Pennsylvania’s Most Underrated Tourist Spots, According to Locals

Reddit is a goldmine for information and discussion, something I discovered as I fell down the rabbit hole when researching true crime. Since then, Reddit has become one of my go-to spots online, a fun place for discussion (and maybe some lighthearted banter) and connecting with other Pennsylvanians. So, when I started thinking about the most underrated tourist spots in Pennsylvania, I naturally turned to Reddit. Here are just a few of the hidden gems in Pennsylvania that score high marks from local Redditors.

1. Shawnee State Park – Schellsburg

We're fortunate to have 124 state parks in Pennsylvania, but we can easily overlook a few gems with so many. Sprawled across more than 3,980 acres in Bedford County, Shawnee State Park is one of those hidden treasures that promises something for everyone, whether you feel like exploring on an easy hike or getting your adrenaline pumping with a round or two of disc golf. Summer's all about lounging on the sand and turf beach, picnicking by or boating on Shawnee Lake, and falling asleep under the stars. (Camping is seasonal.) Add a winter visit to this year-round state park to your to-do list, too, to go sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.

2. Tytoona Cave Nature Preserve – Tyrone

Unless you're an avid adventurer, you may not have heard of Tytoona Cave Nature Preserve, a 6.8-acre natural area home to Tytoona Cave. While the cave doesn't have tours, you can explore it on your own. However, you must fill out a waiver and request a permit to visit the nature preserve. Bring a flashlight. (You might want to keep your smartphone charged and use its flashlight if you forget to bring one.) When conditions are ideal, you should be able to explore the first 1,000 feet inside the cave.

3. Erie Bluffs – Erie

Presque Isle State Park tends to grab the spotlight in Erie, and rightfully so. Its 13 beaches beckon locals and tourists in the summer, promising long, leisurely days sunbathing, swimming, boating, and picnicking. But, if you prefer a quieter destination at any time of the year, visit Erie Bluffs State Park. A natural wonder, the 587-acre hidden gem is largely undeveloped, with four hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate. While it has one mile of shoreline, swimming is not allowed. (Fishing and boating are permitted.) A stroll through the forest and a meadow leads to the park's masterpiece: 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie.  

4. Knoebels Amusement Resort – Elysburg

We did things a little differently in the 20th century. Summer trips to our favorite amusement park meant carefully plotting how we would use our ride tickets, and, in later years, we would wrestle with the paper unlimited ride bracelet on our wrist, trying to rip it off at the end of the night. Enjoy a dose of nostalgia at Knoebels Amusement Resort, a free admission attraction that still sells tickets or all-day ride passes if you plan to ride a lot. Even if you usually don't ride, buy a few tickets for the old-school carousel or the antique cars. If you're all about epic adrenaline rushes, climb aboard one of the six coasters. From a bald eagle habitat and mini golf to classic treats and an old-school arcade, Knoebels offers something for everyone.

5. Tank Hollow Trail – Jim Thorpe

Tank Hollow Trail's waterfalls, wildflowers, and breathtaking views showcase Pennsylvania's natural beauty, earning it a nod as a hidden gem from local Redditors. The easy trail meanders 3.3 miles through state game lands near Jim Thorpe. Lace up your hiking shoes, put on your pup's leash, and gather the kids for an adventure through the woods. Prepare for some rocky terrain on the journey to an overlook with awe-inspiring views of Lehigh Gorge.

What are your favorite underrated tourist spots in Pennsylvania? Let us know by nominating them, and then check out more hidden gems that belong on every Pennsylvanian's bucket list. Discover some of our faves using our new Travel Planner!