which means white, frothy waterfalls.

The white, frothy Ohiopyle Falls can be found along the Youghiogheny (yawk-ih-gay-nee] River, which is a major attraction for whitewater enthusiasts. Kayakers can paddle the “Yough” while rafting tours provide opportunities for family-friendly adventure. The state park is also home to trailheads for both the  Great Allegheny Passage  bike trail, which spans from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, and the 70-mile  Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail .

After a day of outdoor fun, you can grab some food or sip a cold beer in Ohiopyle’s small business district. We like  Falls City Pub  as well as  Ohiopyle Bakery and Sandwich Shoppe .   

Population: 3,847

Zelienople came to be when a wealthy German immigrant purchased 10,000 acres of land in order to build his own town. He named the place, now just half an hour from Pittsburgh, after his daughter, Zelie.

The town is rather like an archetype of an American small town: a place with a quaint, historic downtown full of shopping, eating, and leisure opportunities, as well as a little something special all its own. Zelienople has a thriving business district with shops and restaurants next to historic homes.  Baldinger’s  is a candy store—operating since 1933—that stocks old-time candies that may be hard to find. There’s also an artisan market, a florist, a community coffee shop and bakery, and much more. Wandering Zelienople, one will also notice the restored  Strand Theater , a historic building that brings the stage to the town known as “Zelie.”

Population: 12,849

Meadville is a cute town in Northwestern PA, the former home of actor Clark Gable, and one of the oldest towns in Pennsylvania. Less than an hour’s drive from Erie and about an hour and a half from Pittsburgh, Meadville was founded in 1788. Like many old towns, there’s a lovely historic district that’s also home to the oldest indoor food market in Western PA. The  Meadville Market House  has been operating out of the same building since 1870 and is open year-round. The market sells produce and other farmers’ goods as well as arts and crafts; the market even has an artist-in-residence. Other interesting shops in the historic district abound: boutiques, antique stores, thrift shops, gift shops, and even a yarn store. Near the town square,  Julian’s Bar and Grill  is a local dinner favorite that regularly hosts live music.

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Mattress Factory

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Duquesne Incline

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Cathedral of Learning

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Carnegie Museums

Founded in 1895, these neighboring institutions are both tremendous troves of knowledge. The Carnegie Museum of Art has European treasures and an…

Frick Art & Historical Center

Henry Clay Frick, of New York City's Frick Collection fame, built his steel fortune in Pittsburgh. This Frick shows a small art collection (including…

Phipps Conservatory

An impressive steel-and-glass greenhouse with beautifully designed and curated gardens, at the northwest corner of Schenley Park.

Hey, did you notice the giant yellow house with enormous floor-to-roof wall murals and a small army of garden statuary and a junkyard's worth of painted…

Children's Museum of Pittsburgh

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National Aviary

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Monongahela Incline

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

10 Gorgeous Hikes In Western Pennsylvania

Robin O'Neal Smith

• Activities and Interests
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These are the best hiking trails in Western Pennsylvania, including the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk and a ghost town trail.

Pennsylvania has a vast outdoor playground. There are thousands of miles of hiking trails in the Keystone State, from easy flat trails to difficult mountainous terrain. So next time you visit, pack your hiking shoes and get outdoors for a hiking adventure. Not sure where to start? Let me introduce you to a few of my favorite trails.

I selected the following trails for their scenery, uniqueness, and accessibility.

CMS Photography / Shutterstock

1. Shawnee Lake Trail, Shawnee State Park

Schellsburg.

This easy trail is scenic and circles around Shawnee Lake. The path is wide and level with a picturesque view of the lake, and in the fall, the changing leaves give a spectacular show. This trail is a very easy walk as it’s a level surface with an almost unnoticeable elevation gain. The trail is covered with fine gravel, so no big rocks or roots.

Allow a minimum of two hours to complete the entire loop, and be sure to take your camera because you are sure to see some small wildlife — maybe including a deer or two — and numerous eye-catching plants as you hike around the lake.

Robin O’Neal Smith

2. Kinzua Bridge State Park

Mount jewett.

This is my pick for the best hike in Western Pennsylvania. Check out TravelAwaits ’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. The Kinzua Bridge State Park has both easy and more difficult trails, and it also provides epic panoramic views of mountains, valleys, historic landmarks, and even a railroad.

The easy trail to the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk ends with a walk on the 301-foot-tall skywalk. A broken railroad bridge turned into a pedestrian walkway in 2011, it features a glass-bottom end section. You can stroll 600 feet out onto the skywalk. Looking out over miles of forest and the gorge provides a spectacular view. I visited in the spring, but it would be absolutely gorgeous when the leaves change in fall.

Another easy trail takes you along the old railroad bed. It is flat and an easy, level hike.

The more difficult trail takes you down steep banks and rock steps to the bottom of the Bridge Skyway to view the remainder of the bridge wreckage as it was left after a tornado struck in 2003. This particular trail requires hiking shoes with excellent traction .

If only hiking the skywalk, an hour or two spent here would be fine. Plan for half a day if hiking the other trails, too.

Neal M. Smith

3. Pennslyvania Turnpike Tunnel Hike

A portion of the Pennsylvania Turnpike was abandoned in the late 1960s when new roads were built in the area. The full hike is nearly eight miles in length and includes two tunnels. It’s paved, but broken in spots, so it is a mostly easy walk with some gentle climbs, but a bit long to do both tunnels. For a fun and more manageable experience, I recommend a shorter hike out and back to the first tunnel.

This hike takes you along the old roadway and tunnels, which were part of America’s first long-distance limited-access highway, which opened in the 1940s. Now the abandoned roadway and tunnels are accessible only by foot or bike.

If you take this interesting hike , be sure you stay on the roadway and do NOT go without a flashlight. It is very dark and damp inside the tunnels and, I will admit it, a bit scary if it is totally dark since neither end of the tunnel is visible from the center.

Coming from the east, the larger of the two tunnels, Sideling Hill Tunnel, is a short hike, and the tunnel is 1.3 miles long. If you continue for another 3.5 miles, you come to the half-mile long Rays Hill Tunnel. If starting on the west end, you will park in Breezewood.

Plan to spend two to four hours on this trail, depending on how far you want to hike.

Pro Tips: This is an abandoned tunnel area, and signs near the entrance let you know you are proceeding at your own risk. Take a jacket and a flashlight.

KD PICS / Shutterstock

4. Cucumber Falls Trail, Ohiopyle State Park

Ohiopyle State Park is a large park with a half dozen waterfalls and fascinating trails. The payoff for this trail is the Cucumber Falls, a 30-foot cascade that drops into the Youghiogheny River.

Parking is available near the Cucumber Falls trailhead . There is an easy short trail to an overlook that will afford you an excellent view of the falls from above.

If you descend several dozen stairs, you will be at the base of the falls. You can even get closer by following the trail along the river. If you go closer to the falls, use caution because the rocks will be slippery. You can even go behind the Cucumber Falls if you desire.

Plan at least an hour for this trail. You could spend the day in the park seeing other falls, too.

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

5. Ridge Runner Trail, Presque Isle State Park

While Pennsylvania is not near the ocean, you can experience the next best thing at Presque Isle State Park . This 3,200-acre park has sandy beaches, trees, and even a lighthouse, so your hike will be full of impressive scenery.

The moderate to difficult Ridge Runner Trail is a two-mile hike. It includes a sand ridge not maintained by park staff, so sure footing and sturdy hiking boots are needed.

If you are not up to a difficult hike, you can view this scenic area by exploring the paved path near the Perry Monument . It is an easy 1.6-mile hike.

Bonnie Strickler Saboe

6. Balanced Rock Trail, Trough Creek State Park

Trough Creek State Park is an area I have hiked many times. The Balanced Rock Trail is a steep hiking trail rated as difficult. But it is a short 0.12 miles, and if you have suitable hiking footwear with traction and good balance, you should be able to handle this hike. I was able to complete it even when I was very out of shape and didn’t have the proper footwear.

The end-of-trail reward is Balanced Rock, an unusual geological formation that looks like a rock hanging off the side of the mountain.

There are other less-strenuous hikes in the park. One of my favorites takes you to Rainbow Falls. Just be aware of trail conditions and have quality footwear with traction for this park. Some paths are narrow in spots and you will encounter roots, rocks, and cliffs.

7. Thousand Step Trail (Part Of Standing Stone Trail)

Mount union.

The Thousand Step Trail has a set of 1,000+ rock steps that form part of the half-mile hiking trail. Not for the faint of heart or out of shape hiker, it is considered difficult because of the many stone steps. While this hike is strenuous the entire time, there are places to stop and rest as you climb.

Built in the 1930s, the Thousand Step Trail was created for miners to use to make their way to a sandstone mine known as the Ledge Quarry. The steps are numbered by 100, so your progress can be measured as you climb. Even if you only make the first 100 steps, it feels like an accomplishment.

Once you arrive at the summit — that would be step 1,037 — plan to rest a bit, and enjoy the magnificent view.

On your leisurely walk down the steps, take time to enjoy the scenery.

Pro Tip: Be careful on the steps, especially when wet or in the winter when they could be covered in ice.

Kathy D. Reasor / Shutterstock

8. Ghost Town Trail

Ebensburg to blacklick.

This unique hike features remnants of a railway with old mining towns lining the hiking trail. On the Ghost Town Trail , you will see coal-industry equipment, discarded rail cars, the Eliza Furnace , and informative signs along the way with historical information. You can’t wander around the ghost towns since they are mostly on private property, but the hike is fun and entertaining.

The trail is rated easy and is made of crushed limestone, and you will share the path with bikers. The entire trail is 36 miles in length. You can start in Ebensburg or Blacklick and hike as far as you are comfortable. I’d plan for at least two or three hours on this trail so you get to see some of the ghost towns.

Google Maps

9. Three Rivers Heritage Trail

Not everyone can go out to the rural areas to hike. But luckily, there are several urban trails near Pittsburgh to enjoy, and this is one of them. You can hike the 24-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail system without leaving the city. It’s an urban trail with views of the rivers and city sights. You’ll enjoy an easy, level paved path spanning the banks of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. It is excellent for walking, but be aware that inline skaters and bikers are permitted on this path, too. You can spend a half-hour to all day walking along the rivers and discover w hy Pittsburgh is a must-visit Pennsylvania destination along the way.

woodsnorthphoto / Shutterstock

10. Highland Park Trails

An expansive hilltop park, Highland Park is home to the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium and hosts several walking trails. These easy trails have beautiful scenery, including Lake Carnegie. Plan to spend an hour or so on the park’s trails.

The next time you visit the Keystone State, I hope you will plan a hiking adventure. There are numerous Pennsylvania hiking trails and nature experiences just waiting for you. Get out and enjoy nature and the fresh air as you explore Pennsylvania on foot.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. I have been enjoying my KEEN Terradora II Waterproof hiking boots . I love the traction they provide even on slippery rocks and how they fit my narrow feet and provide arch support. Shop KEEN’s Terradora II and other hiking shoes here .

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

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Best places to visit in pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania features cities large and small, foodie spots, sports hubs, scenic state parks and more. Plus, the Keystone State experiences all four seasons, meaning you can pick your favorite time to visit. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and accessibility, in addition to expert and user feedback, to decide the best places to visit in Pennsylvania. Have a favorite spot? Vote for your top Pennsylvania destination below to help us determine next year's list.

The Poconos

Philadelphia, ricketts glen state park, lehigh valley, valley forge, delaware water gap, lake wallenpaupack.

Hershey is known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth" – and for good reason. Here, you'll find Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can take a free tour of the facility to see how Hershey's chocolate and candy are made. Once you've satisfied your sweet tooth, head next door to Hersheypark to enjoy more than 70 chocolate-themed attractions designed for thrill-seekers of all ages. For a more laid-back vacation, visit ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park to see the 200-plus animals or Hershey Gardens to stroll through its 23 flower-filled acres (don't miss the rose garden's 3,000 roses if you're visiting during the summer months).

History buffs will love Gettysburg. Travelers can tour the roughly 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park (the site of the Civil War's bloodiest battle) and check out other historical attractions, such as the Jennie Wade House (where the only civilian casualty from the Battle of Gettysburg died) and the Eisenhower National Historic Site (a farm that once belonged to former President Dwight D. Eisenhower). Those who prefer a spookier glimpse of Gettysburg's past can sign up for a ghost tour. After sightseeing, visit an antiques store to find a piece of war memorabilia to take home as a souvenir.

An up-and-coming foodie destination, Pittsburgh woos travelers with restaurants that serve everything from Polish staples to mouthwatering burgers. In addition to eating your way through the Steel City, you'll want to visit the Andy Warhol Museum to see its extensive collection of the late pop art legend's work or head to the Senator John Heinz History Center for a wide array of Pittsburgh-related exhibits. Also save time for a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game (or a tour) at PNC Park and a ride on the Duquesne Incline, which takes passengers to the top of Mount Washington.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway with your significant other, a vacation full of nonstop adventure or something in between, the Poconos have you covered. This mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania is home to several state parks featuring forests, waterfalls, lakes and streams, making it an ideal place to hike, ride horses, swim, hunt and camp in summer. Plus, the Pocono Mountains draw skiers and snowboarders in droves in winter thanks to their more than 185 slopes and trails. Whenever you choose to visit, plan on staying at one of the Poconos' luxurious resorts , all-inclusive lodgings or charming inns.

Philly is one of America's most notable historical destinations thanks to top sights like the Liberty Bell (which abolitionists, women's suffrage supporters and other groups have used in their causes as a symbol of liberty) and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed). What's more, the city offers something for travelers of all ages: Kids will enjoy the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo (one of the best zoos in the country ), while adults can stroll through the Reading Terminal Market and admire Rittenhouse Square. Don't forget to try a classic Philly cheesesteak before you go.

Bordered by the Delaware River to the east, New Hope exudes both scenic beauty and small-town charm. Nature lovers can stroll through the meadows, forests and ponds at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, or follow a historical canal towpath in Delaware Canal State Park. Meanwhile, the town's quaint Main Street is home to architectural treasures like the Parry Mansion Museum, as well as a variety of boutiques. And don't let its small size fool you; New Hope punches above its weight when it comes to top-notch riverside dining options and irresistible accommodations, which range from picture-perfect inns to luxurious carriage houses.

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the state's most picturesque locales. Featuring more than 13,000 acres, this impressive state park in Pennsylvania's Columbia, Luzerne and Sullivan counties is home to the Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark. It also offers 26 miles of hiking trails that take you through centuries-old forests and around stunning rock formations. If you only have time to trek one of the park's 11 trails, travelers recommend choosing the Falls Trail. This 7.2-mile loop travels past 21 of the park's 22 free-falling waterfalls, including Ganoga Falls (Ricketts Glen's tallest waterfall).

This valley in eastern Pennsylvania – which comprises larger cities like Allentown and Bethlehem, plus smaller towns like Easton – is packed with things to do. History buffs can learn about Lehigh Valley's Colonial days at historical sights like the 1750 Smithy and the Bachmann Publick House. Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing and white-water rafting. Families will love visiting Easton's Crayola Experience and Allentown's Dorney Park. And for adults, there are dozens of breweries, distilleries and wineries to check out. For even more ambiance, arrive in fall to go leaf peeping and apple picking.

Lancaster is home to the nation's oldest Amish communities, making it an ideal place to disconnect and discover this unique way of life. Lancaster's Amish buggy rides and impressive farmers markets are popular with travelers of all ages, and visitors can learn more about the Amish lifestyle at the Amish Experience and The Amish Farm and House. Other must-dos in the area include the family-friendly Dutch Wonderland theme park, which wins praise for its variety of rides for younger kids. And don't miss shopping at the area's outlets and taking a tour of a local brewery.

Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park to spend your next vacation learning about American history. The village served as the winter encampment for former President George Washington and the Continental Army from 1777 to 1778. You can tour the encampment to see sights like the United States National Memorial Arch, Artillery Park and Washington's Headquarters. The park also offers ranger programs during the warmer months, plus 35 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. When you need a break from the village's rich history, enjoy some retail therapy at the nearby King of Prussia Mall, which features more than 450 stores.

Lovers of the great outdoors flock to the Delaware Water Gap each summer to hike and admire the area's green forests and waterfalls. Travelers can also rent canoes or kayaks and take to the water, fish at numerous lakes and streams or swim at Milford and Smithfield beaches. For those who'd rather stay on land, the roughly 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers ample opportunities to bike, hunt and go rock climbing. Visit in winter to take advantage of cold-weather activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice climbing.

If you're eager to spend some time in and on water, choose Lake Wallenpaupack as your next vacation destination. This man-made lake in the Poconos is one of the largest in the state, occupying 5,700 acres. Popular summer pursuits here include swimming, water skiing, boating and kayaking, while winter activities range from ice skating to snowshoeing to ice fishing. Lake Wallenpaupack also features six recreation areas, so if you need a break from the water, head ashore to enjoy land-based activities like hiking, camping and snowmobiling.

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Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor adventures in pennsylvania.

What's your idea of an adventure? Whether it's the cool, green forests of the north, the rolling hills of the south, or the thousands of pristine lakes and streams, hiking trails, and state parks throughout, there's no shortage of outdoor places to visit in PA.

With 124 free, jaw-dropping state parks, thousands of campgrounds , and numerous activities to do while you're here, it's no wonder people flock to the Pennsylvania wilderness to experience nights (and days!) in the great outdoors. Whether you're new to Pennsylvania camping and looking for easy access and friendly staff or an experienced camper seeking something more challenging and remote, you'll find the ideal site for your camping, “glamping,” or primitive style at the many campgrounds and state and national lands dotted around the state.

Kayaking and Boating

Pennsylvania is a haven for boating and kayaking enthusiasts, but you don't have to be a seasoned sailor to enjoy the waters here. With 86,000 miles of rivers and streams and more than 2,000 lakes, you can take your pick of activities for adults and kids that suit your group's skill level. From the sparkling waters of Lake Erie to the Class III-V rapids at Ohiopyle State Park for whitewater rafting, you'll find outdoor places to visit in every corner of Pennsylvania.

Rail Trails

Rail trails are paths that follow the long-abandoned tracks of local trains of often long-gone railroads that once crisscrossed PA. No longer used by rail lines, they're the perfect way to experience the great outdoors whether hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, or out for a leisurely stroll. They're open to everyone who wants to see beautiful scenery, escape the crowds, and even take in a bit of the state's history. Hop aboard some of Pennsylvania's most well-known rail trails, for example, the Great Allegheny Passage, our patch of the Appalachian Trail or find a trail close to home.

Did you know Pennsylvania is one of the best places in the eastern United States for stargazing ? In addition to Cherry Springs State Park, PA's world-famous and internationally certified “Dark Sky Place,” many of the state's less populated areas provide very little light pollution making stargazing one of the most popular outdoor activities in the state.

Wonderful wilderness, breathtaking beauty, not to mention a decent workout — PA hiking is the perfect way to spend the day. Hike a section of the U.S.’s longest hiking-only path, the Appalachian Trail, or discover the ancient trees of Cook Forest where the Hemlocks and Pines are more than three hundred and fifty years old.

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Explore the great outdoors by water, trail, bike, or boat. Kayak the Susquehanna River or canoe the Codorus. Hop aboard a scenic train ride on the Heritage Rail Trail or explore acres of public park lands. The hiking & biking offerings are endless.

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