9 Adorable Small Towns in Pennsylvania to Visit in 2024

Tourists flock to Pennsylvania to explore its beautiful natural landscapes, discover its deep roots in American Revolutionary and Civil War heritage, and indulge in diverse outdoor adventures across its terrain. Beyond the bustling urban centers of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh lie countless charming small towns that dot the countryside, harboring diverse geography across the Keystone State. With endless miles of rivers and streams carving through its hills and valleys and the majestic Appalachian Mountains forming its western border, rural Pennsylvania offers a picturesque countryside and welcome respite from hurried modern life.

For those planning to visit the Keystone State in 2024, skipping the big cities for these adorable small towns in Pennsylvania allows you to immerse in local history, culture, and friendliness while surrounded by pastoral scenery and pure natural splendor.

Gettysburg

Many travelers adore Gettysburg for its ability to deliver an immersive experience into the annals of American war history. This small town notably hosted the Battle of Gettysburg, which had landmark implications for the direction of the American Civil War. At the 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park, guests visit to witness the actual battle site and browse a rich Civil War artifact collection inside the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center. Gettysburg offers a ton of historical experiences, and touring the Shriver House Museum takes you back to the 19th century in the historic home of a Civil War soldier.

There is more history to uncover, even when exploring Gettysburg's open spaces. A trip to Sachs Covered Bridge introduces you to one of Pennsylvania's few remaining covered bridges while placing you in a serene natural area with scenic creek views.

Lewistown

This architectural gem along the Juniata River excites visitors with its adorable downtown skyline. One of Lewistown’s most conspicuous landmarks hosts the Mifflin County Historical Society, known for its gorgeous old-world architecture. The venue is an excellent stop for historians curious about Lewsitown's captivating past. Another notable focus for sightseers exploring the historic downtown is the McCoy House Museum. This historic abode was built in the 1800s and offers a window into Victorian-era Lewistown through its various period artifacts.

While in Lewistown, be sure to catch a family-friendly theatrical performance by the exciting Stone Arch Players. Lastly, the town has beautiful natural surroundings with sprawling farmlands and open spaces like the Lewistown Country Club, a great place to perfect your golf swing.

Lititz

Lititz offers just about all you can expect from a quintessential quaint village in central Pennsylvania. This town’s small-town charm is best embodied by the Lititz Springs Park, which lies smack dab in the middle of downtown. The little oasis offers a quiet atmosphere with lush gardens and scenic fountains, perfect for those who want to chill out and people-watch. A rich heritage brings tourists to Lititz, who come to witness the country's oldest commercial pretzel bakery. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery has been running since the 19th century and continues to entice travelers with its age-old recipe.

Meanwhile, the Lititz Historical Foundation does an excellent job of preserving local history. Touring the facility exposes you to rare artifacts and memorabilia that bring Lititz's colorful past to life. During your historical journey, consider passing by Moravian House Antiques to buy a vintage souvenir for your home collection.

Kennett Square

This delightful Philadelphia suburb lies in the lush Delaware Valley and is known for its rich natural environment. Nature lovers are drawn to Kennett’s Square’s impressive network of green spaces, led by Longwood Gardens. This 1,100-acre expanse of manicured gardens, fountains, meadows, and woodlands captivates with an unmatched ambience that brings out the best of Mother Nature. Kennett Square also has the smaller but just as impressive Anson B. Nixon Park. It has a family-friendly setting and offers various recreational amenities, including picnic pavilions and a playground.

You will love the strong community spirit the townsfolk of Kennett Square exhibit. This is apparent during the Kennett Square Farmers Market, when local farmers bring their freshest produce and crafters display their cute handicrafts. Tourists can also enjoy local art at the Square Pear Fine Art Gallery.

Jim Thorpe

Unique culture, charming history, and beautiful nature put this Pocono Mountains gem among the top small towns in Pennsylvania for visitors. Jim Thorpe is surrounded by a lush wilderness area, which features a thick network of woods and picturesque peaks of the Poconos. Visitors often get on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a sightseeing excursion into the heart of the Lehigh Gorge State Park. A treasure trove of historical landmarks and sites pays tribute to Jim Thorpe's colorful past.

Historians have the opportunity to discover exciting artifacts to explore at the Asa Packer Mansion Museum and more information about the area's culture and heritage at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center. For the culturally inclined, you can visit the Stabin Museum to browse various creations by local artists or watch a live music performance at the Mauch Chunk Opera House.

Bristol

This scenic borough on the Delaware River is characterized by small-town charm and access to serene outdoors. Bristol downtown exhibits fine old-world architecture on historic landmarks like the Grundy Museum. This gorgeous gilded-age building boasts an ornate interior and an impressive collection of historical and cultural artifacts. The local arts community constantly gathers inside the Bristol Riverside Theater to enjoy captivating live shows, delivering an immersive experience for newcomers.

Bristol ensures tourists a rich cultural experience when they visit the Bristol Amish Market. Besides interacting with good-natured Amish vendors, visitors can shop from a wonderful selection of Amish products, ranging from handmade crafts and unique furniture to tasty baked goods.

Strasburg

Strasburg has a unique mix of railway-related attractions hinting at its rich railway heritage. This small Lancaster County community invites tourists to explore unique state history at the Railway Museum of Pennsylvania. Housed inside the sprawling facility is a stunning display of railroad artifacts and 19th-century locomotives that diligently transported people across the state. Strasburg also hosts the National Toy Train Museum, an excellent family day out venue. Kids will love the awesome collection of miniature train sets and toys from the 1800s to today.

Visiting the Strasburg Heritage Society provides background on the local community by revealing rare artifacts, archives, relics, and memorabilia chronicling Strasburg's culture and history. Before leaving the town, stop by the Strasburg Antique Market for a chance to land a vintage souvenir.

New Hope

This quaint Delaware River village radiates 18th-century charm with stone arch bridges, cobblestone streets, and historic mansions. This is best embodied by the Parry Mansion Museum, constructed in 1784, and houses period furnishings depicting lifestyles in the 18th and 19th centuries. New Hope is regionally recognized as an arts and culture hub. Visitors have remarkable opportunities to explore this likable side of the town by watching a performance at the riverfront Bucks County Playhouse.

The Delaware River banks offer idyllic nature spots as it winds through the town, compelling tourists to explore the outdoors. One of the go-to spots if you want to commune with nature is the expansive Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve. Across its 134-acre territory, you can admire over 800 plant species while reveling in the tranquil atmosphere.

Hershey

Situated east of Harrisburg, Hershey is the historical home of Milton Hershey's Chocolate Factory and offers an exciting mix of family-friendly opportunities. Visitors can get a good idea of the town’s chocolatey past by visiting the Hershey Story Museum, which chronicles the beginnings and growth of the famous chocolate brand in the town. Families can take advantage of fun adventures at Hersheypark, a historic chocolate-themed amusement park offering thrilling coasters, family rides, kids' activities, delicious treats, and so much more.

Inside the park, you will come across ZooAmerica, where guests enjoy rare counters with some of America's famous wildlife species. The sanctuary stretches 11 acres and offers a walk-through experience that brings you close encounters with animals like mountain lions, reindeer, bald eagles, and owls.

Final Thought

From historic Lancaster County and the Poconos to charming river and mountain enclaves, these top small towns in Pennsylvania offer a true taste of rural delights and Main Street charm. With quaint architecture, thriving local culture, and abundant surrounding natural beauty, each provides the perfect setting for a leisurely and intimate escape. By focusing the itinerary on exploring some of Pennsylvania's most picturesque small towns, visitors can unwind from busy lives surrounded by history, culture, and scenic splendor synonymous with the Keystone State.