PENNSYLVANIA - Pennsylvania is a massive state defined by a split identity: the hyper-urban, revolutionary East (Philadelphia) and the industrial, Appalachian West (Pittsburgh). Pinpointing a single "most Pennsylvania" activity is impossible, but the state's true character emerges from a blend of unique regional traditions, deep history, and a shared culinary passion.
The most quintessentially Pennsylvania things to do involve embracing the state's deep, often contrasting, roots.
1. The Pilgrimage to Preserved History
Pennsylvania holds an unparalleled position in American history, and a fundamental PA activity is engaging with the moments that defined the country.
- The Revolutionary Roots (East): The pilgrimage to Philadelphia is a must. Pennsylvanians frequently visit or take pride in the sites of the nation's founding, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. A visit isn't complete without running the "Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a quintessential Philly rite of passage.
- The Turning Point (Central): Visiting Gettysburg National Military Park is a crucial, somber experience. The site of the Civil War's most significant battle draws millions annually and serves as a vital memorial to American history.
- The Industrial/Cultural Hubs: The state's history also lives on in its art and industry. Visitors frequently explore institutions such as the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh and the historic Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia.
2. Embracing Regional Language and Identity
The regional dialects and cultural quirks are a constant source of both local pride and interstate confusion. The most Pennsylvania thing a resident might do is talk like one.
- The Pittsburgh Dialect: In Western Pennsylvania, the use of "yinz" (the Western PA equivalent of "y'all" or "youse") and unique regional terms like "red up" (to tidy up) immediately identifies a speaker as a local.
- The PA Dutch Influence: Central Pennsylvania retains strong elements of Pennsylvania Dutch (German) folk culture, particularly in Lancaster County. Attending the Kutztown Folk Festival, touring the Amish countryside, or eating traditional fare like shoofly pie are essential regional experiences.
- The Quirky Traditions: The state celebrates bizarre food-related rituals, such as ringing in the New Year by dropping a log of bologna (in Lebanon) or a giant pretzel (in Hanover).
3. Indulging in Unique Pennsylvania Cuisine
Pennsylvania's culinary culture is a mix of German heartiness, Italian-American classics, and pure sugar. Eating these staples is undeniably Pennsylvanian.
- The Comfort Food: The ultimate rivalry is between the Philly Cheesesteak and the Roast Pork Sandwich (often topped with sharp provolone and greens). Other necessary indulgences include soft pretzels (80% of U.S. pretzels are produced in PA), shoofly pie, and the famous, highly debated breakfast meat, scrapple.
- The Regional Specialties: In Pittsburgh, a filling Primanti Bros. sandwich (piled high with meat, coleslaw, and French fries) is mandatory. In Central Maryland/Central PA, the pit beef sandwich reigns supreme.
- The Sweet Treats: No matter the region, the state is united by treats like Hershey's Chocolate World and Tastykake snack cakes.
In conclusion, the most Pennsylvania thing to do isn't a single activity, but the practice of moving between these cultural poles: feeling the solemn weight of history in Gettysburg, ordering a hoagie (never a sub!) with a strong yinz, and then finishing the day with a trip to an Amish market.
