Make Pennsylvania your next summer getaway destination. Home to rolling hills, quaint farmland, sunny beaches, and vibrant city life, this iconic state offers diverse activities for visitors of all ages. Most Pennsylvania vacation rentals are situated only minutes away from historic colonial sites, battlefields, art museums, and much more. Take a look at the top spots in Pennsylvania to enjoy a summer vacation.
1. Philadelphia
To experience a city that combines history with a modern vibe, then grab a vacation home in Philadelphia. This “City of Brotherly Love” was one of the most important players during the earliest years of the nation, and numerous museums and historic sites attest to this fact. View the famous Liberty Bell that summoned colonists to hear the proclamation of the Declaration of Independence. Also make sure to stop by Independence Hall, the location where Thomas Jefferson sign the Declaration of Independence and where the nation’s first leaders adopted the U.S. Constitution.
The streets of Philadelphia are full of quality restaurants and breweries. Kings Cabinet even teaches you how to make your own drinks, so it is worth a visit.
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2. Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is the center of city life in the western part of the state as Philadelphia is in the east. If you are looking for a fun excursion for the kids, then the Pittsburgh Zoo is an excellent choice. Tigers, lemurs, and elephants are among the many exotic creatures that make their home here. Baseball fans can head over to PNC Park to see the Pirates defend their turf.
Sandcastle Water Park is especially suitable for summer fun. Stay chill in the heating by jumping aboard one of the parks 15 water slides, or simply sit and relax in the wave pool.
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3. Gettysburg
Gettysburg is the site of one of the most important battles of the Civil War, as well as the subject of Abraham Lincoln’s immortal Gettysburg Address. The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center caters to visitors of all ages through educational videos, exhibits, and artwork relating to the battle. After touring the museum, join up with Battlefield Guide bus tours to see the battlefield firsthand.
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4. Lancaster
If your dream vacation setting consists of peaceful farmland and the click-clack of horse-drawn carriages, then vacation rentals in Lancaster may be the right choice for you. Lancaster is a center of Amish life and culture. If you are looking for mouth-watering morsels to take back to your vacation home, then stop by Central Market, where Amish and other locals offer everything from old-fashioned candy to fresh produce to homemade smoothies. The nearby Amish Village replicates a typical Amish community to educate visitors about the lifestyle of these simple, hard-working folk.
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5. Lake Harmony
If outdoor sports are the focus of your summer getaway, then try out a vacation home in Lake Harmony. Located amidst the scenic Pocono mountains, Lake Harmony is a great place for water skiing, swimming, and tubing. Relax on the water with Lake Harmony Cruises, which offers daily tours during the summer months. Stop by Hawks Falls or one of the other nearby parks to view scenic waterfalls, hike, and experience Pennsylvania’s rich flora and fauna.
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6. Hershey
Known as “Chocolate Town USA,” Hershey is a great destination for families with kids. The local theme park features roller coasters and water rides. Learn how chocolate is made at Hershey’s Chocolate World, and pay a visit to the Hershey Story to view exhibits relating to the life of the Hershey Company’s visionary founder.
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7. Harrisburg
Harrisburg is the state capital of Pennsylvania, and the impressive capital building is open for tours on a regular basis. The National Civil War Museum boasts authentic artifacts from the war. If you need a break from touring the city, nearby Wildwood Park provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife watching, and hiking.
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8. Scranton
Fans of the hit TV series The Office may know Scranton as the fictional home of Dunder Mifflin, but the city is also famous as center for all things railroad. The Steamtown National Historic Site is a memorial to the early railroad industry and includes short train rides for visitors. Lake Scranton is a great place to go for a daytime swim or an evening stroll, and city parks often host live performances and events during the summer.
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9. Allentown
Located in eastern Pennsylvania, Allentown offers fine dining, museums, and cultural events. Stroll past the works of American masters such as Hans Moller and Nelson Shanks at the Allentown Art Museum. The museum also houses the Frank Lloyd Wright Library, which preserves the Francis W. Little House library which the master architect designed. Car aficionados will love the historic cars on display at the America on Wheels museum.
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10. Erie
If you want to spend you vacation swimming or relaxing on the beach, then head to Erie. As its name suggests, Erie sits on the shore of Lake Erie, making this site a great place for summer water sports. One of the city’s many curiosities is Schaefers Auto Art, where recycled auto parts form sculptures of bees, spiders, and other creatures.
Before heading back to your vacation rental for a goodnight’s rest, stop by Brewerie at Union Station to try one of their fresh handcrafted ales.
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