10 Must-Visit Small Towns in Pennsylvania
Head Out of Philadelphia on a Road Trip to the Towns of Pennsylvania
If you’re interested in outdoor attractions, small-town hospitality, rich history, or a blend of East Coast and Midwest cultures, these must-visit small towns in Pennsylvania offer all this and more.
First-timers in Pennsylvania may likely think of the state as primarily Philadelphia in the East, Pittsburgh in the West, and a bunch of farmland in between. While the state certainly does have a lot of farmland, there’s also plenty of mountain ridges and ranges, lakes and rivers, and historic spots.
10 must-visit small towns in Pennsylvania
1. Jim Thorpe
The Gateway to the Poconos
Categorías: Fotos, Aventuras
The small town of Jim Thorpe, named after the legendary Native American athlete and Olympic gold medalist, sits in the eastern half of Pennsylvania. Originally known as Mauch Chunk, it’s considered the “Gateway to the Poconos” and is a suitable spot to visit if you’re looking to explore these mountains, whether you’re interested in their amazing hiking in the summer or their equally enjoyable skiing in the winter. The mountain views and environment are so renowned, in fact, that the city is also called the Switzerland of America.
For great places to visit in Jim Thorpe, be sure to explore the Old Jail Museum and the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center, and don’t miss the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.
Jim Thorpe
2. Gettysburg
One of the United States’ most significant historical spots
Categorías: Historia, Fotos, Ir de compras
For the mammoth role Gettysburg played in American history, the town might seem small, but Gettysburg charms with its stature and near overwhelming dedication to its history. Allusions to the Civil War’s Battle of Gettysburg and President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address are everywhere you look, from downtown shop names to menu items at the many farm-to-table restaurants.
Be sure to check out the historic battlefield, but also stroll along downtown and stop in the many boutiques and eateries. Take a chilling ghost tour, stretch your legs at Pine Grove Furnace State Park, and catch a show at the Gettysburg Community Theatre.
Gettysburg
3. New Hope
A taste of Revolutionary War history
Categorías: Historia, Fotos
New Hope is located just a short drive from Philadelphia, along the Delaware River and just across the river from New Jersey. Travelers enjoy the respite from the Philadelphia crowds that New Hope offers, as well as its abundant history.
Historic homes are abundant and open to the public, including several built in the 1700s. Once you’ve toured them to your heart’s content, snap pictures at the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve or take a serene train ride through the countryside on the New Hope Railroad. If the kids are in tow, be sure to check out the hands-on exhibits and play areas at the Bucks County Children’s Museum.
New Hope
4. Ohiopyle
Pristine natural surroundings
Categorías: Historia, Fotos, Aventuras
Ohiopyle, in the western portion of the state, is a must-visit for travelers seeking summertime jaunts through gorgeous countryside just a short drive from Pittsburgh. Some of the more popular natural attractions include the Great Allegheny Passage bicycle trail, Ohiopyle State Park, and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath trail.
Those who are more inclined to explore history than hiking will enjoy the Fort Necessity National Battlefield and General Braddock’s Grave, while the kids can let loose and roam the grounds at Fort Ligonier. Don’t miss the nearby Laurel Caves State Park if you want to see a spectacular calcareous sandstone cave.
Ohiopyle
5. Bellefonte
Traveling back in time to the Victorian Era
Categorías: Historia, Fotos
The Victorian “belle” of Central Pennsylvania, Bellefonte is arguably best known for its historic district and Victorian architecture. Walking the streets provides you with views of plenty of beautiful old residences, many of which have been converted into bed and breakfasts, restaurants, and boutiques.
The town’s most popular event is Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, during which the streets transform into an experience reminiscent of a scene from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. For the rest of the year, check out the headquarters of the American Philatelic Society and the society’s adjacent museum. For an excellent addition to any itinerary, be sure to visit Talleyrand Park, boasting pretty gardens, a playground, running paths, and events like food festivals and arts and crafts fairs.
Bellefonte
6. Boalsburg
Home to a range of surprising historical tidbits
Categorías: Historia, Fotos
Boalsburg offers a range of historic attractions, touching on various eras throughout history, and often in surprising ways. The small town was home to a direct descendant of Christopher Columbus, and visitors can tour the Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion Museum to see some of the famous explorer’s belongings.
The nearby Arboretum at Penn State with its scenic botanical gardens and seasonal festivals should be on your list of things to do, as well as a trip to Tussey Mountain for skiing, snowboarding, concerts, and go-karts. The town also claims to be the birthplace of Memorial Day, so be sure to attend the large celebration held each year to commemorate the day.
Boalsburg
7. Marklesburg
Natural settings and historic appeal
Categorías: Historia, Fotos, Aventuras
Marklesburg is a small community close to a popular nearby natural attraction, Raystown Lake (known as the largest lake entirely located within Pennsylvania). Not only is the scenery here simply stunning, but you’ll also have the chance to swim and kayak its waters, hike and bike its numerous trails, and sit back to enjoy an open-air show at the amphitheater.
After the lake, be sure to head into town and check out The Marklesburg Historic District, which features a handful of wooden Gothic Revival buildings constructed in the mid-1800s, including old hotels, schools, churches, a town hall, and a historic cemetery.
Marklesburg
8. Stroudsburg
Art, history, and culture in the middle of the mountains
Categorías: Ir de compras, Historia, Fotos
Stroudsburg sits in the Pocono Mountains and was originally built up around Fort Hamilton. You’ll still see plenty of evidence of Stroudsburg’s historic past, including remnants showcasing the town’s commercial growth in the lumber and textile industries. Many of the historic structures have now been converted into shops, restaurants, and more.
No one can deny the town ’s love for art, with plenty of galleries and public art to browse, as well as an art walk every first Saturday of the month. Try your hand at cheese or soap making at Main Street Makery or sing along at a tribute concert at the Sherman Theater.
Stroudsburg
9. Ridgway
A destination formed by and dedicated to its forests
Categorías: Historia, Fotos, Aventuras
The town of Ridgway sprouted up around a lumber camp and then grew further thanks to the abundant natural gas, coal, and other resources in the area. It’s the gateway to the Allegheny National Forest, where there are plenty of opportunities for all kinds of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking its many trails to kayaking and cross-country skiing.
When not outdoors, travelers often find themselves perusing Ridgway’s handful of independent shops for unique nature-themed gifts and sampling hearty American fare at its restaurants. If you can, try to visit during the Ridgway Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous, the world’s largest chainsaw carving event.
Ridgway
10. Punxsutawney
The home of the famous Punxsutawney Phil
Categorías: Historia, Fotos, Poco común
Punxsutawney makes headlines once a year, every year, thanks to Punxsutawney Phil, the resident groundhog who predicts the weather to the waiting masses each February. The small town’s entire existence revolves around Phil, with much of its economy relying on that one day per year when thousands of people flock to its small streets.
The rest of the year, you can see Phil up close and personal at his burrow in the local library, as well as explore the town’s many boutique souvenir shops, restaurants, and even a brewery, all honoring Phil in some way or another. Keep your eyes peeled for the many varying Phil statues around town.
Punxsutawney
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