Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
Time Needed: full-day
Experience Type: American icon, small-town charm
Punxsutawney is famous for Groundhog Day, when Punxsutawney Phil predicts the weather each February 2 at Gobbler’s Knob. Visitors can see Phil’s year-round burrow, explore hands-on weather exhibits, and learn about the town’s whimsical history and traditions at the visitor center.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Attend Groundhog Day – Join thousands who come to watch Punxsutawney Phil predict the weather in a lively free ceremony filled with music, tradition, and small-town celebration.
- Visit the Gobbler’s Knob Visitor Center – Take a self-guided tour, step onto the famous stage, explore Groundhog Day history, and browse souvenirs at the museum and gift shop.
- Stop by Phil’s Burrow – See Punxsutawney Phil year-round in his Punxsutawney Memorial Library home, visible from outside and inside the children’s section, often with his “wife” Phyllis
- Explore the Weather Discovery Center – Dive into Punxsutawney’s weather legacy with interactive exhibits, a weather theater, and the Meteorologist Hall of Fame.
- Hunt for Phantastic Phil Statues – Grab a map and tour downtown to find 41 colorful, artist-designed fiberglass groundhog statues scattered along streets and public spaces.
Recommended Reading: Groundhog Weather School follows Professor Groundhog and his students as they learn how to forecast the weather. Humor, fun facts, and colorful illustrations give kids an engaging introduction to animals, seasons, and the science behind Groundhog Day.
Photo Credit: Anthony Quintano/Flickr