Pennsylvania is one of the first original 13 colonies of the country hence its long historic background consisting of antique houses, buildings, and other beautiful architectures. It is also known as the Keystone State because of its various historic roles wherein the Declaration of Independence, Gettysburg Address, and the U.S. Constitution. Due to these reasons, Pennsylvania is home to numerous historic and cultural landmarks for tourists to visit and explore.
The state also features beautiful and stunning landscapes due to its geographic location wherein its area is encompassed by the Appalachian Plateaus Province. Due to this, it has a heavily forested area that consists of the Allegheny National Forest and the Pocono, and the Catskill Mountains. With various scenic locations and stunning landmarks, Pennsylvania is surely a state you wouldn’t want to miss. Below are some of its most amazing landmarks.
Landmarks in Pennsylvania
1. The Liberty Bell
Formerly known as The State House bell, Liberty Bell is was a symbol of American democracy and freedom wherein it was rung to gather people for important meetings and deliberations. Crafted during the 17th century as ordered by Isaac Norris, the bell cracked on its first ring.
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Today, it serves as an iconic symbol of American History and is visited by millions of people around the world to view its magnificent structure. Liberty Bell is located in the heart of the busy city of Philadelphia and is located just a walking distance to other various memorable destinations in the city.
2. Gettysburg National Military Park
The Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the most influential historical sites in the country due to its role in the Civil War. The Battle of Gettysburg became the turning point in the Civil War, the Union Victory that stopped General Robert E. Lee’s invasion.
Gettysburg was known for the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln`s famous “Gettysburg Address”. Today, it offers a learning experience of all the incredible history of the battlefield through a variety of living history enactments, ranger-led educational programs, and more.
3. Carpenters’ Hall
Known as The official birthplace of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Carpenter’s Hall is an important historic landmark in the state. It has become part of various important historic events such as being the host of the First Continental Congress in 1774, housed the Franklin`s Library Company, and the American Philosophical Society.
It also became the home of the First and Second Banks of the United States. Today, the hall offers walking tours that allow you to learn the rich history and culture of the landmark.
4. Mount Davis
With an elevation of 3,213 feet (979 meters), the towering peak of the stunning Mount Davis is the highest point in Pennsylvania, U.S. It is located in Somerset County and is known as the tallest mountain in the state. Reaching its peak offers a breathtaking view as well as various hiking trails to explore. It also features an observation tower that allows you to get 360-degree views of its stunning landscapes.
There is also a small display once you pass the observation tower that showcases some information about the history and geography of the area. Mount Davis also offers various outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, and many more.
5. Eastern State Penitentiary
The Eastern State Penitentiary is a must-see landmark when you visit the state due to its fascinating history. Known as ESP, it was once known as the most famous and expensive prison in the world during its operation from 1829 until 1971. It became the confinement ground of many of America`s most notorious lawbreakers including “Scarface” Al Capone and “Slick Willie” Sutton.
Today, it stands in ruins with empty cellblocks and guard towers. It is open to the public and offers day and night tours that feature “The Voices of Eastern State” that is narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, various exhibits like Al Capone`s Cell, Death Row, and many more.
6. Fallingwater
Falling water features a stunning and unique landscape attracting thousands of tourists all around the world to experience its architectural masterpiece. One of the most unique houses in the world, It is designed by America`s most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. It features a various collection of fine arts, an Annual Gnome House Design Challenge, internships, and many more.