PENNSYLVANIA — A new statewide poll suggests Pennsylvania families are trading backyard football for something slower, steadier, and far more inclusive on Christmas Day: a gentle walk that brings together kids, grandparents, and everyone in between.
SportsbookReview.com surveyed 3,006 families nationwide to identify the best Christmas Day walks in every state—routes that feel festive, offer light exercise, and avoid the strain that can sideline older relatives or younger children. In Pennsylvania, three iconic trails rose to the top.
Claiming the top spot was the Three Rivers Heritage Trail at Point State Park in Pittsburgh. The paved loop at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers earned high marks for its flat terrain, sweeping winter views, and flexibility for families who want fresh air without committing to a long hike. Survey respondents praised the trail for delivering a sense of escape and renewal without exhaustion.
Second on the list was the Valley Forge Joseph Plumb Martin Trail in King of Prussia. Families favored the gentler sections near the historic encampment, where open fields and rolling hills create a serene winter setting. The trail’s wide paths and steady footing make it accessible for grandparents, while children are drawn to the historic huts scattered across the landscape.
Rounding out the top three was the Schuylkill River Trail along Philadelphia’s Boathouse Row. The riverside stretch was cited for its flat, predictable surface and calm winter atmosphere, with reflections on the water adding a cinematic touch to a post-lunch stroll. Respondents said the trail strikes a balance between movement and relaxation, making it ideal for large, multi-generational groups.
The Pennsylvania results were part of a broader national ranking that highlighted family-friendly routes from Central Park in New York City to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and waterfront trails in Florida, Iowa, Nebraska, and Oregon.
James Bisson, editor-in-chief of SportsbookReview.com, said the findings point to a shift in how families approach holiday traditions. He noted that while Christmas gatherings can be hectic indoors, a relaxed walk offers one of the few activities that truly works for every generation. According to the survey, the most popular routes were those that combined accessibility, scenery, and a sense of occasion—without requiring sweatbands or competitive instincts.
For Pennsylvania families, the poll suggests the perfect way to cap Christmas Day may be as simple as lacing up comfortable shoes and heading for a familiar trail, where the pace is easy and everyone can come along.
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