12 Picturesque Small Towns in Pennsylvania for a Weekend Retreat
Looking for an easygoing weekend escape from the hustle and bustle in the city? Small-town Pennsylvania (PA) presents the ideal setting to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate. The Keystone State is home to a collage of adorable little towns with exquisite natural scenery, rich historical heritage, and exciting outdoor opportunities. These range from picturesque mountain villages and riverfront communities to quaint lakeside towns, each offering the ideal atmosphere to disconnect from civilization.
Whether a thrill seeker, culture connoisseur, history enthusiast, or nature lover, these hidden gems promise a rich mix of activities for an unforgettable experience. Their slow pace of life and friendly locals are a needed break from the chaos in the metro areas. But with so many options available, finding the ideal destination might feel like going down the rabbit hole. So, to get you started, here are some of the best towns in Pennsylvania for a fulfilling weekend getaway.
Marietta
Marietta’s small-town vibe and quiet atmosphere make it an enticing prospect for a weekend retreat. This adorable community on the banks of the Susquehanna River features lush natural spaces, providing visitors with outdoor recreation like hiking, rock climbing, and camping. Several parks in Marietta draw adventurers to its unique wilderness, with Riverfront Park among the most delightful green spaces. It has the perfect setting to spend a day out, boasting a spacious pavilion, picnic tables, and gorgeous river views.
If you want to explore the outdoors, you can slip into your trainers or hop on two wheels to take on the scenic Northwest River Trail. Its southern half traverses Marietta, winding through meadows and forests with lovely Susquehanna River views. Marietta has a charming Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a window to the town’s colorful history, well preserved at the Old Town Hall Museum. Touring the facility lets you browse various artifacts and memorabilia documenting the town’s past since its pioneer days. Remember to check into the historic Railroad House Inn when you get to Marietta for a cozy night's sleep.
Wellsboro
Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers flock to Wellsboro to enjoy a wild adventure in the Pennsylvania backcountry. This tiny Tioga County community is home to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, a popular recreation hub with opportunities like hiking, biking, nature exploring, and sightseeing. From the top, the views of the gorge are simply spectacular, with several nature trails allowing you to descend into the canyon to discover a diversely beautiful landscape. But if the PA Grand Canyon sounds too remote, you will find a more family-friendly alternative at Packer Pack, home to amenities like restrooms, a tennis court, and a basketball area.
Those who prefer indoor pursuits can catch a soothing live performance at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts. Finally, the Penn Wells Lodge makes for an excellent lodging option, placing you in the heart of Wellsboro and within touching distance of all the major action in the town.
Jim Thorpe
Experience the beauty of the Pocono Mountains region in this quaint eastern Pennsylvania town. Jim Thorpe is steeped in coal mining history and was named after the legendary Native American athlete Jim Thorpe. A tour of the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center introduces you to the town’s rich heritage. Housed inside is a collection of artifacts that take you on a journey through the industrial age, with an opportunity to learn about the great man who inspired the town’s name. Meanwhile, the Asa Packer Mansion Museum is a meaningful landmark showcasing life in Jim Thorpe during the Victorian era. It was built in 1861 by Asa Packer and houses period furnishings and other interesting relics.
Jim Thorpe also boasts fantastic outdoor scenery, featuring lush forested surroundings and the scenic peaks of the Poconos. The best way to experience its natural allure is to hop on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a sightseeing trip through the wilderness. The scenes are exceptionally breathtaking during fall, with red, yellow, and orange hues decorating the countryside. After a long day of exploration, you can find a luxurious way to relax and unwind at the Inn at Jim Thorpe.
New Hope
This artsy community in eastern Pennsylvania promises a peaceful riverside escape devoid of the city noise. Set along the scenic banks of the Delaware River, it has a cozy atmosphere with several spaces where you can commune with nature. A good example is the Bowman’s Hill Sunflower Preserve, which houses a botanical garden with different native plants on its 134-acre expanse. New Hope has a beautiful history that will appeal to anyone interested in its beginnings. You can glimpse it at the Parry Mansion Museum, an 18th-century mansion with diverse artifacts showcasing life in New Hope through different periods.
If you travel with family, remember to take the kids to the Bucks County Children’s Museum, housing interactive exhibits and hands-on activities tailored to their enjoyment. Also, staying at Olivia’s Bridge Street Inn places you at the center of the town, providing easy access to shopping, biking, sightseeing, and hiking opportunities.
Ohiopyle
An outdoor adventurer’s dream come true, Ohiopyle promises a jam-packed weekend getaway amid a forested landscape. With a modest population of less than 100, travelers are able to explore its outdoor treasures without the crowds. Ohiopyle State Park is the town’s crowning jewel and a hub for various adventures. It straddles over 20,000 acres of rugged natural landscapes, presenting opportunities for hiking, camping, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and canoeing. The park has an impressive mix of natural wonders, with several waterfalls making for the perfect photo opportunities. Ohiopyle Falls is a must-visit if you love spectacular sights. The turbulent cascades drop 20 feet into the Youghiogheny River, leaving visitors in awe of its beauty.
If you fancy getting on the water, Laurel Highlands River Tours organizes adrenaline-filled whitewater rafting excursions down the Youghiogheny River for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But before you jump headfirst into this sea of outdoor adventures, remember to book a stay at the Ohiopyle Suites.
Milford
This low-key village on the Upper banks of the Delaware River delights visitors with small-town charm and diverse attractions. There is something for everyone in Milford, whether a history buff, nature lover, or art enthusiast. If history floats your boat, you can visit the Grey Towers National Historic Site. This gorgeous French chateau-style mansion was built in 1886 and schedules public tours to explore its rustic interior and cozy gardens. For the outdoor inclined, Raymondskill Falls, Pennsylvania's tallest waterfall, always leaves a lasting impression on first-timers.
Elsewhere, culture connoisseurs in Milford often gather at the Golden Fish Art Gallery to inspect a fine collection of contemporary crafts or watch a moving live performance, including plays and music shows at Milford Theater. While there are multiple accommodation options in Milford, the luxurious Hotel Fauchere is a tourist favorite.
Doylestown
Doylestown is one of the best towns in Pennsylvania for a family getaway, a credit to its charming mix of family-friendly attractions. This adorable Bucks County locality is famous for its historical mansions with a storybook vibe, including the picturesque Fonthill Castle. Built in the early 1900s, the mansion belonged to Henry Chapman Mercer and features 44 rooms and 18 fireplaces. Chapman also constructed the Mercer Museum, which sports a unique architectural style and hosts a collection of artifacts preserving his rich legacy in Doylestown.
For outdoor fun, Kids Castle Central Park is the ideal setting for a fun day out. It covers over 100 acres, housing cute picnic spaces, sports facilities, and a castle-like playscape for kids. Finally, The Doylestown Inn has family-friendly accommodations with indoor and outdoor dining.
Strasburg
Popularly known as "Train Town USA," Strasburg stands out for its railroad attractions. This quaint community in Lancaster County has a rich railroad heritage, and several points of interest. The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is an excellent stop for those curious about the town’s train obsession. It exhibits 100 antique locomotives and rail cars, chronicling the evolution of rail transport in the region. The Choo Choo Barn is another railway-centered attraction but tailored for kids. It is a 1,700-square-foot train display complex with more than 20 trains and handmade animated figures.
Trains aside, vacationing families can take advantage of a delightful outdoor setting at Village Greens to enjoy a friendly game of golf amidst picturesque woods with thick foliage. And when it’s time to call it a day, you can choose between lodging options like the Carriage House at Strasburg and Clarion Inn Strasburg.
Bristol
Bristol’s rich legacy dates back to the 17th century when it initially settled. The town played a noteworthy role during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Today, you can peek into its storied past at historical sites like the Grundy Museum, former home of the Grundy family. However, most visitors to the town prefer to gather at Bristol Wharf. This waterfront park is a cherished gem with a laidback setting where people come to revel in the outdoors, attend concerts, and mingle with others.
Another exciting experience to try out is shopping at the Bristol Amish Market. This an excellent opportunity to explore the local Amish heritage through Amish cuisine, crafts, and fresh farm produce. Lastly, Rodeway Inn is one of Bristol's highly-rated lodging options.
Kennett Square
Almost 60% of America’s mushrooms come from this tiny village in the fertile Delaware Valley, earning it the nickname “Mushroom Capital of the World.” Kennett Square’s agricultural background creates beautiful green spaces that let you revel in Mother Nature’s bounty. At Longwood Gardens, you can enjoy an excellent example of an urban oasis in Kennett Square. It stretches over 1,000 acres and houses beautiful botanical gardens, meadows, and woodlands.
Meanwhile, the Kennett Square Farmers Market is a chance to be part of the town’s most recognized tradition by shopping for fresh mushrooms, home-baked goods, flowers, and more. If you enjoy craft brews, you will be intrigued by Kennett Square’s bustling brewery scene. It houses a handful of craft breweries, including Kennett Brewing Company, offering the chance to sample freshly crafted beers. For your night stays, Kennett House is an excellent option, just five minutes from downtown.
Lititz
Lititz is a historic town in Lancaster County with German-Moravian roots and a legacy dating back to 1756. It houses landmarks preserving its storied past, highlighted by the Lititz Historical Foundation. Inside the facility, you can browse various artifact exhibits showcasing the town through the years. Those who prefer outdoor spaces will love the tranquil atmosphere of Lititz Springs Park. It is the ideal venue to sit and relax while watching the happenings around you.
Lititz is also famous for housing America’s longest-running commercial pretzel bakery. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery opened its doors in 1861 and continues to delight people with the popular snack, using a recipe perfected over centuries of experimentation. Lastly, you can find a cozy place to lay your head at the historic Lititz Springs Inn, with a chance to experience 18th century heritage.
Mount Joy
Mount Joy promises visitors a delightful getaway with scenic outdoor spaces and family-friendly activities. The town is home to several parks for nature lovers to enjoy, such as Cove Outlook Park. Spanning 33 acres, it has peaceful walking trails surrounded by lush green spaces, picturesque overlooks, and sports facilities for soccer and volleyball. Alternatively, you can visit Little Chiques Park to take advantage of its nine pavilions, ideal for leisurely picnics and people-watching.
Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can hone their skills on the scenic 9-hole course as wine connoisseurs sample award-winning wines at Grandview Vineyard. Nestled in the picturesque hills of Northern Lancaster County, the establishment offers tastings amidst panoramic views of rolling landscapes. Finally, accommodation options abound, with the Olde Square Inn offering a luxurious experience.
Each of these towns in Pennsylvania presents a unique slice of the state’s charming small-town lifestyle, marked by historic main streets, friendly locals, and scenic natural surroundings. Whether you seek cultural enrichment, relaxation in nature, outdoor exploration, or culinary indulgence, they offer the perfect low-key retreat environment for a refreshing weekend escape. Instead of rushing from one activity to the next, you'll find yourself naturally slowing the pace to enjoy the scenic surroundings and small-town way of life.
