Misty morning at Valley Forge National Historic Park with revolutionary log houses. Image credit Delmas Lehman via AdobeStock.

Best Day Trips From Philadelphia To Take This Summer

Philadelphia is the largest city in the commonwealth state of Pennsylvania. While Philly is renown for its major contributions to American history, incredible schools as well as beautiful nature and parks, this article highlights two of the best day trips just outside of the big city that visitors could embark on during the summer months. Just outside the city lies many beautiful attractions that draw tourists in annually however they are also beloved by many of those who live in the metropolis. 

A Day in Amish Country  

Amish country farm barn field agriculture in Lancaster, PA US
View of Amish farmland in Lancaster County. Image credit Vadim via AdobeStock.

The first major attraction that makes for a really exciting day event is "A Day in Amish Country". Here, visitors will meet with the tour guides outside of the Logan Hotel, and from there be taken out to beautiful Lancaster County, home to the second-largest Amish community in the whole world! Experience seeing many workers in the fields, learn about the history and culture, as well as hear some impressive facts which makes the Amish so admirable. Once you have arrived, you will get to check out the museum where they showcase the old 1800's Farmhouse, a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop and more!

While exploring the town, there is ample opportunity to see many of the amazing handmade goods that the Amish community produces, from handmade quilts to baked goods as well as other road-side stands. The Amish Village Museum will truly allow visitors to appreciate the heritage and philosophies that built the Amish community into the strong society that it is to this day.

The total time spent driving with the tour guide is an hour round trip, giving tourists approximately 7 hours fully immersed in this rich community. Here, folks might be reminded to appreciate the modern conveniences that we live with in our daily lives!

Valley Forge National Historical Park

The National Memorial Arch at Valley Forge National Historical Park
The National Memorial Arch at Valley Forge National Historical Park. Image credit BrianHPhoto via AdobeStock.

Situated just shy of 37 km outside Philly lies the astounding Valley Forge National Historical Park. The park was the third winter encampment established in December 1777 by the Colonial army during the American Revolution. This park bears many memorable features from monuments, to meadows and woodlands that commemorate the hecatomb and endurance of the generation which saw the Revolutionary War. This is a self-guided tour that will take visitors across the 3500 acres of breathtaking landscapes while listening to stories of heroism that will surely leave participants captivated and hungry to learn more! This tour is a good value as all that is required is a vehicle and smartphone to get the free Tour Guide app which allows individuals to go at their own pace while venturing the area and take in the history.

During this guided tour, tourists will hear about Devil Pete Muhlenberg who left his ministry to join the war efforts, as well as get to see some of the most historically-famous monuments such as the National Memorial Arch. This monument is dedicated to all of the men who spent the frigid winter in the region and either sacrificed themselves to fight for their country, as well as those who fought hard and were fortunate enough to go home to their families.

This guided tour makes for an amazing day trip not only because of its close proximity to Philadelphia, but also because tourists will have the opportunity of a lifetime to feast eyes on some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state. Furthermore, folks who visit here will leave this area with both knowledge and appreciation for the people who served this great country!

Conclusion

Amish country and Valley Forge are two of the most notable day trips within a short drive from the big city of Philadelphia. Whether visitors are eager to take in the hardworking Amish culture, or learn about the rich war history of the area, whichever day trip is chosen is bound to be educational and engaging. Philadelphia and its surrounding area is home to many attractions that draw in tourism each year, although if visitors are yearning for something a little different from The Liberty Bell and Philly Cheesesteaks, definitely make sure to embark on one of these day trips!

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