15 Historical Sites in Pennsylvania Worth Exploring
Pennsylvania’s history stretches back to early days of the new nation. Its landmarks are a great way to explore the past while enjoying some beautiful scenery, from colonial life to revolutionary battles and industrial achievements that helped form America.
You can explore centuries-old sites, learn about significant events in American history, and see the past come alive. Here are historical locations where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of Pennsylvania.
Independence Hall
A stop at Independence Hall is a must, as this is where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were born. It’s surreal standing in the very room where America’s founding documents were signed. It’s all located in Philadelphia, making it super easy to pair with other historical stops in the city.
Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg battlefield is one of the most important of the Civil War sites, marking the turning point that made victory for the Union. The park is huge, with tours, a moving museum and powerful memorials. Walking the grounds you can’t help but feel the burden of what happened and the sacrifices made.
Eastern State Penitentiary
One of the most famous abandoned prisons in the country, Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary is a hauntingly unique experience opened in 1829 and once taking in noted inmates Al Capone, among others. Now visitors can walk its spooky passageways, learn about its pioneering attitude to rehabilitation and the dreary histories of those who used to spend time in its cells.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
The story of resilience is told from this iconic site during the harsh winter of 1777-78 — when General George Washington and his troops found themselves in the midst of tremendous hardship to keep the dream of independence alive. In recreated huts and huge open fields of Valley Forge, you can almost hear in the echoes the story of history. Beautiful trails along with history blend together at this park.
Fallingwater
Fallingwater, an architectural jewel to be sure, is an iconic Frank Lloyd Wright designed structure tucked deep into the forests of southwestern Pennsylvania. The house just sits over the waterfall like it is growing out of the hill, blending in with the surrounding natural sights. Seeing one of Wright’s genius and his philosophy of linking architecture to nature is rare and it is a privilege to visit this site.
Liberty Bell
The Liberty Bell is a testament to American’s independence and freedom It is a short stroll from Independence Hall. The famous crack of the bell and its historical significance are must sees for people interested in the American Revolution. Today it stands proud as a monument to a country of liberty and justice.
Hershey Theatre
This elegant and luxurious theater was constructed on the early 20th century by chocolate magnate Milton Hershey. Live performances and tours take place in the grand, richly decorated Hershey Theatre and preserves some sense of history with a splash of entertainment.
Fort Necessity National Battlefield
One of George Washington’s military career’s first battles in the French and Indian War began on this site. A reconstructed fort set in a quiet landscape, visitors can wander the grounds and discover the beginnings of Washington’s leadership and how the colonists clashed during that era.
Brandywine Battlefield Park
This historic park is located in Chadds Ford commemorating the battle of Brandywine, one of the largest battles of the American Revolution. Guided tours and reenactments take you back to September 11, 1777 when General Washington’s troops engaged the British.
Pennsbury Manor
Pennsbury Manor was the country estate of William Penn, who founded Pennsylvania. Well preserved buildings and lovely gardens combine to form a memory of colonialism with demonstrations of period crafts and trades in the manor. A visit here offers a personal look at the man who saw Pennsylvania as a haven of tolerance and diversity.
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Here in the heart of Lancaster County, this museum tells the story of how the state played an integral part in building the nation’s railroads. The museum is home to an amazing grouping of historic steam and diesel locomotives, cars and memorabilia and if you love trains or history, you will have a great time if you are here.
Eckley Miners’ Village
In Eckley Miners’ Village, near Hazleton, visitors can learn about immigrant miners and their families, who struggled and also formed a tight knit community. This preserved 19th century village will step you back in time to the era of anthracite coal mining. It’s a sobering, fascinating look at Pennsylvania’s industrial past.
The Betsy Ross House
This charming Philadelphia home is said to have been where legend has it Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag. She lived in a house that is now a museum to her life and legacy and includes exhibits about colonial craftsmanship and the role women played in the Revolution. The Betsy Ross House is a popular and endearing stop, whether you believe the tale or not.
Mercer Museum
Located inside a magnificent Castle like structure, the Mercer Museum, in Doylestown, is a treasure house of American artifacts. The museum is built by archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer with tools, furnishings, and oddities from pre industrial America that provide a quirky but strangely engrossing journey into early American life.
Old Economy Village
Old Economy Village was founded by the Harmony Society in the 1820s as a once thriving communal society. The community’s unique way of life is preserved in period buildings and artifacts at this National Historic Landmark in Ambridge. Visiting Old Economy Village is a step back in time, a look at the spiritual, and the practical lives of this society.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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