If you've ever been to Pennsylvania then you know it's a place like no other -- it is full of history and beauty.

I may be a little biased though because it is my birthplace and my annual summer vacation destination. In any case, I think everyone should have the chance to experience the joy that is Pennsylvania, and one of the best ways to do that is through food, lots of food.

All places have some food that they are known for, but Pennsylvania seems to have the most. Here are 10 of the best must try foods next time you find yourself in the Keystone state:

1. Pretzels

Hard pretzels, soft pretzels, pretzel bites, you name it, they have it in Philly. Philly pretzels are the best around!

2. Cheesesteaks

Cheesesteaks (*mouth waters*) are the best thing to order on any menu and they literally sell them everywhere in the state. There is always controversy over whose sandwich is best, but to be honest it's probably your best bet anywhere you go to dine.

3. Scrapple

I'm less of a fan of this one, but some people can't get enough. It's been described to me as "everything but the oink" and rightly so. This meat product is just that: all pig, all the time.

4. Liver and Onions

Can you order liver and onions outside of Pennsylvania? Yes. However, it is a staple of diners everywhere, and Pennsylvania is swarming with diners. It may not be a Pennsylvania staple, but when you find yourself in a small-town diner, which you inevitably will, get it just once.

5. Hot Bacon Dressing

If you are looking for a way to make salad as non-salad as you can, just turn to hot bacon dressing. If you haven't noticed already, there is a strong love of meat in PA and it doesn't stop when it comes to healthy foods like salad.

6. Sweet Lebanon Bologna

One more meat specialty just for good measure. This lunch meat is best eaten plain. No need to put it on a sandwich or some crackers, just eat it -- plain, simple, and delicious.

7. Apple Butter

Apple butter is sort of like apple jam. You can put it on toast or a sandwich, but in PA they like it best when mixed with cottage cheese -- that's right, cottage cheese. Don't knock it until you try it!

8. Shoofly Pie

Sweet molasses, crumbly top, and crispy crust, it's fantastic. In fact, it's so good that you will have to shoo the flys away from you when you eat it...

9. Funny Cake

My personal favorite, Funny Cake is a light cake in a pie crust with a layer of chocolate at the bottom. There is nothing funny about this cake. I take my cake very seriously.

10. Whoopie Pies

Whoopie pies can be bought in every checkout line in every grocery store and gas station in the state. These pre-packaged cakes are wonderfully delicious and a great way to get a taste of PA when you're just passing through.