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Philadelphia, the Countryside of Philadelphia and Hershey & Harrisburg Travel Guide

Discover the birthplace of America in 2023

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is conveniently located between New York City and Washington, D.C. (only 1.5 hours from New York City and two hours from Washington, D.C.). Known for its history, arts and culture, vibrant neighborhoods, outstanding restaurants, outdoor life, tax-free shopping, prestigious universities, and much more, Philadelphia offers a walkable metropolitan experience for all travelers. Discover the birthplace of America and the first World Heritage City in the U.S.

The capital of our Commonwealth, Harrisburg is situated along the banks of the Susquehanna River. The ornate dome of the Capitol dominates the skyline; when the structure was dedicated in 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt said, “It’s the handsomest building I ever saw.” Visitors can tour this historic structure and marvel at its sheer size: the structure covers five and a half acres. The Rotunda, a copy of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, rises 272 feet. Visitors can also take in performances at the Harrisburg Shakespeare Festival, attend a Harrisburg Senators baseball game, or check out the Susquehanna Museum of Art. Every year, the Pennsylvania Farm Show delights 400,000 locals and tourists with exhibits, competitions, and plenty of food. It is the largest indoor agricultural event in the country.

Within the storybook setting of The Countryside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania lies the Brandywine Valley and Valley Forge. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, it is no surprise that the region is home to two well-known National Historical Parks: Valley Forge National Historical Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site.

PhiladelphiaMuseumOfArt

Philadelphia & the Countryside

from £1265 Per Person
  • 7 Nights
Philadelphia
Twin Centre
4/5
  • 3 Nights Kimpton Hotel Palomar, Philadelphia
  • 2 Nights Hilton Garden Inn, Kennett Sq
  • 2 Nights Sheraton Valley Forge
Multicentre Holidays in Pennsylvania 2020/2021 | Travelplanners

Philadelphia & Harrisburg

from £1069 Per Person
  • 7 Nights
Philadelphia
Twin Centre
3.5/5
  • 3 Nights DoubleTree Philadelphia
  • 2 Nights Hilton Kennett Square
  • 2 Nights Hilton Harrisburg
PhiladelphiaBridge

Philadelphia & Atlantic City

from £999 Per Person
  • 5 Nights
Philadelphia
Twin Centre
4/5
  • 3 Nights Hotel Palomar, Philadelphia
  • 2 Nights Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City
  • Amtrak from Philadelphia to Atlantic City
Pennsylvania Fly Drive 2020 / 2021 | Fly Drive

East Coast Cities & Amish Country

from £1459 Per Person
  • 7 Nights
Philadelphia, Pittsburgh
Fly Drive
4/5
  • Pittsburgh, Gettysburg,
  • Lancaster & Philadelphia
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Philadelphia

History

Arts and Culture

Known as the birthplace of America and the First World Heritage City in the U.S., Philadelphia offers a vast array of historic activities. Starting with a guided tour of Independence National Historical Park – America’s most historic square mile – where you will learn about where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were drafted, debated and adopted, Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site. Before you leave, be sure to snap a photo and also learn about the Liberty Bell, a globally recognized symbol of freedom and visit the Betsy Ross House, a historic house that commemorates the life and accomplishments of Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia patriot believed to have made the first American flag.

From ballet to theatre to the orchestra and beyond, it’s no wonder Philadelphia was ranked America’s No. 1 city for culture by Travel + Leisure magazine. Explore Museum Mile along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, home to some of the most iconic museums and institutions.

Marvel over 200,000 examples of art spanning more than 2,000 years in history at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is also home to the “Rocky Steps” and Rocky statue featured in the Academy Award-winning film Rocky. The Rodin Museum is home to one of the largest Rodin collection outside of Paris and is where iconic statue “The Thinker” remains. The impressive Barnes Foundation is where you will see one of the finest collections of post-Impressionist and early Modern paintings with extensive works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.

While in Philadelphia, you can also experience the world’s largest outdoor art museum and one of the U.S.’s most innovative art programs, the Mural Arts Philadelphia. Philadelphia is the Mural Capital of the World and boasts almost 4,000 murals as well as outdoor sculptures.

Outdoor Parks

Dining & Nightlife

With the largest city-owned urban park system in the world, Philadelphia is one of the greenest cities in America. Fairmount Park offers a 10,000-acre park system with over 270 miles of recreation trails. Endless adventure trails, riverfronts, bicycling trails and walking/running paths are woven through the city unlike anywhere in the U.S. Named “one of the world’s 10 best cities for parks” by Frommer’s, Philadelphia offers a wide range of outdoor activities and urban adventures.

Exceptional cuisine prepared by celebrity and award-winning chefs can be found throughout the many diverse neighborhoods that make up the downtown Philadelphia area. Options abound with more than 1,000 restaurants, over 430 outdoor cafes and over 200 BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) style restaurants. Home to nationally recognized breweries and festivals, and historical brewpubs and tours, it comes with no surprise that Philadelphia is named among the best beer drinking cities and late night capitals in the U.S.

Discover Philadelphia

Shopping in Philadelphia

Shopping in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a shopping haven for visitors. From high-end boutiques in Rittenhouse Row to discount outlets at Philadelphia Premium Outlets, shoppers can indulge in Philadelphia’s tax-free shopping on all clothing and shoe purchases. With the largest shopping mall (retail space) in the U.S., King of Prussia Mall, globally-recognized Macy’s, and trendy local shops, Philadelphia is a shopping mecca for all.

Hershey & Harrisburg Pennyslvania

The Hershey Story
The Museum on Chocolate Avenue

Hershey – Chocolate & more

For well over 100 years, the word “Hershey” has been synonymous with the Great American Chocolate Bar. Now, The Hershey Story takes visitors on an inspirational journey through the life of Milton S. Hershey. Learn about the man, his chocolate company, the town that bears his name and his generous philanthropic legacy. No visit to Hershey is complete without a 45-minute, hands-on class in the Chocolate Lab!

Come EXPLORE THE MANY WONDERS OF CHOCOLATE at the first HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATE WORLD Attraction located in CHOCOLATETOWN, USA – Hershey, Pennsylvania! Treat yourself to an assortment of one-of-kind experiences and discover the sweetest feeling of pure happiness. Plan your chocolate adventure today!

Hershey’s Chocolate World

Spotlight Tour of Hershey Theatre

Enjoy the renovated Free Chocolate Tour Ride, complete with a free Hershey’s product sample! Activity options include Create Your Own Candy Bar, the New Chocolate Tasting Experience, 4D Chocolate Mystery digital animation show and more. Stock up on your favorite (and hard-to-find) Hershey brand confections in the world’s largest candy store. You’ll create warm memories that last a lifetime at HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATE WORLD Attraction.

It’s the tour that takes you behind the scenes of one of the most impressive theatres in the state. From the elegance of the Grand Lobby to the foyer’s “canopy of gold” to the distinct marble walls and arches, each section of the building helps to tell the story of part of Milton Hershey’s “Great Building Campaign” of the Great Depression.

Hershey Gardens

Founders Hall at the Milton

What began as a request from Mr. Hershey for a “small garden of roses” is now more than 20 acres of breathtaking flower beds, tree groves and shrub-lined pathways in gardens overlooking the town of Hershey. A new 14,000 square foot conservatory opens this summer to make the Gardens a year-round destination.

Hershey School Dedicated in September, 1970, Founders Hall was built as a tribute to Milton S. and Catherine Hershey. More than 50 thousand visitors tour Founders Hall each year to learn about the philanthropic legacy of the Hersheys and their dedication to helping underprivileged children. The building is an architectural wonder, and houses the story of the Milton Hershey School.

The Countryside of Philadelphia

ValleyForgePark

Within the storybook setting of The Countryside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania lies the Brandywine Valley and Valley Forge. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, it is no surprise that the region is home to two well-known National Historical Parks: Valley Forge National Historical Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site.

Valley Forge National Historical Park stands in testimony to the Continental Army that, in 1777-1778, overcame a tough winter by becoming an even tougher fighting force. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of outdoor events, ranging from lively concerts to living history demonstrations.
 
The Valley Forge area, west of Philadelphia, is also home to world-class tax free shopping on clothing and shoes. Must-visit attractions include the King of Prussia Mall and the Philadelphia Premium Outlets, an open-air shopping haven for brand-name bargain hunters.
 
Just a short drive from Valley Forge sits Hopewell Furnace. Formerly the second largest producer of iron in Pennsylvania. Also located directly south of Philadelphia is the Brandywine Valley, which boasts more great attractions and charming towns filled with eclectic and artisan boutiques with tax free shopping on clothing and shoes. Explore the historic Brandywine Battlefield Park and walk through Longwood Gardens – a 1,077- acre masterpiece of formal gardens, woodlands and meadows with horticultural displays year-round.
 
With gracious accommodations ranging from full service and boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, The Countryside of Philadelphia is the perfect destination for those looking to experience America outside of a big city.
 
 
Natures Glory
With four distinct seasons, miles of open land in which to enjoy them, and the prestigious title as America’s Garden Capital, nature lovers of all types will find the perfect way to take in the area’s beauty.
 
Outdoor Adventures
Prefer your fresh air with a side of adrenaline? Thrill seekers and athletes can get active in the Countryside thanks to miles of trails, waterways, and plenty of award-winning greens.
 
Shopping Destinations
Stocking a suitcase with special mementos from your travels is even better when it’s also a deal – all clothing and shoes are tax-free in Pennsylvania!
 
Culinary Experiences
Taste the bounty of the countryside from local pubs to gourmet restaurants, to farm fresh products and pick-your own orchards.
 
Historical Finds
The Philadelphia countryside sits at the crossroads of history – where revolutionary and civil wars battle lines were drawn and changed this country forever. Walk through the storied spaces where times changed.
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