What to do and see in Pennsylvania, United States: The Best Sights & Landmarks

July 12, 2021 Russell Mellin

Discover the best top things to do in Pennsylvania, United States including Fallingwater, Gettysburg National Military Park, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Penn State University, PNC Park, Longwood Gardens, Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, Klein Farms Dairy and Creamery, Independence Hall, President James Buchanan's Wheatland.
Restaurants in Pennsylvania

1. Fallingwater

1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464-1543 +1 724-329-8501 http://www.fallingwater.org
Excellent
83%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2,689 reviews

Fallingwater

Perched on a rock above a gushing waterfall, this historic house was built for a Pittsburgh family by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s, ingeniously designed to blend harmoniously into the tranquil and beautiful woods around it.

Reviewed By LittlePaint - Urbandale, United States

I wish I could have gone inside, but there are so many windows that much of the interior is visible anyway. There was no waiting for the self guided tour and I could have taken a guided tour with only a 90 minute wait. I decided I'd wait for the guided tour until they reopen the interior... And hope I am near enough again to go visit. I would suggest some familiarity with FLWs philosophy and history of your going to take the self guided tour. I think it adds an appreciation and a richness to the tour that would be sorely missing otherwise. A detail I learned with a bit of research is that this unique and amazing house was constructed in 1930, during the depression, as a weekend retreat. Being able to wander the grounds are a nice bonus. The gift shop is open with a limited number allowed inside at a time. Gloves and masks are provided and must be worn. Many items are typical of FLW gift shops. More than worth the price of admission. Oh.... And don't forget to go to the guest house!

2. Gettysburg National Military Park

1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325-7034 +1 717-334-1124 http://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm
Excellent
90%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 8,230 reviews

Gettysburg National Military Park

The Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the Civil War, was the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion," Gettysburg was the Civil War's bloodiest battle and was also the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln's immortal "Gettysburg Address."

Reviewed By AnnaTheTraveling5 - Marietta, United States

The National Military Park is very well-done with a thoughtful, informative & enlightening movie (narrated by my favorite Morgan Freeman), a cyclorama, and a comprehensive museum. We visited with our 4 yr, 6 yr, and 14 yr, and all thoroughly enjoyed our visit AND learned a ton (so did I!!!)! The museum had something for everyone, including interactive electronic exhibit games for the kids (bugle playing song trivia), plenty of life-like models of war camps and such, and interesting trivia (how to load a musket in 7 steps). This was a well-spent fun day of learning. Bring your lunch and eat at the shaded picnic tables outside! Want to see where else we've been? Instagram & Facebook - TheTraveling5

3. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3830 +1 412-622-6914 [email protected] http://phipps.conservatory.org/
Excellent
83%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 3,255 reviews

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

A green oasis in the middle of Pittsburgh’s vibrant Oakland neighborhood, Phipps has provided a world-class garden experience to its visitors since 1893. Visit to discover breathtaking seasonal flower shows and special exhibits, a nationally-recognized orchid collection, butterflies, botanical gardens, fun family activities, and much more.

Reviewed By Greenthumb185 - Pittsburgh, United States

We have visited Phipps multiple times over the year. A top rate conservatory with many special interests such as the cactus room, children's garden etc. Wonderful use of green technology

4. Penn State University

University Park, State College, PA 16802 +1 814-865-5471 http://www.psu.edu/
Excellent
83%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 620 reviews

Penn State University

Reviewed By xavierfs - Macungie, United States

Freshman move in day. Great organization and easy move in day. Extremely helpful employees directing you. I wish I was the student.... Great school

5. PNC Park

115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212-5724 +1 412-323-5000 http://www.pittsburghpark.net/
Excellent
84%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 6,050 reviews

PNC Park

This retro, yet modern, urban park incorporates classic design elements with modern amenities for both spectators and athletes.

Reviewed By pittsburghfans2019 - Pittsburgh, United States

We had such a fun time each and every time we go to PNC Park ⚾️ The food is Fabulous and the ball game so much fun. Trying to catch a foul ball or a T-Shirt shot from an Air Gun can’t be beat. And ALL of the Stadium’s food soooi delicious !! So Get Yourself to Pittsburgh and make certain that a Baseball Game with the Pirates in number 1 on Your TO-DO List!!! ⚾️

6. Longwood Gardens

1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348-1913 +1 610-388-1000 http://longwoodgardens.org
Excellent
87%
Good
10%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 4,300 reviews

Longwood Gardens

In 1906, industrialist Pierre du Pont (1870-1954) purchased a small farm near Kennett Square, PA, to save a collection of historic trees from being sold for lumber. Today, Longwood Gardens is one of the world’s great horticultural displays, encompassing 1,077 acres of dazzling gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains, 10,010-pipe Aeolian organ and 4.5-acre conservatory. Longwood continues the mission set forth by Mr. du Pont to inspire people through excellence in garden design, horticulture, education and the performing arts, through programming that includes exhibitions, musical performances by leading artists, renowned horticulture education programs, horticulture research, environmental stewardship and community engagement.

Reviewed By patripper - State College, United States

Though May is somewhat of an in-between time, Longwood never disappoints. The indoor conservatory is always "in bloom"with different plants and flowers every season. The fountains are fun to watch...the gift shop is lovely (though a bit expensive)...and the restaurants are always good - mushroom soup to die for.

7. Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325-7034 +1 717-338-1243 [email protected] http://www.gettysburgfoundation.org/
Excellent
82%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 5,610 reviews

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

"A New Birth of Freedom," narrated by Morgan Freeman, orients you to the battle; then see the sights and hear the sounds of the battle in the historic Cyclorama Painting Experience. Finally, tour the museum, packed with original artifacts and interactive exhibits. Tickets and shuttle bus to Eisenhower National Historic Site and seasonal programs at Spangler Farm Civil War Field Hospital from Visitor Center. Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, USA Today Top 10 Places to Visit, AAA Gem. Purchase tickets prior to your arrival online and reserve a Battlefield Guide (licensed through the National Park Service) through the Gettysburg Foundation, non-profit partner to the National Park Service at Gettysburg. Admission fee for Cyclorama, Film and Museum. Entry to Visitor Center, Museum Bookstore and Refreshment Saloon is free.

Reviewed By conimaries - Pennsylvania, United States

I strongly recommend starting your Gettysburg experience by visiting the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor’s Center. If you choose to do anything, I strongly recommend the Film, Cyclorama and Museum combination. The film, narrated by Morgan Freeman, paints a wonderful picture of what led up to the Civil War, the Battle at Gettysburg, and how our country has evolved (although it’s clear to see the parallel between what was going on in 1863 and what is going on in 2019). And Morgan Freeman has way of narrating that just pulls you in. After the film, you are invited to view the Cyclorama which is the most beautiful, yet saddening, image of the Battle at Gettysburg. I won’t tell you all about the image because they’ll tell you about it when you get there, but suffice to say, it’s a must-see! The museum was full of historical information, photographs, and memorabilia. If you like museums, you could spend hours there. I, am not a museum person. I like to walk through them, look at the displays and take photos, but I don’t typically read the placards or take a lot of time in them. The statute of Abraham Lincoln is just outside the main entrance and you can obtain tour information at this location. They also have a Gift Shop/Book Store which is a great place for souvenirs and historical materials.

8. Klein Farms Dairy and Creamery

410 Klein Rd, Easton, PA 18040-6911 +1 610-253-8952 [email protected] http://kleinfarms.com/
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 131 reviews

Klein Farms Dairy and Creamery

9. Independence Hall

Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106 +1 215-965-2305 http://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/independencehall.htm
Excellent
64%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 8,956 reviews

Independence Hall

Both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed in this historic building.

Reviewed By jdc8mbc

This is a must-see attraction which requires a timed entry ticket which should be reserved way in advance, especially during holidays, spring break, and summer. We went in October and could not get tickets for our first-choice date, so we re-juggled our planned itinerary around the date for which we could get tickets to Independence Hall. It seems to us the first place to visit in Philadelphia is Independence Hall for people interested in American history. (If you're an art aficionado, then the Barnes would be the first stop in Philly.) The park ranger provided an informative overview and history of Independence Hall, after which we were allowed to roam and explore the Independence Square buildings. To get or pick-up reserved tickets, go to the modern Independence Visitor Center which across the street from the entrance to Independence Hall.

10. President James Buchanan's Wheatland

1120 Marietta Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603-2550 https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/presidents/james_buchanan_wheatland.html
Excellent
67%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 496 reviews

President James Buchanan's Wheatland

Come discover the warmth and hospitality of President James Buchanan's Wheatland. Costumed tour guides share facts and stories from Buchanan's personal and professional life. Buchanan represented Pennsylvania in the United States House of Representatives and later the Senate, served as Minister to Russia, Secretary of State, and Ambassador to the United Kingdom. And, in 1856, Wheatland served as the hub of his successful campaign to become the 15th President of the United States. During his presidency, Wheatland served as Buchanan’s retreat as a divided nation struggled with slavery and states’ rights. Post-presidency, Wheatland became Buchanan’s refuge as he avoided public life after his term and retired as a private citizen. Wheatland’s tangible connection to the US Presidency, Antebellum and Civil War America, and the American political process make it instrumental to teaching history to modern day visitors.

Reviewed By jmalc0m - Sydney, Canada

What a wonderful surprise .An Exceptional guide in period costume made this home come alive .How progressive it was to recognize the importance of this period of history and acquire & maintain this house from the early 1940s . Well worth a visit to see the house & learn more about the Buchanan's

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