8 Most Eccentric Towns In Pennsylvania

If you are ready to explore the eccentric, you may want to start with Pennsylvania. Expect to find several peculiar towns in "The Keystone State." From a town named after a planet and with a flying saucer welcoming you to one with artwork made from human hair, these towns are sure to keep you busy with their displays of the weird and the wacky. So, keep on reading to learn more about these eight intriguing towns.

Mars

Is Mars the most eccentric town in Pennsylvania? There is no objective way of knowing. If anything, eccentricity comes in several forms; often wears different hats. Still, Mars is as eccentric as any town can be. With its flying saucer, the welcome sign is usually the first unique thing first-time visitors meet. Right in the middle of the town, you will find the popular Flying Saucer, the town’s signature attraction. Sit on it, take a photo — or just puzzle over its creation and how it looks like something out of a science fiction movie. If you want your heart to race, the Mars Train Station is rumored to be haunted. Mars Farmhouse Cafe is noticeably inviting, so pass by and sit down with a plate of berry salad.

Lititz

Lititz feels like a fairytale town — charming and mythical in almost equal measure. Just do not mispronounce it as "Le tits" because many do. The town’s Fire & Ice Festival, typically in the middle of February, features wow-worthy ice sculptures, delicious food, and exciting fire shows. Do not miss the Bulls Head Public House, which is part of the Lititz Springs Inn, especially because it has been recognized as the "Best Beer Bar in the US" (by USA Today) and "Best Beer Bar in Pennsylvania. Not just that. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery is America's first commercial pretzel bakery, with a history that predates the French Revolution. Not to be outdone, Wilbur Chocolates, which you will find in several shops, are famous for how they resemble the bud of a flower.

Ohiopyle

Get ready to explore isolated swimming holes, forested paths, and spectacular cascades in the Laurel Highland mountains of Fayette County. You have the Ohiopyle State Park, which is the largest of its kind in Pennsylvania. If this counts for something, Ohiopyle State Park provides some of the best whitewater boating in the eastern United States. You can zip along the Fire Tower Road Mountain Biking Trail — or watch the sunset at the Firetower Overlook. There is the Great Allegheny Passage Rail Trail (notice the word “Great”) that provides spectacular biking and hiking. There is nothing weird about it, but Cucumber Falls could just be the most photogenic and photographed waterfall in western Pennsylvania.

Bloomsburg

Welcome to the only incorporated town in Pennsylvania. Bloomsburg considers all others as pretenders and wannabes. Technically, they are either cities or boroughs. It is unassuming — and home to just about 13,000 residents. However, don’t be too quick to judge. Bloomsburg hosts the largest fair in Pennsylvania. The Bloomsburg Fair predates the Civil War and comes to town on the last Saturday of September. There is the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, which stages high-quality productions; some wacky, others standard. Go to the Town Park, and enjoy the river’s entertaining noise. Keep in mind that the Bloomsburg Historic District and Rupert Covered Bridge No. 56 are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Butler

Playthings Etc. in Butler has a weird name, especially the “etc” part. It bills itself as the World's Coolest Family Toy & Hobby Store. So expect a lot of cool stuff here, including the quirky and wacky, the retro and the futuristic. If you feel lady luck has been hard on you and are looking for ways to soften her attitude, visit the Maridon Museum and rub the belly of the Buddha statue. We don't know how it works, but many believe this singular act can set you on the path to prosperity. Crown the day sipping wine at the Rustic Acres Winery. It is off the beaten path and charges zero dollars for wine tastings.

Ambler

Ambler is not just about historical brick buildings. You will find these in several small towns across the state. Remember, Pennsylvania is among the earliest settled states. You will find a dance company, a painting studio, and the Act II Playhouse, plus the regulars — cute boutiques and vibrant pubs. Don't underestimate the playhouse. It is known for spectacular live productions and can be the unexpected highlight of your adventure. There is the Ambler Theater as well, if you are into old movies and new indie flicks. Grab a meal at The Lucky Well and a drink at Forest & Main Brewing Company. Think draft beer, cask ale, and side-pull lagers.

Ligonier

Ligonier may not scream “eccentric,” but it has attractions that you are not likely to find anywhere else. First, you have the fort, unique for being the finest reconstructed fortification from the French and Indian War. Learn why Ligonier was once called “the Key to the West” and how it helped create Pittsburgh — now called “the City of Bridges.” Does the fort hold anything unique? Yes — the world's largest collection of colonial-era leather shoes. Of course, do not miss the exhibit dedicated to George Washington's early military career. It is among the fort’s most sought-after attractions. Other attractions include the Ligonier Valley Railroad Museum, ideal if you want to soak in the railroad history of the area, and The Diamond Theatre, whose history goes back to the Great Depression years.

Zelienople

The Strand Theater, which has been providing entertainment to the community for more than 100 years, is one of Zelienople’s landmark attractions. Check their website ahead of time because you may chance on a beautifully staged performance. You will love its "old-time atmosphere" and the intimate feeling it provides. Start with a meal at Della Terra, which is in an old, restored Mellon Bank building. From the 1940s-style chandeliers to the tall ceilings to the vault door, there is something retro about this hotel that makes the whole atmosphere drip nostalgia. Baldinger's Market, whose history goes back to 1933, is every sweet tooth’s dream. Fortunately, they have a large and dedicated sugar-free area. If you go to the Passavant House, you will find framed art made of human hair. Eccentric? Definitely.

The Takeaway

Normal is boring. Even if not boring, there are times you just want to explore the unconventional. Exploring these eight eccentric towns of Pennsylvania will help you do just that. Also, if you want to avoid the crowds of big cities, check out the towns we highlight here. If anything, you will enjoy a slower, more intimate experience.