Pennsylvania

Flanked by a major city at each end—Pittsburgh in the west, Philadelphia in the east—and with a whole lot to see and do in between, Pennsylvania has a perfect mixture of modern, urban areas and historic rural charm. Throughout the state, you’ll find signs of progress as well as historic intrigue.

Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, the city of Pittsburgh was once maligned as an unattractive steel town known for its depressing grime and lack of culture. Boy, do things change. The Pittsburgh of today is a vibrantly alive city, with Andy Warhol and the world-renowned Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra serving as just two examples of Pittsburgh’s devotion to the arts.

There’s something for everyone in this city, from the nightlife of the South Side to the NFC Champion Pittsburgh Steelers NFL franchise. The Pirates, Pittsburgh’s major-league baseball team, recently moved to the stunning new PNC Park. Market Square is home to shopping, restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year.

From Pittsburgh, head north to the Lake Erie region. Here you’ll find unspoiled natural beauty in the form of Presque Isle State Park and its seven miles of beaches. Presque Isle is a haven for fishing, hiking, and water sports, including boating and scuba diving.

After Erie, head to central Pennsylvania, where you’ll find classic Americana. The town of State College, home to Pennsylvania State University and its Nittany Lions, is known for its charming, off-beat Main Street. Be sure to stop by the University Creamery for what many say is the best ice cream in the world. Central Pennsylvania is also a great region for crafts and antique shopping, if that’s your thing.

In the northeast corner of the state, the Pocono Mountains are there to charm every traveler who passes through. Besides the things you’d expect from a mountainous region—great skiing and snowboarding, bed and breakfasts, and endless hiking trails—there are also attractions such as a NASCAR speedway.

Heading south and a little bit west from the Poconos, you’ll come across Pennsylvania Dutch country. The state capital, Harrisburg, is in this region. So is the town of Hershey, home of some very well-known chocolate. Go antique shopping or find genuine arts and crafts from the area’s large Amish population.

On the eastern edge of Pennsylvania is Philadelphia. Along with Boston, Philly is one of America’s top historic cities, and it’s here that you’ll find the Liberty Bell and all things Benjamin Franklin. Stop by South Street for a cheese steak, then head up to Old City for cultural heritage at the National Museum of American Jewish Heritage and the Afro-American Historical & Cultural Museum.