The State of Independence is a true state of mind. For reminders of the experience or tastes of what to expect, here are some gift ideas unique to Pennsylvania.
With their 2008 triumph, the Pittsburgh Steelers have now won more Super Bowls (six) than any other team in modern NFL history—talk in town is already on the “Stairway to Seven.” For “Terrible Towels” and other Steelers’ gifts and memorabilia, visit the Sideline Store at Heinz Field (412.697.7728), shop online (www.steelers.com) or call for a catalog at 800.832.6883.
In 1829, David G. Yuengling established the Eagle Brewery on Centre Street (570.622.4141; www.yuengling.com) in Pottsville, Pa. Placed on the national and state registers as America’s first and oldest brewery during the American Bicentennial in 1976, Yuengling’s is still going strong. Tour this historic facility and then visit the gift shop for collectibles bearing the brand’s eagle logo.
Gift baskets, tins or boxes from Hershey’s are a sweet choice for any occasion. Order the classic candy bar assortment, chocolate-dipped pretzels or other treats online at Hershey’s Gifts (800.454.7737; www.hersheygifts.com), or better still, shop at Hershey’s Chocolate World at Hershey Park (800.HERSHEY; www.hersheypa.com). Guests at the Hotel Hershey (717.533.2171; www.thehotelhershey.com) can enjoy the Chocolate Spa, where the amenities—and great gift ideas—include cocoa- and chocolate-infused facial and body products.
Among Pennsylvania’s other venerable chocolate and candy makers is the legendary Daffin’s Candies (877.323.3465; www.daffins.com) in the town of Sharon. Spanning three generations and nearly 100 years of fine candy making, this “Chocolate kingdom” claims to be the “world’s largest chocolate candy store.” Tours are also available at the company’s 30,000 square-foot factory in neighboring Farrell.
Founded in 1954, the Kitchen Kettle Village (717.768.8261; www.kitchenkettle.com) in the quintessential Amish town of Intercourse features 42 shops and restaurants built around the nationally celebrated Jam & Relish Kitchen. Visitor activities include sampling pepper jam, watching fudge being rolled and in the new Cannin’ & Jammin’ experiential tour, helping make a batch of apple raspberry jelly. From relishes to grilling sauces, there’s plenty to buy from Lancaster County’s most celebrated kitchen.
