Pennsylvania’s warm summers make the state a popular location for vacations. Its many charming towns and cities offer enjoyable festivals and events, as well as engaging attractions and scenic natural sites. If you are seeking an idyllic vacation this season, let’s look at some of Pennsylvania’s top summer getaway communities to visit.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg’s fascinating history makes it one of the most famous cities in Pennsylvania. This small town of around 7,500 was the site of the Civil War’s Battle of Gettysburg and the subsequent well-known Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln. There are plenty of historical sites for visitors to explore, including the battlefield at Gettysburg National Military Park and the Gettysburg National Cemetery, which is the final resting place of more than 6,000 U.S. soldiers and veterans and where President Lincoln presented the Gettysburg Address.
In addition to Gettysburg’s renowned historical attractions, there is also much more to do in this charming town. The significant agriculture industry surrounding Gettysburg allows for an excellent farm-to-table food scene in the city. Gettysburg also has notable scenery and many community events. This summer will bring the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, which will be honored across the town. The city also hosts a big Fourth of July celebration and several summer fairs.
Lancaster
Lancaster, a pleasant city in eastern Pennsylvania, has become one of the state’s rising tourist destinations. Founded in the early 18th century, Lancaster is one of the most historic cities in the state. Lancaster is known for its Amish community, the country’s oldest and largest, and visitors often take various tours that explore Amish sites and the Amish lifestyle. Lancaster’s city core has trendy art galleries and boutique shops, and the Lancaster Central Market offers delicious local produce and mouthwatering meals.
Visiting Lancaster is ideal in the summer, when the weather is perfect for exploring the rolling countryside. Lancaster is famous for its windmills, vast farmland, hiking and biking trails, and theater scene. Special events in the summer include farmers markets, an antique show, and Summerfest, a large outdoor music festival in one of Lancaster’s vineyards.
Milford
If you love quaint and charming historic communities, Milford is the small town for you. Milford is home to just 1,100 residents but has a thriving tourism industry thanks to its fascinating history and picturesque setting. Roughly two hours from New York City, Milford is in the scenic Pocono Mountains surrounded by forests and rolling hills, and the Delaware River winds its way through the city.
There is plenty to see and do in Milford. The Grey Towers National Historic Site is a gorgeous 19th-century estate that once housed Gifford Pinchot, a former Pennsylvania governor. Milford boasts excellent museums, including the Columns Museum of the Pike County Historical Society, and has exciting summer events for visitors to enjoy, such as the Milford Music Festival.
