Pennsylvania

While Pennsylvania is well known for it's contribution to the Nation's history and formation there is so much more to this state than the Liberty Bell, Gettysburg and Valley Forge. The state has a variety of unique "firsts" and "one and only".

Of course you won't want to miss Gettysburg's 6000 acre National Military Park that includes over 1,400 markers, memorials and monuments along 26 miles of park roads that pay tribute to the soldiers who fought and died here. There is also a scenic rail tour through Gettysburg.

The area around Philadelphia is rich in history and fantastic beauty. Independence Hall, Valley Forge, the Liberty Bell and the still quaint towns that surround this memorable city makes this northern region of the state a vacation in itself. There are wineries, bed and breakfast inns, winding country roads and four star restaurants to invite travelers to spend time and enjoy themselves.

The Pennsylvania Dutch Country is home to the state capital, Harrisburg. And another sweet treat awaits visitors in Hershey, the home of many famous chocolate treats. There is diversity here in rail roads, coal mines tours, the oldest brewery in the nation, historic battlegrounds. There are amusement parks, theaters, and great fly fishing adventures.

Nearby, in the mountain regions there are small Victorian towns and covered bridges that weave through the state parks and forests.

Speaking of forests; Pennsylvania has it's own Grand Canyon where wildlife abounds. Eagles, mountain lions, coyote and the largest herd of free roaming elk east of the Mississippi live and thrive here. Visitors have the opportunity to rappel down rocky cliffs, bike or hike over challenging trails and visit ice caves. Rimrock Overlook, Pine Creek Trail and the 240 mile West Branch Susquehanna River Water Trail are outdoor adventures that offer variety and memorable experiences for everyone.

Lake Erie is the 13th largest natural lake in the world. It therefore offers an equally large variety of activities. It has the only surf beach in Pennsylvania. Water sports including boating, fishing, swimming, bird watching, water skiing and scuba diving are all here. Fishing here is year-round for those who can't get enough of the sport.

One last, but not least stop for many is York, home of Harley Davidson's largest factory. It covers 230 acres. Anyone who has a "bike" or dreams of the freedom of the open road will want to make this a stop. The state has several scenic routes for bike lovers. Route 6 is said to be one of the most scenic drives in the country. 400 hundred miles of mountains, forests, valleys, historic sites and unusual stops awaits riders. There is "Bike Night" every Thursday at the Quaker Steak & Lube. There is also an annual dice run in association with National Zippo Day.

The Lincoln Highway is an historic route that also has attractions and diversions for bikers. This road is the nation's first transcontinental highway that catered to the early automobile enthusiasts. From tasty local food to road rallies, swap meets and roadside attractions not found anywhere else, Pennsylvania country is a sight to behold.

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