10 Unspoiled Small Towns in Pennsylvania
While Pennsylvania welcomes millions of tourists annually, most of whom are primarily focused on the allure of larger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh as their main destination, some swaths of the Keystone State remain grossly underexplored, hiding picturesque small towns virtually untouched by commercial tourism. Nestled amid the Commonwealth's varied scenery lie countless idyllic communities preserving an unspoiled small-town legacy.
Despite this, these charming yet lesser-visited hamlets maintain an untainted simplicity and down-home warmth that newcomers will die to experience. From Stroudsburg to Gettysburg, the following towns in Pennsylvania cultivate the discovery of authentic local heritage and natural beauty unsullied by the large-scale development of the United States.
Ridgway
A prime jump-off base for exploring the Allegheny National Forest, this tiny village of Elk County is steeped in natural beauty and promises countless opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can get a sense of this God-given allure at Sandy Beach Park, which offers a serene spot to relax under shaded trees, surrounded by picnic pavilions, ball courts, camping trails, and other amenities. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can challenge themselves at the 9-hole Laurel Mill Golf Course, which boasts picturesque natural vistas stretching to the horizon.
Ridgway's history dates back over 140 years, and tourists can witness it come alive by strolling through the Lily of the Valley National Register Historic District. This rustic neighborhood has at least 700 structures built in the 1800s, including Victorian and Gilded Age mansions depicting the times.
Phoenixville
Despite sitting less than 30 miles from Philadelphia, Phoenixville misses out on the barrage of tourists trickling into the big city annually. Nevertheless, it maintains distinct charm through nature havens like Black Rock Sanctuary, a 119-acre oasis blending wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. It provides a habitat for thriving wildlife, allowing you to spot native bird and animal species along the trails. The Phoenixville Farmer's Market provides a chance to meet receptive locals in a buzzed-up atmosphere while shopping for groceries and handmade goods.
The community takes the arts seriously, evidenced by both visual and performance art venues. If you enjoy stage shows, you can join like-minded individuals at Forge Theatre to watch plays and musicals by local artists in a modest 100-seater venue.
Stroudsburg
The Pocono Mountains region conceals multiple gems, including this picturesque community on the confluence of the Broadhead and Pocono Creeks. Stroudsburg is shrouded in scenic landscapes, and the best way to appreciate its beauty is to take a sightseeing tour aboard the Pocono Daytripper. The lively local arts community plays a significant role in keeping guests entertained. You can catch a moving theatrical production at the Sherman Theater, served with a dose of nostalgia in the 1920s venue.
Downtown Stroudsburg always maintains an upbeat vibe but gets even better during the Monroe Farmers Market. Main Street comes alive with activity as regional farmers and crafters display their fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, crafts, and other merchandise for potential buyers.
Titusville
Titusville invites travelers to discover how the petroleum industry took root in the United States. At the height of oil exploration, it was one of the world's most prominent producing regions, and it maintains this heritage at the Drake Well Museum & Park. The site features an 1859 oil well that is credited with the birth of the modern oil industry. While at it, visit the and ride Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad for a nostalgic experience on the vintage train.
Exploring the downtown region offers exciting insight into the community's past. Along Main Street, you can stop by the Tarbell House Museum, a Victorian mansion with stunning Italianate architecture. Touring the inside reveals various exhibits in the former home of investigative journalist Ida M. Tarbell.
New Hope
This historic community on the Delaware River spoils first-timers with spectacular vistas of the famous waterway. It has lovely nature spaces tailored for relaxed outdoor getaways, including Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve. Peaceful trails throughout this 134-acre oasis let you explore over 800 plant species from the Delaware Valley area. New Hope is regionally revered for its bustling arts landscape. Enthusiasts from around the county converge at the Bucks County Playhouse to catch various live performances. The restored grist mill hosts engrossing dramas, concerts, and musicals by regional creatives.
The historically inclined make a point of touring the Parry Mansion Museum. Constructed in 1784, the structure harbors unique furnishings and artifacts from distinct eras, depicting different times in the city's chronology.
Tionesta
This isolated community in Forest County stays true to its Native Indian roots, as seen during the Tionesta Indian Festival. This annual spectacle unites the townsfolk with fun, family-friendly festivities celebrating local culture, including pet parades, costume contests, and traditional crafts. Tionesta's dense woodland surroundings make it a hub for outdoor adventures, where you can find hiking, camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Tionesta Lake is a prime spot for recreation, and its 480-acre expanse cultivates kayaking, canoeing, and fishing activities.
Those who prefer something more laidback when outside can try a round of golf at Hunter's Station Golf Course. Surrounded by a lush forest, it has a quiet atmosphere designed for golfing.
Gettysburg
Ranked among the most historic towns in Pennsylvania, Gettysburg harbors unspoiled history that takes you back to a landmark period in American history. It is where the Battle of Gettysburg occurred, marking a turning point in the American Civil War. Guests can visit the actual battle location inside the Gettysburg National Military Park. But before getting lost in the many trails at the park, pass by the Museum and Visitor Center for background on the infamous conflict, which is regarded as the bloodiest of all Civil War battles.
More history worth exploring resides at the Gettysburg Museum of History. Inside this magnificent facility, a vast collection of over 4,000 exhibits shed light on different American conflicts, with an emphasis on the Civil War. After enough immersion in history, you can stop for a hearty meal at 18th-century Dobbin House Tavern, one of the country's oldest restaurants.
Edinboro
This small college town in Erie County promises serenity and recreation away from suffocating cities. Edinboro has the namesake 245-acre lake that fuels several fun activities on the water, from kayaking and fishing to paddleboarding. Its natural splendor further shows at the Goodell Gardens & Homestead. This 78-acre property features a well-preserved botanical garden and arboretum in a unique natural space ideal for gathering, learning, and reveling in the tranquil environment.
Downtown Edinboro has delightful shopping outlets, including the Edinboro Market. Guests can find everything from flowers and groceries to roasted coffee. If you love collecting antiques, pass by the Green Eyed Lady and browse various offerings, including glassware, books, and furniture.
Ohiopyle
Less than 100 people reside in this isolated town in Fayette County, limiting the impact on the rich outdoor environment. However, Ohiopyle draws droves of adventurers craving to explore Ohiopyle State Park. Spanning 20,500 acres, this vast wilderness hosts endless recreational opportunities and natural gems. Nature photographers jostle to capture the stunning 20-foot Ohiopyle Falls along the Youghiogheny River.
At the heart of the sprawling park, the Ohiopyle Falls Observation Deck delivers the best vistas of the surroundings, including a clear view of the beautiful cascade. The river also fuels adrenaline-rushing rafting adventures courtesy of local outfitters like Laurel Highlands River Tours and Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours.
Lititz
About 10 miles removed from Lancaster, this quaint village of about 10,000 boasts a fascinating historical heritage that leaves newcomers nostalgic. It is home to the country's maiden commercial bakery producing pretzels, which you can tour at the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. The 19th-century brick structure continues treating patrons to delicious snacks and has a lovely souvenir shop.
Animal lovers will be delighted to stop by the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania. The family-owned establishment schedules guided tours that educate guests on wolves and their ecosystem. Finally, Lititz Springs Park is an ideal urban oasis, creating a serene space for relaxing under the shade. It has beautiful greenery, a fountain, and picnic pavilions.
Final Thought
From quaint and historic New Hope perched along the Delaware River to the hardwood forest and farmland tranquility surrounding remote Tionesta along the Allegheny National Forest's edges, the highlighted towns in Pennsylvania safeguard an unvarnished simpleness that larger tourist centers could not replicate. Experiencing these underrated though welcoming towns ensures lasting appreciation for unspoiled heritage persisting amid Pennsylvania's varied terrain. Visitors will be refreshed by authentic slices of daily small-town living untouched by commercial activities.
