Da Vinci Science Center, Allentown TRAVELERS IN TRAINING Fun for All Ages It’s no secret that traveling with your little ones is a wonderful way to expand their horizons, introducing them to new experiences and creating indelible family memories, too. But did you know: studies show that exploring new environments also boosts confidence, adaptability, and empathy? Start planning your next adventure with the whole family in tow. For virtually guaranteed oohs and ahhs, go underground for a kid-pleasing cave adventure. At Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park in Centre Hall, you’ll tour the winding subterranean waterways by boat, cruising past stalactites, stalagmites, curtains, and other awe-inspiring formations. Laurel Caverns , near Farmington, offers a thrilling 17-story descent into the swirling sandstone abyss. Had a great time going underground? Next, look up — for a trip to the stars! A Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park, Cherry Springs State Park , in the Pennsylvania Wilds region, offers the best stargazing in the state. For the best experience, check the events calendar and register for “star tours” of the 30,000 stars and celestial bodies visible to the naked eye on a clear night. Pennsylvania is also brimming with all-ages hiking trails. Opt for scenery in Fulton County’s Cowans Gap State Park with the Lakeside Trail, a leisurely 1.5-mile loop around a scenic lake, or go for historic with Tuscarora State Forest ’s Tunnel Trail, a 1-mile loop through peaceful woods to a spooky abandoned railroad tunnel. Traveling also can spark a sense of adventure that convinces even the pickiest eaters to venture beyond their culinary comfort zones. To ease your kids into this mindset, start at Central Market House in York, with 50-plus vendors ready to fill baskets and bellies. Global foods likely to please young palates: arepas from Arepapi’s DA VINCI SCIENCE CENTER; HAPPY VALLEY ADVENTURE BUREAU; VISITERIE 92 visitpa.com
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Travel Guide 2026: Page 92
