Pennsylvania is one of the best states in the US to visit if you want to find out about the history of the country. In particular, it’s a good place to learn about the origins of the modern United States, as well as communities such as the Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch. There are lots of fascinating places to visit in the state, whether you want to stick to the cities or explore some of the more rural parts of PA. If you’re a history lover, it’s hard to choose the best places to visit but here are some suggestions you won’t want to miss.
Lancaster
Lancaster County is the place to head to if you want to explore Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Despite the name, Pennsylvania Dutch people are actually descended from German immigrants (Dutch comes from Deitsch or the modern Deutsch). If you want to learn more about this fascinating community and its impact on the area, a covered bridge tour of the beautiful local bridges is a great way to do it. You can do the tour on 50cc scooters that allow you to zip around and take it all in. You’ll get to see the stunning countryside and some of the area’s oldest bridges.
Philadelphia
It might not be the state capital, but Philadelphia is possibly the most famous city in Pennsylvania. It’s also an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for history, with plenty of incredible architecture and lots of historical sites to see. There’s the Liberty Bell, which you can find in the Independence National Historical Park. You can also head to Independence Hall, which is located in the Old City, which is also close to the National Constitution Center and Congress Hall, where the Bill of Rights was ratified. But you can also take in plenty of history simply by walking around the city.
Gettysburg
The Gettysburg Address and the Battle of Gettysburg are two significant events from the Civil War. A visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park is a must for any history lovers who want to learn about the history of not only Pennsylvania but also the United States. As well as having a heritage center, visitors’ center, and a museum, the park is also very picturesque. You can even stay in the historic Bushman House, which stood during the battle, and there are picnic areas in the park, as well as restrooms.
Valley Forge
Valley Forge National Historical Park is another great place to go to learn about key events in the country’s history. Valley Forge is where General George Washington left over 12,000 soldiers to spend the winter after British forces captured Philadelphia in the Revolutionary War. Today, you can see Washington’s headquarters and recreated log cabins that resemble those the soldiers lived in. There are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy there too, such as hiking and fishing.
Pennsylvania is a paradise for history lovers. If you’re planning a visit, you can find a huge range of things to do and places to see.