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Travel Logs June 2013

Compulsive Traveler

Ten Places Not to Miss in Pennsylvania

By Sandra Scott

    Pittsburgh transformed itself from a dirty industrial city to a clean, green happening place noted for its excellent universities, renowned hospitals and great things to see and do. It has been named one of America ’s most livable cities.

    v_scott0613More than half of the American population can easily access The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by car. They like to say: Pennsylvania is where America started so there is plenty of history. There is something for everyone any time of the year. Nature lovers will enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, skiing and many other outside activities. There are a variety of sports for participators and spectators. And, it is a foodie’s paradise. For more, check www.visitpa.com or call 1-800-847-4872.

    1. Philadelphia is the birthplace of American democracy. Historic Independence Mall is called America’s Most Historic Square Mile. Besides a Mecca for history buffs, the city is home to great art, sports, events, and food. Start at the Visitor Center where there are free historical videos, displays and information.

    2. Pittsburgh transformed itself from a dirty industrial city to a clean, green happening place noted for its excellent universities, renowned hospitals and great things to see and do. It has been named one of America’s most livable cities. At the Heinz Center learn about the city’s history and love of sports.

    3. Hershey is the place for Kisses and Hugs. It is dubbed the “Sweetest Place on Earth.” Even the streetlights look like Hershey Kisses. Learn about the amazing story of a town created by chocolate at the Hershey Museum. No trip is complete without a visit to Hershey Gardens, the Hershey School, the amusement park, zoo, and shopping.

    4. Erie is Pennsylvania’s fourth largest city and the state’s only port on the Great Lakes. Explore the city’s diversity — beaches, museums, art, and culture abound in this friendly lake city. The Maritime Museum details the influence of Lake Erie on the city’s history.

    5. The Poconos offer year-round fun, from skiing in the winter to swimming in the summer. It has been a favorite getaway for city folks for decades. Tour a living history museum, ski the slopes of a resort by day or browse countless antique shops, and relax in a historic bed & breakfast at night.

    6. Harrisburg, the capital of the Commonwealth, is situated along the banks of the Susquehanna River. The ornate dome of the Capitol dominates the skyline. When it was dedicated in 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt said, "It's the handsomest building I ever saw." The city hosts a variety of festivals.

    7. Pennsylvania Dutch Country is the place to step back in time. The Red Rose City of Lancaster in the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch country was, in 1777, the capital of the American colonies and also served as Pennsylvania's capital from 1799 to 1812. Enjoy healthy and hearty Amish cooking and check out their traditional handicrafts.

    8. Pennsylvania Wilds in the north central part of the state is home to millions of acres of unspoiled forests and mountains perfect for fishing, hiking, kayaking and outdoor activities. Plus, there are a variety of indoor activities to balance out your visit. Visit the Straub Brewery with 135 years of serving all-natural beer and the Peters J. McGovern Little League Museum or the Piper Aviation Museum.

    9. Gettysburg is a small town that became famous as the site of the biggest battle of the Civil War — it was here that Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address, and generations of schoolchildren have grown up learning the significance of this small Pennsylvania town. Gettysburg today is heaven for history buffs, but shoppers, antique collectors, outdoors enthusiasts, and railroad fans can find plenty to do here as well.

    10. Scranton is the place to learn about the state’s coal mining history at the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour and America ’s love of the railroad at Steamtown National Historic Site. Stop by the historic and beautiful railroad station with a stained glass ceiling in the Grand Atrium Lobby in the now Radisson Hotel.

     

    Sandra Scott travels the globe recording the top attractions at every destination.