A person could conceivably spend a lifetime traveling through Pennsylvania, exploring all the natural and made made wonders that decorate the state. Pennsylvania offers so much to do that deciding where to start can pose a hefty challenge. The next time you're on the hunt for something different to do, consider visiting one of these 10 marvels in Pennsylvania that really have to be seen to be believed.
1. Johnstown Inclined Plane, Johnstown
Climb aboard the Johnstown Inclined Plane, the steepest "vehicular incline" in the world at a 70.9 percent grade, and head to the top of Yoder Hill for a view of the city below that will leave you spellbound. The incline has played a pivotal role in Johnstown history, saving an estimated 4,000 residents from certain death during the flood of 1936.
2. Fallingwater, Mill Run
How amazing would it be to wake up every morning, look down, and see a waterfall directly below you? Well, that's what the Kaufmann family did for years in the architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Visitors flock to Fallingwater, which was built in 1938, to tour both the interior and the lush surrounding grounds. Advanced reservations are encouraged.
3. Ringing Rocks, Upper Black Eddy
Sprawling across 128 acres, Ringing Rocks Park promises plenty of traditional outdoor activities – from hiking to picnicking – but nothing is quite as unique as approximately seven acres of boulders packed tightly together. Bring your hammer and gently hit the boulders to discover one of the most spectacular wonders in Pennsylvania – the ringing rocks. When you hit the rock with the hammer, the rocks ring.
4. The Horseshoe Curve, Altoona
The rugged Allegheny Mountains posed a tough challenge for railroad engineers, in the mid-1850s, who had to determine how to design railroad tracks to successfully circumvent the mountains. The 2,375 foot Horseshoe Curve transformed travel in Pennsylvania. Today, visitors flock to Horseshoe Curve, stopping by the visitors center before ascending the mountain on an incline for a close-up view of the railroad tracks.
5. The Reading Pagoda, Reading
Children all over Reading glance hopefully at the Reading Pagoda each Christmas Eve, waiting for the red lights to flash letting them know that Santa Claus is on his way. The unique building, first designed to be an upscale hotel, now belongs to Reading's residents and features a cafe and a gift shop.
6. Rockville Bridge, Marysville
Marysville has something pretty impressive about which to brag. The Rockville Bridge, which has been called the world's longest stone arch bridge, calls Marysville home. The 3,820 foot bridge, which opened in 1902, is used by trains to travel over the Susquehanna River.
7. Grey Towers, Milford
Embrace the past when you visit Grey Towers, a sprawling estate built in 1886 and once owned by former Pennsylvania Governor Gifford Pinchot who, along with his family, would later donate the home and its 102 acres to the U.S. Forest Service. Grey Towers welcomes visitors to join a guided tour or to embark on a self-guided tour of both the mansion and the grounds.
8. Pine Creek Gorge, Wellsboro
Nature painted perhaps one of the state's most spellbinding natural wonders with Pine Creek Gorge, also affectionately known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. The nearly 1,500 foot deep gorge spans 47 miles and promises amazing views from observation decks in both Colton Point State Park and Leonard Harrison State Park.
9. Magic Gardens, Philadelphia
Creativity is on full display at Magic Gardens in Philadelphia. The vibrant gallery space and community arts center, calls the inside of one of Isaiah Zagar’s artistic masterpieces home. Visitors will get a firsthand education in such types of art as visionary, folk, and mosaic.
10. Ganoga Falls, Fairmount Township
Ganoga Falls, a 94 foot waterfall that cascades in Ricketts Glen State Park, draws admirers from all over the state. Pack your camera because Ganoga Falls, although certainly the most impressive water fall in the park, is one among 24 waterfalls that inspire park visitors to snap selfies and portraits of the natural wonders.
These 10 natural and man made wonders in Pennsylvania are pretty good evidence that we live in an amazing state. Already visited most of these spots? Then, check out more stunning places you must visit in Pennsylvania.
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