The Pennsylvania Tourism Office has introduced a unique winter hotline, designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore the state’s attractions during the colder months. The hotline, accessible at 1-877-SNWFUN1, features pre-recorded messages delivered in distinct regional accents to create a more relatable and engaging experience for callers.
The initiative aims to attract more tourists by offering insights into local activities and destinations. The recorded greeting welcomes callers with classic Pittsburgh and Philadelphia accents, setting a friendly tone: “Yo dere. Thanks for cawlling the Visit PA Snow Day hawtline.”
Among the highlights promoted by the hotline are notable attractions such as the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, where visitors can explore the legacy of one of America’s most iconic artists. The hotline suggests activities for families, including a visit to the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, where children can engage in hands-on exhibits that foster creativity.
Creating a Local Connection
According to Katie Burger, executive director of the Pennsylvania Tourism Office, the goal of the hotline is to foster a sense of community. “I really wanted it to feel like you’re meeting up with someone at Wawa or Sheetz and having a conversation about what they did this weekend,” she explained.
While detailed tourism information is available online through the Visit PA website, the hotline embraces a more traditional, analog approach. “I see such a trend online now of people wanting to disconnect from screens and get back to that ‘analog vibe,’” Burger noted, highlighting a growing desire for personal interaction.
The winter hotline will operate until February 23, featuring a mix of pre-recorded messages and live interactions. During select hours, callers will have the opportunity to speak with real operators who will provide personalized recommendations in their regional accents.
Comedian Betsy Kenney, known for her viral ASMR videos, will host live sessions, bringing her distinctive Philadelphia accent to the hotline. “I’ll be taking calls for two hours straight and I’m going to give people personal recommendations on things to do in the cold weather in Pennsylvania,” Kenney stated.
Engaging Through Humor and Accents
Kenney plans to use her improv skills to engage with callers, encouraging them to embrace local cultural offerings. “Hopefully they’ll walk away with some ideas of what to do in Pennsylvania, but I could talk to a wall,” she joked.
Manning the western part of the state will be comedian Johnny Pittsburgh, who similarly draws on his local roots and accent for humor. “The accents to me sound like cousins,” Kenney remarked, emphasizing the unique but related dialects.
The hotline caters not only to out-of-state travelers but also to residents exploring their own backyard. Burger describes the use of regional accents as an “Easter egg” for locals, adding an element of familiarity and charm to the experience.
This innovative approach to winter tourism reflects a broader trend in the travel industry, where personal connections and local authenticity are increasingly valued. By blending accessible information with a touch of humor, the Pennsylvania Tourism Office aims to inspire both residents and visitors to embrace winter adventures across the state.
The Visit PA winter hotline is open 24/7, with live operators available on Friday evenings throughout February, ensuring that callers have ample opportunities to explore Pennsylvania’s winter offerings.
