What is Pennsylvania Known For?

What is Pennsylvania Known For? 9 Things That Define the Keystone State

When you think of Pennsylvania, what comes to mind? Chances are, it's the iconic Liberty Bell, a hot Philly cheesesteak, or maybe the historic fields of Gettysburg.

While those are all Keystone State staples, they only scratch the surface of what this diverse and historically rich state is known for. From its role as the nation's birthplace to its quirky foods, stunning mountains, and industrial grit, Pennsylvania is a state of fascinating contrasts.

Here are the 9 essential things that Pennsylvania is famous for.

1. The Birthplace of American Democracy

You can't talk about Pennsylvania without starting with its role as the cradle of American independence. The entire nation's story was written in Philadelphia:

• Independence Hall: This is the most important historical building in the United States. It's where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where the U.S. Constitution was debated and adopted.

• The Liberty Bell: Just across the street from Independence Hall, this cracked but enduring bell is a world-renowned symbol of freedom and abolition.

  
  
  

• Gettysburg: The state's history was forged again during the Civil War. The Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the site of the war's most pivotal battle and the location of Abraham Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address."

2. A Foodie Paradise (Way Beyond Cheesesteaks)

While the Philly cheesesteak is its most famous food export (and locals will passionately debate where to get the best one), Pennsylvania's culinary scene is incredibly diverse.

• Pittsburgh-Style Sandwiches: Head west to Pittsburgh for a sandwich you'll need two hands for. These are famously piled high with your choice of meat, provolone cheese, tangy coleslaw, and a handful of french fries, all stuffed between two thick slices of Italian bread.

• Amish Country Comfort Food: Lancaster County is home to hearty, Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food. Must-tries include shoofly pie (a sweet, rich molasses pie), scrapple (a breakfast loaf of pork scraps and cornmeal), and savory chicken pot pie (the thick, "slippery" noodle kind, not the baked dish).

• PA-Specific Snacks: Pennsylvania is the snack capital of America. It's home to the soft pretzel (best eaten with mustard), and the state produces iconic brands like Utz, Snyder's of Hanover, and Herr's.

3. Hershey: The "Sweetest Place on Earth"

Pennsylvania is home to the real-life Willy Wonka factory. Hershey, PA, is the headquarters of The Hershey Company and is truly "The Sweetest Place on Earth."

You can tour Hershey's Chocolate World, ride the rollercoasters at the massive Hersheypark theme park, and even smell the aroma of chocolate wafting through the air on some days.

4. The Heart of Amish Country

A visit to Lancaster County is like taking a step back in time. It is home to one of the largest and oldest Amish communities in the world. Here, you will share the road with horse-drawn buggies, see farmers working fields with traditional equipment, and can shop for incredible handcrafted goods, from quilts and furniture to fresh-baked goods.

5. Stunning Natural Wonders

Beyond its cities, Pennsylvania is a stunningly rural state with vast forests and mountains.

• The Pocono Mountains: In the east, "the Poconos" are a famous four-season resort destination. This region is a haven for hiking, fishing, skiing, and boating, dotted with waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

• The PA Wilds: The northern and western parts of the state are dominated by the Allegheny National Forest and an area known as the "PA Wilds." This region offers millions of acres of rugged, untamed wilderness, perfect for hiking, camping, and spotting wildlife like eagles and elk.

6. An Industrial & Manufacturing Powerhouse

Pennsylvania was a crucible of the American Industrial Revolution. Cities like Pittsburgh became the "Steel City," producing the steel that built America's skyscrapers, bridges, and railroads. The state's heritage is also built on coal mining in the anthracite fields of the northeast and central regions. This powerful industrial heritage is reflected in museums, historical sites, and the hardworking, gritty character of its people.

7. Iconic Art, Culture, and Underdogs

Pennsylvania, and especially Philadelphia, has a world-class arts scene and a few beloved cultural icons.

• The "Rocky Steps": The 72 steps at the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art are a global landmark. Running up them, just like Rocky Balboa, is a pilgrimage for visitors and a symbol of the city's tenacious underdog spirit.

• The Clothespin: Just across from City Hall, you'll find a 45-foot-tall steel clothespin. This famous Pop Art sculpture by Claes Oldenburg has become a beloved city quirk and a popular photo-op.

8. A "State of Firsts"

For a state this old, you'd expect a lot of "firsts," and Pennsylvania delivers. It is home to the nation's:

• First Zoo (The Philadelphia Zoo)

• First Computer (ENIAC, built at the University of Pennsylvania)

• First Baseball Stadium (Forbes Field in Pittsburgh)

• First Daily Newspaper (The Philadelphia Packet and Daily Advertiser)

9. A Hub for Higher Education

Pennsylvania is a major center for academics and research. It's home to the Ivy League's University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and the world-renowned tech and arts hub Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. And, of course, there's the massive, state-wide pride for Penn State University (PSU), whose main campus in State College becomes one of the largest "cities" in the state on football game days.

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