Do you and your family enjoy vacations that are also great opportunities for learning about culture, history and the pioneers that built this great country? What better way than a fun vacation that is also educational!

And whether you lean towards the city lights or if the rural atmostphere is what makes your heart sing, you'll love Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Well-known for being rich in history, Philadelphia proudly presents its many museums and culture to its visitors.

Everything from the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, whereby you will enjoy yourself in the 80 period rooms ranging from a display from an Indian temple to medieval cloisters. Founded in 1876 to spotlight decorative arts, its large collection makes it the third largest museum in the United States.

There are many other buildings to tour in the general area including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, and the National Constitution Center.

Don't forget a visit to the Reading Terminal Market. It was established in 1893 and is the nation's oldest continuously operating farmers market. You will be able to indulge in virtually every type of cuisine, from Asian to soul food, from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare to Middle Eastern dishes all available from mostly family-run stands.

Afterwards you might be ready to walk off your eating experience with a relaxing stroll along the cobblestone streets. Taking in the architectural wonders that are plentiful from the last couple hundred years is a real pleasure if you are the least bit interested in style and history.

Tired of walking? Think about a carriage ride. Whether you are with a significant other and looking for some romance added to your vacation time or if you have the whole family, including children, it is fun to be pulled by the ever popular horses professionally chauffeured by a city guide.

Then, you may be inspired to take in the locations where some of the movie "National Treasure" was filmed. See if you can follow the trail of clues depicted by the movie in this city's famous landmarks.

After a glimpse of the city spectacles, save time for a drive to Valley Forge for more learning about the history of this historical area.

Valley Forge is famous for Washington's encampment with his troops in the cold winter of 1777. Washington's headquarters and his troops log cabins are present for viewing. The National Historical Park's 3,600-acres of rolling hills adds beauty in any season you visit and is especially appealing to the outdoor lover with miles of trails to hike, bicycle and rock climb.

If you enjoy the water, you can partake in fly fishing and canoeing. Landlovers have an abundance of activities including bird watching, horseback riding and nature centers to visit.

Seasonal activities include cross country skiing, ice skating, maple sugaring and apple festivals.

Rich in culture, Philadelphia has something for all. Don't be surprised if you determine multiple visits are required to get a taste of this bountiful area!