State College Pictures

Things to do in State College

The best thing to do when at State College is to head over to Penn State and check out the massive campus, not to mention the large student body. This is one of the few places in the country where you can see so many people changing classes all at once–it’s quite busy! Also head over to their football stadium; that thing is huge! If you can, plan your trip around football season so you can see one of their amazing games. State College also has some of the best 4th of July fireworks. State College hosts the Central PA Festival of the Arts, where a variety of artists come to display their work on the streets of the downtown. Live music, food stands, and family activities attract a large crowd each year.

Nightlife in State College

There’s two things that people in State College do best at night, drink and watch football. When you need something to do at night, just follow the local college students and they’ll lead you to the best places. With more than 20 bars and clubs in a mile radius, you’re sure to find somewhere great.

Dining in State College

The best place to eat in State College has to be The Tavern, located on E. College Avenue. They have college-oriented plates and atmosphere. Remember to bring a college ID, because most places will give discounts. Also the Creamery, located at the Food Science Building in Penn State, is the largest university creamery in the nation. Also try out Otto’s Pub and Brewery and Phryst for cheap, local dishes.

Shopping in State College

There are tons of small shops all around the town that cater to all the students there. Prices are good and there are always student discounts. For a cool grocery experience try the Wegman’s grocery store in State College. They have tons of different prepared food and the biggest selection of local beer you’ve ever seen. They even make their own hummus!

State College Travel Tips

• During football season this town can get crazy!
• Pennsylvania has very moderate seasons.
• Pick up some Yuengling beer, only sold in the Pennsylvania area.

Philadelphia Pictures

Things to do in Philadelphia

The question is: What isn’t there to do in Philadelphia!? For one thing, if you are an art buff, Philadelphia has the largest collection of public art and glass mosaics/sculptures in America, designed to counteract graffiti in the city. Museums are almost everywhere in Philadelphia, from some not-so-typical ones such as The Please Touch Museum, as well as the Atwater Kent Museum of Philadelphia History. Theater and music is very popular as well, with several theaters and music academies in the downtown area. If you are looking to take a tour of the city, the options are endless. From trolley rides to bus tours or even walking tours, these informative journeys will take you to many different city districts for a well-rounded cultural and historical experience. The first zoo of America is located in Philadelphia, definitely worth checking out.

Find things to do in Philadelphia

Nightlife in Philadelphia

Not only is Philadelphia known for its history and culture, the nightlife is very upbeat and exciting. The diverse bar scene has absolutely something for everyone to enjoy. There are sports bars, dance clubs, music clubs, college bars, and dive bars, to name a few. In the old part of the city, bars such as the Eulogy Belgian Tavern are very popular, this one known for over 300 bottled, and 20 different types of beers on tap. Happy hour is popular at Lucy’s Hat Shop, which is close to Eulogy. Other well-liked nightlife spots include The Khyber live music venue and Northern Liberties.

Dining in Philadelphia

If you’ve ever heard of Philadelphia, then you have heard that it is a must that you try the famous cheese steak. Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are the first places to serve this and the homes of these delicious sandwiches. Many other cheese steak restaurants and take out places are located all around the city, but it is important to know the lingo when ordering a sub, or you will completely stick out as a tourist. Aside from the cheese steak, a favorite snack of Philadelphia is the salted soft pretzel.

Shopping in Philadelphia

If you are taking a trip to Philadelphia, definitely hit up some of the various shopping districts and marketplaces around the city. The three main marketplaces include the Italian Market, Reading Terminal Market, and Chinatown. The Shops at the Bellevue are where you should go if you are looking for classy upscale shopping and gourmet food courts. The Gallery at Market East, The Shoppes at Liberty Place, and Chestnut Street Shopping are just a few of the many areas around town to shop. To experience true Philadelphia flair, South Street Shopping has an authentic and urban feel, with retro bargain shops and popular boutiques. The King of Prussia Mall is the largest shopping mall on the entire east coast and has pretty much everything you could ever need, from American Eagle, to Burberry or Armani.

Philadelphia Travel Tips

• We all have heard about Philadelphia’s famous cheese steak subs, hoagies, grinders, or whatever you prefer to call them…So try them for yourself!
• Independence Day in Philadelphia is one of the wildest times of the year to go! City-wide fireworks, celebrations, and uproar make this a great experience.
• Be sure to plan your trip ahead. Philadelphia is rich in history and has a lot to see and get caught up in!

Pittsburgh Pictures

Things to do in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is famously known for it’s sports. Be sure to take in a Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, or Penguins game. The PNC Park (baseball), where the Pirates play, is considered one of the most beautiful ball parks in the major leagues. The underground railroad was very influential in western Pennsylvania during the civil war days. The Blairsville Area Underground Railroad Project is dedicated to the men and women who helped and participated in the underground railroad. This museum and exhibit is definitely not to be missed. Students in particular will find this attraction particularly informative. The Pittsburgh Glass Center is a studio and gallery that dedicates itself to glass art and education. Hot glass, flame-working, cold-working, and castin are created here and showcased to the public.

Nightlife in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a hot spot for non stop nightlife entertainment. Students studying here can take advantage of the numerous dance clubs, bars, hookah bars, comedy clubs, jazz cafes, and sports pubs. Some top spots are Area 51, a hip-hop and rap dance club, Brewski’s, a foozball and pool table bar, and Buffalo Blues, the one stop bar-b-que and blues jam performances duo. Cozumel as well, is a Mexican restaurant with live Latin music and a large bar.

Dining in Pittsburgh

Unlike most cities, Pittsburgh restaurants tend to be more local. In many of the neighborhoods it is difficult to find the restaurants and they are frequented mostly by locals. But don’t let that stop you; the food here is a one of a kind. Pittsburgh is known for it’s chipped ham, a thinly sliced ham that is now enjoyed in other parts of the country. Klondike bars also got their start in this city at Isaly’s stores. Whatever you choose to order be sure to get a side of fries to put some Heinz ketchup on and an Iron City Beer to wash it all down. The Hot Metal Grill is a great suggestion for variety and good cuisine.

Shopping in Pittsburgh

If you’re interested in shopping in Pittsburgh hit up Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, and Downtown. These sections offer many shops of every variety. At the Waterfront is the site of the infamous “Homestead Works”. This is a Carnegie/USS steel mill where union and the “Pinkertons” fought during the 19th century during their turmoil. There are now several restaurants, shops, and even a Dave and Busters at that sight.

Pittsburgh travel tips

• Because of the vast number of bridges, it might be helpful to carry a map of the city.
• Bring a sweater because it can get chilly in the evenings.
• Mount Washington offers the best views of Pittsburgh.