The One-of-a-Kind Experience: The United States Mint
Located in Philadelphia, this facility is one of only four active coin-producing mints in the nation, but it offers a perspective you won't find anywhere else. Visitors are invited to walk along a glass-enclosed balcony that rises 40 feet above the factory floor. From this vantage point, you can look directly down at the massive assembly lines as they strike and produce the coins used in daily American life.
Key Facts About the Philadelphia Mint
- A Historic Legacy: Legend holds that George Washington donated his own silver to help mint the first coins when the Philadelphia Mint opened in 1792.
- Modern Production: While you can watch the production of most denominations, you will no longer see pennies on the line; the United States Treasury officially halted penny production on November 12, 2025.
- Accessibility: The tour is always free and open to the public, making it one of the most accessible world-class attractions in the city.
Other "Only in PA" Highlights
Beyond the Mint, Pennsylvania's "Countryside" and city centers house several other "only here" destinations that make for an unforgettable winter break:
The World's Only Three Stooges Museum
Located in Ambler, The Stoogeum is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to the history of the Three Stooges. It houses a massive collection of memorabilia, including actor-worn costumes and a "flying submarine tank," though it is open by appointment only.
America's First Women's Sports Bar
If you are looking for a community space that makes history, Marsha's on South Street is Philadelphia's (and the region's) first women's sports bar. Named after activist Marsha P. Johnson, it provides a unique, inclusive environment that pairs women's sports and queer film with an elevated menu.
The World's Largest Private Snack Company
In Nottingham, you can visit Herr's Snack Factory, the largest privately owned snack company in the U.S.. Their factory tours let you see the making of everything from classic potato chips to Snickerdoodle Cookie Popcorn.
What's The One Thing You Can Only Do in Pennsylvania?
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