According to forum posts, the Lincoln Highway (Route 30) is a popular scenic drive that traverses Pennsylvania from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia. It's noted for passing through charming towns like Bedford, Chambersburg, Gettysburg, and Lancaster. Additionally, the route includes significant sites such as the Flight 93 Memorial.

Some travelers have recommended exploring the Laurel Highlands for scenic beauty, accessible via several routes including Route 31 and Route 711. This area is known for lush landscapes and is a gateway to sights like Ohiopyle State Park and the historic site of Fallingwater.

For those seeking a mix of coastal and inland scenery, Route 6 has been called out as offering picturesque views and passes through quaint towns such as Milford, Scranton, and Wellsboro. This route provides opportunities to explore northern Pennsylvania's diverse landscapes.

According to forum posts, Pennsylvania offers diverse family-friendly activities, such as Hersheypark and Knoebels Amusement Resort, which are popular for their rides and child-friendly attractions. Hersheypark, although larger, has rides scattered across the park, making Knoebels a preferred choice for its compact layout and free admission policy where you only pay for rides.

Some travelers have mentioned natural attractions and state parks as excellent family destinations. Ohiopyle State Park and Pine Grove Furnace State Park offer scenic views and gentle hikes suitable for children. These parks provide a great opportunity for families to engage in outdoor activities like short walks and swimming.

For educational trips, the posts suggest visiting The Franklin Institute and the Pennsylvania State Museum in Harrisburg. These institutions offer interactive exhibits that cater to a younger audience, making learning fun and engaging.

Travelers have called out specific unique experiences such as the Crayola Experience in Easton, which allows children to explore their creativity, and the interactive farm activities at places like Old Windmill Farm, where children can engage directly with farm animals and learn about farming.

According to forum posts, travelers have recommended several hotels along Interstate 81 for an overnight stay. Near Harrisburg, good options include hotels off the Progress Road exit with close proximity to amenities. Further recommendations include hotels off the Paxtonia/Linglestown exit 72 in Harrisburg, such as Candlewood Suites and Baymount by Wyndham, noted for their accessibility to restaurants and shops.

For those traveling along Interstate 80, forum contributors have suggested staying in Bloomsburg or Stroudsburg. Bloomsburg offers reasonably priced hotels with easy highway access, while Stroudsburg, located closer to the Poconos, provides a range of hotel choices including Hampton Inn and Baymont Inn by Wyndham, with the latter ensuring rooms are not highway-facing for a quiet stay.

Some travelers have highlighted the Settlers Inn near Lake Wallenpaupack as a charming and safe option just off I-84, providing a comfortable stay with good food and scenic walks. This could be an appealing choice for those seeking a picturesque stopover.

According to forum posts, travelers interested in history between Harrisburg and Pittsburgh can visit Fort Necessity, where George Washington served as an officer during the French and Indian War. This site is located east of Uniontown on US 40.

For those keen on military history, some travelers suggested the US Army Heritage and Education Center in Carlisle. The center features an outdoor walking trail with exhibits representing various periods of U.S. military history, from the pre-revolutionary war through modern times.

Additionally, Fort Pitt in Pittsburgh, which played a significant role during the French and Indian War and served as the Continental Army's western headquarters during the Revolution, is another point of interest mentioned by travelers.

According to forum posts, there are no direct bus services from Philadelphia to Gettysburg that are highlighted. Travelers looking to use public transportation might need to consider multiple transfers or alternative modes of transport.

Some travelers suggested using a combination of Amtrak and local transport. Amtrak can take you closer to the area, and from there, local buses or rental cars might be required to reach Gettysburg. Additionally, renting a car directly from Philadelphia could offer more direct and flexible travel options to Gettysburg.