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Pennsylvania

Exploring Pennsylvania is a delightful journey that encompasses the best of both worlds – from the bustling city of Philadelphia in the east to the vibrant city of Pittsburgh in the west. In Philadelphia, you can delve into American history by visiting iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, indulge in the local food scene with a classic cheesesteak, and immerse yourself in the arts and culture that thrive in this cosmopolitan city. On the other side of the state, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and modern innovation, with its iconic steel bridges, world-class museums, and lively neighborhoods. In between, you can venture into the serene beauty of the Pocono Mountains, hike the Appalachian Trail, or explore the picturesque landscapes of Amish country.

 

What you’ll love most about Pennsylvania

  • Explore the historic city of Philadelphia, known as the birthplace of American democracy. Visit iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old City, and enjoy world-class museums, neighbourhoods, and delicious cuisine
  • Indulge your sweet tooth in Hershey, Pennsylvania, home to Hersheypark and the Hershey’s Chocolate World attraction. Enjoy thrilling rides and roller coasters at the amusement park, take a tour of the chocolate factory, and sample delicious treats like Hershey’s Kisses and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
  • Experience the dynamic city of Pittsburgh, nestled between three rivers and known for its steel industry heritage and modern cultural scene. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of the Strip District and Lawrenceville, visit iconic landmarks like the Andy Warhol Museum and Phipps Conservatory, and enjoy outdoor activities along the city’s scenic riverfronts and parks
  • Step back in time at Gettysburg, site of one of the most important battles of the Civil War. Tour the Gettysburg National Military Park and Cemetery, visit historic landmarks like Little Round Top and Devil’s Den, and learn about the events of the Battle of Gettysburg at the visitor centre and museum
  • Experience the charm of Pennsylvania Dutch Country in Lancaster County, home to the largest Amish population in the United States. Explore picturesque farmland, visit authentic Amish farms and markets, and learn about Amish culture and traditions through guided tours and immersive experiences
  • Escape to the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains, a scenic region in northeastern Pennsylvania known for its outdoor recreation and family-friendly attractions. Enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports in summer, and skiing, snowboarding, and cosy cabin getaways in winter, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas and lush forests

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Philadelphia’s weather patterns

Where to Book

  • Heinz Field Stadium and Pittsburgh skyline - Visit Pittsburgh

  • Art Museum - Visit Philadelphia/Elevated Angles

  • Big Red Pedal Tour - Visit Philadelphia/J. Fusco

  • Duquesne incline, Pittsburgh

  • Rocky statue - Visit Philadelphia/J. Fusco

  • Liberty Bell - Visit Philadelphia/J. Sterling Ruth

  • PNC Park - Visit Pittsburgh

  • Philadelphia Museum of Art - Visit Philadelphia/R. Kennedy

  • University of Pennsylvania LOVE sculpture in the fall - Visit Philadelphia/R. Rabena

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 7℃
  • 8℃
  • 13℃
  • 19℃
  • 24℃
  • 29℃
  • 31℃
  • 30℃
  • 27℃
  • 21℃
  • 14℃
  • 9℃
  • 11
  • 9
  • 11
  • 11
  • 11
  • 10
  • 10
  • 8
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • 11

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Winter takes hold in January, with temperatures often below freezing, creating the perfect conditions for skiing in the Pocono Mountains. Historic towns like Bethlehem offer charming winter getaways with inns and snow-dusted scenery.

February

February brings more winter activities, from ice skating at Dilworth Park in Philadelphia to winter festivals in small towns. It’s also a great time to explore Pennsylvania’s indoor attractions, like the Carnegie Museums in Pittsburgh.

March

By March, hints of spring begin to emerge, though temperatures can still hover around 7°C. Maple sugaring season is in full swing, and parks like Ricketts Glen start to reveal their beauty as the snow melts.

April

April sees blooms taking over Pennsylvania’s gardens, with Longwood Gardens and Philadelphia’s Cherry Blossom Festival drawing visitors to enjoy vibrant floral displays.

May

As May arrives, warmer days around 20°C bring perfect conditions for hiking in the Laurel Highlands or kayaking on the Susquehanna River. Outdoor markets and festivals begin to pop up across the state.

June

The start of summer in June invites exploration of Pennsylvania’s abundant natural beauty. Highs of 25°C make it ideal for visiting state parks like Ohiopyle, where you can raft, bike, or simply take in the views.

July

July is the peak of summer, with temperatures reaching around 30°C. Celebrations of Independence Day light up cities like Philadelphia, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, with fireworks and parades.

August

In August, summer continues strong. Enjoy lazy days on the beaches of Presque Isle near Erie or cool off underground with a tour of Penn’s Cave.

September

Crisp air and stunning autumn colours define September in Pennsylvania. As temperatures settle around 22°C, the state’s covered bridges and Amish farmlands become even more picturesque.

October

October is all about autumn festivals, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes. The vibrant fall foliage in the Pocono Mountains or Pine Creek Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” is truly breathtaking.

November

As November approaches, cooler days around 10°C mark the transition to winter. It’s a quiet time to visit Pennsylvania’s historic sites, like Gettysburg or Valley Forge, without the summer crowds.

December

December brings festive cheer with holiday markets, light displays, and snowy landscapes. The Christmas Village in Philadelphia and Hersheypark’s Candylane turn Pennsylvania into a winter wonderland.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


At Freedom Destinations, we take the trouble out of travel. We offer everything you need in one place; a great range of hotels, tours and activities, coupled with first-class service from dedicated specialists who work with you to create your perfect itinerary. With FREEDOM you can….

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With over 50 years experience, creating quality holidays across the whole of the USA and Canada, with North America Travel Service your holiday couldn’t be in safer hands. From fly drives, escorted tours, motorhome holidays, guided motorbike tours and cruising, to beach stays, city breaks, adventure packages and ranching, they have a huge programme of exciting holiday options.

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Purely America is an award winning tailor-made tour operator specialising in Holidays to North America. Let their experienced team tailor-make your dream holiday. For 20 years they have only created North America itineraries, so they know it inside out.

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