10 Pennsylvania Road Trip Ideas For New Visitors
I know from personal experience tha Pennsylvania is a road tripper’s paradise packed with diverse scenery, rich history, charming small towns, and endless outdoor adventures. From the rolling hills of Amish country to the dramatic overlook of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, and from lakeside beaches to historic battlefields, every region offers a unique slice of Americana. Whether you’re looking for waterfalls, wineries, or Civil War heritage, these Pennsylvania road trip ideas will help you build the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable journey!
1) Laurel Highlands Scenic Drive
This road trip through southwestern Pennsylvania is perfect for lovers of nature, history, and architecture. The Laurel Highlands region is home to Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob homes, Ohiopyle State Park’s waterfalls and whitewater rapids, and the scenic overlook of Laurel Mountain. You’ll also find historic sites like Fort Ligonier and charming mountain towns like Ligonier and Donegal.
Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring to early fall (May–October) for peak foliage, waterfall flow, and warm-weather hiking.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Pittsburgh to Ohiopyle (explore the park)
Day 2: Visit Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob
Day 3: Explore Ligonier, Flight 93 Memorial, and head back
2) Pocono Mountains Loop
A scenic loop through the Pocono Mountains brings you close to waterfalls, lakes, ski resorts, and quaint villages. Visit Bushkill Falls, often called the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” take a scenic boat ride on Lake Wallenpaupack, and hike through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Perfect for a romantic or family getaway.
Ideal Time to Go:
Year-round, but fall (September–October) offers stunning foliage.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Stroudsburg to Bushkill Falls and Dingmans Falls
Day 2: Lake Wallenpaupack and Hawley
Day 3: Hike Delaware Water Gap trails and head home (Mount Tammany trail is one of the top choices)
3) Pennsylvania Dutch Country Drive
Explore the heart of Amish Country through Lancaster County, where you’ll see rolling farmland, covered bridges, and horse-drawn buggies. Sample fresh markets, visit historic towns like Lititz, and tour heritage sites like the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. It’s a peaceful, cultural road trip through a uniquely preserved way of life.
Ideal Time to Go:
Spring and fall (April–June, September–October) for ideal weather and countryside views.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Lancaster and Amish farm tours
Day 2: Covered bridge loop and Lititz (more Pennsylvania covered bridges)
Day 3: Landis Valley Museum and countryside drives
4) Allegheny National Forest Route
This northwest Pennsylvania adventure takes you deep into forested wilderness, perfect for outdoor lovers. Explore the Allegheny National Forest, drive the Longhouse National Scenic Byway, and walk the Kinzua Sky Walk, a glass platform standing over a collapsed railroad trestle. Camp, kayak, or just enjoy the serenity. If you love hiking, I’d make a stop at the Minister Creek trail if you have time, as it’s one of the most popular in the area.
Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring to fall (May–October) for full access to hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Bradford to Kinzua Bridge State Park
Day 2: Longhouse Scenic Drive and Allegheny Reservoir
Day 3: Hiking and return
5) Gettysburg and South-Central PA Loop
Step back in time with a historical road trip to Gettysburg and beyond. Start at the Gettysburg National Military Park, then explore charming towns like Hanover and New Oxford. Drive through rolling farmland, visit cider mills, antique shops, and stop at the historic Round Barn. Perfect for history buffs and casual travelers alike.
Ideal Time to Go:
Spring through fall (April–October) for warm days and battlefield tours.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Gettysburg Battlefield and Visitor Center
Day 2: Hanover and New Oxford
Day 3: Round Barn, wineries, and countryside drive
6) Lake Erie Coastal Drive
This northwestern Pennsylvania route hugs the Lake Erie shoreline, giving you beach vibes, birdwatching, and wine country scenery. Highlights include Presque Isle State Park, downtown Erie’s lakefront, and the Lake Erie Wine Trail which stretches into New York. Great for a relaxed coastal road trip feel.
Ideal Time to Go:
Summer (June–August) for beach access and winery visits.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Erie and Presque Isle beaches
Day 2: Lake Erie Wine Trail and North East PA
Day 3: Erie Maritime Museum and return
7) Philadelphia and Brandywine Valley Drive
Combine urban exploration with countryside charm. Start with Philadelphia’s iconic historic sites—Liberty Bell, Independence Hall—then transition to the rolling hills and gardens of the Brandywine Valley. Stop at Longwood Gardens, Brandywine River Museum, and quaint towns like Kennett Square.
Ideal Time to Go:
Spring and early fall for the best gardens and mild weather.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Philadelphia sightseeing
Day 2: Longwood Gardens and Kennett Square
Day 3: Brandywine River Museum and return
8) Pittsburgh to Lake Arthur Scenic Route
This quick escape from Pittsburgh leads you through rolling countryside, old mining towns, and state parks. Moraine State Park and McConnells Mill State Park offer scenic lake views, trails, and a touch of geological history. A short but rewarding road trip for nature lovers.
Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring through early fall.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Pittsburgh to McConnells Mill State Park
Day 2: Moraine State Park (Lake Arthur activities)
Day 3: Explore small towns and return
9) Historic Route 6 Across Northern PA
U.S. Route 6 offers a true cross-state experience through the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania” in Wellsboro and small-town Americana charm. This slower-paced highway trip includes stops at Lyman Run State Park, quaint Main Streets, and rustic landscapes. Great for photography and solitude.
Ideal Time to Go:
Summer to fall for warm days and vibrant foliage.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Erie to Wellsboro (overnight)
Day 2: Pine Creek Gorge and hiking
Day 3: Continue east to Towanda and return
10) Coal Country and NEPA History Tour
Explore northeastern Pennsylvania’s coal mining legacy in cities like Scranton and Jim Thorpe. Visit the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, ride the historic Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, and wander through the vibrant streets of Jim Thorpe—nicknamed the “Switzerland of America” for its mountain setting.
Ideal Time to Go:
Spring through fall for tours and train rides.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Scranton and the coal mine tour
Day 2: Jim Thorpe and Lehigh Gorge Railway
Day 3: Explore shops, hikes, and return
Things to Know Before You Go
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Toll Roads: Many Pennsylvania highways use E-ZPass or charge tolls, especially on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
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Weather Variability: Be prepared for quickly changing conditions, especially in the mountains or near the lakes.
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Cell Service: Expect patchy service in remote areas like the Allegheny National Forest or Route 6.
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Local Etiquette: In Amish Country, respect the culture by not photographing locals directly.
Packing List
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GPS or offline maps (especially for rural regions)
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Hiking shoes and daypack
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Reusable water bottle
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Camera or smartphone with extra storage
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Rain jacket or windbreaker
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Snacks and road trip cooler
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Travel guidebook or audio tours
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
