After generally investigating the commonwealth, it's now time to put your knowledge about Pennsylvania to work. All the research you've done will guide you when making important decisions about what kind of stay you want to have while in the area.
Your exact destination in Pennsylvania is the first thing you should consider, as there are several regions and big cities to choose from in the Keystone State. More decisions to make when anticipating your vacation include how you will arrive, what sort of expectations you have for activities and entertainment, and what kinds of transportation you'll use once you are there.
Where to Go
Pennsylvania is the 33rd largest state, and it is divided into four regions. Each is distinct and offers a wealth of natural attractions and leisure.
- Southeastern Pennsylvania is a stretch of lush landscape, with the Lehigh and Delaware rivers flowing through the region's valleys. The Pennsylvania Highlands, which are an extensive section of the Appalachian Mountains, tower over the land. Located in this scenic area is the Pennsylvanian Dutch country, where Amish inhabitants continue to practice an 18th-century lifestyle. Visitors to this region will enjoy the winding country roads that lead to historical sights and cities, such as Philadelphia and Gettysburg. Southeastern Pennsylvania hosts many festivals and events, tours of America's oldest brewery and battle grounds, and is even home to the Hershey's chocolate factory. All of this, in combination with an active cultural and nightlife district, means there is always fun to be found in this part of the commonwealth.
- Northeastern Pennsylvania serves as a backdrop for the Pocono Mountains, which cover 2,400 square miles, and have always been a popular vacation spot. Northeastern Pennsylvania is also where the Endless Mountains, another branch of the Appalachians, can be found. The Catskill ranges are the highest points of the Endless Mountains, and they offer physical challenges to hikers and campers year round. As the home to so many tracts of mountains, this region boasts powdery snow and unlimited opportunities for winter activities, like skiing, tubing, and snowboarding. In addition to its athletic offerings, the region is also famous for its coal mining ghost towns. With seven billion short tons of coal, the area contains the largest anthracite deposits in the Americas.
- Central Pennsylvania is a haven of fragrant forests, parks, and preserves where visitors can heed the call of the wild. Its wilderness attracts sportsmen and women from around the globe. Here, fishing and game hunting are thrilling pastimes for visitors and residents alike. Visitors can also catch a thrill white water rafting on the region's Susquehanna River. At 410 miles long, it is the longest river on the east coast. In addition to the many natural wonders to be experienced, Central Pennsylvania is home to plenty of picturesque small towns and communities, as well. Visitors will be easily charmed by the cozy streets of this region.
- Western Pennsylvania acts as a regional happy medium. West Penn is a special place where tourists will experience a blend of big city with quiet country. In the Pittsburgh metro area, bright lights and a throbbing nightlife are awaiting visitors. Cultural activities abound, with music festivals, Broadway theater, and performances of all kinds. And, of course, there are almost too many museums and galleries to see during the course of one trip. When the appeal of noise and city glamor fades, visitors can make the short trip to the Laurel Highlands. In these serene areas, forests make mountain biking a whole new kind of adventure. The Great Lakes are located in the area, too, along with maritime activities and museums. In the region outside downtown, there are hidden inns, antique shops and traditional Victorian real estate that visitors won't see anywhere else.
After Arriving
Once you have chosen the region where you want to spend time in Pennsylvania, you'll have to decide about what sort of accommodations you prefer. When making hotel reservations, keep in mind the theme of your vacation. If you are focused on winter sports, you may want to book your stay at one of the many mountain resorts. But, if you enjoy cultural activities and sightseeing, then you may want to stay in the center of Pennsylvania's big cities, where the main attractions and events are to be found.
It may seem like a challenging task to consider everyone's opinion when traveling in a group. Everyone has a personal vision of where they would like to stay and what they want to do. However, Pennsylvania's regions offer a mixture of environments that make it easy to compromise.
Pennsylvania embodies adventure, diversity, and beauty. No matter where vacationers find themselves while in in the commonwealth, there is plenty to satisfy any traveler's desires.
