Explore Pennsylvania
One Mile at a Time
“Pennsylvania by the Mile”
Pennsylvania is rich in history, shaped by hardworking people and generations of tradition. Its towns, roads, and communities reflect a heritage built on resilience, pride, and a deep connection to place.
Kinzua Skywalk
About Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a state rich in history, shaped by hardworking people and generations of tradition. From quiet small towns and winding back roads to bustling cities and fertile farmlands, the character of the state is built on resilience, craftsmanship, and community pride. Immigrants, farmers, steelworkers, and entrepreneurs all played a role in forming places where neighbors still know one another and stories are passed down through generations.
What makes Pennsylvania special isn’t just its landmarks or landscapes—it’s the people who call it home. Their connection to the land, respect for history, and sense of belonging give the state its enduring spirit. Mile by mile, Pennsylvania tells a story of perseverance, heritage, and heart—one that continues to shape everyday life and invites you to slow down and explore it.
There’s so much to see.
Tastes of PA
From iconic Philly cheesesteaks to Pittsburgh’s famous Primanti Bros.–style sandwiches piled high with fries and slaw, Pennsylvania offers something to satisfy every taste bud. Chocolate lovers will find their happy place in Hershey, where the sweet scent of cocoa fills the air and chocolate is a way of life. Across the state, each city puts its own spin on pizza—from coal-region classics to old-world Italian recipes passed down through generations. And it doesn’t stop there—Pennsylvania is also home to a growing number of wineries, where rolling hills and local grapes come together to create bottles worth slowing down for. No matter where you travel, the flavors of Pennsylvania tell a story all their own.
Pittsburgh
City of Bridges
Philadelphia
City of brotherly love
Waterfall
Over 150 waterfalls for you to explore
State Parks-Forest-Game lands
Over 4 millon acres of Nature for you to wonder in.
Biking Across Pennsylvania
Biking Across PA
Pennsylvania is made for two wheels. From smooth rail trails that wind through river valleys to quiet backroads framed by farmland and forest, Biking Across PA is your guide to exploring the Keystone State one mile at a time. This section highlights the best cycling routes across the state—iconic long-distance trails, scenic weekend rides, and hidden gems you’ll only find when you slow down.
Along the way, you’ll find trail details, surface types, nearby towns, places to eat and stay, and tips for riders of all levels. Whether you’re pedaling the Great Allegheny Passage, cruising a canal towpath, or planning a multi-day cross-state adventure, this is where inspiration meets practical planning. Grab your helmet—Pennsylvania’s stories are best told from the saddle. 🚲
The Great Allegheny Passage
150 Miles Pittsburgh to Maryland
Erie to Pittsburgh Trail
Schuylkill River Trail
71 Miles 5 different counties
Redbank Valley Rail Trail
51 miles along historic rail trails
FAQ
What is Pennsylvania best known for?
Pennsylvania is best known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and strong community roots. It’s where American democracy was born, home to small towns, scenic back roads, covered bridges, iconic foods, and hardworking people who take pride in their heritage.
Why is Pennsylvania called the Keystone State?
Pennsylvania is called the Keystone State because of its central role in the founding of the United States. Like a keystone in an arch, Pennsylvania held the original colonies together politically, economically, and geographically.
What are the main regions of Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is commonly divided into:
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Eastern PA (Philadelphia and surrounding areas)
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Central PA (farmland, mountains, and college towns)
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Western PA (Pittsburgh, river valleys, and industrial heritage)
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Northern PA (forests, lakes, and outdoor recreation)
Each region has its own character, traditions, and food specialties.
Is Pennsylvania a good state for road trips?
Absolutely. Pennsylvania is one of the best states for road trips thanks to its scenic byways, historic towns, roadside attractions, and short distances between destinations. You can travel from city streets to quiet farmland in just a few miles.
Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled the new Welcome design in 2024
The new license plates and welcome signs feature patriotic imagery like the Liberty Bell and the slogan “Let Freedom Ring” to celebrate Pennsylvania’s central role as the birthplace of American democracy and to promote tourism and pride in the state’s heritage.
🛣️ The broader purpose:
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To showcase Pennsylvania’s historical importance nationwide.
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To tie in with the annual tourism campaign and give travelers a refreshed visual identity at state borders and on vehicles.
Our Blog
23 Historic Covered Bridges in Washington County
Pennsylvania isn’t just a place on a map—it’s a story written across rivers, mountains, mill towns, farmlands, and highways. Every mile tells a chapter. From ancient footpaths worn into the earth long before European settlement, to iron rails, turnpikes, canals, and...
The History of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s history isn’t confined to textbooks or museums—it’s written across highways, rivers, mill towns, and backroads. From ancient Indigenous trails to steel towns, railroads, and roadside Americana, this state has been shaped mile by mile. This first post on Pennsylvania by the Mile explores how movement, industry, and everyday people built a place that’s still evolving—one road trip at a time.
Welcome to Pennsylvania By the Mile
Welcome to PA by the Mile, a travel and storytelling site dedicated to exploring Pennsylvania one mile at a time. From small towns and back roads to local food, history, and hidden gems, this is where Pennsylvania’s stories come to life.
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