Pennsylvania is home to many historic places – from Flight 93’s crash site to old coal mines – so here are a few must-visit spots!
History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss visiting where George Washington crossed the Delaware River with his army to turn back the tide of American Revolution, an essential milestone in turning back time. This historic site includes both a museum and visitor center.
1. Fort Pitt Block House
The Block House was constructed as part of Fort Pitt’s defenses in 1764 and remains as the sole remnant of that historic fort today, considered to be Pittsburgh’s oldest architectural landmark and authenticated structure west of the Allegheny Mountains.
After its initial military use, this building was converted to private use and served many families over its 102 year lifetime. Over this time period it underwent some significant modifications such as additional windows and doors being added.
Edith Ammon successfully convinced the Pennsylvania legislature to pass a bill protecting The Block House at The Point in 1905 despite women having little influence in politics or being allowed to vote at that time.
2. Carrie Furnaces
Though their name suggests otherwise, Pittsburgh’s Carrie Blast Furnaces remain one of its most visited historical attractions. Once home to booming steel production facilities, these National Landmarks now welcome tours.
This site also houses a museum dedicated to steel. Visitors can learn about how southwestern Pennsylvania made an impactful contribution to America’s infrastructure by helping turn iron ore into steel.
Other sites within the Rivers of Steel Heritage Area include Bushy Run Battlefield, where Thaddeus Kosciuszko led both the American Revolution and Polish Revolution; Kuerner Farm provided inspiration for over 1,000 paintings by N.C. Wyeth over 64 years;
3. Shanksville Memorial
At this national park in southwestern Pennsylvania is commemorated the worst winter of the American Revolution when 2500 Continental Army soldiers perished due to malnutrition and disease.
Thaddeus Kosciuszko was an influential Polish patriot who helped America gain independence from England during the Revolutionary War. Visitors can visit where he stood at Fort Necessity National Battlefield.
The Flight 93 Memorial in Shanksville commemorates those on board Flight 93 who stood up against their hijackers during the September 11 attacks and managed to liberate themselves during that turbulent month. To remember them, its Tower of Voices features 40 wind chimes in its resonant structure – one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved historic sites and visited by thousands each year.
4. Liberty Bell
In 1751, Colonial America’s grandest public building in Pennsylvania Assembly ordered a large bell with the Bible verse “Proclaim Liberty to all Inhabitants thereof”, as recorded in Leviticus 25:10. Isaac Norris also requested it bear this inscription engraved into its surface.
The bell was often used to summon lawmakers and inform residents about important announcements or proclamations, honor George Washington’s birthday or commemorate Fourth of July festivities.
After cracking in 1846, this bell was repaired and renovated before going on a 5,000 mile tour to promote women’s suffrage in 1915 – now known as “Justice Bell.” Today it can be found residing at Philadelphia Museum.
5. Portage Railroad
The Portage Railroad near Altoona was an engineering feat from 1834-1854 that revolutionized travel between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh by connecting canals from both sides of the state, shortening journey times from weeks to days.
Its system consisted of 10 inclines, steam engines and pulleys to move canal boats up and down mountains akin to modern-day ski lifts. Today, the National Park Service runs a visitor center and Lemon House Tavern at Incline 6 and Engine House 6 as part of Incline 6 and Engine House 6.
As a tribute to the 40 heroes aboard Flight 93 on September 11th 2001, this Somerset County memorial should not be missed.
6. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water
Falling Water was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935 and constructed partially over a waterfall in southwestern Pennsylvania mountains, earning international acclaim as an organic masterpiece of 20th century architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, Falling Water continues to garner admiration.
Wright believed buildings should connect in some way with their natural setting, and at Falling Water he did just that by using local Pottsville sandstone to mimic the rocks of Bear Run Nature Reserve and creating cantilevers to frame breathtaking views of nature around it.
Pennsylvania offers many historic sites that give an insight into America’s past, from key American war sites to memorials that commemorate 9/11 heroes. Here are just a few that offer an in-depth view.
