Here Are The 10 Best Places In Pennsylvania To Visit On A Long Weekend

Spring has sprung. Well, at least, we're officially into spring. The weather, however, may not be cooperating in all of PA. Now's the perfect time to start planning those long weekend getaways. Want to kick back and relax? Explore a new town? Whatever your goal, these 10 places in Pennsylvania offer plenty to do on a long weekend.

1. Lancaster

Spend a long weekend exploring the Amish country in Lancaster. Dine at quaint Amish restaurants. Tour the Amish countryside on a horse drawn buggy. Have dinner and a show at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre. Or, ride the coasters at Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park. Lancaster promises plenty to do for visitors of all ages.

2. Gettysburg

Gettysburg beckons history lovers and those intrigued with the paranormal. Discover the role Gettysburg played in the Civil War. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park & Museum, the Jennie Wade House, and the Gettysburg Heritage Center. (That, of course, is just the beginning.) Hoping to spot an apparition? Check into the Farnsworth House Inn or the Gettysburg Hotel.

3. Renovo

Really want to get away from it all? Renovo's the perfect destination. The most remote town in Pennsylvania, Renovo offers tranquility and plenty to do. Wile away the hours shopping at quaint antique shops. Stop by Greater Renovo Heritage Park. And, explore nearby Sproul State Forest or Kettle Creek State Park. Renovo also hosts the popular PA State Flaming Foliage Festival in October.

4. Eagle’s Mere

Visit one of the charming village of Eagle Mere's quaint museums, such as the Eagles Mere Museum and the Eagles Mere Air Museum. The tiny village of less than 120 full-time residents is also near Worlds End State Park. Please note that the village shops, museums, and special events are open to the public, but you'll have to be a member of the Eagles Mere Association to use the lake, beach, or lake trail.

5. Hershey

Planning a long weekend away with the family? Your significant other? Or, a group of friends? Hershey's a perfect destination. Of course, you can enjoy a day of action-packed excitement at Hershey Park. Other popular Hershey attractions include Hershey Gardens, Hershey's Chocolate World, and Hershey Gardens. Take in a show at Hershey Theatre. Or, stop by ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park.

6. Lititz

Quaint charm defines the storybook town of Lititz. Explore Main Street, dotted with shops like The Teddy Bear Emporium, Candy*ology, and Wilbur Chocolate. Learn how to twist pretzels at Julius Sturgis Pretzel Factory. And, get an up close look at the wolves at Wolf Sanctuary.

7. Ricketts Glen State Park

Embrace nature with a long weekend at Ricketts Glen State Park. An ideal spot for camping, pitch a tent or rent a modern cabin for your weekend getaway. Of course, RIcketts Glen State Park is famous for its 22 waterfalls. Hike along Falls Trail for spectacular views of 21 of those waterfalls. Other popular activities at the state park include horseback riding, swimming, boating, and wildlife watching.

8. Delaware Gap Recreation Area

Spend the weekend in both PA and New Jersey with a visit to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The 70,000-acre natural area boasts an array of camping sites along the river and in the back country. Of course, if you prefer modern conveniences, opt for a stay at one of the developed campgrounds. The recreation area offers such activities as hiking, boating, swimming, and picnicking.

9. Allegheny National Forest

Explore some of the more than half a million acres that comprise Allegheny National Forest. The only national forest in the state features numerous natural areas like the Tionesta Research Natural Area. Drive along Longhouse National Scenic Byway. Stop for spectacular views from Jakes Rocks Overlook. Or, explore near the Allegheny Reservoir.

10. Laurel Highlands

Escape to the mountains with a long weekend in the Laurel Highlands. Love antiquing? Head to one of the many quaint antique shops in the area. Design fascinate you? Check out Fallingwater. And, of course, a trip to the Laurel Highlands wouldn't be complete without spending time at Ohiopyle State Park.

So, what are your favorite places in Pennsylvania for a long weekend and why? Click here to read about 10 off-the-grid places in Pennsylvania that also promise a relaxing getaway.