Architectural Marvels

Government buildings in the Commonwealth feature unique and beautiful architecture with intricate brickwork, tall columns, and symmetrical designs. These structures set the path many future states followed in their design processes. These buildings also boast a long history of societal change, as they played vital roles in the country's founding. Here are a few government architectural buildings in Pennsylvania you can explore:

• Pennsylvania State Capitol: The state's third and current capital in Harrisburg has many beautiful buildings, including the main capital building, which was dedicated in 1906 and showcases intricate Renaissance architecture. Located in Harrisburg. 
• Old Allegheny County Jail: This historical jail was built near the end of the 19th century and has a severe style with several unique features, like a bridge connecting the courthouse to the jail. Located in Pittsburgh. 
• Allegheny County Courthouse: The Allegheny County Courthouse uses a Romanesque design, boasting several beautiful murals and large arched windows. Located in Pittsburgh.

As one of the most well-known and influential American architects, Frank Lloyd Wright designed many structures across the United States. Several of them join the collection of famous architecture in Pennsylvania. His distinct style emphasizes comfortable and stylish living at an affordable price. His most famous design is Fallingwater, which sits nestled among the trees in the Laurel Highlands. 

You can also find several more of his houses in the same region. Consider staying at one of his houses at Polymath Park and relaxing in a tranquil setting among the trees while living in his artistic creation. Or, tour the Kentuck Knob, another gorgeous structure with beautiful interior design and views across the Youghiogheny River Gorge. 

While buildings usually come to mind when thinking of architecture, other structural designs, such as bridges, transportation, and other infrastructure, showcase high levels of craftsmanship. Here are some examples of this must-see architecture in Pennsylvania:

• Johnstown Inclined Plane: This plane railway was designed by Samuel Diescher, an internationally famous engineer of railroads. It carries residents up a steep hill and was initially designed for escaping floods. Located in Pittsburgh. 
• Historic Tunkhannock Viaduct: This structure carries trains across a creek. It is the largest reinforced concrete structure in the world and looks stunning with a series of large and small arches. Located in Nicholson.

Another top choice for architecture destinations in Pennsylvania is the state's many historic manors. Some buildings have been repurposed as inns or other facilities, but others preserve their historical heritage and allow visitors. View the early building styles of America and learn how previous residents lived by visiting these mansions:

• Haldeman Mansion: The Haldeman Mansion overlooks the Susquehanna River and was once home to Samuel Steman Haldeman, a famous scientist and linguist. You can tour the grounds or visit on Sundays when the home is open to the public. Located in Bainbridge.
• Belmont Mansion: When in Philadelphia, take in colonial history at the Belmont Mansion, a house built in the mid-1800s. Learn the history of the people — free and enslaved — and the structure. Located in Philadelphia.