The Pennsylvania Tourism Office has launched an innovative winter hotline designed to promote the state’s attractions while showcasing its distinctive regional accents. The hotline, reachable at 1-877-SNWFUN1 (769-3861), features pre-recorded messages delivered in classic Pittsburgh and Philadelphia accents, inviting both residents and visitors to explore winter activities across the state.
Callers are greeted by a friendly Pittsburgh voice stating, “Yo dere. Thanks for cawlling the Visit PA Snow Day hawtline.” This approach aims to create an engaging experience, encouraging people to take advantage of Pennsylvania’s winter offerings, whether they prefer outdoor adventures or cozy indoor activities.
Katie Burger, executive director of Visit PA, explained that the goal is to make callers feel as if they are chatting with a friend at a local café. “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 said. The hotline will run until February 23, 2024, providing winter tourism tips that are not available online, enhancing the old-school phone experience.
The unique aspect of this initiative is its use of regional accents, which Burger describes as an “Easter egg” for those familiar with Pennsylvania’s phonological quirks. The hotline features recommendations for local attractions, such as the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, where children can engage in hands-on exhibits.
During the campaign, live operators will be available on Friday evenings, providing personalized recommendations based on callers’ interests. Comedian Betsy Kenney, known for her viral ASMR videos, will take calls in an exaggerated Philadelphia accent, adding a personal touch to the experience. “I’ll be taking calls for two hours straight and giving personal recommendations on things to do in the cold weather in Pennsylvania,” she said.
Kenney emphasizes the importance of embracing local culture, encouraging callers to explore attractions they might overlook. “You don’t gotta gew to Fraince to look at some nice ahrt, OK?” she remarked, highlighting the rich artistic offerings within the state.
Manning the hotline for western Pennsylvania is comedian Johnny Pittsburgh, who is also recognized for his humorous takes on Pittsburghese. Kenney noted that although the two accents share similarities, they each bring unique flavors to the conversation. “The accents to me sound like cousins,” she explained.
This winter tourism hotline is primarily aimed at Pennsylvanians looking to explore their own state. As residents increasingly seek to disconnect from screens, Burger believes the hotline taps into a growing desire for an “analog vibe.”
By focusing on regional accents, the Pennsylvania Tourism Office hopes to create a welcoming atmosphere for callers, encouraging them to discover the warmth of local culture and attractions. The accessible hotline, blending humor and hospitality, aims to foster connections among individuals interested in exploring the diverse experiences Pennsylvania has to offer this winter.
The Visit PA winter hotline is open 24/7, with live operators available on specified evenings throughout February. This initiative not only promotes tourism but also celebrates the unique linguistic identity of Pennsylvania, making winter exploration more engaging for all.