Vacation Rentals in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a US state located on the eastern coast and is known for its historical sights and modern day attractions. The state was one of the 13 original colonies and borders six other states including Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, New York, and New Jersey. Before Europeans arrived in the 16th century, the Pennsylvania region was inhabited by Susquehannock, Iroquois, Eriez, Shawnee and several other Native American tribes. Today, the most populated cities include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and the capital of the state: Harrisburg. The region is categorized by the Appalachian Mountains which run through its center and Lake Erie which shares a border to the northwest. There are regular interstate buses with routes through Pennsylvania, as well as many regional flights into the state's main populated cities.

It was Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on July 4 1776 that America first took its steps as an independent nation. Ever since then, the state has been home to some of the most historic battles, court cases, and social movements. There are currently 169 National Historic Landmarks littered throughout Pennsylvania including Washington's Crossing, Pulpits Rocks, and Valley Forge.

Feel inspired as you spend the afternoon in one of Pennsylvania's many art galleries. Some of the most popular museums include the Rodin Museum, Barnes Foundation, Andy Warhol Museum, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Here you can find works by some of the most celebrated European and American artists of the past 300 years including Picasso, Rodin, and Andy Warhol.

Pennsylvania has served as the backdrop to many famous movies and television series over the years. Philadelphia, The Office, Groundhog Day, and the Sixth Sense were all based within the states borders. Some of these pop cultural sensations even offer official "fan tours" of locations used in their programs!

The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia has been utilized as a symbol for many movements in the US from women's suffrage to civil rights movements. The bell is over 2,000 pounds and is made mainly of bronze, with a signature crack in it's bottom dating to the first time the bell rang in 1751. The iconic inscription is a quote from the Old Testament in the Christian Bible in Leviticus 25:10 and reads: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof." The Liberty Bell remains one of the most visited sites in all of Pennsylvania.

A famous site of the Revolutionary War, Valley Forge was used by George Washington from 1777 to 1778 as a base camp to fight against the British. Today, there are many trails which connect historic monuments, structures, and log cabin barracks used at the beginning of America's independence movement. The National Historic Park features regular war reenactments and is located just outside of Philadelphia.

Perhaps one of the most iconic pictures of American life is that of the Amish people. Although highly private and humble people, this traditional Swiss-anabaptist christian sect focuses on living a "plain" lifestyle free from technology and modern cultural trends. The oldest concentration of "Pennsylvania Dutch" Amish can be found in Lancaster County. To get a sense for this unique religious lifestyle, try visiting The Amish Farm and House which gives visitors a deeper understanding of the group's customs, architecture, and beliefs.

Nothing says vacation like a healthy mix of chocolate and carnival rides. At Hershey Park, you can have both at the same time in a kid-friendly theme park dedicated to America's most popular chocolate brand. The park features rides, a zoo, live shows, exhibits, and more just 15 miles outside of the state's capital of Harrisburg. Hersheypark also offers a resort and campgrounds for those who can't make it all the way home after eating their way through the park's delicious attractions.

Architecture enthusiasts will love visiting Falling Water, an iconic house built by famed US architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1964. The home was built in a modern style utilizing natural elements throughout the property which was built on top of a stunning waterfall. Visitors can also head over to Duncan House at Polymath Park or host an event at the Barn at Fallingwater during their stay in Pennsylvania.