Pennsylvania, sitting on the USA's eastern seaboard, with New York to the north and the Virginia’s and Washington DC to its south, has one of the richest histories in the country.
Famed as the location where the bloodiest battle of America’s Civil War took place, Gettysburg is a melting pot of history and culture. The Battle of Gettysburg was fought over three days in July 1863, and the events that took place here marked the turning point in the American Civil War with over 50,000 casualties. A visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park is a must, you will find over 1000 monuments and a battlefield shrine to the soldiers that fought here. It takes you back to the days of the Civil War era, with authentic food, shops, historic inns and an array of museums and attractions. Gettysburg is living history!
Pennsylvania’s Dutch Country is an area like no other, where you will experience an eclectic mix of culture and heritage. Visit the colourful city of Lancaster, where Amish populations have lived and worked for over 300 years. The culture of simple living, plain dressing and reluctance to adopt many of the modern day conveniences makes for an interesting insight into a unique way of living. Head to Adamstown for an array of antique shops and galleries, and find goods from bygone eras. Experience a classic American town in Ephrata, where a wide Main Street offers a variety of shops selling locally made crafts. Train buffs will love Strasburg, known as the railroad centre of eastern Pennsylvania. With tree-lined streets, 18th century houses and intricate craft shops, Lititz is a great historic town for a casual meander. Don’t forget to include its magnificent Moravian church in your plans, which dates back to the 1700s.
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