Pennsylvania - What you need to know before you go - Go Guides

Pennsylvania is a state that’s been at the heart of the nation’s history for centuries, earning it the nickname “The Keystone State”. As well as being one of the original 13 colonies, this is the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the site of the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. As you might expect, museums and important historical sites make up the bulk of the state’s major attractions.

However, Pennsylvania also has a vibrant present to go along with its colourful past. The state is home to an impressive number of first class sports teams, a burgeoning contemporary art scene, and many diverse dining options. Outside of the bustling cities, you can still enjoy fantastic natural sights in any of 121 state parks.

Top destinations in Pennsylvania

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Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s a very green city, with a rich history of arts and culture. It’s the birthplace of Andy Warhol, and you can find the Andy Warhol Museum here, which is home to some of his most famous artworks, as well...
Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore, colloquially called ‘The Shore’ by locals, is the coastal region of New Jersey famed for its 141 miles of oceanfront beaches, entertainment, arts and culture. The many destinations along The Shore include Ocean City and Atlantic City,...
Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains, or colloquially just the Poconos, are a small mountain chain in Pennsylvania famed for luxury resorts, family entertainment and nature experiences. The Delaware Water Gap on the eastern edge of the range offers riverfront beaches, recreational facilities...
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is perhaps most famous for Independence Hall, where America’s Founding Fathers made history as they agreed the Declaration of Independence on 4th July, 1776. For a full history lesson, grab the PHLASH bus to tour the Independence National Historical...

What to see & do in Pennsylvania

Featured stories & fun stuff

10 Best Things to Do in Philadelphia
The best things to do in Philadelphia highlight Pennsylvania’s city that’s steeped in history. It’s where America’s founding fathers gathered, and where the American ideals of freedom were brought to life. It’s a place with dozens of historic sites, centuries-old...
10 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh
There are great things to do in Pittsburgh, a city that seamlessly combines a passion for nature and the outdoors...
10 Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of America’s north-eastern states with 4 seasons, lush Appalachian Mountains, 83,000 miles of river, and impressive fall...
10 Must-Visit Small Towns in Pennsylvania
If you're interested in outdoor attractions, small-town hospitality, rich history of hardworking peoples, or a blend of East Coast and...
10 Best Beaches on the Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore is one of the hottest spots for a beach retreat on the Atlantic Coast, boasting many charming...
10 Things to Do in Philadelphia on a Small Budget
Philadelphia is home to virtually endless things to do, but you don't have to break the bank to enjoy some...
10 Best Things to Do on the Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore is a fun-filled holiday destination that offers beautiful beaches, exciting wildlife adventures, thrilling water sports, and no...
10 Best Things to Do in the Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains are a popular destination for travellers, thanks to the abundance of attractions like Bushkill Falls and the...
10 Best Museums in Philadelphia
The best museums in Philadelphia highlight the city’s rich history and culture, both old and new. With so many museums...

Where & what to eat in Pennsylvania

10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh's dining scene is as vibrant and unexpected as the city itself. Some of the city's historic restaurants have been in business for 150 years, while modern eateries draw on Pittsburgh's storied past for their foodie inspiration. From modest diners...
10 Great Restaurants in Philadelphia
Among the great restaurants in Philadelphia are a plethora of fine-dining spots and James Beard Award winners. Many celebrity chefs...
10 Best Local Restaurants in Philadelphia
The best local restaurants in Philadelphia make up a good portion of the city’s food scene. To most visitors, it’s...

Where to shop & what to buy in Pennsylvania

10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is best known for its industrial history, but it's rapidly become a great place for shoppers. The towering Downtown area benefits from its highly walkable nature, making it easy to travel between its shopping strips and cultural landmarks. Meanwhile,...
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to all sorts of shopping opportunities, whether you're looking for the latest trends, stunning discounts, or the...
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Jersey Shore
Jersey Shore is a fabulous place to go shopping, with its wide variety of boardwalk stores, oceanside markets, and impressive...

Where to go & what to do at night in Pennsylvania

11 Best Nightlife in Pittsburgh
Nightlife in Pittsburgh gives you a vast choice of places to drink, hit the dance floor, and enjoy live music. The Strip and South Side host some of the city’s best nightclubs and bars, while the North Shore has a...
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Philadelphia
The fun doesn't end in Philadelphia when the sun goes down as numerous dance clubs, bars, and night markets open...
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city constantly on the move. It’s steeped in history, having been the first capital city in the...

Useful information

10 Reasons Why Philadelphia Is Underrated
Philadelphia is a city with a rich and unique history, a lot of heart and more street art than you can shake a perfectly created cheesesteak at, yet it’s often overlooked as a destination. Despite housing historic, cultural, artistic and...
Philadelphia Travel Essentials
Our Philadelphia Travel Essentials include a look at everything you need to know to enjoy a holiday in Philadelphia, from...
Pittsburgh Travel Essentials
Our Pittsburgh Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help you plan your trip to one of...

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