Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania, is situated near several notable National Parks and historic sites. Here are a few you may be interested in:
- Independence National Historical Park: Though technically within the city itself, this national park is worth mentioning due to its historical significance. This park is home to Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted, and the Liberty Bell Center.
- Valley Forge National Historical Park: About 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia, Valley Forge is a significant site from the American Revolution. It was here that George Washington’s army camped during the winter of 1777-78.
- First State National Historical Park (Delaware): Less than an hour from Philadelphia, this park celebrates the early history and legacy of the First State in the union. It comprises several sites spread throughout the state of Delaware, highlighting the state’s colonial history.
- Gettysburg National Military Park: A bit further away (about two hours drive), Gettysburg is an iconic Civil War battlefield. The site also includes a National Cemetery and several historic buildings.
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: About two hours north of Philadelphia, this park straddles the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is a haven for hiking, canoeing, camping, and wildlife spotting.
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail: This is a long-distance hiking trail that runs from Georgia to Maine, covering about 2,190 miles. The trail passes through Pennsylvania and offers scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains. You can hike sections of the trail or attempt a through-hike of the entire trail.
- New Jersey Pine Barrens National Reserve is a vast wilderness area with a unique ecosystem.
- Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site: This park is located in Philadelphia and is the home where Edgar Allan Poe lived for several years.
- Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial: This park is located in Philadelphia and is the home where Thaddeus Kosciuszko lived for several months in 1797.
- Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site: This park is located in Philadelphia and is the oldest Swedish church in the United States.
- John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum: This park is located about 10 miles southwest of Philadelphia and is home to a variety of wildlife, including more than 300 bird species.
Please note that travel times can vary based on traffic and the exact location of your starting point in Philadelphia.
Independence National Historical Park
Independence National Historical Park, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the United States’ most significant historical sites. Established in 1948, the park covers about 55 acres in the Old City and Society Hill neighborhoods of Philadelphia.
The park is often referred to as the birthplace of American democracy, as it was the principal location for the discussion and adoption of both the United States Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Key sites within the park include:
- Independence Hall: The centerpiece of the park, Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Liberty Bell Center: This houses the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence. The bell has its famous crack, which occurred the first time it was rung.
- Congress Hall: Served as the home of the U.S. Congress from 1790 to 1800, when Philadelphia was the capital of the United States.
- Old City Hall: Once served as the home of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1791 to 1800.
- Benjamin Franklin Museum: Located on the site of Benjamin Franklin’s Philadelphia residence, the museum pays tribute to Franklin’s life and legacy.
- National Constitution Center: Though not technically part of the park, the National Constitution Center is located within the park’s boundaries and offers interactive exhibits about the U.S. Constitution.
The park is a significant destination for those interested in American history and the foundation of the United States. In addition to these sites, there are also several other historic buildings and monuments within the park’s boundaries. It’s a great place to learn about the country’s founding principles and the early years of the American Republic.
Things to do at Independence National Historical Park
Independence National Historical Park offers a variety of things to do and see for visitors. Here are some of the top activities and sites to check out:
- Independence Hall: This is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Visitors can take a guided tour of the hall to learn more about its history.
- Liberty Bell: This iconic symbol of American freedom is located in the Independence Visitor Center. Visitors can see the bell up close and learn about its history and significance.
- Independence Square: This is the heart of the park and includes Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Old City Hall. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of these buildings and their significance to the American Revolution.
- Franklin Court: This is a complex of buildings and structures that includes the Franklin Museum, the Franklin Court Printing Office, and the Franklin Court Underground Museum. Visitors can explore the site and learn about Benjamin Franklin and his contributions to American history.
- Independence Square Museum Shop: Located in Old City Hall, this shop offers a variety of souvenirs and gifts related to American history and the park.
- Panoramic tour of Philadelphia: Visitors can take a guided tour of Philadelphia that includes Independence National Historical Park, as well as other notable sites in the city, such as the financial district and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
- Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank of the United States: This gallery features portraits of notable figures from American history, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
Independence National Historical Park also offers a range of educational and interpretive programs, including ranger-led tours, exhibits, and demonstrations. Visitors can explore the park on their own or with a guided tour to learn more about the history of the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Valley Forge National Historical Park, about 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a notable American Revolutionary War location. During the winter of 1777-78, the Continental Army, led by General George Washington, camped here.
During the encampment, the Continental Army endured harsh winter conditions with limited supplies. Despite the hardships, the time spent at Valley Forge was also a period of training and regrouping. Prussian military officer Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben arrived at the encampment and provided the troops with valuable training that would improve their fighting skills, transforming the ragtag Continental Army into a more formidable force.
Today, the park spans more than 3,500 acres and includes historical buildings, recreated encampment structures, memorials, museums, and beautiful open spaces. Here’s what you can see and do there:
- Visitor Center: Begin your visit here to get oriented. The center includes exhibits on the American Revolution, and you can watch a short film to understand the significance of the encampment.
- Muhlenberg Brigade Huts: These are replicas of the huts where the soldiers lived during the encampment. They provide a sense of the living conditions experienced by the troops.
- Washington’s Headquarters: This is the house that served as General Washington’s headquarters during the encampment. You can tour the house and see the rooms where Washington and his aides worked and lived.
- National Memorial Arch: This monumental arch was built to commemorate the arrival of General George Washington and his Continental Army into Valley Forge.
- Trails: The park has several walking and biking trails. The 6.6-mile Joseph Plumb Martin Trail connects many of the park’s key sites.
- Valley Forge Train Station: Built in 1911, the restored station now houses an exhibit about transportation to and within the park.
Visitors can take guided tours, attend living history demonstrations, and participate in special events throughout the year. Valley Forge National Historical Park is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and resilience that played a part in the birth of the United States.
What events or activities are held at Valley Forge National Historical Park?
Valley Forge National Historical Park offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year for visitors of all ages. Some of the events and activities held at the park include:
- Seasonal tours: The park offers seasonal tours that provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the history of the Revolutionary War and the winter encampment at Valley Forge.
- Recreational activities: The park features a network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are over 35 miles of designated hiking trails, as well as 19 miles of biking trails.
- Picnicking: Visitors can enjoy a picnic in one of the designated picnic areas throughout the park.
- Annual events: The park hosts a variety of annual events, including the Revolutionary Run, which takes place in April, and the Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run, which takes place in June.
- Museums: The park contains several museums that provide more information about the history of the Revolutionary War and the encampment at Valley Forge. These include the Valley Forge Visitor Center and the Encampment Store.
- March Out of the Continental Army: This event takes place in June and marks the departure of the army from Valley Forge on June 19, 1778, after six months of training and endurance. The event features a reenactment of the march, a musket demonstration, and a wreath-laying ceremony.
- March In of the Continental Army: This event takes place on December 17 and recreates the arrival of the army at Valley Forge on December 19, 1777. The event includes a lantern-guided walk, a campfire program, and a reading of General George Washington’s orders.
- Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run: This is a popular running event that takes place in April and attracts runners, walkers, and supporters from across the region. The race covers a scenic course through the park, passing by historic landmarks and monuments. The event also includes a three-mile walk and an outdoor expo.
Valley Forge National Historical Park hosts many events and activities throughout the year. Some of the major ones include:
- Memorial Day Weekend – The park hosts a 3-day event over Memorial Day weekend with historical reenactments, tours, demonstrations and activities. It commemorates the time when the Continental Army was encamped at Valley Forge.
- Independence Day Celebration – Every July 4th, the park celebrates Independence Day with historic readings of the Declaration of Independence, appearances by Benjamin Franklin and Molly Pitcher, cannon firings, and other Revolutionary War-era demonstrations.
- Candlelight Tours – In December, the park hosts evening candlelight walking tours where visitors can stroll through the encampment by candlelight and lantern, learning about the lives of soldiers during winter camp.
- Artillery Demonstrations – On summer weekends, the park features artillery demonstrations where reenactors fire replica cannons like those used during the American Revolution. Visitors can see firsthand how artillery units operated.
- Ranger Talks – Park Rangers give regular talks on topics related to the American Revolution and Valley Forge, including medicinal practices, clothing and equipment, cooking techniques, and military drills and exercises.
- Living History Camps – On some weekends, especially in the summer, reenactor groups set up tent encampments demonstrating various aspects of life during the 1777-78 winter encampment at Valley Forge like cooking, drilling, and crafts. Visitors can interact with reenactors to learn about the different roles in the Continental Army.
- Driving Tours – Visitors can take self-guided driving tours of the park to view historic sites like Washington’s Headquarters, the original log huts and earthworks, and the Grand Parade ground. The 7.5 mile tour takes about 30 minutes.
- Hiking – There are over 20 miles of trails in the park ranging from easy to difficult, including remnants of the original roads built during the encampment. Ranger-guided hikes are also offered on occasion.
- And many more! There are additional events, reenactments, activities and demonstrations held throughout the year. Check the park’s event calendar for details.
Visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park can also explore the park on their own or with a guided tour to learn more about the history of the Continental Army and the sacrifices they made during the winter encampment at Valley Forge.
First State National Historical Park (Delaware)
First State National Historical Park, located in the state of Delaware, was established in 2013 and commemorates Delaware’s historical contributions and role as the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. The park is unique because it’s not limited to one specific location but rather includes a collection of several separate sites spread across the state. Here are the key sites you can visit:
- Beaver Valley: Nestled on the outskirts of Wilmington, Beaver Valley offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. The site showcases the rolling hills and lush forests of the Brandywine Valley.
- Fort Christina National Historic Landmark: Named after the Swedish queen, Fort Christina marks the first permanent European settlement in the Delaware Valley, established by the Swedish in 1638.
- Old Swedes Church: Built in 1698, this church is one of the oldest Lutheran churches in the United States. Its accompanying burial ground contains many notable graves.
- New Castle Court House Museum: Located in historic New Castle, this museum was Delaware’s first court and state capitol. Here, the assembly voted to separate from Pennsylvania and England in 1776.
- Dover Green: Located in Dover, this site has been the center of the city’s activities for over two centuries. The historic green saw the reading of the Declaration of Independence and the crafting of Delaware’s first constitution.
- John Dickinson Plantation: The childhood home of John Dickinson, known as the “Penman of the Revolution” for his writings on colonial rights.
- Ryves Holt House: Located in Lewes, this house is considered the oldest surviving house in Delaware and possibly the entire state of Delaware. Ryves Holt, an early Lewes settler, was its first owner.
These sites provide insight into Delaware’s colonial, revolutionary, and early federal history. As with all National Parks, it’s advisable to check each site’s operating hours and status before planning a visit.
Things to do at First State National Historical Park
First State National Historical Park is a National Park Service unit located primarily in Delaware, but also extending partly into Pennsylvania1. Here are some things to do at First State National Historical Park:
- Hiking: There are over 18 miles of trails that visitors can explore.
- Picnicking: Visitors can stop for a picnic along the Brandywine Creek.
- Visit historic sites: There are several historic sites within the park, including the John Dickinson Plantation, Ryves Holt House, Old Swedes Historic Site, Fort Christina, and New Castle Court House Museum. These sites tell the unique story of the early settlement of the Delaware Valley by the Dutch, Swedes, Finns, and English.
- Learn about Delaware’s colonial history: The park covers the early colonial history of Delaware and the role Delaware played in the establishment of the nation, leading up to it being the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
- Kayaking: Visitors can go kayaking on the Brandywine Creek.
- Horseback riding and biking: Visitors can go horseback riding and biking.
Gettysburg National Military Park
The site of the crucial battle of the American Civil War, known as Gettysburg, which took place in July 1863, is now protected and memorialized within Gettysburg National Military Park, which is located in the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This battle is remembered as one of the bloodiest of the war, and it was a crucial victory for the Union, halting the Confederacy’s assault of the Northern states. In addition, the park honors the service members who took part in the crucial battle.
Here’s what you can see and do at Gettysburg National Military Park:
- Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center: Start your visit here to learn about the Battle of Gettysburg through a film, a museum, and the immersive Cyclorama painting, which depicts Pickett’s Charge, the climactic Confederate attack on the battle’s final day.
- Battlefield Tour: Explore the vast battlefield, either by self-guided tours or licensed battlefield guides. There are more than 1,000 monuments and markers spread across the park. Notable stops include Cemetery Hill, Little Round Top, and Devil’s Den.
- Soldiers’ National Cemetery: This is where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous Gettysburg Address in November 1863 during the dedication of the cemetery. It’s the final resting place for over 3,500 Union soldiers who died at Gettysburg.
- David Wills House: Visit the home of local attorney David Wills, where President Lincoln stayed the night before delivering his Gettysburg Address. The house now serves as a museum detailing the aftermath of the battle and the creation of the National Cemetery.
- Eisenhower National Historic Site: Adjacent to the battlefield, you can visit the home and farm of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States.
- Ranger Programs: The park offers ranger-led programs that offer in-depth discussions about different aspects of the battle and its broader context within the Civil War.
- Living History Demonstrations: These take place on weekends during the summer, featuring volunteers in period attire demonstrating life as a Civil War soldier.
The park is more than simply a battlefield; it is also a big open-air museum that serves as a somber reminder of a pivotal event in American history. Its size and abundance of things of interest can easily fill an entire day or more, depending on your level of exploration.
Things to do at Gettysburg National Military Park
Here are some of the top things to do at Gettysburg National Military Park:
- Take a guided tour of the battlefield. Licensed battlefield guides offer tours in your own vehicle, bus tours, and private tours. They can provide in-depth information about the battle and key landmarks.
- Visit the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center. This massive museum has artifacts, exhibits, films, and a Cyclorama painting depicting Pickett’s Charge. It’s a great introduction to the battlefield.
- See the Eternal Light Peace Memorial. This granite memorial was dedicated by FDR in 1938. It offers panoramic views of the battlefield from its observation area.
- Check out Devil’s Den. This area of massive boulders was the site of intense fighting on Day 2 of the battle. Confederate sharpshooters stationed in the rocks had a deadly effect on Union troops.
- Explore Little Round Top. The Union’s defense of this hill was a key factor in their victory at Gettysburg. There are monuments and historical tablets throughout the area.
- Walk part of the Gettysburg Battlefield Trail. This self-guided walking tour covers 24 miles of battlefield in total. Even just walking small sections will give you a sense of the landscape and events.
- Visit the site of Pickett’s Charge. See the Copse of Trees that was the focal point of Pickett’s Charge on Day 3, and the Confederate High Water Mark monument.
- Stop by Cemetery Hill. This was a crucial defensive position for the Union army. The Soldiers’ National Monument stands as a memorial to the battle.
- Pay your respects at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. This cemetery contains the graves of over 3,500 Union soldiers that died at Gettysburg. President Lincoln delivered his famous Gettysburg Address here.
- Check out historical homes and farms. The Pitzer House, Codori House, and George Spangler Farm were all used as hospitals during and after the battle. The David Wills House is where Lincoln stayed prior to delivering the Gettysburg Address.
- Take a ghost tour. Many locals and visitors report strange paranormal happenings at the battlefield, especially around Devil’s Den and Little Round Top. Ghost tours explore these supernatural elements.
- And more. There are many additional monuments, landmarks, and historical sites related to the Civil War and Battle of Gettysburg throughout the park. You could easily spend days exploring them all.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a vast protected area in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. This park protects almost 70,000 acres of land along the banks of the Delaware River and provides a varied range of natural and cultural features.
The park is named after the Delaware Water Gap, a spectacular geological feature where the river cuts through a large ridge of the Appalachian Mountains. In addition to this unique feature, here are some things you can see and do in the area:
- Hiking: There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes. The Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile trail stretching from Georgia to Maine, passes through the park.
- Water Activities: The Delaware River is excellent for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing. There are several boat launch sites along the river within the park.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. If you’re lucky, you might spot a bald eagle or peregrine falcon.
- Historical Sites: There are several historic villages and structures within the park, including Millbrook Village, a recreated 19th-century community, and the historic Minisink Archaeological Site, which contains remnants of a 10,000-year-old Native American village.
- Camping: There are numerous campsites in the park where you can spend the night under the stars. Some are located along the river, offering beautiful views.
- Waterfalls: There are several beautiful waterfalls in the park, including Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, and Dingmans Falls, which is accessible via a flat boardwalk trail.
- Scenic Drives: If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the park’s beauty by taking a drive along Old Mine Road, one of the oldest continuously used roads in the United States, or Route 611, which offers stunning views of the Water Gap.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has a wide variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and history fans, making it an excellent choice for a day trip or a longer camping stay. Before your visit, please check the National Park Service’s official website for current conditions and any advisories or closures.
Things to do at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a 70,000-acre (28,000 ha) national recreation area administered by the National Park Service in northwest New Jersey and northeast Pennsylvania. Here are some things to do at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area:
- Hiking: The park offers many hiking trails, from easy to strenuous.
- Paddling: Visitors can go paddling on the Delaware River, which stretches for miles into the distance.
- Fishing: The park offers fishing opportunities.
- Hunting: Hunting is permitted in some areas of the park during designated seasons.
- Scenic driving: Visitors can take a scenic drive on the Delaware Water Gap Scenic Byway.
- Swimming: Visitors can swim in the Delaware River at Milford Beach.
- Picnicking: Visitors can enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s many picnic areas.
- Rock climbing: The park offers rock climbing opportunities.
- Wildlife watching: Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons.
- Visit historic sites: The park has several historic sites, including the village of Millbrook and the Van Campen Inn.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, sometimes known as the Appalachian Trail or the A.T., is a hiking trail in the Eastern United States that connects Springer Mountain in Georgia with Mount Katahdin in Maine. The trail is about 2,190 miles long, though the actual length may fluctuate as sections are rerouted or modified over time.
The trail was conceived by forester Benton MacKaye and was completed in 1937. It passes through 14 states: Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
The trail is noted for its remoteness and pristine natural beauty, traversing through a variety of terrains such as rocky mountains, woods, pastoral plains, and multiple national and state parks. The National Park Service, the United States Forest Service, and the nonprofit Appalachian Trail Conservancy are in charge of the trail.
Here are some key highlights along the trail:
- Springer Mountain, Georgia: The southern terminus of the trail, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
- Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina/Tennessee: This is the most visited national park in the United States, known for its diverse plant and animal life, and for its Southern Appalachian mountain culture.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: Here the trail is often very close to Skyline Drive and is known for its panoramic views and relatively gentle terrain.
- Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia: The psychological midpoint of the trail and the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
- The White Mountains, New Hampshire: Known for their rugged hiking and unpredictable weather, this is often considered the most challenging yet rewarding section of the trail.
- Mount Katahdin, Maine: The trail’s northern terminus, located in Baxter State Park, and the highest mountain in Maine.
Thousands of people hike parts of the trail each year, and several hundred attempt a “thru-hike,” or a hike of the entire trail, each year. A thru-hike generally takes five to seven months, although speedier hikers have completed the entire trail in less than 50 days.
Hikers are advised to prepare adequately before setting out on the trail, particularly for long-distance hikes. This includes physical preparation, gathering appropriate gear, and planning for access to food and water.
Things to do at Appalachian National Scenic Trail
The Appalachian National picturesque Trail is a 2,190-mile-long public route that spans the Appalachian Mountains’ picturesque, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally significant lands1.Here are some activities along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail:
- Hiking: The trail offers short and long-term hiking and backpacking opportunities.
- Wildlife watching: Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a wide variety of bird species.
- Explore historic sites and scenic overlooks: There are several historic sites and scenic overlooks along the trail that provide great destinations for those looking for a challenging day hike.
- Visit state parks and forests: There are 60 state parks and forests along the trail that offer a variety of activities.
- Volunteer: The trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies, and thousands of volunteers.
- Obtain a permit: Some activities along the trail require a permit, such as camping and open fires.
- Use an interactive map: Visitors can use an interactive map to explore hundreds of locations along the trail including vistas, trailhead parking, overnight shelters, A.T. Communities, and Trail.
New Jersey Pine Barrens National Reserve
New Jersey Pine Barrens National Reserve is a national reserve that encompasses the New Jersey Pine Barrens, the largest remaining example of the Atlantic coastal pine barrens ecosystem. The reserve covers more than 938,000 acres of land in southern New Jersey, spanning portions of seven counties and 56 municipalities. It was established by Congress in 1978 as the country’s first national reserve and designated by the United Nations as an International Biosphere Reserve in 1988.
The reserve protects and preserves the unique ecology, history, and culture of the Pine Barrens, which features sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil that supports a diverse spectrum of plant and animal life, including orchids, carnivorous plants, pygmy pitch pines, and rare species such as the Pine Barrens tree frog and the bog turtle. The reserve also helps recharge the Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer, which contains some of the purest water in the United States.
The reserve offers many opportunities for recreation, education, and research. You can visit the park’s visitor center, museum, theater, and gift shop, or explore the park’s trails, rivers, lakes, forests, and historic sites on your own or with a guided tour. You can also enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hunting, birdwatching, and more. You can also learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Pine Barrens, which includes Native American tribes, colonial settlers, ironworkers, glassblowers, cranberry farmers, and the legendary Jersey Devil.
Things to do at New Jersey Pine Barrens National Reserve
New Jersey Pine Barrens National Reserve is a national reserve that encompasses the New Jersey Pine Barrens, a unique location of historic villages and berry farms amid vast oak-pine forests, extensive wetlands, and diverse species of plants and animals of the Atlantic coastal pine barrens ecoregion. Here are some things to do at the New Jersey Pine Barrens National Reserve:
- Hiking and biking: The reserve has several hiking and biking trails that visitors can explore.
- Kayaking and canoeing: Visitors can go kayaking and canoeing on the rivers and streams that run through the reserve.
- Wildlife watching: The reserve is home to dozens of rare plant and animal species, making it a great place for wildlife watching.
- Fishing: Visitors can go fishing in the rivers and streams that run through the reserve.
- Visit historic sites: The reserve has several historic sites, including Batsto Village, a former bog iron and glass-making industrial center.
- Visit parks and wildlife refuges: The reserve includes public lands such as parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and military bases that visitors can explore.
- Attend events: The reserve hosts several events throughout the year, including the Blueberry Festival, cranberry harvest events, and more.