Discovering Pennsylvania’s abundant outdoor family activities can transform your regular vacation into an enchanting adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast seeking serenity in state parks, prefer educational journeys at captivating museums, or you’re a thrill-seeker looking for theme park exhilaration, Pennsylvania has something for everyone in the family. What better way to treasure these moments than staying in a cozy, family-friendly retreat nestled in the heart of nature?
As local experts at Sweden Valley Cabins, we understand how challenging it can be to find activities that cater to everyone’s interest – from children to the older generation. That’s why we’ve devised a comprehensive guide of some of Pennsylvania’s top-notch outdoor family activities. We are confident this guide will ensure you and your family have a memorable vacation brimming with shared experiences, laughter, and exciting stories.
Pennsylvania is teeming with outdoor family activities including:
- Beautiful State Parks and Campgrounds: Offering spectacular locations for stargazing, camping, hiking, and more.
- Thrilling Amusement Parks: Ranging from chocolate-themed rides to roller coasters and water slides.
- Interactive and Educational Museums: Unlock creativity at The Crayola Experience, or delve into The Sweet History of Hershey’s Chocolate.
- Unique Outdoor Adventures: Steam railroading, farm fun, safari tours and more!
Stay tuned to learn about each activity in detail, and why our cabins at Sweden Valley provide the ideal base for your family’s outdoor fun in Pennsylvania, USA.
Exploring Pennsylvania’s State Parks and Campgrounds
Ready to leave the indoors and step into the heart of nature? Pennsylvania is home to a myriad of state parks and campgrounds offering a plethora of outdoor activities for families. From stargazing to hiking, biking, and even whitewater rafting, let’s explore the incredible opportunities awaiting your family in the Keystone State.
Cherry Springs State Park: Stargazing and Camping
Gaze upon the starlit heavens in Pennsylvania’s Cherry Springs State Park, a world-renowned and certified Dark Sky Place. Perfect for an overnight camping trip, families can enjoy the tranquil nights under the mesmerizing Milky Way. Just a short drive from our cabins, it’s a unique experience that will leave you starstruck!
Ricketts Glen State Park: Hiking and Waterfalls
Embrace the great outdoors and hit the trails at Ricketts Glen State Park. Home to 22 breathtaking waterfalls, a hike on the 7.2-mile Falls Trail System is a must. The park also offers fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it a great spot for a family day out.
Swatara State Park: Biking and Kayaking
Gear up for an adventure at Swatara State Park. With biking trails that wind through the scenic landscapes and the Swatara Creek perfect for a family kayaking expedition, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park: History and Nature Trails
Combine learning with leisure at Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Explore the park’s rich history while hiking its nature trails. Whether you’re interested in the iron industry or the Civilian Conservation Corps, there’s a trail with a story for everyone.
Ohiopyle State Park: Whitewater Rafting and Adventure Sports
For the adrenaline junkies in the family, Ohiopyle State Park is a must-visit. The park boasts Class III-V rapids for thrilling whitewater rafting. Beyond the rapids, you’ll find miles of hiking and biking trails, and even natural waterslides for the kids.
Let’s not forget, at the end of your action-packed day, our cozy cabins at Sweden Valley are ready to welcome you back. We pride ourselves on top-notch property care and luxury concierge-level services, ensuring your family’s outdoor fun in Pennsylvania is complemented by a comfortable and memorable stay.
Thrilling Amusement Parks for Family Fun
After a day of exploring Pennsylvania’s stunning state parks and campgrounds, nothing beats the excitement of a family day out at one of the state’s top amusement parks. With a wide range of rides and attractions for all ages, these parks are the perfect destinations for creating unforgettable family memories.
Hersheypark: Chocolate-Themed Rides and Attractions
Hersheypark is a must-visit for any Happy Traveler. Since its opening in 1907, Hersheypark has evolved from a relaxing park with baseball and picnics to a thrilling amusement park with over 70 rides and attractions. Experience the thrill of the Breakers Edge Water Coaster, take a ride on the first looping roller coaster on the East Coast, the sooperdooperLooper, or enjoy the Cocoa Cruiser, designed specifically for kids. This summer, don’t miss the new wood and steel hybrid coaster, the Wildcat’s Revenge, promising thrills with its 140-foot-tall hill, max speeds of 62 MPH, and four inversions!
Sesame Place: A Sesame Street Experience for Young Kids
Next, take your young ones to Sesame Place in Langhorne. As the only theme park in the world to be a Certified Autism Center, Sesame Place offers an inclusive experience for all families. With 17 land-based rides, 9 water rides, three live Sesame Street shows, and a daily parade, it is a paradise for children. Plus, kids can dine with Elmo and Friends for an unforgettable experience.
Knoebels Amusement Resort: Free Admission and Traditional Rides
Step back in time at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg. Nestled among the trees of central Pennsylvania, this family-favorite amusement park offers free admission and is home to more than 60 rides, including the award-winning Grand Carousel and The Phoenix roller coaster. With more than a century of thrills under their belt, Knoebels is a must-visit for families looking for traditional amusement park fun.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom: Roller Coasters and Water Slides
For a splash of fun, head over to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown. Offering a myriad of possibilities for family fun, Dorney Park features over 16 family-friendly rides, 6 roller coasters, and more than three dozen slides, pools, and water play areas at Wildwater Kingdom. Kids can have fun in Planet Snoopy, the PEANUTS-themed park, and even test their driving skills on Dodgem, the midway classic bumper cars.
Dutch Wonderland: A Kingdom for Kids
Finally, no family trip to Pennsylvania is complete without a visit to Dutch Wonderland, a park built specifically with children in mind. Here, your little ones can enjoy a variety of rides and attractions designed for their enjoyment and safety.
In between these thrilling adventures, you can come back to our serene and comfortable cabins at Sweden Valley. We ensure your family’s outdoor fun in Pennsylvania is complemented by a perfect stay, making your vacation a truly unforgettable experience.
Interactive and Educational Museums
There’s more to Pennsylvania than its scenic landscapes and thrilling amusement parks. It’s also home to a variety of interactive and educational museums that offer fun and enriching experiences for the whole family. From art and magic to science and history, these institutions provide a wealth of knowledge in the most enjoyable way possible.
The Crayola Experience: Unleash Your Creativity
At the heart of Easton, PA, you’ll find the Crayola Experience®, a vibrant world of color and creativity. Here, children and adults can explore the magic of color through innovative art techniques. With interactive exhibits like the Toddler Town, which features a multi-colored pegboard and a giant ball maze, it’s the perfect place to let your kids’ imagination run wild.
The Houdini Tour & Magic Show: Step into the World of Magic
In Scranton, PA, families can step into the world of the famous magician Harry Houdini at the Houdini Tour & Magic Show. This spectacle offers visitors a chance to explore Houdini’s fascinating world through a guided tour and witness rare footage of his incredible escapes. The magic show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as it dazzles and amazes!
The Hershey Story: The Sweet History of Hershey’s Chocolate
In Hershey, also known as “the sweetest place on earth”, you can immerse yourself in the delicious history of chocolate at The Hershey Story®. This museum tells the tale of how Milton S. Hershey revolutionized the chocolate-making process. Interactive demonstrations and hands-on experiences like making your own chocolate are guaranteed to bring out the kid in everyone.
Please Touch Museum: Hands-On Learning for Kids
Located in Philadelphia, the Please Touch Museum is a children’s museum that encourages learning through play. With exhibits that are all interactive, kids are free to touch, explore, and learn while having fun. From Food and Family to Imagination Playground, it’s a perfect venue for families with young children.
Carnegie Science Center: Science and Technology Exhibits
In Pittsburgh, the Carnegie Science Center offers a world of discovery. With various exhibits that bring science and technology to life, this center is an excellent place for kids to learn and have fun at the same time. Whether it’s exploring the wonders of space or the depths of the ocean, there’s always something exciting to discover.
At the end of a fun-filled day, return to the peaceful comfort of your cabin at Sweden Valley Cabins. We make sure to offer top-notch care to our properties, ensuring you have a perfect home to return to after your educational adventures in Pennsylvania’s vibrant museums.
Unique Outdoor Adventures in Pennsylvania
When it comes to unique and fun-filled outdoor adventures, Pennsylvania is a treasure trove that never disappoints. From the historic Strasburg Rail Road to the exciting Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, there’s a wealth of family-friendly activities to explore. Let’s uncover some of these hidden gems.
Strasburg Rail Road: Experience Steam Railroading
Step back in time with a visit to the Strasburg Rail Road, where you can experience the charm of authentic steam railroading. Since the 1850s, this attraction has been delighting families with its vintage coal-burning steam trains. Not only can you take a scenic journey through beautiful Pennsylvania countryside, but you can also learn about the history and mechanics of steam railroading with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Mechanical Shop. If you have a Thomas the Tank Engine fan in your family, don’t miss the special Day Out With Thomas™ event on select dates.
Woodloch Pines Resort: Family-Friendly Activities in the Pocono Mountains
Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains, the Woodloch Pines Resort offers an array of family-friendly activities. From boat rides and mini-golf to nature trails and scavenger hunts, there’s something for everyone at this year-round resort. After a day of family fun, parents can unwind in the resort’s award-winning spa, boasting a Hydromassage WaterWalls and an activity pool with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking nature.
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm: Farm Fun and Corn Mazes
For a rural adventure, head to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Ronks. This family-friendly destination is home to one of America’s most impressive corn mazes. With over 50 attractions, including a petting zoo, wagon rides, and a giant slingshot, this is a place where you can truly get lost in the fun.
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park: Safari Tours and Animal Encounters
Animal lovers in your family will be thrilled with a visit to Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax. This unique attraction offers safari tours where you can encounter a variety of animals from around the world. From kangaroos and monkeys to zebras and bison, it’s an unforgettable wildlife experience right here in Pennsylvania.
Paulus Farm Market: Pick-Your-Own Fruits and Farm Animals
Round off your outdoor adventure with a trip to Paulus Farm Market in Mechanicsburg. Here you can enjoy the charm of a working farm, complete with pick-your-own fruits and a range of farm animals. The farm also hosts various seasonal activities, making it a delightful place to visit year-round.
Each of these unique outdoor adventures in Pennsylvania offers an opportunity for families to bond, learn, and create lasting memories. And at the end of a fun-filled day, we at Sweden Valley Cabins are ready to welcome you back to a cozy and comfortable retreat, where you can relax and recharge for the next day’s adventures. With our top-notch property care and concierge-level services, we ensure your stay with us is as enjoyable as your explorations in Pennsylvania. After all, we’re not just about providing a place to stay; we’re about creating a memorable vacation experience for you and your family.
Making the Most of Your Family Vacation with Sweden Valley Cabins
As you plan your family activities and outdoor adventures in Pennsylvania, USA, we at Sweden Valley Cabins are here to provide you with the perfect home base for your explorations. Our offerings go beyond just providing a place to rest your head at night. We strive to enhance your vacation experience with our luxury vacation rentals, exceptional property care, and reliable local services.
Luxury Vacation Rentals in Stunning Natural Landscapes
Nestled in the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside, our vacation rentals offer a peaceful and memorable getaway for families and groups of travelers. Each property is spacious, offering more room than a typical hotel room, and is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Be it a charming cabin in the woods or a luxurious lodge with panoramic views, our properties provide an idyllic backdrop for your family’s Pennsylvania adventures. And, for those nights when you want to unwind under the stars, our properties near Cherry Springs State Park offer exceptional opportunities for stargazing.
Top-Notch Property Care and Concierge-Level Services
At Sweden Valley Cabins, we understand the importance of details in creating a seamless vacation experience. Therefore, we are committed to providing top-notch property care and concierge-level services. From ensuring the cleanliness and maintenance of our properties to providing quick and efficient responses to your inquires, our team is dedicated to making your stay as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. Moreover, we can provide recommendations and help you plan your trips to the many family-friendly outdoor activities in Pennsylvania.
Trusted and Local Company with Multiple Properties
We are a local company that understands the unique beauty and attractions of Pennsylvania. Our properties are strategically located near popular destinations, making it easy for our guests to access the best of what Pennsylvania has to offer. As a trusted company, we have a reputation for our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Our numerous positive reviews and repeat guests are a testament to the quality of our services and accommodations.
Remember, a great vacation isn’t just about the places you visit, but also about the memories you create and the comfort you enjoy. With Sweden Valley Cabins, you can have the best of both worlds – unforgettable outdoor adventures in Pennsylvania and a luxurious, comfortable stay. We are excited to welcome you to your home away from home as you explore the Keystone State’s outdoor treasures. Happy adventuring!
Conclusion
All in all, Pennsylvania’s great outdoors is a treasure trove of activities waiting to be explored by families. From state parks and campgrounds teeming with nature’s best scenes, to amusement parks that bring pure joy to every child’s face, museums that make learning fun, and unique outdoor adventures that promise unforgettable experiences, there’s indeed no shortage of family activities in Pennsylvania, USA.
Among the many places to stay during your family getaway, we at Sweden Valley Cabins stand out in offering you a cozy, quiet retreat nestled in the beautiful countryside of Pennsylvania. We take pride in our top-notch property care, ensuring that each of our vacation homes is kept in the best condition for your utmost comfort.
To make your stay even more memorable, we offer luxury concierge-level services. Whether it’s providing recommendations for local attractions or answering any queries you may have during your stay, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. As a trusted and local company with multiple properties, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands when you choose to stay with us.
In planning your family’s outdoor adventure in Pennsylvania, don’t forget to include a visit to Susquehannock State Forest. As mentioned in our Things To Do page, the forest offers a wide range of activities from stargazing to fishing, hiking, and outdoor sports. It’s an accessible haven for outdoor lovers, promising an enriching and invigorating time for all.
Remember, the goal of a family vacation is more than just fun. It’s about creating lasting memories, strengthening bonds, and experiencing new things together. And what better place to do all these than in Pennsylvania’s great outdoors, where every corner is filled with adventure and every moment is a chance to learn and grow together?
As you plan your family’s next outdoor escapade, consider making Sweden Valley Cabins your home base. We offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and luxury, ensuring your family getaway in Pennsylvania is nothing short of spectacular. See you soon in Pennsylvania’s Great Outdoors region!
