Boasting rolling fields, sprawling forests and enormous mountains, Pennsylvania is a picturesque place with a fascinating past. From storied landmarks such as Independence Hall to the cracked and weathered Liberty Bell, the state's heritage is preserved in countless historical sites and museums. Pennsylvania vacation rentals offer endless experiences, from tasty cheesesteaks and world-class art in vibrant Philadelphia, to professional sports and a rich industrial past in the "Steel City" of Pittsburgh. Add in the great outdoors and the theme parks dotted around the state and it's clear that Pennsylvania offers attractions for all.
Like to see the state's best-known attractions? Choose a Pennsylvania vacation rental in Philadelphia and you'll be at the heart of it all. Visit Independence Hall, a redbrick Georgian building where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed, and be sure to see the iconic Liberty Bell, a symbol of American freedom, which is now situated in the adjacent park. Cast in the 1750s and featuring a distinctive crack, the bell was last sounded in 1846 and is a must-see attraction. For a fun-filled excursion, chocolate lovers can head to the much-loved Hersheypark, which boasts roller coasters, rides for children, a water park and a factory-themed tour ride.
When it comes to family-friendly days out, Pennsylvania is packed with opportunities. There are theme parks for thrill-seekers, including Hersheypark, Kennywood, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, and numerous natural beauty spots for those preferring something more peaceful. Kick back on the beaches of Lake Erie, ski the mountain slopes in winter and enjoy cycling, kayaking, fishing and more than 600-miles of hiking trails at the picturesque Allegheny National Forest. There's stacks to do in the cities, too, whether you want to devour cheesesteaks, sample seasonal beers at a brewery, shop until you drop or delve into the state's well-preserved history.
The state's diverse landscape means weather conditions can vary, depending on where you choose your Pennsylvania vacation rental. For the most part, winters are chilly and summers hot and humid. Pennsylvania's mountainous interior tends to be much colder in the winter, with a greater snowfall that makes it a haven for winter sports fans. Not coming to ski? Fall is a great time to visit, with September offering pleasant daytime highs in the 70s. Pennsylvania can experience severe weather from time to time. Tornados can be encountered here, although they're usually not too destructive or dangerous.
From the sandy shores of Lake Erie and the misty Appalachian Mountains to the endless green forests and manicured fields occupied by quaint Amish farms, Pennsylvania is a picturesque place. As well as providing a playground for outdoor adventures, the diverse landscape also offers a home to an abundance of wildlife. Nature lovers can admire deer, elk and foxes in the state's vast forests, while bears and otters can be seen at the Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. Those with a penchant for bird watching should head to Fort Washington State Park, where the migrations of raptor species, including hawks and eagles, take place in fall.
Fly into Harrisburg Intl. Airport (MDT), the closest airport, located 8.4 mi (13.5 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Harrisburg, PA (HAR-Capital City), which is 3.6 mi (5.7 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Harrisburg Transportation Center, Middletown Station and Elizabethtown Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around Pennsylvania by jumping on the metro at Dekalb Street Station, Bridgeport Station or Hughes Park Station.
From authentic Dutch cuisine to iconic cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania has a range of culinary delights. Pittsburgh boasts massive sandwiches piled high with meat and cheese, Philadelphia is known for its cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, and shoofly pie and whoopie pies are common staples in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. No matter your craving, you'll find a range of unique foods to sample near your vacation rental.
From the peaceful outdoor spaces to the world-class museums, Pennsylvania is filled with unique attractions for a romantic retreat. Vacation rentals are available near places like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a famed art museum with renaissance classics and rotating exhibits, and Longwood Gardens, a sprawling landscape with elegant gardens, fountain shows, and a greenhouse. You could also explore the Barnes Foundation, an art gallery with paintings by greats like Picasso and Renoir.
If you need a break and a refreshing change of pace, we've got the answer. Return home feeling like a new person after a weekend getaway in Pennsylvania at one of these top-rated rentals:
Generally well located and with a price tag that's easy on the wallet, studio apartments offer style and privacy with the comforts of home. Book one of these studio apartments for rent in Pennsylvania and use it as a base for exploring:
With Vrbo's fantastic range of short-term rentals in Pennsylvania, you're bound to find a property to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for somewhere to escape on your own or to reconnect with friends and family, these options are difficult to beat:
A romantic weekend getaway in Pennsylvania is a surefire way to fan the flames of passion. Light some fancy candles, take your love by the hand and get set to let the sparks fly at one of these vacation rentals:
If your idea of the perfect getaway is to bring along all your friends, you're going to need a whole lot of space. Luckily, there are plenty of vacation rentals in Pennsylvania that are suitable for large groups, starting with these sprawling sensations:
You'll have your pick of houses with a pool in Pennsylvania, so slip on your swimsuit and get set to spend your days splashing about. Here are a couple of favorites that'll give you inspiration:
Maybe you're organizing a getaway to celebrate a special birthday, or reuniting with relatives you haven't seen in years. Whatever the reason, you'll likely need plenty of space. One of our large family vacation rentals in Pennsylvania could be just the ticket:
If you're organizing a trip with the family, pick one of these cabin rentals in Pennsylvania and give the kiddos a vacation they'll cherish forever:
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Pennsylvania vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.