Pennsylvania's Not-So-Lonely Neighbors: A Guide for the Geographically Challenged (and Easily Amused)
Ah, Pennsylvania. Home of cheesesteaks, Liberty Bell ringin', and, apparently, a lot of folks wondering what other states are chilling nearby. Fear not, fellow citizens! This here guide will be your roadmap to Pennsylvania's neighboring awesomeness, with a healthy dose of laughter on the side.
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| What State Near Pennsylvania |
To the North: New York (And a Little Slice of Canada)
Sharing a border with Pennsylvania like roommates who borrow each other's clothes (looking at you, New York!), we have the Empire State. Expect world-famous sights like Niagara Falls (don't forget the raincoat!), and enough bagels to fill a bathtub (everything's bigger in New York, right?). Oh, and a teeny tiny piece of Canada borders Pennsylvania to the northwest. But seriously, it's like a pinky toe compared to the rest of the US-Canada border.
Subheading: Fun Fact Alert! Did you know Pennsylvania and New York used to fight over a bucketload of land? Look up the "Pennamite-Yankee War" if you need a good chuckle (or if you're really into obscure historical quarrels).
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
To the East: New Jersey and the Mighty Delaware River
New Jersey: the state that always seems to be on reality TV for some reason. But hey, they've got Atlantic City for gambling, the Jersey Shore for fist-pumping (fist-pump responsibly!), and Bruce Springsteen. Plus, the Delaware River forms a natural border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, so beautiful it almost makes you forget about that one time you accidentally drove through the turnpike tolls without any money. Almost.
To the South: Maryland, Delaware, and West Virginia (The Three Amigos...Maybe)
South of the Mason-Dixon Line (which, FYI, is actually a real thing, not just a phrase thrown around in history class), we have a trio of states. Maryland: crabs, the Chesapeake Bay, and quirky little towns with names like "Uppity Creek." Delaware: beaches, tax-free shopping (score!), and being smaller than some metropolitan areas (seriously, it's that tiny). West Virginia: mountains galore, whitewater rafting adventures, and that John Denver song that gets stuck in your head for weeks.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Subheading: Important PSA Please don't confuse Delaware with Deleter. That's a software program, folks, and it won't help you find your way around the First State.
To the West: Ohio and the Great Lake Escape
Ohio: home to astronauts (Neil Armstrong took one giant leap for mankind from there!), Cedar Point amusement park (get ready for screams!), and corn. Lots and lots of corn. Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, also forms part of Pennsylvania's western border. So if you're looking for a refreshing dip (or maybe a chance to see a freighter ship the size of a city block), head on out west!
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
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## Frequently Asked Questions (The Not-So-Serious Edition)
How to sound fancy when talking about Pennsylvania's neighbors? Refer to them as "The Mid-Atlantic neighbors" or "The Keystone State's companions." Bonus points for using a British accent while saying it.
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
How to avoid accidentally crossing into another state while in Pennsylvania? Stay off those sketchy unmarked roads, and maybe invest in a compass (or at least a decent GPS).
How to decide which state to visit next? Base your decision on your preferred vacation style. Craving bright lights and Broadway shows? Head to New York. Feeling the beach bum vibes? Hit up New Jersey or Delaware. In the mood for mountain majesty? West Virginia awaits!
How to impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of Pennsylvania's surroundings? Casually drop the fact that Pennsylvania borders not one, but two bodies of water: the Delaware River and Lake Erie. Watch them stare in awe (or mild confusion).
How to make the most of your newfound geographical expertise? Plan a epic road trip through Pennsylvania and its neighboring states! Just remember to pack your sense of humor, because let's face it, getting lost can be pretty funny (as long as you eventually find your way back).
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