Since America's founding fathers made Pennsylvania the focal point of modern democracy more than 200 years ago, the commonwealth has served as an example of virtue and liberty. Today, Pennsylvania also serves as a crossroads of culture, tradition, entertainment, and natural beauty. Visitors to the area will have much to discover, with many adventures awaiting in this commonwealth where the historical and contemporary intersect.
Geography
Pennsylvania functions as a stepping stone between the northeastern and southeastern American states. Covering more than 44,800 square miles, it is the 33rd largest state. This vast expanse of terrain offers a variety of landscapes for residents and tourists alike to enjoy. Hikers and campers will want to see Mt. Davis – at 3,213 feet above sea level, it's Pennsylvania's highest point of elevation. The Appalachian Mountains, which cut across the commonwealth from the southwest, also offer a myriad of physical pursuits for outdoor enthusiasts.
After scaling peaks and trails, there's no better way to cool down than lounging on the beaches of Lake Erie. The 10th largest lake in the world, it provides innumerable water activities, including everything from fishing to boating. Aquatic action can also be found on the the five main Pennsylvanian rivers: the Delaware, Ohio, Susquehanna, Monongahela, and the Allegheny. From hills to shores, Pennsylvania's geographical diversity provides for plenty of recreational activities, surely one of the reasons 12.4 million people are happy to call the commonwealth home.
Climate
Wondering what to pack? Pennsylvanian guests should prepare for weather situations of all sorts. Altitude dictates local climate here, with three climate zones found in the commonwealth. At the lowest elevations, weather is often moderate. Winters are cool, while summers can be hot and humid. Higher points in Pennsylvania have more extreme conditions, with very humid summers and snowy winters. Pennsylvania's middle ground still has humid summers, but the winters are more temperate. In addition to these three climate classifications, Lake Erie regulates its own seasonal change. The areas around the water, of course, are usually cooler.
Average temperatures in Pennsylvania's hot months hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and, at about 23 degrees Fahrenheit, January generally has some of the chilliest weather. Autumn tends to be the most moderate season all around the commonwealth, making it a good time to visit.
History
In 1681, Charles II endowed William Penn with one of the biggest land grants to a single person in history, and the territory of Pennsylvania was established. The land was named in honor of William's father, and it soon became home to an expansive Quaker colony. More settlers followed, and Pennsylvania became known as a colony where inhabitants could practice religion freely.
In the next century, Philadelphia played a significant role in American history. Home to the first Continental Congress, Philadelphia was the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. The United States Constitution followed in 1776. After the Revolutionary War ended, the city temporarily served as the nation's capital in the 1790s.
About 100 years later, oil and steel transformed Pennsylvania into an industrial commonwealth. The mining and manufacturing of these natural resources provided work for the many immigrants that came to the area. These operations thrived for a time, but they could not escape the decline hit such industries in the latter half of the 20th century.
Nowadays, having recovered from the downfall of its industries, Pennsylvania is once again a vibrant and growing commonwealth. The Pennsylvania population continues to increase, and the commonwealth has one of the strongest economies in the U.S.
Culture
In the 17th century, the first Amish settlers came to Pennsylvania, seeking religious freedom. Today, though membership is dwindling, a substantial amount of Pennsylvanian citizens still identify themselves as members of the Amish order. Amish culture and its influences can be seen in communities across Pennsylvania.
When most people picture the Amish, they most likely think of the Old Order Amish who still dress in a traditional manner, shun electricity, and use horses for farming and transportation. In the Pennsylvania Dutch country, in the southeastern portion of the commonwealth, Old Order Amish still live an 18th-century lifestyle. However, recently many Amish communities have become more progressive and are adopting a more contemporary lifestyle.
Recreation
Whether you have a car full of kids or you're seeing the commonwealth solo, a range of recreational activities exist for every visitor. Outdoors-oriented travelers will be happy to learn Pennsylvania has more than 120 state parks, and admission to all of them is absolutely free. Visitors with children can tour the nation's first zoo in Philadelphia. Any sportsmen and women spending time in the commonwealth will be right at home here, as hunting is a popular pastime in Pennsylvania. Whitetail deer and turkey are just some of the game to be found in the commonwealth. And, of course, sports fans already know that Pennsylvania is home to the Phillies, Eagles, 76ers, Penguins, Pirates, Steelers, and the Flyers.
Festivals and events are also a staple of Pennsylvanian recreation. Just one of many is the Philadelphia Folk Festival, which celebrates regional culture with music, dance and art. Lasting all weekend, visitors may stay overnight and camp out. If you're interested in spicing up your journey with a dramatic flair, a visit to the state capital is a must. The Harrisburg Shakespeare Festival is held there, and favorite old stories are presented on stage in new ways. Lastly, don't forget about the many museums to be found across the commonwealth. Many, like the Andy Warhol Museum, have one-of-a-kind collections that can't be found elsewhere.
Food
A trip is never complete without a taste of local flavor. In Pennsylvania, visitors will be treated to an array of exotic cooking. Here, French, German, English, West Indian, Italian, Polish and Dutch influences have all left a mark on regional dishes. Along with these foreign flavors, Pennsylvania is also home to many all-American favorites. Perhaps its most popular offering is the Philly cheese steak. Italian immigrants first popularized this dish, and it can be found all over the city. And make sure you save room for dessert – Philadelphia is also home to Hershey's chocolate!
Whether your plans include exploring historic Gettysburg or enjoying a dressy night at the symphony, Pennsylvania offers a wealth of attractions. Pennsylvania's unique culture and places, combined with the many fun activities available, make it a commonwealth visitors won't soon forget.
