2024's Towns In Pennsylvania That Come Alive In The Fall
Pennsylvania, typical of many states in the country's northeast, is full of dense deciduous forests and a climate that is perfect for Fall colors to pop as the pleasant summer days begin to grow shorter. From late September to mid-October (the best time of the year to see the changing colors), Pennsylvania contains among the most picturesque natural destinations in this corner of the nation to check out on either a quick day trip or a multi-day road trip.
Today, we will be focusing on some of the best small towns in this state to witness the vibrant foliage, amongst other fun and exciting tourist attractions nearby. From the hilly Poconos to the more vast agricultural lands further south, this list will cover not only the best spots to experience this wonderful season in the great outdoors but also the best Fall festivals and other locales to check out in 2024.
Jim Thorpe
Known as the "Gateway to the Poconos," Jim Thorpe is a popular fall destination in Pennsylvania, with abundant places nearby where you can see a variety of colorful foliage. Nestled right in the Lehigh Gorge, stunning views of the surrounding Pocono Mountains are easily at hand in this small town.
One of the best spots to enjoy the scenery is from the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, where you can take a train ride through the densely forested valley. For a closer look at nature, the nearby Glen Onoko Falls and Switchback Railroad Trail are great places to go for a Fall hike. Visitors can also explore the town’s 19th-century architecture, shops, and museums, such as the Old Jail Museum.
Fall in Jim Thorpe also brings some lively seasonal events that shouldn't be missed. The town's annual Fall Foliage Festival takes place in October and features craft vendors, live music, and other fun activities.
New Hope
New Hope, situated along the Delaware River just north of Philadelphia, is a town along the New Jersey border with a population of just under 3,000. As the leaves change color this October, the Delaware Canal Towpath is a magnificent setting for walking or biking with views of the autumn foliage. Boat tours along the river also provide a unique perspective of the landscape from the water.
Join in the festivities this season as well at New Hope's annual Fall Festival at the nearby Shady Brook Farm, featuring pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and wagon rides. For those looking to experience more of the local culture, the Bucks County Playhouse stages seasonal performances. Check-in to see what's playing during your visit.
Wellsboro
Wellsboro is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with the nearby "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon" being a huge draw for adventurers year-round. It is a prime fall destination for leaf-peeping, with numerous viewpoints high above the dense forests below. The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, also known as Pine Creek Gorge, offers spectacular views of autumn colors from Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park. Definitely try to hike along trails like the Turkey Path for some of these breathtaking overlooks or take in the scenery via a horseback ride through the gorge. Also, try to check out some of the nearby state forests for a wonderful countryside drive or bike along the Pine Creek Rail Trail, one of the most scenic paths for fall foliage viewing in the region.
In town, you will be welcomed by the unique gas-lit lamps along Main Street. During this Fall season in Wellsboro, you can also check out the annual Laurel Festival in nearby Pine Creek, which celebrates the beauty of the region with local vendors and activities for the whole family.
Lewisburg
Lewisburg might be best known as the home of Bucknell University, but it is also a widely visited destination during the Fall thanks to its abundance of pristine natural areas in and around it. For one, the Susquehanna River, which flows right through Lewisburg, makes for a brilliant backdrop to the surrounding tree-covered hills. Strolling through Hufnagle Park or walking along the riverbank are great ways to enjoy the changing foliage without straying far from town
Fall-related festivals are another highlight of the season in Lewisburg. The Lewisburg Fall Festival features live music, food vendors, and craft tables, while the Bucknell campus hosts various seasonal events, including art exhibitions and theater performances.
If you're looking to get out of town, the nearby Dale’s Ridge Trail is ideal for a hike, offering 360-degree sights of the countryside. Whether for its scenic beauty or lively local culture, Lewisburg offers a quintessential fall experience in central Pennsylvania.
Lititz
Known for its historic streets and unique local businesses, Lititz becomes even more inviting as the autumn leaves turn. A walk through Lititz Springs Park in the heart of the downtown core is a great place to start your stay in this idyllic central Pennsylvania town. You can also explore the town's historic sites just steps away, including the Lititz Moravian Church Square and the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the oldest pretzel bakery in the country.
This town is also known for its vibrant fall festivals. Lititz’s Craft Beer Fest, held each September, draws visitors to sample regionally crafted brews. The annual Lititz Chocolate Walk in October is another favorite, which highlights locally made sweet treats that can be sampled around town.
For those looking to experience the local countryside, a short drive brings you to nearby farmlands and covered bridges, offering beautiful areas for fall photography and scenic drives. Speedwell Forge County Park is one such spot you should check out, while the Wolf Sanctuary of PA is just across the highway. A visit to both will surely provide you with a beautiful and exciting day out.
Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg is just one of many wonderful towns in the Pocono Mountains to the northeastern corner of the state. It is a prime fall destination with plenty to offer nature lovers and festival-goers alike. The town's proximity to Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, one the most visited parks in Pennsylvania, is an excellent natural destination for leaf-peeping, with paths like the McDade Trail giving its walkers breathtaking views of the fall foliage. Scenic drives along Route 209 also showcase the local autumn colors of the surrounding hills.
In town, Stroudsburg hosts its annual Pocono Food Truck Festival in the fall, featuring local cuisine, craft vendors, and live entertainment. Another popular event is the StroudFest, held in September, which celebrates the season with live music, food, and local crafts along the town’s historic streets.
For art and history enthusiasts, Stroudsburg's downtown contains several galleries and the Monroe County Historical Association Museum, housed in a 1795 mansion. The Sherman Theater will also be hosting seasonal performances in the coming months.
Experience Fall in Pennsylvania in 2024
Pennsylvania is clearly an amazing place to experience Fall in 2024. With numerous small towns to enjoy while you're at it, chances to see the changing foliage are easily at hand for all traveling around this eastern state. Whether you're stopping to simply grab a bite to eat or take part in one of the many seasonal festivals that happen annually in these quaint locales, you will be hard-pressed to run out of things to do and see during your leaf peeping adventures.
