Table Of Content
Free Yourself: A Hilarious List of Things to Do in Pennsylvania Without Spending a Dime
Are you looking for fun and free things to do in Pennsylvania? Look no further! Pennsylvania offers a plethora of free attractions and activities that are perfect for anyone on a budget. Whether you’re exploring the city life, historical sites, or nature’s bounty, Pennsylvania has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an adventure in the city, Pennsylvania has plenty of options for you. Take a stroll through Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market and try some of the best food in the city. Or, explore Pittsburgh’s Strip District, where you can find unique shops and delicious food. Pennsylvania is home to many other cities that offer free attractions and activities that are perfect for any budget.
If you’re interested in history, Pennsylvania has a wealth of historical sites and landmarks that are free to visit. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park, where you can explore the site of one of the most significant battles of the Civil War. Or, visit Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, where you can see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Pennsylvania’s rich history is waiting for you to explore.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of free attractions and activities for anyone on a budget.
- Whether you’re interested in exploring the city life, historical sites, or nature’s bounty, Pennsylvania has something for everyone.
- From tours and breweries to art and museums, Pennsylvania has a wealth of free attractions that are perfect for any budget.
Exploring Pennsylvania’s City Life
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most vibrant cities in the United States. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, Erie to Bethlehem and Easton, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some of the best free things to do in Pennsylvania’s cities.
Philadelphia Marvels
Philadelphia is known for its rich history and iconic landmarks. You can explore the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall, both of which played a significant role in the founding of the United States. If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of art from around the world.
Pittsburgh Wonders
Pittsburgh is a city that is constantly reinventing itself. Take a stroll through Point State Park and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. The Strip District is a must-visit for foodies, with its diverse range of restaurants and markets offering everything from fresh produce to exotic spices.
Erie’s Charm
Erie is a hidden gem in Pennsylvania, with its picturesque waterfront and charming downtown area. Take a walk along the bayfront and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Erie. The Erie Art Museum is a great place to explore the local art scene, with a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Bethlehem and Easton’s Delights
Bethlehem and Easton are two small towns that are full of surprises. In Bethlehem, you can explore the historic district and visit the Moravian Museum. In Easton, you can take a stroll through the Karl Stirner Arts Trail, which features a range of sculptures and installations by local artists.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, Pennsylvania’s cities have something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
Historical Sites and Landmarks
If you’re a history buff, you’ll be happy to know that Pennsylvania is home to many free historical sites and landmarks. From Civil War remnants to Independence National Historical Park, there’s plenty to explore. Here are a few places you won’t want to miss:
Civil War Remnants
Pennsylvania played a crucial role in the Civil War, and there are several sites throughout the state that commemorate this important period in American history. Gettysburg National Military Park is a must-visit, with its hallowed battlegrounds and informative visitor center. You can also explore the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, which boasts an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
Independence National Historical Park
If you’re interested in the birth of our nation, Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia is a must-see. Here, you can visit the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and other important landmarks that played a role in the American Revolution. Best of all, admission is free!
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Valley Forge National Historical Park is another important Revolutionary War site. This park served as the winter encampment for George Washington’s Continental Army in 1777-1778. Today, you can explore the park’s trails, historic buildings, and monuments. Don’t miss the National Memorial Arch, which commemorates the sacrifices of the Continental Army.
Elfreth’s Alley
For a glimpse into colonial life, head to Elfreth’s Alley in Philadelphia. This charming cobblestone street dates back to the early 1700s and is the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the country. You can take a self-guided tour of the homes and learn about the daily lives of the people who lived here.
With so many historic sites and landmarks to explore, you’ll never run out of things to do in Pennsylvania. Best of all, many of these sites are free, so you can learn about our nation’s history without breaking the bank.
Nature’s Bounty in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a state filled with natural beauty, and lucky for you, there are plenty of free ways to enjoy it. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or just taking in the stunning views, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best free nature activities in Pennsylvania.
State Parks
Pennsylvania has no shortage of state parks, and many of them offer free admission. Ricketts Glen State Park is a must-visit for waterfall lovers, with over 20 waterfalls along the Falls Trail. Allegheny National Forest is another great option, with over 500,000 acres of forest, streams, and wildlife to explore.
Mountains and Hiking Trails
Pennsylvania’s mountains and hiking trails are some of the best in the country. The Sinnemahoning Trail System offers over 40 miles of trails through the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, while the Bald Eagle State Forest has over 200 miles of trails to explore. For a more challenging hike, check out the Fred Woods Trail in Ohiopyle State Park, which features steep climbs and stunning views of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
Lakes and Fishing Spots
Pennsylvania has plenty of lakes and fishing spots for anglers of all levels. Cherry Springs State Park is known for its dark skies and stargazing opportunities, but it also has a 48-acre lake stocked with trout, bass, and bluegill. If you’re looking for a more secluded fishing spot, check out the streams and creeks in the Allegheny National Forest or the Sinnemahoning State Park.
So, whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Pennsylvania’s natural bounty has something for everyone. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your fishing gear, and get ready to explore the great outdoors.
Family Fun in Pennsylvania
Looking for some family-friendly fun in Pennsylvania? Look no further! There are plenty of free things to do that will keep the whole family entertained.
Hershey’s Chocolate World
If you have a sweet tooth, Hershey’s Chocolate World is the place for you. Take a free tour of the chocolate-making process and learn about the history of Hershey’s chocolate. Don’t forget to stock up on some sweet souvenirs at the gift shop. You’ll be in chocolate heaven!
Little League World Series
If you’re a sports fan, you won’t want to miss the Little League World Series. Every August, teams from around the world come to Williamsport to compete for the title of Little League World Series champion. Best of all, admission to the games is free!
Amusement Parks and Rides
Pennsylvania is home to some of the best amusement parks and rides in the country. Hersheypark is a must-visit for thrill-seekers, with over 70 rides and attractions. And the best part? Admission to the park is free! You only pay for the rides you want to go on.
Other free amusement parks and rides in Pennsylvania include Knoebels Amusement Resort and Waldameer Park & Water World. Both offer free admission and pay-per-ride options.
So pack up the family and head to Pennsylvania for some free fun. From chocolate to sports to amusement parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unusual and Unique Attractions
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most unusual and unique attractions. From quirky museums to bizarre landmarks, there is no shortage of interesting things to do in the Keystone State. Here are a few offbeat attractions you won’t want to miss:
Bicycle Heaven
If you’re a bicycle enthusiast, you’ll love visiting Bicycle Heaven in Pittsburgh. This museum is home to over 4,000 bicycles, including vintage bikes, rare bikes, and even bikes that were once owned by celebrities. You can spend hours browsing the exhibits and learning about the history of bicycles. Best of all, admission is free!
Randyland
Randyland is a colorful and whimsical art installation in Pittsburgh’s North Side. This outdoor gallery is the brainchild of local artist Randy Gilson, who has spent over 30 years transforming his property into a vibrant work of art. You’ll find everything from giant murals to quirky sculptures, and there’s always something new to discover. Randyland is free to visit, but donations are appreciated.
Gobbler’s Knob
Every year on February 2nd, the world turns its attention to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, for Groundhog Day. The star of the show is Punxsutawney Phil, a groundhog who predicts whether or not there will be six more weeks of winter. The festivities take place at Gobbler’s Knob, a small hill outside of town. You can visit Gobbler’s Knob year-round, but it’s especially fun to visit on Groundhog Day.
Whether you’re a fan of bicycles, art, or groundhogs, Pennsylvania has something unusual and unique to offer. These attractions are just the tip of the iceberg – there are plenty more offbeat things to do in the Keystone State.
Tours and Breweries
If you’re a beer lover, Pennsylvania is the place to be. With plenty of breweries to choose from, you can spend your days sampling some of the best craft beers in the country. But why stop at just drinking beer when you can also take a tour of the breweries themselves? Here are a few places you should check out:
Yuengling Brewery
You can’t talk about Pennsylvania beer without mentioning Yuengling. This brewery has been around since 1829, making it the oldest operating brewery in the country. Take a tour of the brewery and learn about the history of the company, as well as the brewing process. And of course, you’ll get to sample some of their delicious beers.
Martin Guitar Factory
If you’re a music lover, you won’t want to miss the Martin Guitar Factory tour. This family-owned company has been making guitars since 1833, and their instruments are used by some of the biggest names in music. Take a tour of the factory and see how these beautiful guitars are made. And who knows, you might even get to play one yourself.
Utz Factory
If you’re a fan of snacks, you’ll want to check out the Utz Factory tour. This company has been making potato chips and other snacks since 1921, and they’re still going strong. Take a tour of the factory and see how these delicious snacks are made. And of course, you’ll get to sample some of their products along the way.
No matter what your interests are, there’s a tour or brewery in Pennsylvania that’s perfect for you. So grab a beer, a guitar, or a bag of chips, and start exploring.
Art and Museums
If you’re an art lover, Pennsylvania has plenty of museums that won’t break the bank. Here are a few free art and museum options to check out:
Philadelphia Museum of Art
You can’t talk about art in Pennsylvania without mentioning the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This iconic museum is home to over 240,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. And the best part? Admission to the main building is pay-what-you-wish on the first Sunday of every month and every Wednesday evening. So, if you’re looking for a cultured and budget-friendly date idea, you know where to go.
Specialty Museums
Pennsylvania is also home to a variety of specialty museums. Here are a few that won’t cost you a dime:
- The Ryerss Museum: This hidden gem in north Philadelphia is filled with antiques from around the world. You’ll see impressive antiques collected by Robert Ryerss, his wife, Mary Ann, and her second husband, the Reverend John Bawn, during their travels.
- Knoebels Carousel Museum: This museum is located inside Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg. Admission to both the museum and the park is free, so you can enjoy a day of rides and learning about the history of carousels without spending a dime.
- Martin Guitars: If you’re a music lover, you won’t want to miss the Martin Guitar museum in Nazareth. You can learn about the history of the company and see how guitars are made during the factory tour. Best of all, admission is free.
- Hershey’s Chocolate World: If you have a sweet tooth, a visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey is a must. You can take a free tour of the chocolate factory and even create your own candy bar for a small fee.
- The National Watch and Clock Museum: Located in Columbia, this museum is home to over 12,000 timepieces from around the world. You can learn about the history of timekeeping and see some truly unique clocks and watches.
So, whether you’re a fan of ancient artifacts or contemporary art, Pennsylvania has plenty of free museums to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do in Pennsylvania that won’t cost you a dime?
Well, there are plenty of things to do in Pennsylvania that won’t cost you a penny! You can explore the great outdoors by hiking in one of the state parks or visiting the beautiful waterfalls. You can also visit some of the museums that offer free admission, such as the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh or the Philadelphia Museum of Art. And don’t forget about the famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, which you can see for free!
Where are some free attractions in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh has plenty of free attractions to offer! You can check out the Carnegie Science Center, which has a variety of interactive exhibits and live demonstrations. If you’re interested in history, you can visit the Fort Pitt Museum, which showcases the city’s role in the French and Indian War. And if you want to take in some beautiful views of the city, head to the Mount Washington overlooks.
What are some kid-friendly free activities in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has plenty of free activities for kids! You can take them to the Elmwood Park Zoo, which offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month. If they’re interested in art, you can visit the Abington Art Center, which has free exhibits and workshops for kids. And if you want to get them outside, you can take them to the Norristown Farm Park, which has hiking trails and a working farm.
What’s the most famous attraction in Pennsylvania that won’t cost you anything?
The most famous free attraction in Pennsylvania is definitely the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. This iconic symbol of American independence is located in Independence National Historical Park and is free to view year-round. Just be prepared for crowds, as it’s a popular spot for tourists!
What’s the new free attraction in Pennsylvania that everyone’s talking about?
The newest free attraction in Pennsylvania that everyone’s talking about is the Rail Park in Philadelphia. This elevated park was built on an abandoned rail line and offers beautiful views of the city skyline. It’s a great place to relax and take in the scenery, and it’s completely free to visit!
Looking for some free things to do in Reading, PA? Here are some ideas!
If you’re looking for free things to do in Reading, PA, you can visit the Reading Public Museum, which offers free admission on Sundays. You can also take a stroll through the beautiful Reading Pagoda and enjoy the scenic views of the city. And if you’re interested in history, you can visit the Conrad Weiser Homestead, which is free to visit and offers a glimpse into Pennsylvania’s colonial past.
