Things to do / Travel Guide
Eastern Pennsylvania, an area of covering approximately 25% of the state, is the home to about three quarters of the state's residents. With the exception of Erie and Pittsburgh, in the western half of the state, most the Keystone State's big cities are located in this eastern part of Pennsylvania.
As a refuge from religious persecution, the region became the home of countless European immigrants during the mid- to late-1600s. Settlers from Holland, Sweden, Finland, Scotland, Ireland, Germany, and Italy arrived to work in the expanding industries of the region. Their settlement in the region has resulted in a rich diversity of ethnic and religious customs which compose the unique character of eastern Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania is home to very prominent Amish, Mennonite, Brethren, and other “Plain People” communities which have settled in the southeastern portion of the state. “Pennsylvania Dutch” is a term used to describe natives of central eastern Pennsylvania, particularly Lancaster and its surrounding counties. Importantly, the Pennsylvania Dutch are not Amish, but rather German in terms of ethnic background; in fact, the term “Pennsylvania Dutch” is derived from “Pennsylvania Deutsch,” which is reflective of German heritage in the area. However, the current ethnic makeup of eastern Pennsylvania's residents is comprised of about 85% Caucasians, 10% African Americans, about 2% Asian Americans, and another 3% from other backgrounds, including Latin Americans.
The residents of eastern Pennsylvania somewhat reflect the demographic breakdown of the United States as a whole, with about 85% of the population being Caucasian, 10% African American, about 2% Asian American, and another 3% of other origin, including Latin American.
Philadelphia
The locals are well aware that their city is a national treasure and, as such, are generally tolerant of visitors as well as friendly and welcoming. Philadelphia is a walking city and an “eating” city, so busy streets and busy restaurants are the rule, as the locals mingle with the tourists in their favorite spots. Home to the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia has the added flavor of student life and activities. Professional and amateur sports are extremely popular and eastern Pennsylvanians are active supporters of their regional teams.
Pennsylvania Dutch Country
The popularity of this area has led to the extensive commercialization of many of the local arts and crafts and products related to the Amish and Mennonite lifestyle. Don't expect to find bargains along the usual tourist routes. You're more apt to find a unique, hand-made Amish quilt, or a delicious homemade shoofly pie, (a sweet dough and molasses concoction) to make your visit memorable. Road trips through this area of eastern Pennsylvania are common during the summer season, so take the throngs of people in stride while observing the laid-back, family and community-oriented Pennsylvania Dutch lifestyle. The Amish don't use electricity or drive cars, and maintain a quiet, traditional, family-oriented way of life. You will see covered bridges and horse-drawn carriages throughout this region. Traditional Amish lifestyle and customs were authentically depicted in the 1985 movie, “Witness,” starring Harrison Ford.
Countryside
Road-tripping or antique-shopping through the small towns and villages of eastern Pennsylvania, from the Pennsylvania Dutch Country in the southwest to the Lehigh Valley in the central eastern area, brings with it the pleasures of a bygone, slower pace of life. Historic inns and Colonial and Victorian-style bed and breakfast establishments (B&Bs) will lend a distinct Early American flavor to your visit. The locals are friendly and accommodating and well prepared to welcome visitors. You will find accommodations, restaurants, and tourist amenities clean and well-maintained.
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