The 10 Best Summer Activities in Pennsylvania!

Summer is a time when anything is possible. Days are longer, berries sweeter, love deeper, and activities that much more exhilarating. Take advantage of more sun and less responsibility with the incredible summer activities of Pennsylvania!

1. Drive-In to Shankweiler’s

Experience summer the way they did over 80 years ago with the classic Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theater. An iconic American tradition, drive-in theaters make going to the movies feel fresh and new all over again. Even better, you won’t have to waste a gorgeous summer evening in a stuffy theater!

2. Blast Off at Kennywood Amusement Park

Conveniently accessible for Pittsburgh-area Pennsylvanians, Kennywood is simply a summer institution since 1898. Visit for roller coasters, kiddie rides, and entertainment to rival the best in the business. Feel like a kid again at this National Historical Landmark.

3. Visit the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania

It has been over a century since a wild wolf has been spotted in Pennsylvania. These once abundant creatures now find themselves without a natural home. Enter the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania, a place where these majestic animals can lead full lives. Set on 80 acres, and home to 40 wolves, this sanctuary depends on visitors to continue its dedication. Take a tour to learn more about wolves, and even take advantage of full-moon tours to get the total experience.

4. Conquer the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire

Though they provide entertainment almost year-round, the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is really at its prime in the summer. This Lancaster County tradition explores the world and culture of our past, and brings to light how little has changed of humanity. Check their website for an extensive array of programming, offered at various times throughout the year, and be sure to check out the full-blown faire at the end of each summer season.

5. Explore the Indian Echo Caverns

Exploring caves might not scream summer fun, but these natural wonders maintain a magical 52 degrees year-round, meaning it's a great way to cool off without cranking up the air. Make your way through the caverns, then return topside and keep the excitement going with a petting zoo and mineral mining!

6. Stop By Sesame Place

For generations of Americans, Sesame Street has been a place that provided learning, laughter, and love. Amp up your summer with a trip to the real thing! Gather up the kiddos and set off for a day—or weekend!—filled with family fun. Take on rides, water attractions, performances, parades, and meet-and-greets with your favorite furry friends.

7. Light up at the Pennsylvania Firefly Festival

Learn about one of our most dazzling summer creatures, the firefly, at this uniquely wonderful festival. Enjoy all day entertainment, and then keep your eyes peeled as the sun goes down. You could see up to 15 different species of fireflies undertake dazzling mating displays, and learn about their important place in the ecosystem, with this inimitable experience.

8. Take in a Game at PNC Park

Summer and baseball go together like peas in a pod, and there are few better ways to experience this joy than catching a Pirates game at PNC Park. Grab a date, the kids, the guys, or just your ball cap and take yourself out to the game!

9. Take on Lake Erie

Rent a standup paddle board and explore Lake Erie like never before! Set adjacent to Presque Isle State Park, this location is second to none for the serene excitement that is stand up paddle boarding. Engage both your core and your sense of wonder with this popular new activity!

10. Taste the Pennsylvania wine scene

While you may not equate Pennsylvania with superior quality wines, the Keystone State delivers where it counts. Home to over 200 wineries, and more than a dozen wine trails, oenophiles are in plenty of luck. It is said that no single point in the state is more than an hour’s drive from a winery, so grab your designated driver and show local business some support!

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