Pennsylvania was the second state to be added to the Union back in 1787, so we had an early start. That means we had some extra time to become one of the greatest states in this country. Most of the people who don't live in Pennsylvania see it as a small, cute little part of the country that has some Amish people and lots of pierogies. But we are so much more than that.

We have some of the richest history, some of the best (and sometimes oddest) foods, and most of all we have some of the deepest roots and some of the richest cultures.

Here are 12 reasons why Pennsylvania is a true gem:

1. The nature is breathtaking!

Pennsylvania has some of the most gorgeous forest lands around. We have 18 national parks, 120 state parks, and even our own Grand Canyon. We have diverse wildlife that would make any biologist geek out.

2. History is everywhere.

This nation was born in Pennsylvania! Right in the heart of Philadelphia. 10 key battles from the Revolutionary War were fought here. The bloodiest and most intense battle of the Civil War happened in Gettysburg, and let's not get started on the rich cultural history from the Irish, Dutch, Polish, and the German (we'll get to that later on in the list). With the history PA posesses, we have some of the most popular and most visited museums in the country.

3. Farmers markets, farmers markets everywhere!

With the strong agricultural streak that PA has, it's no surprise that we have some of the best little farmers markets around. Whether they're large affairs full of stands, or if it's just one little stand on the side of the road. You can always count on them to have some of the most delicious, organic, and affordable produce around.

4. Lot's of firsts!

Not only do we have an impressive amount of American history, but we have an array of history that has to do with firsts. For instance, we had the first public hospital built in 1751 by Ben Franklin in Philly. We also had the first Drive In movie theatre in 1937, first baseball stadium in Pittsburgh, first computer, first automobile service station, first public zoo, the list goes on.

5. There's something for everyone!

We have cities for you city lovers, suburbia's, small towns (lots and lots of small towns) and those rural farmlands for the people who love the peace and quiet. No matter what type of person you are, there's a type of place for you here.

6. We have all four seasons.

We have those days where it's 85 degrees and steamy hot, those cool autumn nights with colored leaves, the freezing snowy days with single digit temperatures, and warm air with the light breeze of spring that accompanies blooming flowers.

7. We have some awesome cultures and heritages.

The German, Dutch, Polish and Irish have some pretty deep roots here, and we all like to celebrate it! We are constantly having food and art festivals so that each culture can display their heritage for all to see, learn, and appreciate. Pennsylvania Polka, anyone?

8. The food is great! (And sometimes funny).

As I said before, with the diverse and deep cultures we have here it's no surprise that we have some of the best (and sometimes oddest) foods. Theres kielbasa, Lebanon bologna, schnitz and kneep, whoopie pies, scrapple, pierogies, and let's not forget the all-famous Philly Cheesesteaks! There's so many different things to try, you're bound to find one that you love and can't live without. (Also Hershey's chocolate originated here, where my chocolate lovers at?!)

9. Stargazing here is a dream.

We have some of the darkest skies in the world, so it's a stargazers best dream! In the central park of Pennsylvania lies a place called Cherry Spring Park, it is said to be the best place to go stargazing.

10. All the Activities!

The Poconos are your go-to place for skiing, we're loaded with lakes and rivers for those fishing/kayaking lovers, with all the nature trails there's no shortage of camping and hiking spots. If you're not into any of the nature stuff, with the bright cities and towns you can just stop in downtown for a beer at a local pub or go to a family owned restaurant with great food.

11. Knoebels Grove is a treasure.

Truly an underrated attraction around here, Knoebels is a family owned and family operated amusement park that has been running since July 4th of 1926. It offers free admission and free parking. All you have to do is either buy a book of tickets for the rides or buy a wristband for an insanely reasonable price that gives you access to ALL the rides for the day.

It has rides for every age and every type of person. Whether it's the fast Twister roller coaster, the peaceful ski lift, the haunted house, bumper cars, the StratosFear (Tower of Terror type drop), or an old-fashioned carousel, it's a great place to bring the family for a day!

12. We have amazing universities!

Not only do we have Penn State and Pitt, but we have loads more of the top colleges in the nation! Ones such as Drexel, Carnegie Mellon, Bucknell, Villanova, Temple, Lehigh, and St. Vincent, just to name a few.

It's no surprise that we are called "America's Sweet Spot." We are an underrated gem in the country, and I can say I am immensely proud to call this state my home!