Welcome to Pennsylvania
Lake Wallenpaupack, nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, is often celebrated as one of the state’s premier lakes. Spanning 5,700 acres and boasting 52 miles of shoreline, it is one of the largest man-made lakes in Pennsylvania. Created in 1926 for hydroelectric power, the lake has since become a hub for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its expansive waters are ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing, attracting enthusiasts from across the region. Anglers particularly enjoy the diverse fish population, including bass, trout, and walleye. The surrounding area adds to the appeal with scenic hiking trails, quaint towns, and numerous resorts and campgrounds that offer a range of accommodations.
Three Interesting Facts about Pennsylvania
01
First U.S. Zoo
Philadelphia is home to the Philadelphia Zoo, the first zoo in the United States, which opened its doors in 1874.
02
Hershey’s Chocolate
Hershey, Pennsylvania, is famously known as the home of Hershey’s Chocolate. Milton S. Hershey founded the Hershey Chocolate Company in 1894, and the town is still a hub for all things chocolate.
03
First Computer
The first general-purpose electronic computer, ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer), was developed at the University of Pennsylvania in the 1940s.
Must See Attractions
Hersheypark
Amusement Park
Located in Hershey, often called “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hersheypark is a family-friendly amusement park with something for everyone. The park features many rides, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle carousels, a water park and live entertainment. Adjacent to the park, Hershey’s Chocolate World offers interactive exhibits and tours detailing the history and production of Hershey’s famous chocolates.
Gettysburg National Military Park
Historical place
A visit to Gettysburg National Military Park offers a profound journey into one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War. The park includes the Gettysburg Battlefield, where you can walk in the footsteps of soldiers and visit memorials dedicated to those who fought. The Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center provides extensive exhibits and a powerful film that contextualizes the events of the battle and its lasting impact on American history.
Liberty Bell
Historical Landmark
The Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is famous for its distinctive crack and historical significance in representing the nation’s pursuit of liberty and justice.
Where to Sleep
Lakes to Explore
1. Lake Nockamixon
Lake Nockamixon is a popular spot for sailing, fishing, and hiking. Surrounded by woodlands, it offers a peaceful escape in southeastern Pennsylvania.
2. Foster Joseph Sayers Lake
Foster Joseph Sayers Lake is a tranquil reservoir with opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenery of central Pennsylvania.
3. Raystown Lake
Raystown Lake is the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, providing a scenic retreat with opportunities for boating, hiking, and camping.
4. Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular destination for water sports, with its 52 miles of shoreline, surrounding forests, and charming lakeside communities.
5. Yellow Creek Lake
Tucked within Indiana County, Yellow Creek Lake is a serene destination for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the surrounding woodlands in the park.
6. Shenango River Lake
A reservoir created by the Shenango River Dam, this lake in Mercer County is known for its beauty, boating, and the Shenango River Trail for hiking and biking.
7. Pymatuning Lake
Pymatuning Lake is renowned for its large size, offering excellent fishing and birdwatching at the nearby Pymatuning Wildlife Management Area.
8. Lake Erie
As Pennsylvania’s only Great Lake, Lake Erie offers stunning sunsets, sandy beaches, and recreational activities such as boating and fishing.
Annual Events and Festivals
March 1 – 9, 2025
Philadelphia Flower Show
The Philadelphia Flower Show, renowned as one of the world’s oldest and largest flower shows, is a spectacular annual event that typically takes place in March. Organized by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, this prestigious show attracts gardening enthusiasts, professional florists, and nature lovers from all over the globe. The event showcases an astonishing array of floral displays, intricate garden designs, and cutting-edge horticultural practices. Each year, the show revolves around a unique theme, transforming the exhibition space into a breathtaking wonderland of flowers and plants.
August 1 – 10, 2025
Musikfest
Musikfest, held annually in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant and dynamic music festival that stands as one of the largest free music festivals in the United States. The festival transforms the historic streets of Bethlehem into a lively and eclectic celebration of music, arts, and culture. With multiple stages featuring diverse genres such as rock, pop, jazz, blues, and folk, Musikfest caters to a wide range of musical tastes. Local and international artists, street performers, and various food vendors offering delectable treats further enrich the festival atmosphere.
October 5 – 6 and October 12 -13, 2024
Apple Harvest Festival
The Apple Harvest Festival in Biglerville is a delightful celebration of the region’s rich apple heritage, typically held in the heart of apple harvest season. Hosted in Adams County, known for its abundant apple orchards, this festival is a tribute to the humble yet iconic fruit. Visitors to the festival can indulge in a wide array of apple-themed treats, from classic apple pies and cider to more innovative culinary creations. The festival features numerous vendors offering artisanal crafts, local produce, and apple products, allowing attendees to take a piece of Pennsylvania’s apple country home.
Top Hiking Trails
Mount Minsi via Appalachian Trail
Roseto, Pennsylvania
Mount Minsi, accessible via the Appalachian Trail, offers outdoor enthusiasts a rewarding and picturesque hiking experience in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. This trail promises a challenging yet invigorating ascent leading to panoramic views. Once atop the summit, hikers are treated to awe-inspiring vistas overlooking the Delaware Water Gap, the Delaware River, and the surrounding rolling hills.
Ricketts Glen Falls Loop
Rt. 118 Trailhead Parking, Fairmount Township, Pennsylvania
Ricketts Glen State Park is home to the enchanting Ricketts Glen Falls Loop, a trail renowned for its stunning waterfalls. This 7.2-mile loop is considered one of the most scenic hikes in the Northeastern United States. As hikers traverse the trail, they encounter an array of 21 waterfalls varying in size and character, with the tallest, Ganoga Falls, cascading majestically at 94 feet. Ricketts Glen Falls Loop is more than just a hike; it’s an immersive journey through one of nature’s most beautifully orchestrated landscapes.
Mount Joy Trail to Mount Misery Trail Loop
Yellow Springs Trail Parking Lot, 1700 Wilson Rd, Malvern, Pennsylvania
The Mount Joy Trail to Mount Misery Trail Loop offers hikers a captivating journey through a landscape rich in natural beauty and historical significance. This five-mile loop takes adventurers on a scenic route, weaving through wooded areas, meadows, and along the serene banks of the Schuylkill River. The trail’s nomenclature adds an intriguing historical layer, as it is said to have been named by General George Washington during the winter encampment of 1777-1778, reflecting the contrasting emotions experienced by his troops. Mount Joy Trail leads to a summit that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while Mount Misery Trail introduces a peaceful riverside section.
Best Golf Courses
Omni Bedford Springs Golf Course
2138 Business 220, Bedford, Pennsylvania
The Omni Bedford Springs Resort in Pennsylvania boasts a historic and prestigious golf course known for blending rich tradition and natural beauty. This course, designed by three golf architecture legends — Spencer Oldham, A.W. Tillinghast, and Donald Ross — offers a unique golfing experience that reflects the evolution of the game over the past century. Spanning over 6,500 yards, the par-72 course features lush, rolling fairways, strategically placed hazards, and smooth, fast greens, demanding skill and strategy from golfers of all levels.
Olde Stonewall Golf Club
1495 Mercer Rd, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania
Designed by Dr Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, this award-winning golf course is a masterpiece that seamlessly integrates with the scenic topography of the region. Carved into the rolling hills and framed by stone walls reminiscent of medieval castles, the course presents a challenging yet visually stunning experience for golf enthusiasts. Measuring over 7,100 yards, the par-70 layout demands strategic play, with water features, bunkers, and undulating fairways adding to the course’s allure. The signature 18th hole, with its island green surrounded by medieval stonework, is a fitting climax to a round at Olde Stonewall.
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort – Shepherd’s Rock Golf Course
1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, Pennsylvania
Designed by the acclaimed team of Pete Dye and Tim Liddy, this 18-hole championship course is renowned for its aesthetic beauty and challenging layout. Opened in 2017, Shepherd’s Rock spans over 7,150 yards and is characterized by its dramatic terrain, rolling hills, and striking natural features. Each hole is thoughtfully crafted to blend seamlessly with the landscape, offering golfers a test of skill and an immersive nature experience.
Water Sports
Nockamixon Boat Rental
Paddling
Sailing enthusiasts looking to catch the wind in Pennsylvania can find a delightful experience at Lake Nockamixon, one of the state’s largest and most scenic lakes. For those seeking paddling adventures, Nockamixon Boat Rental offers kayak rentals, making it accessible even for those without their own vessel. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice looking to try something new, Lake Nockamixon and the kayak rentals from Nockamixon Boat Rental make for a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation on the water.
Letort Spring Run
Fishing
Fishing in Pennsylvania offers anglers a diverse and rewarding experience. The state boasts an abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with various fish species. From the iconic trout-stocked waters to the smallmouth bass-filled rivers, Pennsylvania provides opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The state is particularly renowned for its trout fishing, with renowned destinations like the famed Letort Spring Run and Penns Creek. Many of Pennsylvania’s state parks and reservoirs offer tranquil settings for anglers to cast their lines amidst picturesque landscapes.
Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat
Boat tours
The Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat offers a nostalgic and scenic voyage along the picturesque Susquehanna River in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. A true gem of river tourism, this authentic paddlewheel boat provides a unique and leisurely way to explore the region’s natural beauty. The Hiawatha, with its charming red paddlewheel, takes passengers on a relaxing journey through the serene waters, showcasing the scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife along the riverbanks. Narrated tours aboard the Hiawatha offer insights into the history and ecology of the Susquehanna River, creating an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Resorts to Explore
Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Luxury, Recreational
2138 Business 220, Bedford, Pennsylvania 15522
Pocono Palace Resort
Couples
206 Fantasy Road, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania 18302
Liberty Mountain Resort
Recreational, Family-friendly
78 Country Club Trail, Fairfield, Pennsylvania 17320
Tips on Vacationing in Pennsylvania
Visit State Parks and Preserves
Pennsylvania is home to many state parks that offer hiking, biking, birdwatching, and water activities opportunities. Consider places like Ohiopyle State Park or Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Experience Amish Country
Head to Lancaster County to experience the rich culture of the Amish community. Take a scenic drive through the countryside, explore charming villages, and visit farmers’ markets for authentic Amish goods.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Pennsylvania boasts stunning natural landscapes. Hike the trails of the Pocono Mountains, explore the waterfalls in Ricketts Glen State Park, or go camping in the Allegheny National Forest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pennsylvania
When searching for the perfect vacation rental in Pennsylvania, there are several websites to consider. Some popular vacation rental websites include Lake and Airbnb. These websites offer a vast selection of properties, from cozy cabins to luxurious mansions.
Yes, Pennsylvania offers many lakefront vacation rentals for those who want to enjoy the serene beauty of a lakeside retreat.
If you’re planning a trip with a sizable group, numerous vacation rentals in Pennsylvania can accommodate your needs. Websites like Lake and Airbnb may have listings for large properties, with some offering spacious living areas and multiple bedrooms. Always check the property details to ensure it can comfortably fit your group.
Absolutely! Pennsylvania’s Lancaster region is known for its beautiful countryside and rich history. You might find unique rental options like historic cabins with modern amenities or stylish loft apartments in the heart of Lancaster City. Keep an eye out for these distinctive properties when browsing through vacation rental websites.
When booking a vacation rental with a hot tub, there are a few factors to consider. First, verify if the hot tub is private or shared with other guests. Inspect the property images to get a sense of the hot tub’s surroundings, including privacy, cleanliness, and location. Furthermore, read the rental description and reviews to ensure proper maintenance and functioning of the hot tub. This will help you avoid any disappointments and ensure a relaxing stay.