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Pennsylvania Vacation Ideas That Are Free, Or Almost Free

Author Anne Erickson
(Posnov/Getty Images)

Travel season is in full swing. Pennsylvania has some fantastic areas to take in during the summer months, or any season, really. But, what if you want to save some money this travel season? That doesn’t mean you have to skimp on fun. There are plenty of great Pennsylvania vacation ideas that are free, or almost free.

Of course, to begin with, planning a vacation within driving distance is a huge help with costs. So, whether you live on the west side of the state, near Pittsburgh, or the east side of the state near Philadelphia you have plenty of options. Read on for some areas in Pennsylvania that you can visit for free, or very cheap.

Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon. Did you know that Pennsylvania has its own “Grand Canyon?” It’s really cool. The area, called the Pine Creek Gorge, is about 50 miles long and more than 1,000 feet deep in some areas. This makes for some fantastic hiking. Find the area online here.

The Liberty Bell. Not many states have a national landmark that’s recognized by people around the world. But, Pennsylvania has The Liberty Bell, which represents the United States. You can check it out, in Philadelphia, for free. The bell once hung in the Pennsylvania State House, which is the current Independence Hall.

Edgar Allan Poe Historic Site. The National Park Service runs the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, and it’s free to visit. It features fantastic exhibits about Edgar Allan Poe’s work. Of course, Poe lived in Philadelphia in the 1800s, so he has a deep history with this state. This is a creepy cool exhibit.

The Pocono Mountains. The Pocono Mountains offer scenic parks, vistas and views. Taking a drive through the Poconos can be free, memory-making vacation experience that only costs you gas. You’ll view plenty of lakes, ponds, wildlife and more.

10 Magical Pennsylvania Places to Visit

  • Hickory Run State Park

    Hickory Run State Park is about an hour and 40 minutes from Philadelphia and four and a half hours from Pittsburgh. It’s a beautiful spot with two lakes, a boulder field and more than 40 miles of hiking trails. That’s not to mention the gorgeous waterfalls.

    HICKORY RUN STATE PARK, PA

    The 15,990-acre Hickory Run State Park, Carbon County, lies in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains. This large park has over 40 miles of hiking trails, three state park natural areas and miles of trout streams.

  • Gettysburg

    If you’re looking for a tourist haven in Pennsylvania, look no further than Gettysburg. There’s obviously so much history here. During the Halloween season, this is a great choice, because they offer a ghost tour. The tour is available year-round, but it’s extra perfect around Halloween. Of course, visitors can tour the roughly 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park and more.

    Gettysburg National Military Park (U.S. National Park Service)

    The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War, the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion", Gettysburg was the Civil War's bloodiest battle and was also the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln's immortal "Gettysburg Address".

  • Hershey

    Hershey is often called “The Sweetest Place on Earth.” Of course, it’s the home of Hershey’s Chocolate. Here, you’ll find Hershey’s Chocolate World, tour of the facility to watch how Hershey’s chocolate and candy are made and more. I want some chocolate right now.

  • The Poconos

    The Poconos offer a great adventure for anyone in the area. This mountain range is located in northeastern Pennsylvania. It features several state parks packed with waterfalls, forests, lakes and streams, so it’s a truly magical place. It’s also great for hiking, swimming, camping and horse riding.

    Visit the Poconos

    Planning a vacation to the Pocono Mountains? Find information on resorts and hotels, family activities, events, restaurants, weddings and things to do.

  • Allegheny National Forest

    Allegheny National Forest is actually Pennsylvania’s only national forest. Anyone who loves the outdoors would likely take in this spot, with more than 500,000 acres of pure forest. The forest also has a reservoir for fishing, windsurfing and water skiing and more water fun. It’s really the perfect, remote getaway.

    Allegheny National Forest - Home

    Home Page

  • Hyner View State Park

    If you want social media-worthy images, then Hyner View State Park is for you. Stationed in north-central Pennsylvania, this quaint park overlooks the Susquehanna River and offers a gorgeous, complete view of the river and surrounding mountains. It’s a choice spot for hang gliding, too.

    Hyner View State Park

    This small park features one of the nicest overlooks in DCNR's Bureau of State Parks and is popular for hang gliding. Hyner Run State Park is nearby. Hyner View State Park features a scenic vista and is a favorite spot for hang gliding.

  • Lake Wallenpaupack

    If water is your thing, then try visiting Lake Wallenpaupack during the warm months. What’s crazy is that this is actually a man-made lake. It’s huge and one of the largest in the state, at about 5,700 acres. Some things to do there in the summer include water skiing, swimming, boating, kayaking and more. Oh, and don’t forget camping, which is big around these parts.

    Lake Wallenpaupack | Lodging, Camping, Activities & Dining

    Visit Lake Wallenpaupack, the third largest man-made lake in Pennsylvania. Find hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, shopping, and more, all at your fingertips.

  • Philadelphia

    Be a tourist in your own town and visit Philadelphia this season. Philly is one of America’s favorite tourist destinations. It offers the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and many other historical landmarks. Philadelphia also has an award-winning Zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, and countless museums. There’s lots to do in Philly no matter the season.

  • Pittsburgh

    On the west side of the state, you’ll find Pittsburgh, which offers lots of travel fun. While it might not be considered quite as big a travel destination and Philly, it’s getting there. One big draw is the Andy Warhol Museum, which offers a huge collection of the late pop-art great’s work. Oh, and if you’re feeling daring, try the Duquesne Incline, which takes riders to the top of Mount Washington.

  • Leonard Harrison State Park

    The Leonard Harrison State Park offers an incredible view of the PA Grand Canyon, often called the Pine Creek Gorge. What’s extra special is that Leonard Harrison State Park offers a food truck concession during the summertime, so it’s easy and fun to get some local grub while you’re enjoying the nature.

    Leonard Harrison State Park

    On the east rim of the canyon, the 585-acre Leonard Harrison State Park has modern facilities, a visitor center, and the most famous scenic views of the canyon. On the other side of the canyon is Colton Point State Park. The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset.

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.

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