10 Can’t-Miss Activities in Central PA: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Central Pennsylvania offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, historic sights, and family fun. From rolling mountains and winding trails to charming small towns and major amusement parks, there’s something for every traveler. Use this guide to experience the best of this underrated region.
Admire Stunning Scenery on a Rothrock State Forest Hike
Over 300 miles of trails weave through the lush green Rothrock State Forest, with options suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Lace up your boots and wander through low valleys, past trickling streams, and to breathtaking mountaintop vistas. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you take in the fresh mountain air and gorgeous Pennsylvania woodland views.
Marvel at the Natural Wonder of Penn’s Cave by Boat
Penn’s Cave is a rare all-water limestone cave, partly only accessible by boat! As you’re gently paddled through the winding passages, discover magnificent rock formations sculpted over centuries by steady dripping water. See mirrored reflections ripple across the crystal clear underground lake and learn all about this National Natural Landmark during informative boat tours.
Experience the Excitement of State College
State College offers small-town charm combined with big college vibes, being home to Pennsylvania State University’s main campus. Catch a football game at the iconic Beaver Stadium, join the lively downtown nightlife scene in bars and clubs, browse the farmers’ market and boutiques, or enjoy cultural performances at the Center for the Performing Arts.
Sip Local Wines at Harrisburg Area Wineries
The Harrisburg area features a blossoming wine trail, with at least eight wineries crafting high-quality, unique blends. Tour the vineyards and production facilities before indulging in wine tastings served with cheese pairings. Chat with the winemakers themselves and sip award-winning Cabernets, Rieslings and more amid the rolling fields and scenic landscape of central Pennsylvania wine country.
Step Back in Time at Gettysburg National Military Park
Walk the very battlefields where Union and Confederate forces fatefully clashed at Gettysburg in 1863. Sign up for a guided tour to vividly relive those three pivotal days of the Civil War and hear compelling stories that bring history alive. Also discover the neighboring town’s museum exhibits, shops, historic inns and restaurants.
Paddle the Vast Raystown Lake
At over 30 miles long, Raystown Lake offers unlimited water recreation amid lush forests and the picturesque Allegheny Mountains. Rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards or motorized boats and head out to explore its countless coves and islands. Go fishing for bass, trout and panfish or simply relax on sandy beaches tucked into quiet corners along the expansive shoreline.
Ride Legendary Coasters & Enjoy Free Entertainment at Knoebels Grove
Knoebels amusement park provides nonstop family fun, with no admission fees and pay-per-ride tickets. Brave record-breaking steel coasters like Phoenix and Twister, soar on old-fashioned wood coasters, and don’t miss crowd favorites like the haunted mansion and carousel. Between rides, stroll through the park to take in free entertainment, from magic shows to concerts and more.
Bike or Cross-Country Ski on the Scenic HER Heritage Rail Trail
Following an abandoned railway corridor, this flat, accessible 21-mile trail offers an easy escape into nature with beautiful scenery all around. Ride bikes past farmland and thick woods in summer or bundle up to cross-country ski in winter, stopping along the way to observe birds and wildlife. Several quaint trail towns also line the route, perfect for grabbing a hot drink or snack to fuel up.
Experience Amish Country Traditions in Lancaster
Lancaster County is home to the nation’s oldest and largest Amish settlement, providing a peek into their unique 18th century way of life. Tour the bucolic back country roads by horse-drawn buggy as you learn about Amish history and culture first-hand from local guides. Filling family-style meals, locally made quilts and handicrafts, and sweet shoo-fly pies are sure highlights!
Indulge at Hersheypark & Chocolate World
No central PA trip is complete without a pilgrimage to Hersheypark for rollercoasters, shows, zoo animals and all things chocolate! Get your adrenaline pumping on thrill rides, cool off lazily drifting around the lazy river, and refuel with unlimited rides between various Hershey chocolate-themed eateries and shops. Make sure to also create your own sweet souvenir at Hershey’s Chocolate World next door!