On December 12, 1787, Pennsylvania became the 2nd state to be admitted to the Union. Its historic presence within the history of the U.S. is unquestioned.
Today, the state is the 5th largest by population with just over 13 million residents as of the end of 2020.
The state is also notable for having some exciting and interesting tourist attractions that are available for families.
Let’s take a look at the five (5) most exciting and interesting family-friendly attractions Pennsylvania has to offer.
1. Pocono Whitewater Rafting
For families that enjoy the great outdoors, there is a great relationship between the state of Pennsylvania and nature.
Nowhere is that more evident than in the state’s majestic Pocono mountains. Yes, where there are mountains, it’s quite possible that waterways might be entwined.
Pocono whitewater rafting adventures are among the best rafting adventures in the U.S.
The Pocono Whitewater website lists a wide range of rafting adventures for individuals, groups, and families.
At the most basic level, families can sign up for a 3-4 whitewater adventure with a guide.
For families who truly love rafting, 1-2 day public and private rafting adventures are also available.
Other entertainment options include The Pirate Attack Adventure, paddle boats, kayaking, trail biking, skirmish paintball, and hiking.
Lodging and restaurant options are available.
For adults who might want to get away for a night, casino entertainment is available approximately 30 miles away from the Pocono Whitewater property.
At Mohegan Sun Pocono & Mount Airy Casino Resort, adults can enjoy an evening of playing casino games and sports betting.
If you’re too tired to drive, don’t worry, Pennsylvania offers several online casinos with no deposit bonuses to choose from.
2. Hershey Park
Do you and your family members love chocolates? Well, Hershey Pennsylvania is home to the world-famous Hershey Chocolate brand.
What most people don’t know is that Milton S. Hershey created the Hershey Park Amusement facility for the benefit of his loyal employees and all the factory’s special visitors.
The Park is located in close proximity to the chocolate factory.
The family can enjoy a day at Hershey Park, which features 15 themed roller coasters and an incredible water park.
On the grounds, families will also get access to lodging, camping grounds, the Zoo America North American Wildlife Park, shopping, and themed restaurants.
3. Carnegie Museums Of Pittsburgh
While the kids surely love to have fun, there is nothing wrong with imposing a bit of culture on them.
There are more than a few kids who enjoy visiting important museums.
In the mid to late 1800, the Carnegie family created what would become one of the steel industry’s largest players.
Led by Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919), U.S. Steel and its predecessors would grow to be one of the largest and most powerful conglomerates in corporate history.
It was Andrew’s love of the arts and culture that led to the creation of the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.
Today, there are four separate museum properties for visitors to enjoy. The four properties include:
- Carnegie Museum of Natural History
- Carnegie Museum of Art
- Carnegie Music Hall
- Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
The importance of these museums was etched in stone when the property was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
For the family, there will be plenty of chances to see (in person) some of the greatest works of art and scientific innovations ever created.
The grounds also include shops and restaurants for the family’s enjoyment.
4. Sesame Place
Aside from the Disney brand, it could be argued that the Sesame Street brand is the most popular brand among young children.
It just so happens that the Sesame Place theme park is located in the Philadelphia PA area.
The Sesame Park theme park is the perfect vacation destination for families, especially families with small children.
The Park features rides and attractions built around popular characters tied to the Sesame Streets brand.
If families want to take a break from rides and attractions during the summer, a visit to the amazing water park (Bert & Ernie’s Splashy Shores) would be the right call.
The park grounds also feature lodging options and plenty of themed restaurants.
5. Philadelphia Zoo
As Simon and Garfunkel once famously sang, something is always happening “At The Zoo.” That is absolutely the case at the Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia.
The Philadelphia Zoo is the oldest zoo in America.
Over the years, the property has become a sanctuary for endangered species that originate in countries all over the world.
In a single visit, the family will get to see over 1,700 different species of animals, some of them living in their natural habitats.
When not learning about the amazing animals, visitors will get a chance to enjoy a variety of attractions, many of which are suitable for the family.
The grounds also include dining facilities with lodging available in close proximity to the zoo.