Pennsylvanians appreciate a little bit of art here and there. Whether you despise the hooligans who vandalize our walls, or you absolutely adore coming across interesting and unique pieces of art in unexpected places... There is no denying that well-done street art takes a lot of talent. Here are some really cool pieces of graffiti from the state of Pennsylvania.
This mural is similar to a brain teaser that tests your perception; from far away, it looks like a figure crying toward the sky, but up close it just looks like an emaciated face.
This one is in downtown Pittsburgh. It's a mural by none other than Shepard Fairey himself, the street artist famous for his "OBEY" campaign as well as designing Obama's 2008 election poster.
Do you have any cool graffiti stories? Share them in the comments below.
You already know that Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is known for its rich American history. Interesting landmarks, monuments, and markers are scattered throughout the quaint, little town. And of course, there is the historic battlefield that has been declared a National Military Park. Gettysburg also has its fair share of museums, including some you may not expect. On a recent trip to the area, my family and I visited the Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum, and I have to tell you, this was one of the most unique museums I have ever encountered!
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I’ve seen lots of dioramas in my travels, but nothing quite like the exhibits at this museum. While most battle recreations are depicted using models of people, the battles at the Homestead Diorama Museum use models of cats!
That's right, the displays depict cat soldiers (more than 8,000 of them) to recreate the Battle of Gettysburg and other significant Civil War events.
The Civil War Tails (note the play on words) recreation was one of my family’s first stops on our trip to town. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by one of the museum's owners and her friendly dog, Joanie
The owner was very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions about the displays. She told us that she and her twin sister have been creating the figures for the past 28 years. She said that their love of felines drove them to use models of cats instead of people.
The museum was small but definitely worth the visit. The depictions of the battles are detailed and historically accurate. The sisters built the dioramas to scale with a one-to-one ratio, offering a unique 3-D view of what the historic battles actually looked like.
We spent quite a while looking at the various displays. We saw cats fighting on horseback, cats shooting smoking cannons, and cats carrying wounded kitty soldiers on stretchers. There were also feline figures of famous generals and other notable soldiers. The displays additionally contained information about the battles and instructions on how to create some of the details in the exhibits.
It was evident that Rebecca and Ruth had an abundant knowledge of American history and poured their hearts and souls into the museum.
One of our favorite dioramas is the museum's newest recreation. The Little Round Top display was a long labor of love that was completed earlier this year. The diorama, which is 11 feet long, depicts a significant battle in the war.
Other dioramas recreated significant Civil War events outside of Gettysburg. There was a fascinating display of Fort Sumter and a depiction of the Battle between the Ironclads.
Not only was our visit to the Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum a unique stop on our trip, but it was also an informative start to our Gettysburg visit. It allowed us to learn about the war and the battle in a fun and unique way. I especially appreciated my newfound knowledge
when we stepped foot on the battlefield the following day.
While you are in Gettysburg, I suggest visiting the Sachs Covered Bridge and dining at the Dobbin House Tavern, the oldest restaurant in the town. We really enjoyed the food and drinks here.
Pennsylvania boasts a long and storied history that we can experience by visiting the many historic attractions and sites throughout the state. But what happens when we want a glimpse into the past but we simply don’t have the time or the funds to travel all over the state? We head over to this four-story museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. It promises plenty to see and do for the whole family.
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Get a fascinating glimpse of Pennsylvania’s cultural and natural history at the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. The four-story museum features permanent and changing exhibits, a planetarium, and the hands-on Curiosity Connection for little ones.
Before you head into the museum, find parking at one of the metered spots or parking lots near the museum.
As you stroll through the museum, you’ll come to several permanent exhibits (which are spread out on different floors), including a tribute to Pennsylvania’s icons. The more than 350 artifacts provide insight into the contribution of Pennsylvanians to society.
The Village Square, described as a “life-size streetscape,” will take you back to the 19th century with its general store, tin store, and other storefronts.
With its changing exhibits, the museum is a must-visit more than once. Changing exhibits have honored African American veterans in Pennsylvania, the women in Pennsylvania who have made history, and Benjamin Franklin.
If you can’t make it to Harrisburg, check out some of the online exhibits.
Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the events at the planetarium. The museum itself also hosts a variety of events, including story time and homeschool programs.
Kiddos five and younger can explore and have a ton of fun at Curiosity Connection. The hands-on exhibits allow kids to climb, play with toy trucks, and explore.
The museum, which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, charges an admission fee and an additional, nominal fee for the planetarium. Memberships are also available.
Have you been to this four-story museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Do you have any tips for those who plan to visit? Let us know in the comments! While you’re in Harrisburg, why not explore a bit outdoors, too? Slip on your hiking boots for an adventure at Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area, a natural wonder in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
