Welcome Lykkers! Pennsylvania is a wonderful destination full of variety. From its vibrant cities to its peaceful countryside, it offers historical landmarks, impressive art, and scenic landscapes.

Whether you're planning a short trip or a longer adventure, here’s a handy guide to the most interesting places to visit in Pennsylvania—complete with ticket prices and opening hours to help plan your visit easily.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is known for its pivotal role in American history. A must-see is the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom that now rests in the Liberty Bell Center. Nearby is Independence Hall, where major founding documents were created.

Liberty Bell & Independence Hall

Located in the Independence National Historical Park, the Liberty Bell Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry is free. Just steps away is Independence Hall, where the U.S. founding documents were signed. Timed entry tickets are required from March to December and cost $1 (online reservation fee).

Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps

The Philadelphia Museum of Art houses world-class collections and is fronted by the iconic steps featured in the Rocky films. The University of Pennsylvania adds to the city's cultural landscape with its impressive architecture and leafy campus.

It’s open Thursday–Monday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (open until 8:45 PM on Fridays). General admission costs $30 for adults, $28 for seniors, and is free for visitors under 18.

Reading Terminal Market

For an authentic food experience, visit the Reading Terminal Market. This historic indoor market features dozens of food vendors, offering everything from pastries to global street food. It opens daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. There’s no entrance fee, and it’s a great stop for tasting regional specialties.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh combines artistic elegance with industrial heritage. One key highlight is the Cathedral of Learning, a 42-story gothic tower at the University of Pittsburgh. Inside, the Nationality Rooms showcase classrooms designed to reflect various cultural traditions.

Cathedral of Learning & Nationality Rooms

Found at the University of Pittsburgh, this gothic-style tower is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Self-guided tours of the Nationality Rooms cost $5 for adults and $3 for children and students.

Andy Warhol Museum

The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single artist, displaying prints, films, and interactive exhibits. For a broader experience, explore the Carnegie Museums, which include natural history, science, and fine arts.

The museum is open Tuesday–Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (until 8:00 PM on Fridays). Tickets are $25 for adults, $13 for students and children over 3, and free for kids under 3.

Duquesne Incline

The Duquesne Incline, a historic funicular, offers sweeping views of the city skyline from the top of Mt. Washington. Operating daily from 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM (Sundays from 7:00 AM), a round-trip ticket costs $5 for adults and $2.50 for children aged 6–11. Children under 5 ride free.

Fallingwater (near Pittsburgh)

Just outside the city lies Fallingwater, a world-renowned residence designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This iconic residence designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is open March through December, Wednesday–Monday. Guided house tours run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and cost $35 for adults, $25 for youth (6–12), and are free for children under 6 (not recommended for toddlers). Advance booking is required.

Lancaster County

Lancaster County is known for its pastoral landscapes and traditional communities that prioritize simplicity and craftsmanship. Horse-drawn carriages are a common sight, especially in areas like Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse, where local goods like quilts, handmade furniture, and baked treats are sold.

Amish Experience Tours

Lancaster offers insight into traditional lifestyles, often experienced via guided tours. The Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours range from $15 to $36, depending on the package. Horse-drawn buggy rides are available from $10.

Kitchen Kettle Village

This shopping village includes food stands, local crafts, and homemade treats. Open Monday–Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry is free.

Unique Destinations

Centralia: A Modern Mystery

Once a mining town, Centralia was nearly abandoned after an underground fire began in the 1960s. The fire still smolders beneath the surface. What remains today is a quiet, surreal landscape dotted with empty streets and occasional art installations.

Now nearly empty, Centralia offers a surreal and quiet experience. There's no entrance fee or official opening hours, but visitors should be cautious and respectful when exploring the area, as underground fires still smolder.

Harrisburg: The Capital

Harrisburg, the state’s capital, features the grand Pennsylvania State Capitol. This neoclassical building is open to the public and offers free guided tours on weekdays, where visitors can appreciate its detailed interiors and grand dome. This grand building is open for guided tours Monday–Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Entry is free. Tours begin every 30 minutes and last around 30 minutes.

Scranton: A Pop Culture Favorite

Fans of television might recognize Scranton as the setting of a popular workplace comedy. Beyond pop culture, Scranton’s history is deeply tied to the development of rail travel.

The Steamtown National Historic Site allows guests to see restored locomotives and learn about the history of the railroads. Located in downtown Scranton, this railway museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission costs $10 for adults, while visitors under 16 enter free. Train rides are available during select months for an extra fee.

In Conclusion

Pennsylvania has something for everyone. From monumental city landmarks to tranquil countryside trails, every corner of this state tells a story.

With this guide, Lykkers can plan their days with ease, knowing the best times to visit and what to expect. Whether it's climbing iconic steps, admiring historic art, or simply enjoying a quiet ride through scenic farmland, Pennsylvania is full of simple pleasures and memorable discoveries.