Flight 93 National Memorial        Stoystown, Somerset County

On Tuesday morning, September 11, 2001, the U.S. came under attack when four commercial airliners were hijacked and used to strike targets on the ground. Nearly 3,000 people tragically lost their lives. Because of the actions of the 40 passengers and crew aboard one of the planes, Flight 93, the attack on the U.S. Capitol was thwarted.  Passengers aboard Flight 93 overpowered the terrorists on board, and the aircraft crashed into an open field in Somerset County. 

Independence National Historical Park                           Olde City, Philadelphia

In the heart of Philadelphia, you will find this historical treasure.  Independence National Historical Park was born to preserve the story of the birth of American democracy and stands, even today, as an icon of freedom for people around the world. Here you will find the site at which the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution of the United States of America were debated and signed. In Independence Square – now a world heritage site – the Declaration of Independence was read publicly for the first time on July 8, 1776. You'll also see the home of Benjamin Franklin and the First and Second Banks of the United States. Most notably, the park manages and displays one of the country's best-known and most enduring symbols of freedom and liberty: the Liberty Bell!

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area                                Bushkill, Pike County

As the name suggests, Delaware National Gap National Recreation Area is all about the water!  Located where the Middle Delaware River cuts through the mountains, this is a great place to swim, fish, boat, canoe, kayak, raft, and tube.  It's also a great place to see some amazing water falls, visit the historic Millbrook Village, and hike the Appalachian Trail.

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site                      Gallitzin, Cambria County

The Allegheny Portage Railroad is a story of ingenuity, persistence, and the fleeting power of success. This engineering marvel, which includes the first railroad tunnel in America, opened a valuable trade route within a developing nation. The celebration of its success was enjoyed worldwide; it was a must see for prominent travelers of the 1840s. The Allegheny Portage Railroad of today has many interesting things to see and do.

Steamtown National Park         Scranton, Lackawanna County

Our national parks are places for everyone to have fun, reconnect with nature and history, and build a sense of ownership and stewardship toward parks and the environment.  Steamtown National Historic Site is the only place in the National Park System where the story of steam railroading and the people who made it possible is told.The Park Entrance Fee ($6.00, all visitors age 17 and older) includes admission to the park grounds, railroad yard, History Museum, Theater, Technology Museum, Roundhouse, Theater programs and walking tours.

Hugh Moore Park    Easton, Northampton County

I like the name of this park because it is so close to my uncle's name: Hugh Moy. In fact, if you say it fast enough, it sounds the same. Hugh Moore, Hugh Moore, Hugh Moore. See it sounds like Hugh Moy.

Anyway, this is a cool little park with some history and a boat ride!  While visiting the park you will see locks and other canal structures, 19th century industrial ruins, as well as the park's centerpiece, the Josiah White II (as pictured above). Take a voyage on the Josiah White II and listen while a costumed crew gives you an oral history of regional canals. It's a memorable trip through history for all ages!

Valley Forge National Historical Park                                          King of Prussia, Montgomery County

Without a doubt, Valley Forge State Park is a Must on the "Things to See and Do list". Beautiful, historic, entertaining. Really, there is something for everyone, not just the kiddos.  Valley Forge National Historical Park commemorates more than the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation; it honors the ability of citizens and their leaders to pull together and overcome adversity during extraordinary times.

Washington Crossing Historic Park                           Washington Crossing, Bucks County

I remember going to Washington Crossing Park on Christmas Day to see the re-enactment of  "Washington and his men" crossing the Delaware. My grandfather would take movies, my brother and I would watch the re-enactors, as we sipped hot chocolate,  tread through snow or mud and lug those big wooden boats into the water and start paddling. A couple times they had to call it off because there was so much ice. My dad would always wonder aloud, "why don't take the bridge". . but I digress. Washington Crossing Park is really a MUST on the "Things to See and Do in Pennsylvania" list.

Gettysburg National Military Park                                 Gettysburg, Adams County

Gettysburg National Military Park offers a full compliment of Summer Ranger Programs (mid-June through mid-August), battlefield walks, evening campfire programs, and special events including living history groups and band concerts. During the winter months the park offers a special series of indoor programs that address high points of the battle and the army commanders.