Spring for a Road Trip to Pennsylvania

Special Events, Attractions Make Spring Perfect Time to Visit

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 7, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Strolling through lush public gardens, biking scenic trails and enjoying an outdoor concert under the stars are only a few of the many diverse activities that make Pennsylvania the perfect spring getaway destination.

"The welcome return of warmer weather lends itself well to getting out of the house for some fresh air and new experiences," said Mickey Rowley, deputy secretary of tourism in the Department of Community and Economic Development. "Whether you're watching a baseball game, attending a festival or celebrating one of our historic anniversaries, Pennsylvania has a wide variety of experiences to offer this time of year."

Spring is in full bloom at Longwood Gardens. Enjoy the great outdoors while walking through Longwood's 1,050 acres of blossoming gardens and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy the expanded outdoor spring bulb display of more than 100,000 blooming tulips. Other activities at Longwood Gardens include the "Tropical Days for Families" and "The Jazz Club at Longwood" in Kennett Square, now through May 23. For more information, visit www.longwoodgardens.org.

Where else can you travel to the top of a mountain, along the banks of a river, and everywhere in between? The Pittsburgh 250th Anniversary Combination Tour combines the Pittsburgh Historic Neighborhood Tour and the Pittsburgh Heritage Tour in "America's most livable city," now through Oct. 31. For more information, visit www.visitpittsburgh.com.

Join the Lehigh Valley IronPigs as they host the Grand Opening of Coca-Cola Park. This stadium, located in Allentown's east side, features 20 luxury suites, two party decks, four dugout suites, a picnic area and lawn seating. The Philadelphia Phillies affiliate will celebrate their home opener against the International League champion, the Richmond Braves, in Allentown on April 11. For more information, visit www.ironpigsbaseball.com.

The Pennsylvania Lavender Festival, the only lavender festival held in the Mid-Atlantic region, offers tours of lavender fields, demonstration gardens, lectures and workshops. Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy the herbal cuisine samples, fresh from the lavender fields in Gettysburg, June 13-15. For more information, visit www.palavenderfestival.com.

Other upcoming events in Pennsylvania include the park ranger-led walking ours in Valley Forge, now through Sept. 1; Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours in Howley, May 10-31; and the Lewisburg Arts Festival in Lewisburg, April 25-May 4.

The Pennsylvania Tourism Office, under the state Department of Community and Economic Development, provides travelers with the information and resources they need to plan and enjoy the activities, attractions and destinations that are uniquely Pennsylvania. For more information about Pennsylvania's tourism industry, go to www.visitPA.com or call (800) VISIT PA.http://www.ironpigsbaseball.com

CONTACT:

Michael Chapaloney

(717) 720-1301