Photo by Vidar Nordli-Mathisen on Unsplash
There is a little something for everyone in Central PA. The state is full of great cities to visit. There is art to experience, different cultures to interact with and learn about, American historical sights, and even places for the paranormal enthusiast. Central PA tourism really has it all. Here are five reasons to come visit Central PA.
History
Have you heard of Gettysburg and Valley Forge? Chances are you learned a thing or two about these sites in history class during the Revolutionary War unit. These two places are a must-see if you’re a history buff. They are also great places to bring kids to help them understand the history and sacrifices that were made to create our country. There are information centers as well, so everyone from the history rookie to the history buff can enjoy their experience at these important sites.
Art
Central PA is also full of art museums and galleries where you can take in all types of art. One in particular, located in Pittsburgh, is the Andy Warhol Museum. You can see some of this great American artist’s most famous pieces there. The museum holds his portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis and even his Tomato Soup Cans. Anyone interested in art will enjoy this museum. There are also exhibits that teach about Andy Warhol’s life and history. It is a great blend of history and art for tourists.
Fun Cities
Tourists normally think of Philadelphia when talking about Pennsylvania, but there are other fun cities as well. Strasburg, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg, to name a few, all have their own attractions. Strasburg is home to the Railroad Museum, which houses over one hundred locomotives and cars on display. Pittsburgh is a larger city with tons of restaurants and an exciting nightlife. Harrisburg not only has the State Capital Building but also Hershey Park. Whether you go for history or chocolate, you’ll find it in Harrisburg. The variety of activities available in Pennsylvania’s cities really make it a special state.
Culture
Central PA is also home to the Mennonites and Amish. From their slower lifestyle to their beautifully crafted products, interacting with these groups is a special experience. For those interested in finely crafted products in wood, food, or textiles, a market in this area will yield amazing finds. Getting to know these people and their way of life can also be really interesting. Visiting this part of the state allows you to experience the meeting of the past and the present.
Haunting
For the tourist that wants goosebumps and a shiver down their spine, Central PA can deliver as well. As a state with a long history, there are many places that have a reputation for being haunted. Perhaps the most famous of these spine-tingling locales is the Eastern State Penitentiary. The former hospital/prison held some of the worst, maddest, and cruelest criminals. The building may be crumbling, but witnesses profess that it is still very much alive and active.
No matter what you wish to see on your trip to Central PA, there is something for you. It is a state and area that is full of culture, history, and sights to be seen. The wide variety makes it the perfect place to go for a group with varied interests. Have fun and enjoy Central PA.