Take a deep breath, inhale the fresh air and get away your way in Pennsylvania. From the natural wonders of Pine Creek Gorge — also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania — to a high-octane Great American Getaway 400 NASCAR race at Pocono Raceway, there is something wow-worthy for everyone to experience.
Visit PA has made your getaway planning a breeze – just choose your vibe, book the trip, and get ready to go! Whether you’re a couple, a family, a group of friends or just hanging solo, there are over 120 free state parks and countless more local flavors and unforgettable detours waiting for you across the Commonwealth. These weekend-friendly vibe-tineraries showcase some of Pennsylvania’s most unexpectedly delightful destinations. For more details on these getaways and other travel inspo, head to visitpa.com/summer.
This trip is for: Book lovers and comfort seekers
Area: outside Philadelphia
Prepare to be swept away by history while enjoying the literary landscapes of PA. Cozy up for a weekend stay at the Bookhouse Hotel, a dreamy retreat in the heart of Kennett Square. Get lost finding your next favorite book at Baldwin’s Book Barn, a five-story building from 1822 that’s a uniquely historic institution and a stop you won’t want to miss. Then, take your new read to Longwood Gardens for an afternoon of picturesque blooms and natural beauty. And don’t forget to taste some savory delights from Talula’s Table Market before strolling the charming historic streets of Kennett Square.
This trip is for: Big-time history buffs
Area: Lancaster, Gettysburg & York
Step into the past to discover Pennsylvania’s historic towns, each filled with unique stories that shaped the state and our nation. Start your adventure at the cozy Lancaster Arts Hotel, which showcases original artwork and details smoothed by long years of use. Stroll through one of America’s oldest markets, the Lancaster Central Market, and sample a variety of Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies like the shoofly pie. Get a glimpse into Amish culture at the Amish Village before ending your day at the upscale American restaurant Cork & Cap. After a good night’s rest, head to Gettysburg National Military Park for a guided tour to learn about how American history was changed on these fields. Stop for lunch at the local Colonial eatery, the Dobbin House Tavern, before uncovering more Civil War history at the Beyond the Battle Museum. Make sure you visit the Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum honoring those who escaped slavery through the Underground Railroad. Before you leave the area, head to Shady Maple for a true feast at the largest buffet in the U.S.
This trip is for: Families and folks who love good old-fashioned fun
Area: upstate Pennsylvania
Take a break from your hectic schedule and enjoy this family-friendly vibe-tinerary for those craving the simple pleasures of nostalgia. Check into the historic City Hall Grand Hotel in Williamsport before heading to the World of Little League Museum. Watch the kids’ faces light up as they ride the wooden roller coasters at Knoebels Amusement Resort, a beloved family-owned park where admission is free. Cruise the Susquehanna and relax aboard the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat or head to Crystal Lake for kayaking and paddleboarding. Before you drive home, detour to Mr. Sticky’s and indulge in one last nostalgic bite of a warm, gooey cinnamon bun.
This trip is for: Anyone looking to shake things up
Area: Pittsburgh
This is your calling to put down your phone, unplug, and get back in touch with some fun IRL. After checking into the historic Priory Hotel, snack your way through the Steel City with ‘Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tours. Your tastebuds and belly will thank you! While in Pittsburgh, be sure to catch a Pirates game and explore the craft beer scene on a brewery tour or two. Headley’s Brewing Company and Hitchhiker Brewing Co. are top stops to add to your list. Before heading home, venture into PA’s Laurel Highlands to explore the surrounding trails before taking a tour of the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece house built over a waterfall, Fallingwater. Lastly, don’t forget to get a little wet and wild on a whitewater rafting expedition at Ohiopyle State Park.
This trip is for: Families or kids at heart
Area: Philadelphia
Get your giggle on and remember what truly matters: time spent together. This vibe-tinerary is a chance to forget the 9-to-5 and create memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Get started with a famous fritter from Beiler’s Doughnuts — or whatever you’re craving at Reading Terminal Market, one of the nation’s oldest public markets. Philly is full of kid-friendly activities: Visit the Philadelphia Zoo, enjoy a show at the Storybook Theatre, or check out one of the hands-on exhibits at the Please Touch Museum. Other kid-friendly attractions are just a day trip away from the city, like the sweet thrills of Hersheypark, or colorful adventures at The Crayola Experience. Don’t forget to fuel up on all the amazing culinary offerings in Philly! Get to Sabrina’s Café early for brunch, or stop by Craft Hall for a perfect, family-friendly casual dinner.
This trip is for: Adventure seekers
Area: The Alleghenies
This vibe-tinerary is for explorers looking for one-of-a-kind experiences, breathtaking views and quiet escapes into the picturesque beauty of nature. Start your trip off on the right foot and hike the PA Grand Canyon. The views will leave you speechless, and wondering how the heck you’re still in Pennsylvania! Camp beneath the night sky at one of the best stargazing spots in the country, Cherry Springs State Park. After you’ve reflected on the majesty of a night of looking at the heavens, find serenity among the trees as you hike the expansive trails of the Allegheny State Forest. When you need to cool off, hit the water for a kayaking experience at the Allegheny Reservoir.
No matter your vibe, get to Pennsylvania to make this summer one of your most memorable ever. Start planning your next escape at visitpa.com/summer.