An Organized Family Travel Guide to Exploring “Kid-Friendly” Pennsylvania – 600 Fun Stops & Unique Spots
Your kids will love finding where to discover Oil and take a tram ride deep into Coal Mines…hike along tall trees, great lakes, waterfalls and grand canyons…tour fun Snack Food Factories…twist your own Pretzel…take a peak at Polar Bears and Groundhogs…travel around Train Curves and Inclines…or, “meet” Ben Franklin, Abraham Lincoln and even see some real Christopher Columbus stuff!
Each chapter is a day trip zone including points of interest, events and suggested lodging and dining options.
Save Time. New features include QUICK TOURS and web resources to quickly help you make the most of a short trip in each chapter. Searching countless hours on the internet? We give you fast travel facts, prices, and our kid-tested reviews for every listing. We did the work so you don’t have to.
Save Money. Once you purchase the book you’ll have access to a special page of online updates that keeps your book FRESH for years. Plus, we’ve found many places to visit for little or no charge.
The books are available at Bookstores and Online Retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Some examples: Reindeer Ranch, Potato Chip Factory, Dog Sledding, Dune Buggies, Indoor SkyDiving, Duck Boating, Pizza Factories, Toy Factories, Recording Studios, Covered Wagons, Skipjack Boating, Dairy or Fish Farms, Making Baskets, Boats, and Carousel Creatures, Air Boating, Crabbing, Money Making, Cheese Making, Pretzels, Pottery, Baseball Bats & Bees, Ice Cream Factories and all the Candy Factory sampling you can bear. Where are the best burgers? the biggest toasted cheese sandwiches? The sweetest peaches or the greatest “foamed” root beer?
HAVE A TRAVELING MOM/DAD, TEACHER OR FRIEND ON YOUR GIFT GIVING LIST?
If they like exploring hidden gems near large cities – that’s what KIDS LOVE TRAVEL is all about
– hundreds of fun stops and unique spots around favorite destinations.
In each KIDS LOVE TRAVEL guide, you get ORGANIZED ideas for EASY family travel—from no hassle quick trips to unique vacation add-ons...with FREE things mixed in!
Gettysburg – the only major battle fought on Union soil – is most remembered as being the turning point of the American Civil War. Two years into the war, thousands of soldiers lost their lives in Gettysburg, which ultimately led President Abraham Lincoln to stand on its hallowed ground and deliver what would later be known as the Gettysburg Address, one of the most remembered speeches in world history.
“The 150th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on this nation’s past – particularly this seminal event that shaped who America is today,” said J. David Petruzzi, a renowned historian and author of the Civil War. “We have the opportunity to look back to learn from the past, celebrate the dedication of all those who served, and be thankful that America is a united country.”
Gettysburg’s April kick-off is part of a four-week series of events held in Pennsylvania that outline Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s invasion of northern territory.
The event in Gettysburg will include a march by Union and Confederate troops into Gettysburg, living history encampments at historic locations throughout the town of Gettysburg, re-enacted skirmishes, and capped off with 150 cannon shots along with the playing of “Taps.”
“This kick-off is just the beginning,” said Flowers. “Over the next five years, we expect many more events, special observances, expanded programs and tours, and large battle re-enactments – a commemoration few will forget.”
For a list of events planned for Gettysburg’s 150th anniversary commemoration, call (800) 337-5015 or visit www.gettysburgcivilwar150.com.
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is located on the East Coast of the United States, about two hours from both Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, and four hours from New York City.
As always, we think strong historical towns are best to visit during events like this.
And, if your kids might be overwhelmed by too much history, try an apple farm, a mini-horse farm or a snack food factory tour or two nearby. Need details?
(this post was taken from excerpts of KIDS LOVE PENNSYLVANIAavailable in retail and online stores NOW!)
For those who lived in Gettysburg in July 1863, the battle was a frightening experience. Take a downtown tour and learn the stories of the families who lived through one of the most horrific times in American history. Visit the Shriver House, the Train Depot, the David Wills House and dine in the Dobbin House for lunch.
Stops to Tour:
SHRIVER HOUSE:
A story of one family whose plans for a saloon and ten-pin bowling alley along Baltimore Street were dashed by the fierce three-day battle. This may well be the tour with the most wonderful storytelling, suspenseful guides in town! Your daughters will wonder what happens to the two girls and your sons will love sneaking up into the attic noticing the debris left behind by Confederate soldiers who overtook the home’s top floor as a sharpshooters’ nest. CSI fans will want to hear every detail of the blood stains and the numerous artifacts discovered behind old walls removed during the restoration of the Shriver’s home (including Civil War medical supplies, LIVE bullets). Admission. 309 Baltimore Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325. www.shriverhouse.org
Schriver House Museum: This museum is ranked as the #2 attraction in Gettysburg and I know why. This was my personal favorite and I know my kids would love to see how a family lived in 1863! Every room is decorated down to the last detail. The kids room depicted NECCO WAFER candies on the desk that were made in 1863 and still around today (connection of past and present). You can even buy the candy and other memorabilia in the gift shop on site. -Lisa W
In between, take a break for lunch at the DOBBIN HOUSE TAVERN.
The Springhouse Tavern (downstairs) offers Lite Cuisine for Casual Dining. A most unique eating tavern amidst three natural springs and two glowing fireplaces. This cozy space features homemade food and refreshing spirits served by wait staff in colonial attire. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Children’s Menu and more moderate pricing at lunchtime. Sampling of Menu: Porridge of the Day, Springhouse Salad, Club and Foccacia sandwiches and some hot meat, fish and chicken specialties. Ask for Adams County Apple Pie or Warm Colonial Gingerbread for dessert. Once you place your order, take a mini-tour of the dining rooms on the first two floors. Can you determine which dining room is the Library, Parlour, Study, Spinning Room or even Bedroom (wherein one can actually dine in a Bed!)? www.dobbinhouse.com.
YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED ON THE BATTLEFIELD…DO YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THE FAMILIES LIVING IN TOWN? Go and find out. (Disclosure: my recent press tour of Gettysburg and Adams County was arranged by: www.gettysburg.travel, however no promises were made as to content of post and book writings)
Do you like exploring countryside hidden gems near large cities?
Well, that’s what KIDS LOVE TRAVEL is all about – hundreds of fun stops and unique spots around your favorite state.
Meandering some to Explore more…
(this post was taken from excerpts of KIDS LOVE PENNSYLVANIA available in retail and online stores NOW!)
For those who lived in Gettysburg in July 1863, the battle was a frightening experience. Take a downtown tour and learn the stories of the families who lived through one of the most horrific times in American history. Visit the Shriver House, the Train Depot, the David Wills House and dine in the Dobbin House for lunch.
The Battle of Gettysburg wasn’t all about blackpowder and wool uniforms. The human face of this trying time is told through a guided or self-guided (recommended for families) civilian story tour. Learn about the town’s anxiety, struggle and heroism as the mere 2,400 residents were suddenly confronted with 170,000 soldiers…often sneaking in through back alleys and hiding in attics! Hear stories of homes confiscated, families hiding in their basements and the massive cleanup effort that followed this famous battle. At the beginning of the confrontation, kids often thought it fun to watch until a bullet whissed by their window or a headless soldier on horseback flew by.
Stops to Tour:
Begin your tour at the GETTYSBURG LINCOLN RAILROAD STATION (Carlisle Street) where President Lincoln arrived on November 18, 1863 for the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetary. From here, Lincoln walked up the street a little ways to the Town Square (now called Lincoln Square). At the time of his arrival, the station was still being cleaned up after doubling as a makeshift hospital after the battle. As Lincoln arrived, coffin boxes were still being prepared to transport bodies to their loved ones miles away. The Station is run by the NPS and carries no admission. Donations appreciated.
Next, tour the new DAVID WILLS HOUSE (pg 148, KLP), where the president put the finishing touches on the Gettysburg Address. At the invitation of David Wills, President Abraham Lincoln comes to Gettysburg to “deliver a few appropriate remards” for the dedication of the new cemetary. The museum tour is self-guided and takes approximately one hour. The museum includes five galleries, 2 recreated rooms (Mr. Wills law office and the bedroom Lincoln used overnight) and two films. Admission. www.davidwillshouse.org. It is especially touching to see some of the original artifacts in that guest bedroom overlooking the town square. Once you leave this building, pop a picture with the Lincoln statue as he points the way to the cemetery. You can follow in Lincoln’s footsteps as he paraded from the town square to the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, where he so eloquently delivered his immortal speech. (walking distance is 3/4 miles) This address, while only two minutes in length, is a legacy speech about renewed hope for the townspeople suffering great inconvenience and still people today.
YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED ON THE BATTLEFIELD…DO YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THE FAMILIES LIVING IN TOWN? Go and find out. (Disclosure: my recent press tour of Gettysburg and Adams County was arranged by: www.gettysburg.travel, however no promises were made as to content of post and book writings)
Do you like exploring countryside hidden gems near large cities? Well, that’s what KIDS LOVE TRAVEL is all about – hundreds of fun stops and unique spots around your favorite state.
Meandering some to Explore more…
(this post was taken from excerpts of KIDS LOVE PENNSYLVANIA available in retail and online stores NOW!)
Do your kids like animals? Are they fond of zoos but don’t like it when the animals are tired or hidden? We’ve found a great solution for positive animal interaction!
A research assistant/reporter for Kids Love Travel, Lisa W and I spent a few days trying new things at Nemacolin Woodland Resort in southern Pennsylvania late summer (beautiful Laurel Highlands off Rte 40). We noticed some families were just “day-tripping” it there vs. the expenditure of a luxury resort overnight stay.
The wildlife habitats are great for viewing (free to roam the paved, drive-able grounds on own), but for a truly unique and educational experience, you can take the Safari Tour where you and your family can interact with the wildlife and take a tour of the petting zoo and baby animal nursery. The best part of the Safari Tour – you get to feed large live animals! Up Close.
Lisa and I giggled much and were tickled by LIVE animals and funny statues during our visit.
Here’s a picture commentary:
The kids will love the ticklish feeling you get as the animals eat from your hand.
The Safari Tour at Nemacolin is a must for kids and adults. It is intimidating & exhillarating at the same time.
The Tavern Aquarium: This is one of the largest circular aquariums in the US. Your kids will love eating right beside it and watching the rare fish swim around. The Heritage Shops & Dining are on the property (near the main Chateau) and great for a fun lunch on your day trip.
Mr. Statue: Your kids will love seeing all the fun statues around Nemacolin this one reminds us of Mr. Monopoly.
BTW, did you know you can bring your family pet to Nemacolin to stay in their own kennels? Nemacolin has long been recognized for offering its guests the ultimate in luxury and service and now guests of the resort can treat their four-legged family members to the ultimate in luxury at Nemacolin Wooflands, a pet resort and spa! In addition to 30 standard kennel rooms Nemacolin Wooflands features six themed “Luxury Suites” complete with flat screen televisions and comfortable beds. Pet guests of the suites also receive turn down service and a treat at bedtime. Crazy – huh?
Do you like exploring countryside hidden gems near large cities? Well, that’s what KIDS LOVE TRAVEL is all about – hundreds of fun stops and unique spots around your favorite state.
Meandering some to Explore more…
(this post was taken from excerpts of KIDS LOVE PENNSYLVANIA available in retail and online stores NOW!)
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