Museums

History lovers can find much to explore in the birthplace of American independence. Learn about famous events, battles, and people with a trip to these history museums in Pennsylvania:

• Museum of the American Revolution: Discover stories about the people and events that sparked the nation's fight for independence. Located in Philadelphia.
• National Civil War Museum: Discover the lives of soldiers and civilians from the North and South at the largest museum in the world devoted to this dark chapter in American history. Located in Harrisburg. 
• Gettysburg National Military Park Museum: Delve deep into Civil War history by touring a battlefield and exploring artifacts inside the building. Located in Gettysburg.

Immerse yourself in beautiful landscapes and bright colors at art museums in Pennsylvania. Discover eye-catching brush strokes from Pennsylvania-born creators and artists from across the world in the state's art galleries. Here are a few top exhibits to visit:

• Andy Warhol Museum: Walk through the history of Andy Warhol's workat the largest single museum dedicated to the art of the renowned artist. Located in Pittsburgh. 
• Philadelphia Museum of Art: Experience the best of art throughout time and across cultures at this exhibit full of paintings, textiles, and sculptures. Located in Philadelphia. 
• Allentown Art Museum: View a library designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, ancient statues, and Baroque artwork in this incredible collection. Located in Allentown.
• Westmoreland Museum of American Art: This museum focuses on American art — especially that of southwestern Pennsylvania artists — including landscapes, portraits, and sculptures. Located in Greensburg.

When vacationing with the kiddos, encourage learning and exploration with exhibits created just for them. Here are a few top child-friendly museums to visit in Pennsylvania:

• Please Touch Museum: Nothing is off-limits in this museum that lets kids build machines, go on a miniature grocery shopping trip, and create a playground with moveable parts. Located in Philadelphia. 
• Bucks County Children's Museum: Kids can pretend to be doctors, build factories, and dig for fossils at this hands-on museum. Located in New Hope. 
• Children's Museum of Pittsburgh: Have a family-friendly learning experience among the exciting exhibits and artwork at this museum. Located in Pittsburgh.
• Johnstown Children's Museum: Encourage your child to learn the history, culture, and ecology of Pennsylvania through mining exhibits, town landscapes, and career exploration. Located in Johnstown.

Museums aren't just artifacts, paintings, or displays. You can learn unique history by expanding your horizons to explore these uncommon locations:

• Zippo/Case Museum: Light your curiosity with a stop at a museum featuring more than half a billion Zippo windproof lighters. The museum also features Case handcrafted knives. Located in Bradford.
• Mercer Museum: Wander the Mercer Museum to see the artifacts collected by Henry Chapman Mercer, a famous archaeologist. Then, explore Fonthill Castle, his expansive estate. Located in Doylestown.
• The Big Mac^® Museum: Those looking for free museums in Pennsylvania will enjoy the miniature display found in a McDonald's that details the origin of their famous burger. Located in North Huntingdon.
• World of Little League Museum: Discover the history of Little League Baseball and softball, and learn the history linking these youth sports and surrounding world events. Located in South Williamsport. 

Grow closer to the people you interact with every day by learning more about your cultural differences and similarities at these Pennsylvania museums:

• Maridon Museum: This museum showcases stunning Asian artwork, including sculptures, snuff boxes, and dolls. You'll also find more than 300 pieces of German Meissen porcelain. Located in Butler.
• Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History: Explore the only museum dedicated solely to the Jewish American experience and learn of their rich contributions to the nation's history. Located in Philadelphia.
• Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village: Glimpse into the lives of prehistoric hunters and gatherers at the oldest site of human habitation in North America. Located in Avella.
• African American Museum in Philadelphia: Learn African American history through African Diaspora, Philadelphia Story, and Contemporary Narrative exhibits. Located in Philadelphia.
• Blairsville Area Underground Railroad Museum: The Second Baptist Church building is the oldest African-American structure in the city and houses exhibits dedicated to the Underground Railroad. Located in Blairsville.