14 Surprising Pennsylvania Destinations That Will Wow You More Than the Liberty Bell

You may know Pennsylvania as the home of some of America’s most important historical sites, but there is so much more to this state than just the Liberty Bell.

Growing up in New Jersey, rafting down the Delaware River Gap was an annual summer tradition, and my summer camps would take field trips to Amish country. Even now, Lancaster is still always on the itinerary when friends visit my region.

Through my many road trips and places that are still on my list, here are the 14 most beautiful places in Pennsylvania that will have you wishing you’d booked a longer trip to the Keystone State!

1. Fallingwater, Mill Run

How can a house blend so perfectly with a waterfall? Of course, Fallingwater would be designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the father of modern American architecture.

Located in southwestern Pennsylvania, Fallingwater is a true masterpiece that seamlessly incorporates nature and design. The house’s modernist lines look completely at home in the middle of nowhere and literally sits over a flowing stream!

Inside, you’ll find unique art pieces and custom-designed furniture that Wright himself crafted. Tours are available, though booking ahead is a must.

2. Ricketts Glen State Park, Benton

Ricketts Glen is basically a waterfall wonderland. With 22 named waterfalls spread across miles of hiking trails, you can find delicate trickles of smaller streams to more thundering drops. The tallest waterfall is Ganoga Falls, at a jaw-dropping 94 feet.

To maximize your route, take the 7.2-mile Falls Trail Loop through the most scenic views of the park’s waterfalls.

3. Delaware Water Gap, Border of NJ and PA

Having been raised in northern New Jersey, rafting gently down the Delaware Water Gap with a cooler and a new sunburn was the setting for many summer day trips. My brother would attempt to fish with my uncle and most likely return with nothing. I would go off and cliff jump as my mom watched in horror.

With the Delaware River cutting through the Appalachian Mountains, you get the kind of landscape that makes you feel small in the best way possible.

4. Allegheny National Forest, Northwest PA

Allegheny National Forest is a massive expanse of trees, rivers, and more trees. It’s the only national forest in Pennsylvania, and it’s packed with hiking trails, campgrounds, and waterways. 

The Longhouse National Scenic Byway is a fantastic drive through the forest, especially in autumn. Head to the Allegheny Reservoir to get out on the water and paddle around.

5. The Schuylkill River Trail, Philadelphia

Running through the heart of the city, the Schuylkill River Trail is a 82.4 mile long trail that winds along the river with killer skyline views. You’ll pass boathouses and Philly’s green spaces without venturing too far from the center.

Grab a coffee and hit the trail on a Sunday morning; it’s the perfect way to see Philly from a different angle. Who knows, you might even catch a rowing race on the river.

6. Lancaster County (Amish Country)

I would categorize Lancaster as more fascinating than traditionally beautiful, but the rolling farmland and horse-trodden roads are charming in their own right.

The area is home to over 38,000 Amish residents (2018 Census), and their history and culture are downright intriguing. Kids ride around in scooter-bike hybrids so they can’t venture too far, and villagers still churn butter by hand.

Tour an Amish farm, but don’t expect to take photos as they’re not fans of that. The markets here are legendary, full of handmade goods and fresh produce. To this day, I have never eaten more than at this Amish buffet we went to, and I love AYCE.

7. Lake Wallenpaupack, Northeastern PA

Lake Wallenpaupack is a man-made lake big enough for boating and even a little swimming if you don’t mind the cold. Covering 5,700 acres and 52 miles of shoreline, it’s one of Pennsylvania’s largest lakes. 

In the summer, it gets pretty lively with all the vacationers. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard, or if you’re feeling lazy, just enjoy the sunset over the water. Bring some ice skates in the winter and show off those spins or snowmobile right over the ice.

8. Presque Isle State Park, Erie

Presque Isle juts out into Lake Erie to form Pennsylvania’s very own little beach paradise. The 11 miles of sandy beaches might surprise you if you’re used to rocky shores, but yes, they do exist.

After a few hours in the sun, go hiking and biking trails around the peninsula for great lake views. You might even spot the lighthouse while you’re wandering. In the winter, the park becomes a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

9. Duquesne Incline Vertical, Pittsburgh

Riding the Duquesne Incline is a rite of passage when visiting Pittsburgh. This historic funicular takes you up to one of the city’s best views, and the creaky old cars are half the charm. You can even peek inside the engine room.

At the top, you’ll get that postcard-perfect panorama of Pittsburgh’s skyline and its famous three rivers. Locals often use it to commute, but it’s a must-visit for tourists.

10. The Pocono Mountains

Many people associate the Poconos with cheesy heart-shaped hot tubs and champagne glass bathtubs, but there’s much more to this mountain range than honeymoon suites.

This mountain range is packed with outdoor activities all year round. In the winter, go skiing and snowboarding, but when the snow melts, hiking, camping, and rafting take over.

11. Bushkill Falls, Bushkill

Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is a must-see if you’re into waterfalls. There are eight of them, so you can spend a solid day hiking the trails and trying to catch every angle. The main falls are impressive, but the smaller ones tucked away in the forest give you that “hidden gem” feeling.

12. Pine Creek Gorge, Wellsboro

Pine Creek Gorge is sometimes called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, but honestly, it’s so green and not as outwardly dramatic that I wouldn’t really compare the two as being on the same level.

However, it is the second-largest gorge in Pennsylvania and a popular spot for outdoor activities. The gorge stretches for miles, with hiking and biking trails along the rim and down below.

13. The Lehigh Valley

So many of my friends went to Lehigh University and woke up to the fog rolling through the Lehigh Valley in the early mornings. Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton make up the trifecta of towns worth exploring.

Bethlehem’s steel mill history is still present, but now it’s more about arts and culture. Easton’s farmers’ market is the oldest in the country. If you’re into amusement parks, Dorney Park in Allentown is a blast, especially in the summer. The area is also known for its wineries and breweries, so make time for a tasting or two.

14. Kinzua Bridge State Park, Mt. Jewett

Mt. Jewett’s Kinzua Bridge State Park was once the longest and tallest railroad bridge in the world.  This once-functional railroad bridge was partially destroyed by a tornado, but the remaining structure has been turned into a skywalk.

You can walk out on what’s left of the bridge and peer through the glass floor panels. Below, the forest stretches out in all directions, reminding you just how high up you are.

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.