Pennsylvania Heritage and City Sights

  • Lancaster + 4 more
  • Lancaster County, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Road Trips,
  • 15
from  £1,729pp
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Introduction

Experience the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant city life on this 14-day road trip through Pennsylvania, specially crafted for couples seeking a leisurely, enriching journey. Begin in the dynamic city of Pittsburgh, with its stunning river views, cultural landmarks, and fascinating sports heritage. Continue through Pennsylvania’s charming towns and landscapes, from the pivotal battlegrounds of Gettysburg to the sweet allure of Hershey. Along the way, discover Amish traditions in Lancaster, the art and nature of Lehigh Valley, and finally, the historic treasures and lively neighbourhoods of Philadelphia. This itinerary offers a balanced mix of iconic sites, scenic stops, and cultural gems, making it an unforgettable holiday filled with diverse experiences and leisurely exploration.

Tailor-made for YOU!

All of our road trips are fully customisable and can be tailor-made to suit your own individual requirements. Please let your Discover North America travel specialist know if you would like to start in a different destination, reverse the itinerary, use specific hotel accommodation or simply want to add an extra excursion or two. Do you have more or less than 15 days for your road trip? No problem, we can add extra nights to allow more time to explore or shorten the number of destinations as required.

International Flights

As we can offer you such an extensive choice of flights, we don’t automatically include international flights in the headline fare displayed on our website, unless stated otherwise in the `What’s Included’ section. The price you pay will be determined by the time of year you travel, your departure airport, airline, class of travel and availability. When requesting your initial quote, your Discover North America Travel Specialist will take the time to understand your own individual requirements with regard to international flights and will tailor the quote specifically to your needs.

Find out more about the process we follow here.

 

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Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Pittsburgh

Arrive in Pittsburgh on your early evening flight and check into your hotel for a relaxing three-night stay. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely evening exploring local dining options in Station Square or Downtown Pittsburgh, where you can sample regional cuisine and take in the city's welcoming atmosphere. This evening is yours to unwind after your travels and look forward to the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Pittsburgh

Start your Pittsburgh experience with a scenic ride up the historic Duquesne Incline to Mount Washington, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and three rivers. Next, head to the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History to explore world-class exhibits that range from dinosaur fossils to fine art. Afterward, venture to the Strip District, a lively area filled with markets, cafes, and specialty food shops—ideal for lunch and local shopping. If a game is in season, consider catching a Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, or Penguins game in the evening. Alternatively, book a stadium tour of PNC Park or Acrisure Stadium to learn more about Pittsburgh's legendary sports culture and the city’s passion for its teams.

Day 3: Pittsburgh

Consider starting your morning at the beautiful Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where seasonal displays and exotic plants offer a refreshing start to your day. Then, explore the Heinz History Center to learn about Pittsburgh’s rich industrial heritage, from its steel industry roots to its impact on American culture. For lunch, head to the neighbourhoods of Lawrenceville or Shadyside, known for their charming cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. In the afternoon, explore Point State Park at the meeting point of the city’s three rivers or take a riverboat cruise for an unforgettable perspective on Pittsburgh’s scenic beauty. End your day with a memorable dinner in Downtown Pittsburgh, capping off your time in this vibrant and historic city.

Day 4: Pittsburgh to Gettysburg

Collect your rental car and head southeast to Gettysburg for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the Gettysburg National Military Park, where you can tour the historic battlefield and visitor centre to learn about the Civil War’s most pivotal battle. Consider a guided tour to hear personal stories from the past. In the evening, relax in the quaint town centre, sampling local cuisine at a historic tavern or restaurant.

Day 5: Gettysburg

Consider starting your day with a visit to the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the former home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which offers insights into his life and leadership. Later, visit the Gettysburg Heritage Centre or Shriver House Museum to discover more about the town’s Civil War history and the experiences of local families. Enjoy a quiet evening in Gettysburg, exploring the antique shops and enjoying dinner in a cosy, historic setting.

Day 6: Gettysburg to Hershey

Travel to Hershey for the next part of your journey, where you’ll check in for a two-night stay in the Hershey/Harrisburg area. Start at Hershey’s Chocolate World for a fun look at how chocolate is made, complete with tastings and chocolate-themed souvenirs. In the afternoon, head to Harrisburg to explore the Pennsylvania State Capitol, an architectural gem. Wind down with a relaxing evening back in Hershey or Harrisburg, sampling local restaurants and enjoying a taste of Pennsylvania’s charming hospitality.

Day 7: Hershey & Harrisburg

Perhaps start your morning with a peaceful stroll through Hershey Gardens, featuring beautiful botanical displays and a butterfly atrium. Then, head back to Harrisburg to visit the National Civil War Museum, which provides a compelling look at the Civil War’s impact on the nation. In the evening, return to Hershey for a relaxed dinner and perhaps a scenic sunset drive through the surrounding countryside.

Day 8: Hershey to Lancaster and Amish Country

Drive to Lancaster for a two-night stay in the heart of Amish Country. Perhaps start with a visit to the Amish Farm and House, where you’ll gain insights into Amish culture and traditions. Explore the quaint streets of Lancaster City, stopping by Central Market for fresh produce and locally made treats. In the evening, consider a horse-and-buggy tour for a unique way to experience the serene landscapes of Lancaster County.

Day 9: Explore Lancaster's Countryside and Heritage Sites

Spend the day exploring Lancaster’s rolling farmland and charming villages. Visit Strasburg, home to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania and the historic Strasburg Rail Road, where you can take a scenic train ride through Amish farmland. If you’re interested in art, the Lancaster Quilt & Textile Museum offers an impressive collection of local craftsmanship. For dinner, enjoy a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch meal, featuring hearty dishes inspired by the region’s heritage.

Day 10: Lancaster to Lehigh Valley Area

Continue to Lehigh Valley for a two-night stay, where you can explore the cities of Bethlehem and Allentown. In Bethlehem, visit the historic SteelStacks, a transformed steel mill now home to art venues, music performances, and vibrant cultural spaces. Wander through the charming streets of Historic Bethlehem, taking in its colonial architecture and historic sites. Spend a relaxed evening enjoying the local dining scene and live entertainment at SteelStacks.

Day 11: Lehigh Valley Area

Spend your morning visiting the Allentown Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of American and European art. Next, explore Jacobsburg State Park or Trexler Nature Preserve for a scenic nature walk or leisurely afternoon picnic. End the day with a visit to one of the Lehigh Valley’s many vineyards or breweries, enjoying a tasting experience paired with beautiful vineyard views.

Day 12: Lehigh to Philadelphia

Return your rental car upon arrival in Philadelphia and settle in for a three-night stay. Begin exploring the city’s historic charm at Independence National Historical Park, home to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Take a leisurely stroll through Old City to admire colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming shops. Enjoy dinner at a classic Philadelphia restaurant, sampling local favourites like cheesesteak or farm-to-table specialties.

Day 13: Philadelphia

Dedicate today to exploring Philadelphia’s impressive cultural offerings by activating your included Go-City All-Inclusive Pass. Start at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for its “Rocky Steps” and world-class art collections. Nearby, the Rodin Museum and Barnes Foundation offer unique collections of sculptures and paintings. After a day of art and culture, enjoy an elegant dinner in Rittenhouse Square, a lovely area with dining options ranging from casual cafes to fine dining.

Day 14: Philadelphia

Enjoy your final day in Philadelphia with a visit to Longwood Gardens in nearby Kennett Square, featuring stunning horticultural displays, fountains, and walking trails. Alternatively, explore Fairmount Park with its trails, gardens, and historical mansions. Wrap up your Philadelphia adventure at Reading Terminal Market, where you can sample local treats, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the lively market atmosphere.

Day 15: End of itinerary

Your itinerary ends today. Alternatively, speak with your Discover North America Travel Specialist about extending your time in the USA.