You're Gonna Need a Bigger Schooners Hat: How to Conquer (or Leisurely Explore) Pennsylvania
Ah, Pennsylvania. Land of cheesesteaks, liberty bells, and enough rolling hills to make a Teletubby dizzy. But with all that geographical goodness comes the age-old question: how do you get around this state packed with history, Hershey's kisses, and Amish buggy jams (metaphorical, of course...hopefully)? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will be your chariot (or SEPTA pass) through the Keystone State!
How To Travel In Pennsylvania |
Buckle Up, Buttercup: Choosing Your Pennsylvania Steed
By Air: You're a baller on a time crunch? Major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh boast international airports, so you can be dodging pigeons on Rittenhouse Square or ogling the Andy Warhol Museum faster than you can say "priceless."
By Train: Amtrak's got your back, winding through the state like a choo-choo train on a history tour. Perfect for those who fancy gazing at Amish farms or catching up on that novel while the world whizzes by. Just don't get hypnotized by the rhythmic clickety-clack and miss your stop!
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
By Car: Ah, the freedom of the open road! Rent a set of wheels and hit the highway, blasting Bon Jovi and singing along to "Livin' on a Prayer" (because, let's face it, that's practically the state anthem). Just remember, some of those mountain roads are curvier than a pretzel, so be prepared to channel your inner Lewis Hamilton.
By Bus: For the budget-minded adventurer, Greyhound and other bus services offer a surprisingly comfy (and wallet-friendly) way to get around. Plus, you get the added bonus of people-watching and existential dread from overly chatty seatmates (entertainment, right?)
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
So You've Got Your Ride, Now What? : Navigating Pennsylvania's Wonders
The Cities: Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are your big hitters, offering world-class museums, iconic landmarks (Liberty Bell, anyone?), and enough cheesesteaks and pierogies to clog your arteries (in the best way possible). Don't forget to explore the charming towns and cities like Lancaster, Harrisburg, and Bethlehem, each with its own unique flavor.
The Great Outdoors: Pennsylvania's got a wild side too! Hike the Appalachian Trail, kayak down the Delaware River, or get lost (safely, please) in the beauty of Pocono Mountains. Just remember to pack your bug spray – those Pennsylvania mosquitoes are no joke (they may even be in cahoots with the Amish and their horse-drawn carriages).
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Hidden Gems: Forget the tourist traps! Seek out quirky destinations like Knoebels Amusement Park (retro rides and funnel cake heaven) or The National Comedy Center in Easton (because laughter is the best medicine, especially after a cheesesteak overdose).
Important Note: When venturing out into Amish country, be respectful of their culture and way of life. Take photos of the scenery, not the people.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
FAQ: Pennsylvania Travel Edition (Quick & Dirty)
How to avoid crowds in Hershey? Easy, don't go during peak chocolate season!
How to pack for unpredictable Pennsylvania weather? Layers are your friend. Be prepared for sunshine, rain, and everything in between (sometimes all in the same day).
How to speak Pennsylvanian? Just master the art of saying "yinz" (you guys) and hoagie (sub sandwich), and you'll be golden.
How to survive a long car ride across Pennsylvania? Snacks, road trip playlists, and a co-pilot who can tell terrible jokes are essential.
How to know when you've reached peak Pennsylvania? When you hear a banjo playing and smell funnel cake in the air. Congratulations, you've made it!