When you visit the Keystone State, you’ll want to get these 5 day trips in Pennsylvania on your itinerary.
This east coast state is rich in history, culture, and interesting attractions — which makes it a must-visit destination! From historic sites to entertainment venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.
Read the complete article below to discover the best spots to visit during your Pennsylvania trip.
CONTENTS – In this article, you will learn about some best locations for your day trips in Pennsylvania, including:
- Best Day Trips in Pennsylvania
- Casinos in Pennsylvania
- A Day Trip to Hershey Park
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Falling Water | Andrew Lloyd Weber
- Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Sporting Events In Philadelphia & Pittsburgh
- Final Thoughts on Day Trips in Pennsylvania
- Next Steps
Visiting Pennsylvania: The Best Events, Sites & Attractions To Check Out
Pennsylvania is one of the most popular U.S. states for tourists to check out. Simply put, The Keystone State has so much to offer for travelers of all sorts.
More than 13 million people live in the state of Pennsylvania.
It’s known widely for its historic significance, as Pennsylvania was the second state to be admitted to the Union. (Delaware was first.)
From historic sites and attractions to entertainment and culture, you’ll have so much to check out during your visit to Pennsylvania.
Here are some of the top events and locations to prioritize when your planning day trips in Pennsylvania – also known as “The Coal State”.
1. Casinos in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has emerged as one of America’s leading states in the professional sports betting industry.
It began to take off in May 2018 after the Supreme Court of the United States overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA).
Editor’s Note: If you or someone you love may have a gambling problem, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network at 1-800-522-4700.
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So, where are the top physical casino locations in Pennsylvania?
A day trip to any of these top casino destinations in Pennsylvania are a great way to try your luck:
- The Mount Airy Casino Resort in Mount Pocono
- Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre
- Wind Creek Bethlehem in Bethlehem
If you’re limited on time and can’t visit in-person casinos for recreation, you can also play your favorite casino/gambling games through Pennsylvania sportsbooks.
In fact, you’ll find thousands of different slots to play through these apps. You’ll also be able to play your favorite casino games like poker, blackjack, and roulette.
You can take advantage of several special offers through these Pennsylvania-based sportsbooks. Bet MGM is currently offering a 100 percent deposit match of up to $1,000 plus $100 on the house. And, Caesars will do a 200 percent deposit match of up to $100 plus $10 on registration.
As one of the very few jurisdictions to legalize a full range of games of chance, Pennsylvania Online Casino Promo Codes are your route to a little extra value while you are visiting the Keystone State.
So go ahead and give Lady Luck a whirl while you’re enjoying day trips in Pennsylvania!
2. Hershey Park – A Top Rated Theme Park
If you’re traveling as a family, a visit to Hershey Park should be right near the top of your to-do list while in Pennsylvania — or while in the Eastern part of the U.S. for that matter.
Hershey park is a theme park that opened more than 100 years ago (1906) in Hershey. Several million visitors come to the theme park each year to enjoy the many rides and adventures that this historic venue has to offer.
USA Today named it one of the top 10 theme parks in the country!
That’s in part because you’ll discover 13 roller coaster rides and 16 water rides at Hershey park.
Even if rides aren’t for you, there are many other places to check out within or near the park. This includes the park’s zoo, “ZooAmerica,” as well as the Hershey’s Chocolate World center.
You could easily spend an entire day — or even multiple days — walking around and enjoying the history and action-filled experiences at Hershey Park.
But at minimum, make sure it’s on your itinerary of day trips in Pennsylvania.
3. The Famous Gettysburg National Military Park
The Battle of Gettysburg took place in 1863 during the Civil War.
The almost 4000-acre park includes the Gettysburg National Cemetery. The Park Service is attempting to restore the battlefield landscape as it was during the Battle of Gettysburg.
You’ll see artifacts and more on view at the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center. And, you can sign up for an escorted tour of the Battlefield by bus, or even take a tour in your own car with a guide.
The Gettysburg National Military Park also hosts an range of events in the park and the museum you’ll enjoy.
If you wish to stay for a while, you can easily check in to one of the area bed and breakfasts, hotels, inns, campgrounds, or cabins.
4. Fallingwater in Pennsylvania: A Must See!
Fallingwater is a National Historic Landmark has become hugely popular over the years. You’ll admire the natural beauty and stunning surroundings, making this one of the most iconic day trips in Pennsylvania.
Expect to will be awe-struck by the stunning grounds as well as by the house itself. Built over a waterfall, the structure was designed by the famous Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s.
The way in which the structure stretches over the waterfall makes it unique and fascinating. No wonder Fallingwater attracts so many visitors who are eager to take a guided tour.
5. Philadelphia Museum of Art Has an Extensive Collection
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a great option when you’re planning day trips in Philadelphia.
It houses a fabulous collections of art, with triumphant creations from all over the world. Also, these amazing works are complemented by tours, lectures, performances, and classes.
Particularly noteworthy are the Ancient pre-Columbian artifacts, which include painstakingly decorated pitchers and fanciful sculptures. Also on view in the East Asian Department is a delicately hand-carved Hornbill ivory belt from the 18th century China.
Not to be missed are the broaches, amulets, and ankle bracelets from India, Nepal, Morocco, and America. Gold, Silver, bone, and hair are only some of the elements of these incredible jewelry pieces.
You can easily spend the better part of a day exploring all that the Philadelphia Museum of Art has on offer.
6. Fun Sporting Events In Philadelphia & Pittsburgh
The cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are two of America’s most historic and passionate sports cities.
The City of Brotherly Love (Philadelphia) has a team in each of the “big four” North American professional sports leagues:
- The NFL’s Eagles
- NBA’s 76ers
- NHL’s Flyers
- Phillies of Major League Baseball
The Eagles won Super Bowl 52 five years ago and fell just short of defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in this year’s big game. And the Phillies made an unexpected run to the 2022 World Series, where they fell to the Houston Astros.
On top of that, the Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer reached the MLS Cup Final but fell to Los Angeles FC.
Though the 76ers have yet to get over the playoff hump, they’re about to lock down a sixth consecutive playoff berth.
Is this the year Joel Embiid, James Harden, and the company finally break through? Stay tuned.
Pittsburgh is home to the:
- NFL’s Steelers
- NHL’s Penguins
- Pirates of Major League Baseball
The Penguins won five Stanley Cups between 1991 and 2017, and the Steelers are tied with the New England Patriots for the most Super Bowl victories with six apiece.
Any Philadelphia or Pittsburgh sports game has an electrifying atmosphere. Regardless of where their teams are in the standings, Pennsylvania sports fans always bring noise and energy.
The 2023 NFL season won’t commence until September, but the Penguins, Flyers, and 76ers have just over a month remaining in their 2022-23 regular seasons.
The Pirates and Phillies will begin their 2023 seasons in March, so there’s still plenty of time to see professional Pennsylvania-based sports teams in action during your stay here.
So while you’re in the area, see if you can take a few day trips in Pennsylvania for sporting events. They’re sure to be thrilling!
Final Thoughts on Day Trips in Pennsylvania
In addition to these 5 day trips in Pennsylvania, the state’s diverse landscapes range from rolling hills to stunning beaches. That makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well.
With so much to see and experience, it’s no surprise that Pennsylvania is one of the most popular states for tourists to visit.
So, what are you waiting for?
Plan your trip and begin exploring all that Pennsylvania has to offer!
About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF
I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years. With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality. Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! Follow my social channels for more inspiration.
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