Road trip! Arguably the two sweetest words in the English language, right? Those of us who live in Pennsylvania know how lucky we are to have so many amazing destinations to visit within our borders. These are 10 of the best road trips in Pennsylvania, already mapped out for you. Just make sure to call ahead before you hit the road to ensure each destination is open.
We've got so many must-visit destinations in Pennsylvania, and these unforgettable road trips take us to just a few of those places. Before you set off, be sure to check off everything you need to take with you by taking a peek at this Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide.
Each road trip includes a link to the map, which you can quickly and easily customize to your needs and interests.
Enjoy a spooky adventure on this road trip that will take you to some of Pennsylvania's most prominent ghost towns. The 11-hour, nearly 600-mile road trip will take you to such spots as the Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike, Fricks Locks, Eckley Miners' Village, and Concrete City. The road trip ends with an epic 36-mile hike along the Ghost Town Trail in Indiana County. Read more about this road trip through Pennsylvania's ghost towns.
While Pennsylvania may be bookended by two big cities - Philadelphia and Pittsburgh - you'll find plenty of charming, picturesque small towns that will take you back to yesteryear. The nearly 14-hour road trip spans just over 700 miles and stops in such quaint small towns as Ligonier, Hollidaysburg, Elizabethtown, and Wellsboro. Learn more about these enchanting small towns in Pennsylvania.
3. Road Trip To Pennsylvania's Most Abandoned Places
Pennsylvania's rich history whispers from all corners of the state, although some of the remnants of the past are now abandoned. Hit the road on this ultimate road trip to Pennsylvania's most abandoned spots, and discover the tales behind such storied places as Centralia, Pithole City, Eastern State Penitentiary, Old York County Prison, and Larimer School. The cross-state road trip takes almost 14 hours and covers 779 miles. Please note that you'll have to admire Centralia from afar as no trespassing in the town is allowed. Here's the map for and more information on the road trip to Pennsylvania's most abandoned places.
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4. Road Trip To PA's Most Spectacular Natural Wonders
Pennsylvania's home to some pretty impressive natural wonders. From Coudersport Ice Mine - which freezes in the summer and melts in the winter (yes, you read that right!) - to Ringing Rocks Park (where the rocks make music when you hit them with a hammer), you'll discover some of the most amazing natural phenomenons when you hit the road on this natural wonders road trip. The 11.5-hour road trip stretches across 563 miles. Learn more about the road trip to the most amazing natural wonders in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania's landscape transforms into a breathtaking masterpiece every autumn as the trees change to rustic colors. This epic fall foliage road trip will take you to some of the best spots in the state for viewing the fall foliage. Starting at the stunning Presque Isle State Park, you'll make your way to Kinzua Bridge State Park, Pine Creek Gorge, Gettysburg National Military Park, and Ohiopyle State Park. The marathon road trip will take about 17 hours as you journey over 800 miles. Marvel at the most breathtaking fall foliage in Pennsylvania.
Do you believe in the paranormal and ghosts? Don't answer that question just yet. Wait until you've completed this spellbinding haunted road trip across PA. You may just experience the paranormal along the way, as you visit such haunted stops as Hill View Manor, Van Sant Covered Bridge, Eastern State Penitentiary, and Devil's Den. The 14-hour road trip over 745 miles might even leave you breathless. Read more about this haunted road trip in Pennsylvania.
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7. Christmas Lights Road Trip Through Pennsylvania
Get into the Christmas spirit next November and December when you take this road trip to Pennsylvania's most magical Christmas lights displays. You'll visit some of the most talked about Christmas lights displays, including Longwood Gardens, Candy Cane Lane, Hershey Sweet Lights, and Koziar's Christmas Village. This magical road trip, which takes 13 hours, spans over 700 miles across PA. Here's more information on the road trip to the best Christmas lights in Pennsylvania.
8. Road Trip Through PA's Most Magical Christmas Towns
Journey to the most magical Christmas towns in Pennsylvania on this nearly five-hour road trip that spans 214 miles. Feel the spirit of Christmas past when you stop by the celebrations at Christmas City itself (Bethlehem), Lititz, Hershey, and Jim Thorpe. The 214-mile road trip is ideal for a weekend getaway. Here are all the details for this magical Christmas road trip in Pennsylvania.
Pack your camera on this waterfalls road trip that will take you through Eastern Pennsylvania and to some of the state's most spellbinding waterfalls. The six-hour road trip covers 267 miles and will take you to Ganoga Falls (along with 21 other waterfalls) at Ricketts Glen State Park, Nay Aug Falls, and Bushkill Falls. Here's the itinerary for the Pennsylvania waterfalls road trip.
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10. Ultimate Western Pennsylvania Waterfalls Road Trip
The previous road trip takes you to the most spectacular waterfalls on the eastern side of the state. Now it's time to visit the waterfalls of Western Pennsylvania. Travel 375 miles in just over eight hours to explore such stunning waterfalls as Cucumber Falls, Linn Run State Park, Jackson Falls, Freedom Falls, and Springfield Falls. Find all of the details for the Western Pennsylvania Waterfalls Road Trip.
Which of these Pennsylvania road trips are your favorites? Let us know in the comments! Love waterfalls? Then you might want to day trip to some of Pennsylvania's most majestic waterfalls.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Reading has certainly evolved over the years, especially since we now have access to any book we could possibly want right at our fingertips. While reading on a computer, tablet, or smartphone is convenient, for some of us who grew up with books, it’s just not the same. Can anything compare to the smell of an old book or the slight creak a book makes when you open it? Next time you’ve got a free day or two, hit the road on this literary road trip in Pennsylvania, where you can rediscover the magic of reading all over again.
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Here are the Google Maps directions for this road trip. The road trip to four bookstores and two libraries spans 223 miles with around four hours of drive time, not taking into consideration how much time you’ll spend at each destination. Add or remove stops, or customize to meet your interests and timeline. Whatever you do, though, have fun.
Let’s start our literary road trip at perhaps the most colorful bookstore in Pennsylvania. You can’t miss Cupboard Maker Books in Enola. The exterior of the building is painted as book spines. Stroll through the front door where you might be greeted by one of the resident cats or the friendly fosters looking for a home. The 6,000-square-foot bookstore boasts an impressive collection of more than 5,000 new titles as well as used books. It also hosts events throughout the year.
2. Moyer’s Book Barn – Strasburg
Our next stop brings us to Moyer’s Book Barn in Strasburg, a family-owned bookstore that’s been a local favorite for nearly four decades. The shelves of this cozy shop are brimming with used books – more than 35,000 – including rare titles, first editions, and signed books. Bring cash or a check, especially if you plan to peruse the overstock room, where you’ll score some great reads for half off. Moyer’s Book Barn has extremely limited hours, so make sure they’re open before you set off.
3. Baldwin’s Book Barn – West Chester
We book lovers could probably spend hours, if not days, just browsing this massive five-story bookstore in West Chester. Tucked in a barn built in 1922, the bookstore has been a neighborhood staple since 1946. Baldwin’s Book Barn is far more than a bookstore; it’s a glimpse back in time. Carve out plenty of time to explore the collection of more than 300,000 rare, out-of-date, and used books, maps, and prints. If you stumble on a book you like, pull up a chair and read for a bit.
Let’s head to one of the two libraries on our literary road trip. With its Victorian-style architecture, Fisher Fine Arts Library in Philadelphia is a National Historic Landmark. The historic library in Pennsylvania, which underwent a complete restoration in the late 20th century, is well worth exploring to view the ornate windows and unique architecture and to check out the collection of more than 150,000 books and two million digital images. Bring your ID, which will be photocopied by security before you’re allowed in.
5. Children’s Book World – Haverford
Remember how much fun it was going to bookstores as a kid? We can relive some of that childhood magic at our next stop. Children’s Book World, an independent bookstore in Haverford, has been a local favorite since 1989. The shelves are brimming with books for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Browse the shop that also sells such fun items as stuffed animals and jigsaw puzzles. Children’s Book World hosts events, too, so keep an eye on its calendar.
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6. McCormick Riverfront Library – Harrisburg
Our final stop brings us to McCormick Riverfront Library in Harrisburg. The historic library dates back to 1889 but it’s been in its current location on Walnut Street since 1914. Spend some time exploring the 13,000-square-foot library that features approximately 36,000 books. It also hosts events and programs for readers of all ages.
Next time you’re in Western Pennsylvania, visit the Braddock Carnegie Library, a library in Pittsburgh that looks like it’s stepped straight from a fairy tale. Before you head out on this literary road trip, check out the OIYS road trip essentials packing list.
