11 Offbeat Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is famous for its scenic natural landscapes, captivating historical heritage, and unique cultural traditions. While top-class destinations like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia draw tourists in the millions yearly, the state also houses numerous lesser-known locations with distinct charm. For anyone seeking an unconventional vacation experience in the Keystone State, these underrated towns are precisely what you need.
A fresh breath from the usual, these offbeat towns in Pennsylvania promise unique encounters that will show you a different side of the state. Tourists can look forward to unconventional living history museums, eccentric local traditions, and quirky restaurants and cafes. Whether your idea of a remarkable getaway is soaking up small-town vibes or partaking in unusual cultures, try any of these offbeat towns for a chance at charming oddities.
Duncannon
This tiny borough in Perry County is surrounded by beautiful landscapes that let you disappear in the great outdoors, including the scenic Susquehanna River. There are numerous reasons to slip into your hiking trainers, and one of them is to explore the 1.6-mile trail to Hawk Rock Overlook. The views from the top of this huge rock outcropping are simply breathtaking. Meanwhile, you will love the family-friendly environment inside the Barking Goat Farm. This is an excellent rural experience, where you can cozy up to cute little goats and even milk them. You can also check out processed products used for skin care. The friendly Duncannon community constantly meets at the Cove Barn to shop for different items. There is no better place to interact with the locals and hunt for a shiny collectible. Alternatively, you can join patrons at Buddy Boy Winery and Restaurant to enjoy a glass of craft wine.
Titusville
Widely regarded as the birthplace of America’s old industry, Titusville delights with quirky museums offering a look into its petroleum pursuits. It was among the world’s highest oil-producing regions during its heyday, a heritage you can explore at the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad. At Tarbell House Museum, you can learn about Ida Minerva Tarbell, a trailblazing investigative journalist and former resident of Titusville. The home was built in 1870 and currently hosts several artifacts and relics offering a window into the period.
The Rink Family Fun Center is excellent for remarkable indoor entertainment if you are visiting with family. Besides skating, the venue hosts birthday parties, get-togethers, and other events that bring loved ones together. Alternatively, you can check out Unlock The Adventure Escape Experience for fun escape games.
Intercourse
This small town’s odd name is not the only thing that leaves visitors scratching their heads; it also houses unique town shops and unusual festivals, exposing its distinct flair. During Intercourse Heritage Days, you can join the locals for a weekend of celebration to mark the town’s history and heritage with fun-filled events. For car enthusiasts, you can walk into Barry’s Car Barn to explore a couple of antique automobiles from the 50s to the 70s. These include classic American brands like Corvettes and Mustangs.
Intercourse is also home to a mix of antique and gift shops that you can visit to purchase an unusual souvenir. One of the best venues in the town is the Old Candle Barn, a great place to check out a selection of candles that will make fantastic house décor.
Bedford
Bedford is historically known for attracting American presidents who could not resist the charm of its world-class Bedford Springs Resort. Before exploring this tiny Bedford County village, you can check into the historic hotel for a charming accommodation experience. With such a rich history, several landmarks and sites offer a window into the town’s storied past. A great example is Fort Bedford Museum, built in 1758 by the British during the French and Indian War. Inside the facility, you can browse various artifacts and relics showcasing the area’s history.
Bedford also houses a bustling art scene with multiple art venues. Fans of live performances can gather at Off Pitt Street Theater Company to catch outstanding local productions, including plays and concerts. Meanwhile, the Bedford Art Museum delights with gorgeous 19th-century paintings capturing different themes.
Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe has had a couple of names since its founding, but its current name was inspired by a legendary Native American athlete buried in the town. You can learn more about him at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center, which also features artifacts that take you on a historic journey through the Industrial Age. But there is so much more history to explore in this small eastern Pennsylvania town; you can get a sense of it with a tour of the Stabin Museum. This impressive facility hosts a series of galleries displaying drawings, paintings, books, and furniture by renowned artist Victor Stabin.
If you are not discovering old art and historical gems, you can step outside to witness the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Jim Thorpe. A ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad is an excellent way of experiencing the natural scenery in the backcountry, passing through a dense forest with sheer river cliffs.
Strasburg
Strasburg, dubbed “Train Town USA,” is a small Lancaster County town obsessed with train-related attractions. You can credit this to its rich railway heritage, which you can start exploring at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. This exciting venue covers almost 18 acres and features a world-class collection of antique locomotives and railroad cars, preserving the region’s railway history. The town is also home to the Choo Choo Barn, a miniature train layout with more than 150 hand-built animated figures, trains, and cars. It is a great fit for kids with a thing for toy trains. But classic locomotives and miniature trains are not the only things you will witness in Strasburg. If you love the outdoors, you will enjoy the opportunities at Strasburg Jaycee Park, which offers walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground.
Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg is the perfect jump-off base for those looking to explore the beauty of the Pocono Mountains region. You can do this by hiking the Brodhead Creek Heritage Trail, a one-mile loop nature trail traversing lush forests and pristine meadows. Beyond the lovely outdoors, Stroudsburg also hosts a fair share of historical gems. The Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm is an excellent example on the National Register of Historic Places. This open-air living history museum dates back to the mid-18th century and showcases a working American farm.
For culture connoisseurs, you can browse the town’s cultural heritage at the Monroe County Historical Association. Alternatively, try heading to Gamut Art Gallery to explore a selection of interesting and unusual art forms featuring antiques, sculptures, and other vintage items by local artists.
Wellsboro
Wellsboro delivers a charming mix of attractions to cater to all tourist preferences, from outdoor treasures and historical gems to family-friendly pursuits. This Tioga County borough keeps nature lovers entertained with spaces like Woodland Park, a sanctuary for outdoor family fun. It has a nice playscape for kids to run around as parents watch from the quiet picnic spaces. Those with a thing for live performances can enjoy various shows at the Deane Center, which stages musicals, plays, and more.
Meanwhile, a scenic drive through majestic mountains to the outskirts of the town will take you to Oregon Hill Winery. This is a great place for some wine tasting, with a chance to discover local award-winning brands. Lastly, remember to stop by the Highland Chocolates Factory and curb any sweet cravings you may have.
Hamburg
Hamburg is a tiny village in Berks County that could have been named after the famous German city. It has a compelling historical heritage and has seen various landmark events, including the tuberculosis sanatorium in 1914. You can browse historical records at the Hamburg Area Historical Society for a deeper dive into the town's history. The Reading Railroad Heritage Museum also offers a fun trip back in time by telling the story of the Reading Railroad and its role in the area.
For the outdoor inclined, you can find a nice space to be one with nature at Kaercher Creek Park. The venue has large grassy patches next to the water and nice boating and fishing opportunities if you don’t mind getting on the water. Finally, theater enthusiasts can watch an engaging live performance at the Hamburg Strand Theater.
Mars
Renowned for the whimsical roadside attraction of a “Flying Saucer,” Mars is easily one of the most offbeat towns in Pennsylvania. The iconic landmark, made from two oil tanks, weighs about 3,000 pounds and offers the perfect background for a spectacular photo. You can glimpse into the history of this interesting Butler County town at the Mars Area History and Landmarks Society. It houses a nice mix of artifacts, offering a window into its past.
At the Stick City Brewing Company, fresh, handcrafted beer offers a taste of Mars’ charming brewery scene. This is also an excellent venue to hang out and interact with the locals over a cold glass of beer. Elsewhere, you can enjoy some Southern BBQ and Cajun cuisine at the family-friendly Breakneck Tavern.
Centralia
Hidden away in Columbia County lies a place lost to time. Centralia was once a bustling coal mining village until tragedy struck in 1962 when a blaze ignited and spread beneath the valley floor. Over a half-century later, the fire rages on, leaving a ghost town in its wake. Despite this, Centralia offers an interesting tourist experience, which you can start at Odd Fellows Cemetery to witness the site close to where the disaster began.
As you steer your vehicle down the abandoned lanes, you can feel the eerie emptiness punctuating the town. Still, there are a few sites to check out, including the Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church, a sole survivor of the firestorm. The town’s Veteran’s Memorial is also a noteworthy stop and pays tribute to brave men and women who lost their lives.
The Takeaway
When planning a trip to the Keystone State, you can look forward to more than unique historical pursuits and endless outdoor adventures. The quirkiest towns in Pennsylvania promise an extraordinary holiday experience, featuring eccentric roadside oddities and unusual local traditions.
