The BEST Vacation Spots to Visit in Central Pennsylvania

Dated: May 14 2024

Welcome to Central Pennsylvania, a place where every visit turns into an adventure, whether you're riding roller coasters, exploring historic sites, or enjoying stunning natural beauty. Central PA is more than just a spot on the map—it's a collection of exciting destinations that offer fun for everyone, all year round. From the family thrills at Hershey Park to the breathtaking gardens of Longwood Gardens, there's always something new and exciting to discover. Let's dive into the top five must-visit spots that make Central PA truly special. Whether you're planning a trip with the kids, flying solo, or hanging out with friends, these places promise memorable times and loads of fun.

Hershey Park: A Sweet Retreat for All Ages

Hershey Park, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers a delightful blend of entertainment and chocolate, making it a favorite destination for visitors of all ages. Founded in 1906 by chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey as a leisure park for his employees, the park has evolved into a full-fledged amusement park with over 70 attractions spread across 121 acres. Visitors to Hershey Park can enjoy a wide range of rides, from thrilling roller coasters like Skyrush, which is known for its intense 85-foot drop, to family-friendly attractions like the Cocoa Cruiser. For those who love water activities, the Boardwalk at Hershey Park features a variety of water rides and pools, ensuring fun for both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax. A unique aspect of Hershey Park is its integration with Hershey's Chocolate World, a separate attraction located just outside the park's gates. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of chocolate with interactive tours that demonstrate the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar. The Create Your Own Candy Bar experience is particularly popular, allowing guests to customize their own Hershey’s chocolate bar with a variety of ingredients. Seasonal events at Hershey Park add a special flair to the park's offerings. "Hersheypark in the Dark" transforms the park during Halloween with spooky decorations, themed rides, and trick-or-treating fun for kids. During the winter, "Christmas Candylane" delights visitors with over four million twinkling lights, holiday-themed shows, and an up-close look at all nine of Santa’s reindeer. "Springtime in the Park" offers a refreshing way to enjoy the warming weather with family-friendly rides and attractions. Dining at Hershey Park is an experience in itself, with options ranging from sit-down restaurants to quick-service stands. Whether it’s savoring a meal at The Chocolatier, a full-service restaurant and bar, or grabbing a bite of the famous Hershey’s chocolate funnel cake, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Accommodation near Hershey Park includes a range of options to fit various preferences and budgets. The Hotel Hershey offers luxurious accommodations with fine dining restaurants and a spa, while Hershey Lodge provides a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere with distinct Hershey’s chocolate touches. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Hersheypark Camping Resort offers cabins and RV sites, allowing guests to enjoy nature alongside modern amenities. Every visit to Hershey Park is a chance to create sweet memories. Whether it’s the thrill of a roller coaster, the joy of making your own chocolate bar, or the delight of seasonal festivities, Hershey Park ensures that every visitor leaves with a smile and a longing to return.

Gettysburg Battlefield: A Journey Through History

Gettysburg Battlefield, nestled in the picturesque town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, stands as a monumental site in American history, drawing visitors from around the globe who are eager to walk the grounds where the fate of the nation was once contested. The battle fought here from July 1 to July 3, 1863, marked a turning point in the Civil War, known for its unprecedented scale and the high casualty rate. The hallowed grounds of Gettysburg were also where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his iconic Gettysburg Address, underscoring the site's profound national significance. Today, the Gettysburg National Military Park spans over 6,000 acres, meticulously maintained to honor the over 50,000 soldiers who were killed, wounded, or went missing during those three days of fierce fighting. The park boasts hundreds of individual monuments, markers, and memorials, each telling the story of the units involved and their experiences during the battle. Visitors can immerse themselves in history through a variety of guided tours—whether on foot, by bicycle, aboard a bus, or even on horseback. These tours are led by knowledgeable park rangers or licensed battlefield guides who offer detailed accounts of the strategic maneuvers and human stories that paint a vivid picture of the battle. For those who prefer a self-guided experience, auto tour routes with audio narrations are available, allowing guests to explore at their own pace. The Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War, located within the park, enhances the visitor experience with its extensive collection of artifacts, personal soldier items, and interactive exhibits that explore the broader context of the Civil War and its impact. The museum's centerpiece film, "A New Birth of Freedom," narrated by Morgan Freeman, provides an impactful introduction to the battle's background and national importance. Additionally, the park hosts annual reenactments that bring together thousands of history enthusiasts in period costumes, who reenact famous skirmishes and day-to-day camp life, offering a tactile and visual representation of 19th-century warfare. These events, coupled with the immersive and educational programming offered year-round, make Gettysburg Battlefield a profoundly moving destination for those looking to connect with America's past. Beyond the battlefield, the town of Gettysburg offers charming accommodations, quaint shops, local eateries, and inviting cafes, providing a perfect backdrop for reflection after a day of intensive historical exploration. Gettysburg Battlefield not only offers a comprehensive dive into one of the most crucial periods of American history but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that shaped the nation, making it an essential destination for history buffs and families alike.

Longwood Gardens: A Year-Round Horticultural Masterpiece

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is a premier botanical haven that draws visitors from across the world, eager to explore its vast array of gardens, woodlands, and a collection of over 9,000 different types of plants. Spread across 1,077 acres, Longwood is renowned for its meticulous design and the sheer variety of its horticultural displays, which change seasonally, offering a new experience with each visit. The Gardens were created by industrialist Pierre S. du Pont in the early 20th century and have been maintained with a commitment to education, research, and conservation. The heart of Longwood is its Conservatory, a magnificent structure housing 20 indoor gardens and 5,500 types of plants under glass. Here, visitors can marvel at everything from elegant orchid displays to the lush fern passage and the striking Mediterranean garden. Outside, the grounds feature an array of styles from formal French gardens to the naturalistic landscape of Peirce's Woods. Noteworthy is the Main Fountain Garden, which offers jaw-dropping shows where water and music combine in a spectacular ballet of jets that leap and dance to classical and contemporary tunes, illuminated after dark with stunning lighting effects. Throughout the year, Longwood hosts a series of special events such as the Orchid Extravaganza in winter, when the Conservatory is filled with thousands of vibrant, blooming orchids, and the popular Festival of Fountains in the summer. Autumn brings the Chrysanthemum Festival, featuring the largest display of exhibition chrysanthemums in the United States, including many trained into extraordinary shapes and forms. The holiday season at Longwood is magical, with the Christmas display of lights, trees, and poinsettias attracting festive crowds. Educational programs are a pillar of Longwood’s mission, offering workshops, courses, and lectures for all ages, focusing on gardening, floral design, and horticultural therapy. Moreover, performances from renowned artists at the open-air theater and children’s educational series add to the cultural richness of Longwood. For those looking to immerse themselves fully, Longwood Gardens provides guided tours, including behind-the-scenes looks at greenhouse operations and expert-led walks focusing on specific plant collections or design principles. Dining options at Longwood cater to a range of tastes and occasions, from casual café meals featuring ingredients grown in the Gardens to elegant dinners in the 1906 fine dining restaurant. Visitors can also explore the extensive network of walking trails that offer peaceful retreats into nature, ensuring that every trip to Longwood Gardens offers relaxation, inspiration, and education. This stunning garden paradise, with its ever-changing beauty and wide array of offerings, guarantees a memorable visit any season of the year.

Pocono Mountains: Nature’s Playground Across the Seasons

The Pocono Mountains, spanning across northeastern Pennsylvania, present a natural sanctuary that offers a myriad of activities throughout the year, drawing outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples alike. This region, covering four counties and encompassing 2,400 square miles of rolling mountain terrain, pristine lakes, and dense forests, serves as a backdrop for countless adventures regardless of the season. In the winter, the Poconos transform into a white paradise with ski resorts like Camelback, Jack Frost, and Big Boulder bursting to life. These resorts offer a variety of slopes catering to both novice and experienced skiers and snowboarders, alongside opportunities for snow tubing and snowshoeing. As the snow melts and spring emerges, the landscape becomes a vibrant tapestry of blooming flora, inviting visitors for hiking, fishing, and boating. Trails like those at Bushkill Falls offer scenic hikes past waterfalls and along streams, perfect for nature photography and bird-watching. Summer in the Poconos is particularly lively, with lakes such as Lake Wallenpaupack becoming hubs for water sports, including kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing. The region’s numerous water parks, like the massive Kalahari Resort, provide cool relief on hot days with extensive water slides and wave pools. Autumn ushers in a spectacular display of fall foliage, making it a favorite time for scenic drives along the Delaware Water Gap or hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of the fiery landscape. Beyond the natural attractions, the Pocono Mountains are also known for their resorts which offer luxurious accommodations and spa services, golf courses, and fine dining experiences, catering to those looking for a more relaxed visit. Events and festivals are abundant throughout the year, celebrating everything from jazz music to craft beer, which enrich the cultural tapestry of the region. Additionally, the area's historical sites, like the Asa Packer Mansion and the Old Jail Museum, add a dimension of historical intrigue to a visit. The Poconos also cater to the adventurous spirit with zip-lining, rock climbing, and mountain biking opportunities that challenge even the most experienced outdoorsmen. As a destination that seamlessly blends relaxation with adventure, the Pocono Mountains offer something for everyone, making it a premier choice for those looking to explore the beauty and excitement of Pennsylvania’s outdoors across all four seasons.

Knoebels Amusement Resort: A Unique Blend of Nostalgia and Thrills

Knoebels Amusement Resort, nestled in the heart of Elysburg, Pennsylvania, stands as America’s largest free-admission amusement park, combining old-world charm with modern excitement in a family-friendly environment. This beloved park has been a favorite destination since its founding in 1926, offering a unique approach where visitors pay per ride, allowing them to tailor their experience to their own pace and preferences. Knoebels blends nostalgic rides with contemporary thrills, featuring over 60 attractions that appeal to all ages. Among the highlights are two classic wooden roller coasters, the Phoenix and the Twister, which are renowned for their exhilarating drops and turns. The Phoenix, in particular, has been voted one of the best wooden coasters in the world, attracting roller coaster enthusiasts from across the globe. For those seeking gentler experiences, Knoebels offers a variety of traditional amusement park rides, such as the Grand Carousel, complete with brass rings to grab for the daring, and a wide selection of kiddie rides that make the park a paradise for younger children. In addition to its rides, Knoebels is home to an award-winning haunted house attraction, regarded as one of the best in the country, providing a delightfully spooky experience for thrill-seekers. The park also boasts a mini-golf course, a crystal pool with waterslides for cooling off on hot summer days, and camping facilities that offer a full resort experience for families looking to stay overnight. The park's atmosphere is further enhanced by its picturesque setting among Pennsylvania’s lush forests, providing a beautiful backdrop for picnics, strolls, or just relaxing with a freshly made funnel cake from one of the many food stands throughout the park. Knoebels also takes pride in its food offerings, with a wide variety of dining options that range from classic amusement park snacks to full sit-down meals featuring local Pennsylvania Dutch specialties. Seasonal events at Knoebels bring additional charm, with special celebrations like the "Hallo-Fun" weekends in October, where the park is transformed with Halloween decorations and themed activities, and the "Christmas Village" during the holiday season, where guests can enjoy festive lights, seasonal treats, and holiday music. Knoebels not only provides fun and entertainment but also preserves a slice of Americana that is increasingly rare in today’s rapidly changing amusement industry. The combination of free admission, pay-per-ride system, and a commitment to maintaining a clean, friendly environment makes Knoebels Amusement Resort a must-visit destination that offers a distinctive and memorable amusement experience for all visitors, encapsulating the spirit of traditional American fun with a touch of modern excitement.

In conclusion, Central Pennsylvania offers an array of destinations that cater to every interest and provide memorable experiences throughout the year. From the thrilling rides and chocolate-inspired adventures at Hershey Park to the profound historical insights and preserved battlefields of Gettysburg, Central PA invites visitors to delve into diverse worlds of enjoyment and education. The stunning natural beauty and horticultural artistry of Longwood Gardens offer a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, while the Pocono Mountains provide endless outdoor activities across all seasons, ensuring adventure seekers and families can immerse themselves in natural splendor and recreational fun. Knoebels Amusement Resort wraps up our journey with its unique blend of nostalgic charm and exciting rides, offering a taste of classic Americana with a modern twist. Each of these destinations highlights the rich cultural and natural heritage of Central Pennsylvania, making it a premier choice for vacationers seeking variety and excitement in their travels. Whether you're looking for a family vacation, a solo retreat, or a fun trip with friends, Central PA’s top spots are sure to create lasting memories and beckon you back year after year.