Top Nature in Pennsylvania

Bring a good pair of walking shoes. The trails are gorgeous, but I totally regretted wearing flip flops! You'll want to explore beyond the monument.

If you can, visit early in the morning, around 7 AM. The morning light is beautiful for photos and there are fewer crowds – I totally loved the peace before it got busy!

Check the weather before you go. I got caught in a sudden rainstorm, and it wasn't fun! Dress in layers just in case – it can change quickly!

I think parking can get pricey, so my advice is to use the shuttle service offered by the park. It's affordable and saves you the hassle of finding a spot!

Bring your own snacks and lunch. The café is decent, but the prices can spike, especially during busy times. Picnicking in the gardens is allowed and a great way to enjoy the scenery.

I suggest checking the events calendar before you go. We accidentally visited on a busy flower show day, and it was packed! You might want to avoid peak days for a more relaxed experience.

If you can, visit during the off-peak seasons like late fall or winter. The lights and holiday displays were stunning without the summer crowds. Definitely a more peaceful experience!

I recommend taking a few minutes to grab a map when you enter. It really helped us find the highlights without wandering aimlessly plus it pointed out hidden gems we might have missed.

My advice is to grab the audio guide when touring Independence Hall. It adds so much context to what you're seeing. Just make sure to return it on time; I almost forgot and faced a penalty!

Here's a pro tip: check out the free ranger-led tours. They’re super informative and you really get a lot from them without having to pay extra. Don't miss out!

I recommend setting aside some time to just chill. There are some amazing benches and green spaces. I wish I had taken a break and people-watched instead of rushing through everything!

Check out the animal feeding times and schedule as soon as you arrive. I almost missed the giraffe feeding because I didn’t look at the board right away.

Bring your own snacks and drinks to save some cash. Zoo food is kinda pricey! I packed a little picnic and it worked great.

Don't forget to visit the small animal exhibits—they're often overlooked and have some really cool creatures. I spotted a capybara that was just adorable!

Plan your visit on a weekday if possible. It was way less crowded when I went on a Tuesday. More time to see the animals without being in huge lines!

Check out the free events they host in the park, like yoga or movie nights. I stumbled onto a movie night that was a huge plus for my experience!

The fountains are super fun, especially in summer, but they can get crowded. My advice is to visit on a weekday to dodge the rush and really enjoy the vibe.

If you want to save on parking, look for spots a little further away and walk. I found some free street parking just a few blocks away and it was a nice stroll along the river.

My advice is to pace yourself! There’s so much to see, but I got tired quickly. Take breaks at the benches to recharge and enjoy the views.

Buy your tickets online to avoid the long lines at the entrance. I wasted 20 mins waiting just to get in, which was not fun!

If you’re on a budget, bring your own snacks. The food inside is pretty pricey and not the best. I wish I had packed a lunch!

Don't miss out on the interactive exhibits. I thought they were only for kids, but it turned out to be super fun for adults too!

My advice is to wear comfortable shoes – the trails can get pretty rugged, and trust me, your feet will thank you after a long hike.

I recommend bringing your own snacks and water because the park doesn’t have many food options, and you’ll want to refuel for all that exploring!

I suggest getting there as early as 8 AM to enjoy the quiet peacefulness before the crowds show up. It’s totally worth it for those stunning morning views!

I suggest checking out the Visitor Center first for any last-minute info or tips from the staff – they’re super helpful and can guide you to the best spots

My advice is to start your visit right at 10 AM. You’ll beat the crowds and have more chill time to explore before it gets busy.

definitely check out the beautiful treehouse when you get there! it's a hidden gem and great for photos. i almost missed it, but i’m so glad i didn’t.