If you were to ask any avid traveler what bucket-list destinations featured on their list, we’d bet that the United States of America would rank in one of the top positions. For example, as of 2021, the primary source market for tourists in South Africa was US citizens, 72,000 of them, to be exact!
Yet, in comparison, the number of tourists flocking to the United States each year is around seventy-seven million – speaking volumes for its popularity as a holiday destination. From theme parks where you and your family can have a days-worth of fun and breath-taking Broadway shows fit for all ages to dazzling casinos that offer bonuses without requirements and historical attractions that would make any history nerd jump with joy – America has it all and much more.
Yet, with fifty states to choose from, how do potential travelers decide which to visit? One of the most popular destinations for travelers is Pennsylvania, the fifth most populated state in the U.S. With its early-American history roots, incredible American cuisine (try the cheesesteaks – you won’t regret it!), and much more, it’s not a challenge to see why it attracts tourists from far and wide.
But, with 119,282 km² to explore, where do you start? Fortunately, for confused potential travelers to Pennsylvania, we’ve outlined several things you have to try/must visit when holidaying here. Continue reading to find out more.
Visit One Of Their Many Casinos
Gambling has long been a popular pastime dating back to early-American history and remains a popular activity for Americans and visitors to the States today. Although Las Vegas is often the state on everyone’s lips when we think about gambling, Pennsylvania places a close second on the list of the top ten heaviest gambling states in the U.S.
Even though the gambling industry is a relatively new concept to the state of Pennsylvania, with it only being made legal in 2004 and the first casino opening its doors in 2007, the population has more than made up for lost time which has caused it to skyrocket behind Las Vegas.
Due to this surge in popularity, Pennsylvania is home to eleven casinos dotted around the state, some of the most popular being Mount Airy Casino Resort, Hollywood Casino, and Mohegan, Pennsylvania.
Suppose you’re traveling to Pennsylvania, and you’re a gambling fan. In that case, you can’t pass up the opportunity to take advantage of some of the state’s most popular casinos and the bonuses without requirements some of them offer. Even if you’re a bit rusty and haven’t played for a while, we’re sure you’ll be delighted with Pennsylvania’s offerings.
However, suppose you did want to sharpen your gambling skills before risking real money in Pennsylvania. In that case, consider brushing up on your knowledge by using online casinos like Jackpot Casinos, which offer a variety of games and casino bonuses without requirements. From card games to slot games, visit their website to start practicing before your trip today.
Go On A History Trip
Undoubtedly, one of the best parts about traveling to different countries is learning about cultures different from our own and the events that have shaped them. Fortunately, if you’re a history buff, you will love what Pennslyvania has in store for you since it is one of the most notable places in early American history.
There are hundreds of pieces of rich history for history fans to sink their teeth into while they’re in the state. Still, some of the most memorable include the signing of the declaration of independence, the first tolling of the Liberty Bell, and significant sites in which the American Civil War and the American Revolutionary War took place.
Whether you’d like to spend a day with your loved ones exploring one of the many picturesque gardens, gawk at some of the extraordinary feats of architecture, or visit historical buildings – a history buff will never grow bored while in Pennsylvania. Plus, don’t fret if you’re money-conscious; there are plenty of free (or cheap!) things to explore and visit.
One of the most popular attractions in Pennsylvania includes Hersheypark, as Pennsylvania is the birthplace of Hershey’s chocolate. Combining history and amusement, Hersheypark is an excellent option for families visiting Pennsylvania since it’s a great way to entertain your kids while making the experience educational.
Plus, once your little ones have had their fill of the rides, across the road from Hersheypark and included in the admission fee is ZooAmerica, where they can see over one hundred animals from all over the world in one place. From mountain lions, roadrunners, and bald eagles to chocolate-themed amusement rides – these two attractions are a must-visit if you want to intertwine entertainment and education.
Sample The All-American Cuisine
One of the most attractive things about going to America is the cuisine. Although it might not seem like much to look forward to since when we think of the words ‘food’ and ‘America,’ our minds automatically conjure up images of juicy burgers topped with mountains of bacon, grilled sandwiches stuffed to bursting point, huge slices of oily pizza, etc. Despite the stereotypes, American food holds many more wonders than fast food.
Since America has a reputation for taking inspiration from various cultural dishes, flavors, and ingredients across the world and then turning them into something distinctively American, you are more than likely to find something that resembles a food item from back home. This is true whether you’re in Pennsylvania or any other state.
For instance, some of the most popular foods in South Africa are found in American cuisines, like watermelon, black-eyed peas, okra, kola nuts, and even coffee! So, no matter what you bite into, you can always find the familiar taste of home. American cuisine draws inspiration from other cultures and celebrates its own (and some of the stereotypes that come with it!), meaning you can find tasty and downright weird menu items that you’re unlikely to try elsewhere!
Discover Some Of The State’s Natural Wonders
By now, it is well known that spending time outdoors is one of the best things you can do to promote a healthy body and mind. Therefore, visiting some of Pennsylvania’s natural wonders should be one of the items on your holiday bucket list. Of course, you may have heard of iconic natural phenomena such as the Grand Canyon, but you might not have heard of some of the more underappreciated ones that deserve mention.
Some of Pennsylvania’s most popular natural wonders open to the public are Cherry Springs State Park, Susquehanna River, Penn’s Cave, and much more. Not to mention, when you visit these wonders, it’s not just the attraction that you can explore; depending on your site, you can participate in other fun activities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and much more. So, if any party member isn’t too fond of exploring, there are plenty more ways to occupy your time.
However, since most of the natural wonders in Pennsylvania are water-based, ensure that you’re always prioritizing your safety, as many visitors to the state have fallen victim to accidents and injuries during their explorations. The last thing you want to do is spend a day of your holiday in the hospital.