A full metal military history guide to Pennsylvania

Go even further back in time at your next stop, Fort Ligonier. Built between 1758 and 1766, it predates the Declaration of Independence! The fort was in use during the French and Indian War and Pontiac's War, and it was here that a 26-year-old George Washington cut his (wooden) teeth as a young general. The fort itself has been reconstructed and restored, and is great for exploring. An onsite museum provides all the background you could want on the role Ligonier played in America's early history-- plus, they have a special exhibit on George Washington.

Everyone knows about Pennsylvania's role in the American Revolution and the Civil War, but Jeannette's Bushy Run Battlefield preserves a lesser-known piece of history: Pontiac's War. It was a mid-18th century Native American rebellion against the growing influence of the British in North America. A loose confederation of Native American tribes attacked and destroyed several British forts, and the rebellion ended in a truce when Pontiac signed a treaty with the British. Included with admission to the battlefield is the chance to take a guided tour of the property... but if you're looking for some peace and quiet, there's a nice hiking trail here that you can tackle solo as well.

The Soldiers & Sailors National Military Museum Memorial brings a personal touch to Pennsylvania's rich military history. Loaded with artifacts, art, uniforms, equipment, and personal mementos, you'll get to learn about various branches of the military across time, from uniquely personal perspectives. In fact, some of the guides are veterans themselves, so taking a tour with one of them is absolutely a must when visiting. The history behind the gorgeous building is fascinating as well-- it was built by Civil War vets from the Union Army.

There is a ton of history from the 19th and 18th centuries in the Keystone State, but the Pennsylvania Military Museum offers a look into the 20th century. From exhibits about citizen soldiers on Pennsylvania's homefront to a collection of tanks and guns that saw action in WWII, Vietnam, and Korea, the displays here are fascinating and totally engaging.

For those military history events you're learning about along the way that really interest you, you might want to delve even further into the details. That's where the US Army Heritage & Education Center comes into play; they've got a massive archive of books, letters, personal papers, photographs and artifacts for you to peruse. Primary sources really give a special look at historic events like war. You can find out what it was like to be a soldier, or even a civilian, experiencing these history-shifting events. Add in a gallery displaying rotating exhibits, a shop, and a cafe, and you've got a great little experience for your military trip.

Even if you're not a Civil War buff, make a point to stop at The National Civil War Museum. They pride themselves on removing bias from their history of the Civil War, trying to represent both the Confederacy and the Union with as much accuracy as possible. They also do a very good job of following the timeline of the Civil War, from its underlying causes through the battles and into its lasting effects. From the historical objects on display to the interactive exhibits, it's a thorough look at our country's bloodiest war.

Sometimes, niche museums are the most unexpectedly awesome. The American Military Edged Weaponry Museum might seem like it's too specific to be widely appealing, but the display of knives, swords, sabers, bayonets, pikes, and more is beyond fascinating. You'll leave with a new appreciation for sharp weapons, military history, and niche collections.