Pennsylvania’s Keystone Crossroads region brings together three iconic destinations for an epic travel adventure into American history, culture, and food. Within a two-hour drive, groups can experience
the unique flavours of Hershey’s famous chocolate, Lancaster’s renowned Amish life, and Gettysburg’s iconic Civil War battlegrounds. Located at a short distance from the city of Philadelphia, the charming Keystones are the perfect addition to your getaway. This 48-hour itinerary covers the top attractions of this scenic triangle, allowing visitors of all ages to indulge in local history and culture.
Day 1 (Hershey and Harrisburg)
• Start your trip at The Hershey Story Museum to learn about Milton Hershey’s inspiring life and iconic business legacy.
• The museum also offers sweet tasting experiences like the Chocolate Lab and Tastings: Warm Drinking Chocolates from Around the World.
• Reserve your seat on a Hershey Trolley Works Historical Tour to see local landmarks that explore the town of Hershey and its history.
• Families with children will love creating their own candy bars and taking the free Chocolate Tour Ride at Hershey’s Chocolate World.
• After a sweet morning, dive into history around Harrisburg. Start with a free guided tour of the PA State Capitol building. Continue on to the National Civil War Museum, one of the largest museums dedicated to the Civil War, and then to Fort Hunter Mansion for a glimpse into 18th century life along the Susquehanna River.
• Experience holiday spirit with a drive through Hershey Sweet Lights and a trip to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane for rides, entertainment, and holiday treats!
• Ultimately, explore the area’s culinary offerings from chocolate Inspired food, desserts and drinks to fast food and fine dining as well as international options including 18 restaurants serving Indian food.
Day 2 (Gettysburg and Lancaster)
• Drive about 1 hour to Gettysburg National Military Park & Visitor Centre to travel back in time, touring the battlefield, the Seminary Ridge Museum, and the Eisenhower National Historic Site, and uncover fascinating stories that shaped the country’s storied past.
• After visiting the historic sites of Gettysburg, head downtown where you will find a unique and charming assortment of shops, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and more.
• A short drive beyond the battlegrounds, in the Gettysburg countryside, lies a beautiful landscape of farms, markets, covered bridges, and rolling hills of apple orchards. Visitors from around the world marvel at Gettysburg’s renowned apple industry, the fifth largest in the USA, with more than 75 varieties of apples grown there.
• Next, head to Lancaster County, the first and largest settlement of the Amish in the USA, and learn more about their culture at The Amish Farm & House for a guided tour of surrounding farmland as well as a scenic, rustic, and cultural ride on the Amish country’s Strasburg Rail Road for a glimpse into the rural heritage and culture.
• Lancaster is known for pretzels, with options such as Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery and Hammond’s Hand-Made Pretzels serving some of the freshest baked goods.
• More local culinary surprises await at Kitchen Kettle Village’s Make-Your-Own Whoopie Pie experience, a sweet tradition that beautifully weaves the culture of Pennsylvania, Amish-style food at Shady Maple, Indian and Nepalese cuisine at Himalayan Curry & Grill, Diyo Fusion, and Tikka Shack.
• End the night with a holiday show at Sight & Sound Theatre, American Music Theatre, Fulton Theatre or Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre.
