Philadelphia, PA - Queen of Haunt reviewed attractions that made the most of haunting and safety to give haunt enthusiasts the top 13 Terrifying Haunts in the U.S.
Philadelphia, PA - Halloween in Philadelphia. From haunted houses to Boozy events where the spirits mostly drink, Philadelphia has something for everyone to do, and even a Halloween costume party for your four-legged friends
PENNSYLVANIA STATE - Pennsylvania is a haven for Halloween enthusiasts, with spooky attractions scattered across the state. Here are some of the best, spanning from east to west:
OHIO STATE - Ohio, known for its sprawling landscapes and interconnected cities, boasts a vast network of roads that crisscross its terrain. One thoroughfare stands out for its remarkable length and historical significance: State Route 7.
VIRGINIA - Virginia is a state steeped in history, and with that history comes a tapestry of town and county names derived from Native American languages, British figures, and French settlers. For outsiders, navigating this linguistic landscape can be a minefield. While there are plenty of contenders, one name almost universally trips up newcomers: Staunton.
The Clear Winner: Staunton
If you want to immediately identify yourself as "not from around here," just pronounce this city in the Shenandoah Valley the way it's spelled.
- How Outsiders Say It: "STAWN-ton" or "STOW-ton"
- How Virginians Say It: "STAN-ton"
That's right, the "au" is pronounced as a simple, flat "a," just like in the name "Stan." This pronunciation is a classic shibboleth—a linguistic test that separates locals from visitors. The city, which is the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson and home to the American Shakespeare Center, holds firm to its unique pronunciation, much to the confusion of tourists.
The Honorable Mentions: Other Virginia Tongue-Twisters
While Staunton often takes the top prize, it's far from the only challenge. Here are a few other names that will have visitors scratching their heads.
Norfolk
This is perhaps the second most famous offender, known for its myriad of local pronunciations. The one thing everyone agrees on is how not to say it.
- How Outsiders Say It: "Nor-FOLK" (pronouncing the "L" and hitting the "folk" hard)
- How Locals Say It: "NAW-fok" or "NOR-fok" (The "L" is completely silent, and the second syllable is minimized.)
Wytheville
Located in Southwest Virginia, this town's name seems straightforward until you try it.
- How Outsiders Say It: "WHY-th-vil" or "WITH-ee-vil"
- How Locals Say It: "WITH-vil" (The "y" is pronounced like a short "i," and the "e" at the end is silent.)
Fauquier
This county in Northern Virginia is a remnant of its French roots.
- How Outsiders Say It: "Faw-KWEER" or "Faw-kee-ay"
- How Locals Say It: "Faw-KEER"
Botetourt
Another county with a French name that has been thoroughly Virginian-ized over the centuries.
- How Outsiders Say It: "Bo-teh-TORT" or "Bot-a-TOUR"
- How Locals Say It: "BOT-a-tot" (It rhymes with "what-a-tot.")
From Chincoteague ("SHIN-ko-teeg") to Goochland ("GOOCH-land"), the list goes on. But if you want to master just one, start with Staunton. Getting that one right is the first step to sounding like a true Virginian.
Philadelphia, PA—Philly has become something of a burger city lately. Everywhere you look nowadays, taverns, gastropubs, and restaurants have added unique burgers to the menu. The Burger has even entered some of the city's high-end steakhouses. Hence, we've decided to list our favorites throughout the city.
Unless you’re one of the few nice people around who hasn’t even savored a drop of liquor in their whole lives, chances are that you’re at least marginally familiar of the drink whiskey.
PENNSYLVANIA - From its Native American rivers (like the Youghiogheny) to its German settlements (like Lititz) and Welsh towns (like Bala Cynwyd), Pennsylvania's map is a linguistic minefield for visitors. You can almost instantly tell a tourist from a local by how they pronounce the name of a town, county, or... in this case, a river.
NORTH CAROLINA - You can often spot a newcomer to North Carolina before they even say "y'all." How? Just ask them to read a map. The Tar Heel State is a linguistic landscape filled with names from Native American, English, and local traditions that don't sound like they look.
PENNSYLVANIA, PA - In the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania, nestled along the scenic Allegheny River, lies a place that holds a unique distinction: Parker, Pennsylvania. This unassuming city, located in Armstrong County, is officially recognized as the smallest city in the United States by population. But despite its diminutive size, Parker boasts a rich history, a close-knit community, and access to a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities.
SOUTH CAROLINA - A state deeply rooted in colonial American history, is home to numerous historic churches that stand as testaments to its early beginnings. Among these venerable structures, Old St. Andrew's Parish Church in Charleston (specifically, the West Ashley area) holds the distinction of being generally considered the oldest surviving church building in South Carolina still in active use.
PENNSYLVANIA STATE - Pennsylvania, a state brimming with historical significance, is home to numerous towns and cities that played pivotal roles in the nation's early development. Among these, Bristol Borough, nestled along the Delaware River in Bucks County, holds a unique distinction: it's the oldest borough in Pennsylvania. Settled in 1681 by English Quakers, Bristol's story is a tapestry of colonial ambition, industrial growth, and enduring community spirit.