10 Underrated Places In Pennsylvania To Take An Out-Of-Towner

Your great-aunt Margaret is coming to town this weekend, all the way from Utah. Or maybe your long-lost childhood best friend is stopping by to catch up. What should you show them that isn't overdone, overhyped, tacky, or touristy? Here are 10 underrated places in Pennsylvania that are perfect for taking an out-of-towner.

1. Mütter Museum, Philadelphia

Our list of underrated places in Pennsylvania kicks off with a total gem. If your guest enjoys the weirder things in life, the Mütter Museum is your first stop. Not your typical museum, it showcases a medical collection of oddities and gross specimens. Learn more, including days and hours, on the official website of Mutter Museum.

2. Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle, Doylestown

The Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle aren't as grotesque as the Mütter Museum, but they are just as steeped in fascinating history. Henry Mercer was an anthropologist who, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, built an incredible collection of pre-industrial artifacts. They are now on display here, in what was once his striking property. Stop by the official website of The Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle.

3. The Ephrata Cloister, Ephrata

The Ephrata Cloister was a religious community formed in the small town of Ephrata in the early 18th century. The community lived a strict ascetic lifestyle that involved a limited diet, sleep, and celibacy. Today, the grounds where the cloister once lived are administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. Head over to the official website of The Ephrata Cloister.

4. Bube's Brewery, Mount Joy

Bube's Brewery is a great, memorable place to take an out-of-town guest for lunch or dinner. It is an historic 19th century brewery, that not only has four dining areas, but an art gallery, ghost tours, murder mystery parties, and more. Check out the Catacombs Restaurant, pictured above. Find more information on the official website of Bube's Brewery.

5. Columcille Megalith Park, Bangor

Columcille Megalith Park is one of Pennsylvania's best-kept secrets. It is a meditative space, inspired by the Celtic Isle of Iona. It is a serene location to spend time with a person you haven't seen in a long time. Head over to the official website of Columcille Megalith Park for more information.

6. Kinzua Bridge State Park, McKean County

The Kinzua Bridge was once considered one of the country's greatest manmade wonders. Until it collapsed in 2003, it was the fourth tallest railway bridge in the country. Today, it is one of the most popular state parks in Pennsylvania, where visitors can observe the effects of nature upon the bridge's ruins. Learn more on the official website of Kinzua Bridge State Park.

7. Ringing Rocks Park, Bucks County

Here's a weird activity that your guest won't be forgetting. Bring a hammer (and safety glasses, if you're worried about dust getting in your eyes), and try tapping on the rocks at Ringing Rocks State Park. True to their name, they emit a ringing sound when struck... How unusual. Here's the official website of Ringing Rocks Park.

8. Randyland, Pittsburgh

Does your friend like art? Quirky, outsider art, in particular? Randyland, located in Pittsburgh's North Side, is truly one of the most underrated places in Pennsylvania. The house-museum itself is impressive, but I'm told that Randy is also a fantastic host. Check out the official website of Randyland.

9. Elk Country Visitors Center, Benzette

Pennsylvania is home to one of the largest wild-roaming herd of elk in the country, located in Benezette County. Visit and admire the majestic animals. Stop by the official website of Elk Country Visitor Center for more information.

10. Cherry Springs State Park, West Branch

In the middle of Pennsylvania is Cherry Springs State Park, one of the state's most gorgeous parks. Not only is it nice during the daytime, but at night, it really becomes irresistible. Some of the darkest night skies on the eastern side of the country can be found here, making Cherry Springs a destination for professional astronomers and amateur stargazers. Learn more on the official website of Cherry Springs State Park.

What else would you add to this list of underrated places in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! Then check out these 10 unique day trips in Pennsylvania that are an absolute must do.