Are you interested in military history? These are the must-visit war museums in Pennsylvania:
1Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg, PAThe Gettysburg National Military Park is situated in the historic town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It is under the management of the National Park Service, a federal agency dedicated to the preservation and public use of significant natural, historical, and recreational sites. The park is a significant site of the American Civil War, preserving the landscape of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg. 2Museum of the American Revolution
Philadelphia, PAThe Museum of the American Revolution, located in Philadelphia, is dedicated to the American Revolution. This period of political changes after 1763 in the thirteen British colonies of North America led to the United States' war of independence against Great Britain. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of this significant period in American history. 3Fort Pitt Museum
Pittsburgh, PAThe Fort Pitt Museum is a unique indoor/outdoor museum located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Administered by the Senator John Heinz History Center, the museum is situated at the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers, a significant geographical and historical point. The museum offers a rich exploration of the history of Fort Pitt and its role in the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and the founding of Pittsburgh. 4Carnegie Science Center
Pittsburgh, PAThe Carnegie Science Center, one of the four Carnegie Museums, is situated in the Chateau neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is conveniently located across the street from Heinz Field, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. As the most visited museum in Pittsburgh, it offers a wide range of interactive exhibits spread across four floors. 5Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
Philadelphia, PAThe Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is a significant historical site located at 301 Pine Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is dedicated to preserving the home of Tadeusz (Thaddeus) Kościuszko, a Polish patriot and hero of the American Revolution. This memorial offers a unique opportunity to learn about the life and work of this remarkable individual, who played a crucial role in the fight for American independence. 6Fort Mifflin
Philadelphia, PAFort Mifflin, originally known as Fort Island Battery and also referred to as Mud Island Fort, is a historic military fort located on Mud Island, south of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is conveniently situated near the Philadelphia International Airport, making it easily accessible for tourists. 7Uss Requin
Pittsburgh, PASince 1990, the USS Requin has been stationed at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serving as a museum ship. Visitors can explore the submarine and learn about its history and the role it played in the United States Navy. It provides a unique opportunity to delve into naval history and technology. 8Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall
Pittsburgh, PAThe Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum is a significant landmark in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. It is recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, which is a testament to its historical and cultural value. The museum is dedicated to honoring all branches of military veterans and service personnel, making it a unique destination for those interested in military history. 9Wyck
Philadelphia, PAThe Wyck house, also known as the Haines house or Hans Millan house, is a historic mansion, museum, garden, and urban farm located in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This site offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and nature, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience of the past. The house was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1971, further emphasizing its historical significance. 10Henry Antes House
Perkiomenville, PAThe Henry Antes House, located in Upper Frederick Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, is a historic house museum. It was built in 1736 by Henry Antes, a significant regional religious and political figure of the 18th century, and one of the region's best-known master builders. The house stands as a high-quality example of a Moravian settlement house, with much of its original interior finish, including ceilings and board partition walls, having survived. 11Washington Crossing Historic Park
Washington Crossing, PAThe park is split into two sections: the 'lower park' and the 'upper park.' The lower park is home to 13 historic buildings, including McConkey's Ferry Inn, where General George Washington and his aides dined and strategized before the famous crossing. The upper park features Bowman's Hill Tower and the Thompson-Neely House, which served as a military hospital during Washington's encampment in the area. 12Brandywine Battlefield
Chadds Ford, PAThe Brandywine Battlefield Historic Site is a significant National Historical Landmark. It is managed and maintained by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The site spans across 52 acres and is located near Chadds Ford, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. This historic park is a part of the site where the Battle of Brandywine was fought during the American Revolution. 13Cliveden
Philadelphia, PACliveden, also known as the Chew House, is a historic site located in the Germantown neighborhood of Northwest Philadelphia. It is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The house was built as a country house for attorney Benjamin Chew and was completed in 1767. It was home to seven generations of the Chew family. The site is famous for its role in the American Revolutionary War's Battle of Germantown in 1777 and for its Georgian architecture. 14Germantown White House
Philadelphia, PAThe Germantown White House, also known as the Deshler–Morris House, is a historic mansion located in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This house is of significant historical importance as it is the oldest surviving presidential residence, having twice housed Founding Father George Washington during his presidency. 15Moland House
Warminster Township, PAThe Moland House, also referred to as Washington's Headquarters Farm, is a historical stone farmhouse constructed around 1750. It was built by John Moland, a lawyer from Philadelphia and Bucks County. This house is a significant part of American history and offers a glimpse into the past. 16Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center
Gettysburg, PAThe Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center is a part of the Gettysburg National Military Park. It houses a museum dedicated to the American Civil War and the 1884 Gettysburg Cyclorama. It also serves as the tour center for licensed Battlefield Guides and for buses that take visitors to the Gettysburg Battlefield and Eisenhower National Historic Site. 17Woodville
Bridgeville, PAWoodville, also known as the Neville House or John Neville House, is a historic house located on Washington Pike, south of Heidelberg, Pennsylvania. This house is significant for its association with John Neville, a tax collector whose other house was burned in the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794. The oldest part of the house dates back to 1775, with the main section built a decade later. It is one of the oldest houses in Allegheny County and has been preserved and restored to its original condition. 18Hanover Junction Railroad Station
Seven Valleys, PAThe Hanover Junction Railroad Station is a historic site located in Hanover Junction, North Codorus Township, York County, Pennsylvania. This station, which was built between 1852 and 1854, has a rich history and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. It served as a key transportation hub during the American Civil War and remained in service until the 1920s. 19U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center
Carlisle, PAThe USAHEC is a comprehensive center comprising several divisions, each contributing to the preservation and dissemination of U.S. Army history. These include the Military History Institute, the Army Heritage Museum, the Historical Services Division, Visitor and Education Services, the U.S. Army War College Library, and Collections Management. Each division plays a unique role, offering a diverse range of resources and services to visitors. 20Grumblethorpe
Philadelphia, PAGrumblethorpe, located in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, was the home of the Wister family for over 160 years. This historic house offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent Philadelphia family and their long-standing residence. 21Historic Upsala Mansion
Philadelphia, PAUpsala Mansion, located in Mount Airy, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic site that stands as one of the finest extant examples of Federal architecture. This architectural style is characterized by its symmetry, simplicity, and grandeur, making it a significant representation of the period's design principles. 22Fort Ligonier
Ligonier, PAToday, visitors can explore a museum located next to the reconstructed Fort Ligonier. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the battles that took place at the fort, providing a tangible connection to the past and a deeper understanding of the historical events that occurred there. 23Bushy Run Battlefield
Jeannette, PABushy Run Battlefield Park is a significant historical site located in Penn Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. The park, which spans 218 acres, is managed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and the Bushy Run Battlefield Heritage Society. It offers visitors a chance to explore a key location in American history. 24Pennypacker Mills
Schwenksville, PAPennypacker Mills is a historic American Colonial Revival mansion nestled within 170 acres of farmland in Perkiomen Township, near Schwenksville, Pennsylvania. This scenic location offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with its well-preserved architecture and expansive grounds. 25Johnson House Historic Site
Philadelphia, PAThe John Johnson House, located in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, is a National Historic Landmark. It holds significant historical value due to its role in the antislavery movement and the Underground Railroad. This site offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the abolitionist movement in the United States. 26Eldred World War II Museum
Eldred, PAThe Eldred World War II Museum is situated in Eldred, Pennsylvania, which is 80 miles south of Buffalo, New York, and 175 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists coming from these major cities. 27Curtis Hall & Arboretum
Wyncote, PAThe Curtis Arboretum, located in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, spans an impressive 45 acres. This expansive arboretum offers a vast space for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. 28Fort Roberdeau
Altoona, PAFort Roberdeau, also known as The Lead Mine Fort, is a historic fort situated in Tyrone Township, just outside Altoona, Pennsylvania. This fort holds a significant place in history and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and explore a piece of American history. 29John Brown House
Chambersburg, PAThe John Brown House, also known as the Ritner Boarding House, is a significant historical site located in Chambersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania. This historic American home holds a rich history and is a key part of the local heritage. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a piece of American history. 30State Museum of Pennsylvania
Harrisburg, PAThe State Museum of Pennsylvania, situated at 300 North Street in downtown Harrisburg, is a significant cultural institution managed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The museum's primary role is to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the region, making it a valuable resource for visitors interested in Pennsylvania's rich heritage. 31Seminary Ridge Museum
Gettysburg, PASchmucker Hall, located in Adams County, Pennsylvania, is a significant site from the American Civil War era. It was originally constructed as the Gettysburg Theological Seminary building and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic building has served various purposes over the years, including being used as a hospital during the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg. 32The Liberty Bell Museum
Allentown, PAThe Liberty Bell Museum, also known as the Liberty Bell Shrine Museum, is a non-profit organization situated in Zion's United Church of Christ in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This museum is located in the church where the Liberty Bell, a globally recognized symbol of America's independence, was hidden from the British Army during the American Revolutionary War. 33Pennsylvania Military Museum
Boalsburg, PAThe Pennsylvania Military Museum, located in the village of Boalsburg, Centre County, Pennsylvania, is a museum dedicated to the military history of the state. It is operated by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, a government agency responsible for the preservation of Pennsylvania's historical and cultural heritage. The museum was opened in 1968 and has since been a significant site for understanding the state's military history. 34Fort Necessity National Battlefield
Farmington, PAFort Necessity National Battlefield is a protected area in the United States, specifically located in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, as it was the location of the Battle of Fort Necessity during the Seven Years' War. It's a significant place for those interested in history, particularly military history. 35Fort Augusta & Hunter House Museum
Sunbury, PAFort Augusta, located in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, served as a stronghold from the period of the French and Indian War until the end of the American Revolution. This fort was a significant part of the region's history, playing a crucial role in the defense and protection of the area during these tumultuous times. 36Johnstown Flood Museum
Johnstown, PAThe Johnstown Flood Museum, located in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, is a historical institution dedicated to the Johnstown Flood of 1889. This museum provides an in-depth look into the events and aftermath of this devastating flood, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about this significant event in American history. 37Mid-Atlantic Air Museum
Bern Township, PAThe Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, located at Reading Regional Airport in Reading, Pennsylvania, is an aviation museum and aircraft restoration facility. It is a place where visitors can explore the history of aviation and see the process of aircraft restoration firsthand. 38Christian C. Sanderson Museum
Birmingham Township, PAThe Christian C. Sanderson Museum, also known as the Sanderson Museum, is a historical artifact museum situated in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, United States. It is nestled within the Chadds Ford Historic District, adding to its historical significance. The museum is a testament to the life and interests of Christian C. Sanderson, a man of many talents including teaching, music, poetry, acting, writing, traveling, radio commentary, and local history. 39Valley Forge - National Park Service
Upper Merion Township, PAValley Forge in Pennsylvania is a significant historical site as it was here that General George Washington established his winter quarters in December 1777. This location, 40 km from Philadelphia, was strategically chosen due to its elevated position which allowed the American army to effectively defend against potential attacks from the British troops.- 40
The Historical Society of Frankford
Philadelphia, PAThe Historical Society of Frankford, situated in the Frankford neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia, is a museum and historical society. It is a non-profit organization that was established to promote the study of history, particularly the social history and traditions of Frankford and its surrounding areas. - 41
The Jimmy Stewart Museum
Indiana, PAThe Jimmy Stewart Museum, located in the actor's hometown of Indiana, Pennsylvania, is a tribute to the life and career of American actor James Stewart. The museum is situated on the third floor of the Indiana Public Library and offers a comprehensive look at Stewart's movie career, including his role in the 1946 Christmas classic 'It's a Wonderful Life'. Visitors can also view some of Stewart's movies in a replica 1930s theater. - 42
Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum
Horsham Township, PAThe Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum, located in Horsham, Pennsylvania, is a significant institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the aviation history of the Greater Delaware Valley. This includes the history of NAS Willow Grove and Harold F. Pitcairn. The museum provides an opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich aviation history of the region and learn about the significant contributions of these historical figures and institutions.