Explore PA with these 10 epic Pennsylvania road trips! From hiking waterfalls to delving into local history, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Pennsylvania!
10 Epic Road Trips in Pennsylvania
Are you planning to road trip through Pennsylvania?
Then, you’re in the right place!
Pennsylvania is a state rich in history and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for road trips. From the rolling hills of the north to the bustling city of Philadelphia, there is plenty to see and do by road-tripping Pennsylvania.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Pennsylvania has plenty of road trip options to suit your interests. Take a scenic drive along the Delaware River, explore the state’s coal mining heritage in Scranton, or indulge in some chocolatey goodness in Hershey.
These popular Pennsylvania road trips are all reasonable drives from the cities of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Erie.
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1. Family Friendly Philadelphia to Hershey Road Trip
Looking for the perfect Pennsylvania road trip with kids? The entire family is sure to love this sweet road trip.
Start your journey in Philadelphia, exploring historic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Immerse yourself in the vibrant city atmosphere and indulge in diverse cuisines. But be sure to try a Philly cheesesteak too- decide for yourself if Geno’s or Pat’s King of Steaks is better!
Next, venture to Lancaster, where you’ll discover the Amish way of life. Discover the Amish way of life by touring working farms, learning about traditional practices and craftsmanship, and savoring homemade treats at local markets.
From there, continue to Hershey, known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth.” Enjoy all the chocolately things at Hershey’s Chocolate World and spend the day experiencing the thrilling rides and attractions of Hershey Park.
This Pennsylvania road trip promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun, leaving you with priceless family memories.
Recommended Starting Point: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend a minimum of five days for this road trip.
Recommended Philadelphia- Hershey Road Trip Itinerary:
- Philadelphia: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, The Rocky Stairs, Betsey Ross House, Magic Gardens, Mural Mile, and Eastern State Penitentiary
- Lancaster/ Amish Country
- Hershey, PA
- Hershey Park
Beat the road trip boredom blues before they start! Check out our list of 250 fun road trip questions to keep the whole car entertained!
2. Adventure Awaits on PA Route 6
Spanning over 400 miles, this route across the northernmost part of the state travels east and west featuring tons of natural beauty, history, and heritage.
One of the major highlights of PA Route 6 is the Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” This natural wonder is around 1,500 feet at its deepest and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
Other natural sites to see along Route 6 include the Allegheny National Forest, Kinzua Reservoir, and a variety of state parks and forests along the way.
Fall is the perfect time to hit the road on PA Route 6. The colorful fall foliage transforms the entire path into a magical experience that is hard to come by.
Overall, a road trip on Pennsylvania Route 6 is an incredible way to experience all the beauty and small-town life in the northern part of the state. Whether you’re looking for natural landscapes, heritage, or history, this Pennsylvania road trip is sure to exceed your expectations.
Recommended Starting Point: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Erie
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend a minimum of five days for this road trip.
Recommended Route 6 Stops:
Consider spending the night in the quaint towns of Honesdale, Wellsboro, Warren, and Erie depending on how many days you have for your Pennsylvania road trip.
- Pine Creek Gorge (Tioga State Forest)
- Hike or bike the Pine Creek Rail Trail
- Pennsylvania State University
- Allegheny National Forest
- Kinzua Bridge State Park, Skywalk, and Viaduct
- Lake Erie
- Erie, PA
3. Enjoy the Coastal Great Lakes Seaway Trail
The Great Lakes Seaway Trail, a National Scenic Byway, spans northern New York and Pennsylvania, following the shores of the Great Lakes and major rivers, making for one of the most beautiful road trips in Pennsylvania.
This byway is one of the first roads in America to receive this prestigious designation, although the Pennsylvania portion of the route was added a few years later. The route connects many historical locations and cultural heritage sites, charming waterfront towns and villages, and stunning vistas that offer a glimpse into the region.
One of the top attractions on the Great Lakes Seaway Trail is Presque Isle State Park, located in Erie, PA. This natural paradise features miles of beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse that has guided ships since 1873.
Traveling from east to west, be sure to take in all of the beauty of the Great Lakes Wine Country, east of the city of Erie. Even if you aren’t a wine lover, the views of the lake are beautiful out over the vineyards, especially at sunset.
Another must-see spot along the route in New York is Niagara Falls, where visitors can marvel at the power and beauty of the falls, take a boat tour, and explore the nearby Niagara Falls State Park.
Read more about our Niagara Falls road trip from Boston!
Recommended Starting Point: Erie, Pennsylvania
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend a minimum of seven days for this road trip.
Recommended Great Lakes Seaway Trail Road Trip Stops:
- Erie, PA
- Presque Isle State Park
- Erie Maritime Museum
- Winery visit near the town of North East
- Barcelona Lighthouse and Park
- Lake Erie
- Visit the towns of Ripley and Westfield
- Dunkirk Historical Museum
- Niagara Falls
Let’s face it…any road trip can go awry without a little planning! Grab our FREE travel planning worksheet and road trip essentials checklist before you hit the road!
4. Nature Lover’s Favorite: Elk Scenic Drive
For wildlife lovers thirsting for adventure, Pennsylvania’s Elk Scenic Drive is a must-travel route. This 127-mile loop through the PA Wilds in the central part of the state offers an incredible opportunity to experience the region’s spectacular elk herds firsthand.
The Elk Scenic Drive is notable for the abundance of wildlife that roam the area. The route’s highlights include elk and other native animal species, and each of the 23 specific points of interest along the way has been chosen for its outstanding wildlife viewing potential and scenic beauty. Sometimes even from the comfort of your car, you can witness herds of majestic elk grazing in the fields and forests of the region.
This drive is perfect for nature lovers all year round. It’s especially beautiful during the rutting season in fall, but you can also visit when elk and other animals migrate to their summer feeding grounds. The route provides plenty of stops for viewing elk and other wildlife, as well as small towns to explore along the way.
If you’re looking for a truly memorable wildlife adventure in Pennsylvania, check out the Elk Scenic Drive, traveling through five of Pennsylvania’s north-central counties. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the scenic beauty while taking advantage of one of the only spots to view elk east of the Mississippi River.
This is definitely one of the most unique Pennsylvania road trips!
Recommended Starting Point: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Erie
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend a minimum of three days for this road trip (the perfect Pennsylvania weekend getaway!)
Recommended Elk Scenic Drive Road Trip Stops:
- Benezette. PA
- Elk Country
- Winslow Hill
- Ridgeway, PA
- St. Mary’s, PA
- Tour Straub Brewery
- DuBois, PA
5. Experience the Grandeur of The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania at Pine Creek Gorge
The Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers. This gorge is nearly 50 miles long and over 1,500 feet deep in spots, offering breathtaking views from every angle along the way.
The scenic drive up to Pine Creek Gorge is a mesmerizing experience in itself. Follow PA Route 414 north of Jersey Shore, PA and you’ll travel through and near the canyon most of the way.
Once you arrive at the northernmost part near the town of Wellsboro, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. There are hiking trails in the two state parks surrounding the PA Grand Canyon that take you through gorgeous forests and along the creek banks, as well as camping sites where you can immerse yourself in the wilderness.
If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, kayaking down Pine Creek is an exciting experience, offering a new perspective on the breathtaking views. Plus, there’s great fishing, with plenty of trout and smallmouth bass for anglers to pursue.
There are nearly 100 miles of roadway to cover, and many more miles of trails along the way to get out and explore even further.
Recommended Starting Point: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Erie
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend a minimum of five days for this road trip.
Recommended Pine Creek Gorge Road Trip Stops:
- Wellsboro
- Ole Covered Wagon Tours
- Pine Creek Gorge in Tioga State Forest
- Kayak or fish at Pine Creek
- Try hiking or mountain biking in Tioga State Forest
- Check out the Turkey Path Waterfalls
- Little Pine State Park
- Leonard Harrison State Park
- Allegheny National Forest
- Golfing at one of the many area golf courses
- Go stargazing at Cherry Springs State Park
6. Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway: A True Pennsylvania Treasure
The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway is a magnificent Pennsylvania road trip that promises visitors a journey through natural beauty and architectural wonders throughout the southwestern corner of the state. Covering a distance of 68 miles, this route takes travelers on a scenic drive through rolling hillsides, along green forests, and past rushing waterfalls.
One of the main attractions of this byway is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater home and grounds. An architectural masterpiece that attracts fans of the famous designer from all over the world, this is a must visit Pennsylvania attractions. Designed and built in the 1930s, Fallingwater brings together nature and architecture, providing a unique and breathtaking experience.
Apart from this, Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway offers quaint small towns, charming historic districts, and plenty of green spaces. Visitors can also explore Ohiopyle State Park, a vast natural playground that boasts picturesque views and countless outdoor adventure activities like biking and whitewater rafting.
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely drive or hike, or bike and horseback ride on nature trails, all of these activities can be found along the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway. This road trip can be enjoyed year-round, making it perfect for fall foliage trips or winter wonderland getaways.
The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway is a true gem when it comes to Pennsylvania road trips.
Recommended Starting Point: Pittsburgh
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend three to five days for this road trip.
Recommended Laurel Highlands Pennsylvania Road Trip Itinerary:
- Pittsburgh
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater
- Ohiopyle State Park
- Laurel Highlands State Park & Scenic Byway
Love to share your adventures on social media? We do too! Hit the easy button with these best vacation captions, bucket list quotes, or adventure captions for Instagram to share your road trip fun with your friends!
7. Covered Bridges + Small Town Charm: West Branch Susquehanna River Scenic Byway
Pennsylvania clearly has no shortage of scenic byways, each with its unique charm and character. Another such scenic road is the West Branch Susquehanna Byway, which spans almost 75 miles across multiple counties. This remarkable drive takes visitors through some of the most stunning landscapes in Pennsylvania, along the southern edge of the PA Wilds.
The West Branch Susquehanna Byway boasts a rich history, dating back to the 18th century. Williamsport and Lock Haven are two such towns along the eastern part of the West Branch Susquehanna River, both offering a glimpse into the area’s past. By the end of your trip, you will have explored the region’s cultural diversity.
The West Branch Susquehanna Byway is the perfect destination for road trippers seeking a leisurely drive that offers small-town charm.
The route is dotted with charming towns and villages, as well as parks and forests. You can even stop at the only covered bridge in Clearfield County, the McGees Mills Covered Bridge, or explore Bilgers Rocks, a small rock city with interesting sites, along the way.
While you’re near Clearfield, stop and eat at Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub. The restaurant has been featured on many TV shows, including on the Food Network, Travel Channel, and Good Morning America for their crazy burger challenges including the “World’s Largest Hamburger.”
Recommended Starting Point: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend three to five days for this road trip.
Recommended Scenic Byway Pennsylvania Road Trip Stops:
- West Branch Susquehanna Scenic Byway
- Clearfield
- Curwensville Lake
- Lock Haven, known as the “Gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds”
- McGees Mills Covered Bridge
- Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub
- Bilgers Rocks
- Susquehanna State Park
Traveling with teenagers? Grab our ultimate guide for things to do with teens and tweens on a car ride!
8. Experience Pennsylvania’s Small Town Charm on an Interstate 80 Road Trip
If you’re planning a road trip in Pennsylvania, one of the easiest and fastest ways to travel east and west through the state is on Interstate 80. The scenic drive along Interstate 80 splits the state into north and south regions.
This route will take you through some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the highest point on the road east of the Mississippi River.
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to explore charming towns and quirky stops, and even do some shopping. The Prime Outlets in Grove City, just a short drive south of the interstate, are a popular stop!
The interstate spans just over 300 miles through the central parts of the state. Stop in Bellefonte, a historic small town, or take a detour off the route to stops like State College, Williamsport, or Wilkes-Barre for attractions popular with sports enthusiasts.
If you love chasing waterfalls, be sure to stop at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to check out Dingmans’s Falls and Raymondskill Falls. You can also find the popular Harrison Wright Falls in Ricketts Glen State Park on this route.
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend two to four days for this road trip depending on your starting point.
Recommended Interstate 80 Pennsylvania Road Trip Stops:
- Prime Outlets in Grove City
- Bellefonte
- State College
- Williamsport
- Wilkes-Barre
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- Ricketts Glen State Park
In our opinion, a good road trip belongs on every USA bucket list!
9. Delve into US History with The Gettysburg Loop
For road trippers seeking a journey steeped in American history, the Gettysburg Loop is a must-do road trip itinerary.
This stunning scenic route takes you on a historical journey that highlights the importance of the Gettysburg National Military Park and the significance of the Gettysburg Address.
Starting from the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, the route takes a meandering path through the town of Gettysburg before continuing on to the Gettysburg National Military Park. This iconic landmark, the site of one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War, offers a glimpse into the nation’s past, with its countless monuments and memorials scattered through the fields.
Gettysburg is also known for its haunted experiences, and many ghost tours are available after the sun goes down. Thrill-seekers can explore the town’s many haunted sites and hear the chilling stories associated with them.
One of the most defining moments of the Civil War, Pickett’s Charge, took place at Gettysburg on the last day of the battle, and a reenactment is an event that history-loving road trippers on this route should not miss.
A loop around Gettysburg emphasizes the importance of historical moments and allows visitors to see the sites where it all happened.
The Gettysburg Loop is the perfect road trip itinerary for history buffs seeking to immerse themselves in American Civil War history. The route highlights the importance of the Gettysburg National Military Park and the historic sites of the Gettysburg Address and Pickett’s Charge.
Gettysburg definitely belongs on the list of can’t miss Pennsylvania road trips!
Recommended Starting Point: Philadelphia or Pittsburgh
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend two to three days for this Pennsylvania road trip.
Recommended Gettysburg Road Trip Stops:
- Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Gettysburg National Cemetery
- David Wills House
- Downtown Gettysburg
- Eisenhower National Historic Site
Insider Tip: Add Philadelphia and Lancaster to this road trip itinerary and turn it into a fun family spring break vacation.
10. Discover Pennsylvania’s Rich History: The National Road
Pennsylvania is a great state for road trips, with plenty of historical sites to explore. The National Road is another of those must-see historical sites, as the nation’s first federally-funded interstate.
One must-see destination along the route is the Fort Necessity National Battlefield, where George Washington is said to have had his first military experience leading to the beginning of the French & Indian War.
While the fort looks merely more than a pile of sticks in the middle of a small field, stop at the visitor center prior to walking out to the fort so you can really appreciate the significance it played in America’s history many years ago.
Stop at Braddock’s Restaurant and Tavern for a delicious home-cooked meal. The country-fried steak is a personal favorite, topped with delicious gravy.
As you drive along the National Road, there are other historical points you can enjoy. Much of the route is only a two-lane road, so you can enjoy the drive at a leisurely pace.
While it covers multiple states, 90 miles of the road travel through the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania.
Recommended Starting Point: Pittsburgh
Recommended Length of Road Trip: We recommend one to two days for this road trip.
Recommended National Road Itinerary:
- Pittsburgh
- Nemacolin Castle
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield
- Pittsburgh
This Pennsylvania itinerary is an easy one day road trip from Pittsburgh! Of course, if you’re not from the area, you should definitely take time to explore Pittsburgh too.
Ready to Road Trip Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is a state full of hidden gems just waiting to be explored.
Use these road trip ideas to get out and start exploring both the busy highways and country roads of the Keystone State. From Lake Erie to the Delaware River, the scenic routes along the way make for a fun Pennsylvania road trip!
So, which one of these Pennsylvania road trips will you plan first?
Be sure to share your epic road trips on Instagram with these fun and easy road trip captions!
Road Tripping the USA
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About The Author
Samantha is a Pennsylvania native and the owner and creator behind PAonPause, exploring travel around the US’s Great Lakes states and National Parks. She believes that any occasion can be a great excuse to travel and does so as much as possible while working full-time. She loves to spend her time exploring the outdoors with her 2 rescue dogs.
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