Weekend Getaways in Pennsylvania
The key to a great weekend getaway is finding the perfect destination. Look no farther than the Keystone State, which is sure to keep you busy for days.
Philadelphia
Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, the first official document of the United States, in Philadelphia. The Founding Fathers met at the Constitutional Convention in 1787 to frame the United States Constitution in Philadelphia. So what city should be first on your list of weekend getaways in Pennsylvania? If you guessed Philadelphia, you’re correct. Popular Philadelphia attractions include the Liberty Bell, City Hall, the National Constitution Center, Independence National Park, the U.S. Mint, Fairmount Park, the Philadelphia Zoo, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Philadelphia is also a great weekend getaway for sports fans. Whether you’re into football, baseball, basketball, or hockey, there’s sure to be a professional or college team playing within minutes of your hotel on every weekend of the year.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh calls itself the city of champions. Pittsburghians are most likely referring to the Pittsburgh Penguins NHL team or their beloved NFL Pittsburgh Steelers, winners of multiple Super Bowls. Other things to do in the city include museums and art galleries, amusement parks, national and state parks, historical places, and festivals. Make sure your weekend getaway includes a trip back in time to the Strip District, where you can relive the glory days of mom-and-pop stores and spend money on souvenir you could buy for half the price that you’d pay at a big box store.
Poconos
Locals call the Poconos the "Honeymoon Capital of the World." And it’s true--the Poconos make for a great romantic weekend. It’s also a great weekend getaway for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding and whitewater rafting.
Gettysburg
Everyone recongizes the phrase "four score and seven years ago" as the beginning of the Gettysburg address. Those looking for a great weekend getaway should address the potential of Gettysburg. Whether you consider yourself a history buff or have the History Channel blocked on your cable subscription, you’ll love Gettysburg’s historical monuments, parks, and museums. They include General Lee’s Headquarters, the Gettysburg National Cemetery, the Hall of Presidents, the Gettysburg Battlefield Diorama and much more. If an entire weekend of history is too much for you, spend a day exploring the outdoors around Gettysburg.
Valley Forge
Historians claim that the key battle of the American Revolution occurred at Valley Forge. Unlike most battles, there were no artillery bombardments, bayonet charges or surprise attacks. It was man vs. himself and man vs. nature. The Valley Forge Conventions and Visitors Bureau calls it, "an army’s epic struggle to survive against terrible odds, hunger and disease." A trip to Valley Forge provides inspiration to anyone who’s ever struggled to achieve worthwhile goals and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices many have made for freedom. Valley Forge National Historical Park contains a six-mile hiking trail and ten miles of horse trails. So saddle up and enjoy your weekend. Don’t worry; there are plenty of fine-dining restaurants to ward off starvation, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities nearby.
Get your weekend started now with one of these Pennsylvania weekend getaways.