With scores of amazing destinations in every corner of the state, most of us probably find it quite a daunting task to define the ultimate Pennsylvania day trip. From exploring one of our many state parks to experiencing non-stop thrills at our favorite amusement park, we have so much fun that awaits during the summertime. One of the best ways to cap off a hot summer day is with a sunset dinner tour of Lake Erie.
Climb aboard an evening tour, where you might just be lucky enough to catch a stellar sunset aboard the Victorian Princess’ sunset dinner cruise.
Cruises set sail on select evenings from May through October, so you have plenty of time to get in a cruise (or two). The dinner menu varies with July and September featuring different options from the rest of the summer, making more than one cruise well worth it.
The cruise generally sets sail at 7 p.m., meandering along Lake Erie as the evening paints the sky glorious shades of pink, purple, and orange, and returns to land at 9 p.m.
Enjoy the scenery as it passes by before everyone gathers in the dining area for dinner. The menu features a delicious array of dishes – roasted chicken, spring mix garden salad, and fresh berries, for example. Take a look at the cruise's menus.
Victorian Princess Cruise Line also hosts a variety of other cruises – brunch cruises, moonlight cruises, and sightseeing cruises – that help create the ultimate Pennsylvania day trip. Private cruises are also available.
Have you been on the Victorian Princess? What do you think is the ultimate Pennsylvania day trip? Let us know in the comments! Ready for more on-the-water-fun? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker, you won’t find a better place to kayak than Swatara Creek in Pennsylvania.
Summer in Pennsylvania is much like the rest of the seasons: Unpredictable. How many times do we wake up to chilly temperatures and gray skies only to have the sun push the clouds aside while the temperature creeps higher and higher? What about stormy summer afternoons? We know how to go with the flow, taking whatever comes our way as we pack our schedules with some of the best things to do in Pennsylvania in summer. Whether you're scouting out the best summer vacation destinations or free things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, you'll find plenty to do all season long.
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Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Pennsylvania
From its big cities to small towns, Pennsylvania is the place to be during the hottest months of the year. The best summer vacation destinations in Pennsylvania promise something for everyone - lounging on a sandy beach, cooling off at a popular waterpark, and riding the rapids on a raging river.
Need To Know: If you're all about spending days sunbathing on the sandy shore, you won't find more beaches anywhere else.
Long, lazy beach days await on the shores in Erie, home to Presque Isle State Park's 13 sandy beaches, some of which feature lifeguards and concession stands. Even if you're not exactly a beach bum, you'll find a ton to do in this Northwestern Pennsylvania city. Enjoy an adrenaline rush at Waldameer Park and Water World; visit the adorable residents at the Erie Zoo, and dine lakeside at one of Erie's many restaurants. You'll find so many family things to do in Pennsylvania in summer that you'll likely plan a return visit.
Need To Know: Hershey is one of the top family-friendly destinations in Pennsylvania.
Savor every sweet (quite literally) moment of your time in the chocolate town of Hershey. Bursting with fun things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, Hershey promises so much to do, from thrills as you ride at Hersheypark to wandering through Hershey Gardens. Create your own candy bar at Hershey's Chocolate World, a must-visit attraction that also features a free chocolate tour.
Need To Know: Roads can sometimes be washed out going to the park, so keep an eye on conditions before heading over, especially after a lot of recent rain.
You can easily spend a day, a weekend, or longer exploring the natural beauty at
Ohiopyle State Park, home to three waterfalls, including Ohiopyle Falls and Cucumber Falls (neither requires hiking). Bring your swimming gear for a ride down Meadow Run Natural Waterslides (it can get bumpy, so you might get a little banged up). The Western Pennsylvania State Park features nearly 80 miles of hiking trails, whitewater boating, and plenty of quiet spots to picnic. Camping is also popular at this state park that boasts a full menu of fun things to do in Pennsylvania in summer.
Best Beaches & Lakes To Visit In Pennsylvania This Summer
One of the best ways to beat the scorching heat of a summer day in Pennsylvania is to throw down our beach towels, pitch our umbrellas, and wade in our favorite lake. Here are three sandy beaches in Pennsylvania that you might want to add to your itinerary when planning a beach day.
Need To Know: The beach and lake are open daily. Both day and season passes are available to purchase.
Treat yourself to an old-fashioned beach day at Mount Gretna Lake & Beach. Whether you prefer a chill beach day lying on the sandy shore or getting your adrenaline rushing diving into the lake, you'll find just what you're looking for at this popular Pennsylvania beach. Kayak, canoe, or tube on the lake; have a picnic, or indulge in summer's favorite goodies at the snack bar.
Need To Know: The lake is ADA-accessible with a ramp into the water and a beach wheelchair.
Pack your beach gear for a day at Laurel Lake, nestled in Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset. You'll find plenty of room to drop your beach towel or chair on the 1,200-foot sandy beach. The lake measures five feet at its deepest point, but swimming is only allowed in the buoyed areas. (There are no lifeguards.) Bring a picnic or grab a bite from the concession stand.
Need To Know: The beach is seasonal and swim at your own risk.
Soak up the summer sun at FJ Sayers Lake at Bald Eagle State Park, one of the best free things to do in Pennsylvania in summer. The 1,200-foot sandy beach is ADA-accessible and features such amenities as a playground, changing rooms, and public restrooms. Swimming, boating, and fishing are popular lake activities. If a day isn't enough, stay in a yurt or a camping cottage at the campground, or book a room at The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle.
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Parks To Visit In Pennsylvania This Summer
Summer in Pennsylvania was practically made for building sand castles on the edge of crystal-clear lakes, riding coasters that leave our hearts pounding, and zipping down waterslides to stay cool on hot afternoons. Here are just a few parks to visit in Pennsylvania this summer.
While away the hours lounging on the sandy beach or exploring Parker Dam State Park on one of its 13 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most popular Pennsylvania summer activities, including boating and picnicking, can be found at this cozy 968-acre state park. Rustic cabins are available for rent by the week during the summer.
Need To Know: The popular outdoor waterpark generally opens for the season in mid-June.
With more than 37 water attractions, Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark is the place to go for summer fun. Both daily and season passes are available for what's billed as the largest outdoor waterpark in Pennsylvania. You never have to worry about getting rained out because Camelback Mountain Resort is also home to Aquatopia, a massive indoor waterpark.
Need To Know: Knoebels is known as "America's largest free-admission amusement park."
Enjoy a throwback adventure at Knoebels Amusement Resort, an old-fashioned amusement park where admission is free. Passes are available, or you can purchase tickets just like in the good ol' days. One of the best cheap things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, Knoebels features rides for the little ones and those seeking an adrenaline rush. For a more old-school experience, ride the antique cars, the bumper cars, or the carousel. Cool off in the swimming pool; indulge in summer's tastiest treats, and play classic amusement park games.
Best Free Summer Activities In Pennsylvania
Summer in Pennsylvania doesn't have to break the bank. We can find plenty of cheap things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, but even better? Some of the most amazing free things to do in summer in Pennsylvania promise one-of-a-kind experiences and unforgettable memories.
Need To Know: Falls Trail leads to all 21-named waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park.
You won't find a more enchanting way to spend a summer day than following the nearly eight-mile Falls Trail through Ricketts Glen State Park. The challenging trail will lead you to 21 glorious waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. If you don't have the time, opt for the 3.2-mile Highland Loop Trail that offers a glimpse of most of the park's cascades. While the waterfalls are inarguably the highlight of Ricketts Glen State Park, the park also offers such amenities as a sandy beach, boating, horseback riding, and picnicking.
Need To Know: Bring a blanket and a jacket as it can get quite cool, even during the summer, on the mountaintop.
Home to some of the darkest skies on the eastern seaboard, Cherry Springs State Park is the place for stargazing in Pennsylvania. The stargazing field sits perched atop a 2,300-foot mountain. The Night Sky Public Viewing Area is ideal if you're planning to spend a few hours gazing at the nighttime sky. Serious astronomers tend to use The Overnight Astronomy Observation Field.
Need To Know: The swimming hole is deep, which can be dangerous, so make sure you're a strong swimmer if you decide to venture into the water.
A beautifully blue swimming hole in Forbes State Forest, Blue Hole sits along the moderately challenging 2.7-mile Cole Run Trail. Sturdy shoes are necessary, and some hikers recommend hiking poles to make the journey easier. The swimming hole is popular, so don't be surprised if it is crowded.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In Pennsylvania
Summer just wouldn't be summer without a few trips to our favorite county, community, and neighborhood fairs. Some of my best memories from childhood are of going to our local firemen's carnival and church fairs (homemade pierogis!). Reclaim a bit of that childhood magic with a visit to one of the best summer events and festivals in Pennsylvania. Here are a few to get you started.
Need To Know: Some concert tickets are already on sale.
Celebrate summer at the annual Clearfield County Fair, an epic event that runs for nine days in July. The county fair features everything we remember from childhood: an old-fashioned carnival, good eats, and a full schedule of live entertainment. Highlights of the 2024 entertainment lineup include Rick Springfield, Riley Green, and Warren Zeiders.
Mark your calendar for the Clarion County Fair, which rolls into town for seven days in late July each year. From bingo to laser tag, the family-friendly fair features something for everyone. A tractor pull, a truck pull, a pet show, and a demolition derby are some of the fair's highlights.
Need To Know: Tickets are already on sale for the 2024 event.
If you've ever wanted to fly in a hot air balloon, now's your chance. The Chester County Hot Air Balloon Festival is coming to Kennett Square for an epic weekend in mid-June. The weekend will feature balloon flights, balloon glows, and a balloon you can walk through. Both tethered and untethered flights will be available. That's just the start of the fun that also includes live entertainment, kids' activities, and delicious food.
Summer tends to go by so quickly that we usually want to hold onto to every golden moment. What are you favorite things to do in Pennsylvania in summer? What would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments! If you plan on hitting the road this summer, check out the OIYS road trip essentials packing list.
Day-tripping just might be the best cure for wanderlust, especially when we don’t have the time or the funds for a full-blown getaway. Pennsylvania is brimming with unique destinations, making it tough to decide where to go next. A charming and historic destination, Bristol is one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania. It is the perfect picture-perfect day trip destination the whole family will love.
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A small town just over 20 miles from Philadelphia, Bristol draws visitors for its historic charm, good eats, and a long list of events that are held throughout the year.
The Delaware River separates this enchanting Pennsylvania town from Burlington, New Jersey, which means some pretty spectacular water views await, especially if you stop by Bristol Wharf.
Soak up the sights and sounds of nature, too, with a trip to Silver Lake Nature Center, which features picturesque hiking trails.
Originally known as Buckingham Township when it was founded in 1681, Bristol didn’t earn its current name until 1702. One of its earliest businesses, and one that remains today, is the King George II Inn.
As old as Bristol itself and the oldest continuously operating inn in America, its historic restaurant has hosted an impressive list of political figures – from General George Washington to President James Madison.
Even if you’re not a history buff, stop by this charming restaurant for a bite to eat. It dishes up a slew of classics, including meatloaf, burgers, and English fish and chips.
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Get a glimpse of Bristol’s rich history by spending a bit of time at its many historic sites. Delaware Canal State Park and Grundy Woolen Mill are must-visits and stroll down Radcliffe Streets, perhaps Bristol’s most historic road.
Carve out time to explore Bristol’s quaint shops, and see if you can time your visit for one of its many annual events – the Puerto Rican Festival in July, African American Day in August, and the Italian Festival in September.
Day-tripping to Bristol means not having to worry about finding parking spaces and walking long distances. Hop aboard the River Runner, a shuttle that will take you from its parking lot to downtown.
Do you have a favorite town in Pennsylvania that’s the perfect day trip? Have you been to Bristol? Let us know in the comments what you think are the best small towns in Pennsylvania! If you’ve got more than a day, follow this road trip to the best hidden gems in Pennsylvania.
