10 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Pennsylvania Before You Die
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Pennsylvania pretty much promises surprises at every turn. Even if you’ve lived here your entire life, you’re bound to uncover something or some place you didn’t know about before. Add the following 10 hidden gems in Pennsylvania to your ultimate to do list.
Embark on an insightful adventure at Lost River Caverns. The limestone cave is comprised of five separate chambers and has been welcoming guests since 1930. Join a guided tour of the caverns, which typically lasts between a half an hour and 45 minutes. You'll explore nearly 1,200 feet of the cavern before returning above ground to visit the gift shop. Lost River Caverns are open all year around. Summer hours, through Labor Day, are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Embrace tranquility when you visit Columcille Megalith Park, which has been compared to the United Kingdom's Stonehenge. Nearly 80 standing stones - the tallest standing at 20 feet tall - call the park home. Guests visit the park to find tranquility, to meditate, and to admire the stone structures, such as St. Columbia Chapel. Columcille Megalith Park closes at dusk each day.
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Cross a fairy tale footbridge as you explore Hammersley Wild Area, the most remote spot in Pennsylvania. Covering more than 20,000 acres, the pristine natural area welcomes visitors. However, motor vehicles are not permitted. The hidden gem features hiking trails, stunning pools of water, and an overlook that promises spectacular views of the endless rows of trees.
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Discover an incredibly rare collection of 5,000 Christian relics at Saint Anthony's Chapel in Pittsburgh. Only the Vatican itself houses more relics. Among the relics housed at Saint Anthony's include a piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, Saint Demetrius' bones, and the skull of a saint. Tour the chapel Monday through Thursday between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
While away a leisurely summer day and admire the unspoiled beauty of Swatara State Park. Spanning just over 3,500 acres, the state park features Swatara Creek, woodlands, and vast fields. Spend the day boating, fishing, or hiking one of the trails that total nearly 25 miles. Swatara State Park is open all year round from sunrise to sunset.
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Climb into a battery-powered open mine car for your journey 1,800 feet into Mahanoy Mountain. Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine provides visitors with a glimpse into the reality of life as a coal miner. After completing the 35 minute tour, go on a 30 minute ride on an old-fashioned steam engine. Explore the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine through October. Hours vary depending on the month.
Browse the shelves at the oldest book store in America. The Moravian Book Shop first opened in 1745 and has continuously operated, with some location changes, ever since. Visit for a scheduled author signing or join a discussion group. The historic book shop also sells an assortment of other products, including chocolates and Christmas decorations.
Stroll through a fairy tale when you journey to Chaticleer Garden. The 27 acre garden promises breathtaking beauty at every turn, including an elevated walkway, flowing brooks, water fountains, and stone paths. Explore the gardens - such as the Asian garden and the teacup garden - before enjoying a picnic (bring your own) in a spectacular glass house.
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Tour one of Frank Lloyd Wright's design masterpieces, tucked away in the Laurel Highlands, when you visit Fallingwater. The enchanting home, which took three years to build, partially sits atop a 30 foot waterfall. Join a guided tour of the home or make reservations for a specialty tour, such as the Sunset Tour, the Brunch Tour, or the In-Depth Tour.
Explore the historic village of St. Peters in Chester County on foot. The tiny village looks as though its stepped from the past with buildings that have changed little over the centuries. Indulge in a scrumptious treat at the Saint Peters Bakery. Hike the trails at nearby French Creek State Park. And, check in for the night at the Inn at Saint Peters Village.
How many of these hidden gems in Pennsylvania have you visited? If you like hidden gems, you’ll definitely want to check out these 10 amazing hidden restaurants in PA.
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Featured Addresses
428 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
1450 Suedberg Road, Pine Grove, PA 17963
1704 Harpster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
726 Durham Street, Hellertown, PA 18055
2155 Fox Gap Road, Bangor, PA 18013
1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, PA 15464
786 Church Road, Wayne, PA 19087