The Most Iconic Foods and Drinks That Originated in Pennsylvania
In Philadelphia, just a short drive from the city’s historic Old City district, Pat’s King of Steaks stands as a shrine to the iconic Philly cheesesteak. This South Philadelphia establishment is where many credit the modern cheesesteak’s rise to fame. When you visit, ordering a cheesesteak “wit” or “witout” onions from the original counter gives you a taste of thinly sliced rib-eye beef, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll — a simple yet legendary combination. The bustling, no-frills atmosphere of Pat’s, particularly lively during evening hours, makes it more than just a meal; it’s a rite of passage in food culture. Visiting in spring or fall offers a comfortable climate to explore the nearby historic sites after savoring this savory sandwich.
Heading northwest about two hours from Philadelphia brings you to Hershey, often called “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” near Harrisburg. Hershey’s Chocolate World is a must-visit for anyone interested in the story of American chocolate. Here, you can trace the origins of the Hershey bar, crafted by Milton Hershey in the early 1900s. The attraction’s interactive exhibits and chocolate-tasting experiences reveal the craftsmanship behind this Pennsylvania icon. Spring and fall are particularly enjoyable times for wandering the surrounding Hershey Gardens, which showcase thousands of blooming flowers that complement your sweet adventure perfectly.
A scenic half-day drive west from Pittsburgh leads to the Laurel Highlands, home to the Ohiopyle State Park. While Ohiopyle is famed for its natural beauty and whitewater rafting, it also offers a unique food experience tied to Pennsylvania Dutch traditions. Nearby farms and markets provide access to homemade apple butter and fresh cider, staples of the region. Sampling these at a local farm stand or during fall harvest festivals adds a layer of connection to Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage. Visiting during autumn not only offers crisp weather and vibrant foliage but also the freshest, most flavorful local produce.
In Reading, about an hour northwest of Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market beckons as a culinary landmark where Pennsylvania’s diverse food history comes to life under one roof. Here, the Pennsylvania Dutch influence shines through with vendors serving soft pretzels, scrapple, and whoopie pies. The market’s bustling aisles showcase how these foods have evolved and remained beloved. Sampling a warm pretzel from one of the long-standing stalls provides a tangible link to German immigrant traditions that helped shape the state’s cuisine. The market is lively year-round but especially festive during the winter holiday season, when seasonal specialties abound.
Lancaster County, roughly 90 minutes west of Philadelphia, offers a deeper dive into Pennsylvania Dutch foodways amid its picturesque farmland and covered bridges. The town of Strasburg features numerous Amish farms and eateries where visitors can enjoy homemade shoofly pie, a molasses-rich dessert unique to the region. Participating in a guided Amish country tour or visiting local bakeries exposes travelers to the slow-cooked, hearty flavors native to this community. Springtime, when the fields burst into green and farmers markets brim with fresh produce, is the ideal moment to experience this culinary heritage alongside stunning rural landscapes.
About 30 minutes southeast of Pittsburgh, the town of Latrobe holds a special place in beverage history as the home of Iron City Beer. Visiting the former brewery area and nearby museums dedicated to the West Pennsylvania brewing tradition offers insights into one of the first successful mass-produced beers in the state. The robust, malty flavor profile of Iron City Beer reflects the region’s working-class roots and the influence of local ingredients. Summer evenings are ideal for touring the area and enjoying a cold one while taking in the surrounding rolling hills and river views.
Finally, in the Pocono Mountains region, approximately two hours northeast of Philadelphia, the town of Stroudsburg provides an unexpected but delightful connection to Pennsylvania’s culinary tapestry. Here, visitors can find restaurants emphasizing native ingredients like Pennsylvania game meats and locally brewed craft beers. Exploring the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area after a hearty meal offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and gastronomic satisfaction. Autumn, with its crisp air and colorful foliage, elevates both the hiking experience and the enjoyment of regionally inspired dishes, making it an unforgettable destination for food and nature lovers alike.