Pennsylvania vacation rentals

History and culture near Pennsylvania vacation home rentals

Boasting rolling fields, sprawling forests and enormous mountains, Pennsylvania is a picturesque place with a fascinating past. From storied landmarks such as Independence Hall to the cracked and weathered Liberty Bell, the state's heritage is preserved in countless historical sites and museums. Pennsylvania vacation rentals offer endless experiences, from tasty cheesesteaks and world-class art in vibrant Philadelphia, to professional sports and a rich industrial past in the "Steel City" of Pittsburgh. Add in the great outdoors and the theme parks dotted around the state and it's clear that Pennsylvania offers attractions for all.

Discover Pennsylvania's past in historic Philadelphia

Like to see the state's best-known attractions? Choose a Pennsylvania vacation rental in Philadelphia and you'll be at the heart of it all. Visit Independence Hall, a redbrick Georgian building where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed, and be sure to see the iconic Liberty Bell, a symbol of American freedom, which is now situated in the adjacent park. Cast in the 1750s and featuring a distinctive crack, the bell was last sounded in 1846 and is a must-see attraction. For a fun-filled excursion, chocolate lovers can head to the much-loved Hersheypark, which boasts roller coasters, rides for children, a water park and a factory-themed tour ride.

Things to do near Pennsylvania vacation homes

When it comes to family-friendly days out, Pennsylvania is packed with opportunities. There are theme parks for thrill-seekers, including Hersheypark, Kennywood, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, and numerous natural beauty spots for those preferring something more peaceful. Kick back on the beaches of Lake Erie, ski the mountain slopes in winter and enjoy cycling, kayaking, fishing and more than 600-miles of hiking trails at the picturesque Allegheny National Forest. There's stacks to do in the cities, too, whether you want to devour cheesesteaks, sample seasonal beers at a brewery, shop until you drop or delve into the state's well-preserved history.

Best time to travel to Pennsylvania vacation homes

The state's diverse landscape means weather conditions can vary, depending on where you choose your Pennsylvania vacation rental. For the most part, winters are chilly and summers hot and humid. Pennsylvania's mountainous interior tends to be much colder in the winter, with a greater snowfall that makes it a haven for winter sports fans. Not coming to ski? Fall is a great time to visit, with September offering pleasant daytime highs in the 70s. Pennsylvania can experience severe weather from time to time. Tornados can be encountered here, although they're usually not too destructive or dangerous.

Explore the great outdoors in stunning Pennsylvania

From the sandy shores of Lake Erie and the misty Appalachian Mountains to the endless green forests and manicured fields occupied by quaint Amish farms, Pennsylvania is a picturesque place. As well as providing a playground for outdoor adventures, the diverse landscape also offers a home to an abundance of wildlife. Nature lovers can admire deer, elk and foxes in the state's vast forests, while bears and otters can be seen at the Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. Those with a penchant for bird watching should head to Fort Washington State Park, where the migrations of raptor species, including hawks and eagles, take place in fall.

Transportation to and around Pennsylvania

Fly into Harrisburg Intl. Airport (MDT), the closest airport, located 8.4 mi (13.5 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Harrisburg, PA (HAR-Capital City), which is 3.6 mi (5.7 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, Harrisburg Transportation Center, Middletown Station and Elizabethtown Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around Pennsylvania by jumping on the metro at Dekalb Street Station, Bridgeport Station or Hughes Park Station.

Culinary culture in Pennsylvania

From authentic Dutch cuisine to iconic cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania has a range of culinary delights. Pittsburgh boasts massive sandwiches piled high with meat and cheese, Philadelphia is known for its cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, and shoofly pie and whoopie pies are common staples in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. No matter your craving, you'll find a range of unique foods to sample near your vacation rental.

Romantic vacation rentals in Pennsylvania

From the peaceful outdoor spaces to the world-class museums, Pennsylvania is filled with unique attractions for a romantic retreat. Vacation rentals are available near places like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a famed art museum with renaissance classics and rotating exhibits, and Longwood Gardens, a sprawling landscape with elegant gardens, fountain shows, and a greenhouse. You could also explore the Barnes Foundation, an art gallery with paintings by greats like Picasso and Renoir.