Pennsylvania is home to many historically significant sites that play an integral part in American history, many of which may be well known while others can remain hidden gems for visitors to discover.
Fort Pitt Block House is Pittsburgh’s oldest architectural landmark and only pre-Revolutionary War structure in western Pennsylvania that can be verified as authenticated. Meanwhile, Drake Well Museum chronicles early oil production history in Pennsylvania.
1. Fort Necessity National Battlefield
History buffs shouldn’t miss visiting Fort Necessity National Battlefield. This park marks the site of the inaugural French and Indian War battle fought between Great Britain and France and commemorates General Edward Braddock’s attempt to eject them from western Pennsylvania in 1755. Visitors can see a reconstructed Fort Necessity as well as Jumonville Glen where an initial skirmish led directly into a seven year war between Great Britain and France.
Mount Washington Tavern on this property showcases all the hallmarks of an 18th-century tavern, such as an intimate barroom and elegant parlor, typical for late 18th-century pubs. Additionally, Ephrata Cloister takes visitors back in time with its medieval architecture while East Broad Top Railroad Historic State Park allows those interested in trains to hear them chug-chug away!
2. Flight 93 National Memorial
Ligonier in Southwestern Pennsylvania holds one of the nation’s most historic sites. Over 200 years ago, several Founding Fathers formed an attempt to assist French aristocrats fleeing the French Revolution by creating a colony here.
Flight 93 National Memorial offers visitors an opportunity to walk along what was once the flight path of flight 93 before it crashed on September 11, 2001. There are also outdoor exhibits and phone tours.
Other historic places worth seeing in Pennsylvania are the state capitol, an elegant castle-like structure completed in 1732 that served as the seat of colonial government and hosted all three branches of colonial legislature as well as housing a museum.
3. Carrie Furnaces
Visits to Carrie Furnaces required traversing through an overgrown employee parking lot and down an embankment, to view derelict blast furnaces looming ominously from along the Monongahela River in Swissvale’s industrial town – part of Homestead Steel Works that were at the epicenter of one of America’s bloodiest labor disputes in 1892.
Now open to visitors, this National Historic Landmark celebrates Pittsburgh’s industrial history through multi-layered experiences that celebrate Pittsburgh. Former steel and furnace workers share their memories at this landmark that chronicles American industry.
Rail enthusiasts will delight in this historic site that features one of North America’s oldest narrow-gauge railroads! Visitors can enjoy short or longer train excursions!
4. Portage Railroad National Historic Site
York County, Pennsylvania is widely considered the “Birthplace of American Whiskey”, and Dill’s Tavern represents life on Pennsylvania’s frontier. A state park, this historic site features a replica whiskey distillery as well as a museum and 1794 stone farmhouse.
The Allegheny Portage Railroad was one of the earliest feats of civil engineering in America, created as a solution to overcome the Alleghenies Mountains’ formidable obstacle. Engineers created an incline series consisting of 10 inclines that allowed transportation across their terrain.
The Summit Level Visitor Center features information, exhibits and films about this incredible engineering feat. Also on site are Lemon House, Cresson Summit Incline, Engine House 6 Exhibit Shelter and Skew Arch Bridge – plus seasonal events and educational programs throughout the park!
5. Shanksville Memorial
This somber site pays its respects to the 40 passengers and crew members of United Airlines Flight 93 who died on September 11th 2001, marking a tragic chapter in American history. If you wish to learn more, this is an essential stop on any tour exploring this subject matter.
At Pennsylvania’s unique historical site, visitors can hear the chug-chug of old train tracks at this unique historical attraction. Boasting one of the oldest narrow-gauge railroads in the country and offering scenic one-hour train excursions.
Lancaster Museum features an outstanding example of medieval German architecture and features an extensive collection of medical artifacts – both are must-see attractions! Don’t miss this hidden gem of Lancaster!
