9 Old-World Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania
Between hosting America's first capital and harboring a rich Civil War heritage, Pennsylvania boasts numerous landmark moments in United States history. Yet beyond its prominent role in revolutionary events and military conflicts, the Keystone State safeguards captivating towns that have remained nearly unchanged for centuries. Appearing as though transported straight from the eras gone by, several communities across Pennsylvania's diverse landscape continue embracing traditional architecture and community spirit.
From the well-preserved 1800s war zone in Gettysburg to the riparian English village of Chester, these picturesque towns to visit in Pennsylvania, frozen in time, expose the true character and heritage of this famous Midwestern state.
York
York's colorful history dates back to 1741 when Thomas Cookson first laid it out. It is best known as the birthplace of the Articles of Confederation and holds deep American history. Visitors can explore the historic district's cobblestone streets to witness ancient structures and cultural landmarks. The York County History Center is a prominent stop and provides a detailed account of the town's past through archives and memorabilia. Meanwhile, the Central Market House offers proof of the community's longstanding entrepreneurial spirit. It has been around since 1888 and continues to house vendors and traders selling all kinds of merchandise.
The region's artistic personality is on display at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts. This vintage venue opened in the early 1900s and still entertains audiences with invigorating plays, dances, and musicals.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg has always been a favorite destination for American war historians because of its critical role in the American Civil War. Incorporated in 1806, it is most famous as the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the landmark conflict. Today, guests can discover the actual location of the showdown inside the Gettysburg National Military Park. A Visitor Center and Museum at the entrance provide insightful backstory through archives, memorabilia, and relics from the war.
More history can be uncovered at the Gettysburg Museum of History, which delves deeper into America's military past using the most extensive collection of World War 1, 2, and Civil War artifacts. But Gettysburg's history goes beyond the war. The borough's oldest building, Dobbin House Tavern, maintains its old-world charm from 1776 and serves delicious dishes like spit-roasted chicken.
Lititz
Founded in 1756 by Moravians, Lititz boasts a captivating past that gradually plays out when strolling through its historic downtown. A town of many firsts, it is home to the Julius Sturgis Bakery, better known as the country's first commercial pretzel bakery. Tourists can tour the rustic brick building and sample tasty pretzels that have delighted locals since 1861. Lititz also houses the Linden Hall School for Girls, the nation's oldest girls' school in continuous operation, established in 1746.
While there is no shortage of sites and landmarks to check out, Lititz has a lovely oasis in the heart of the village where you can escape the noise and relax. Lititz Springs Park stands out for its shaded picnic areas, green setting, and beautiful water fountain.
New Hope
New Hope has been a mecca for history and theater, drawing travelers from the surrounding region for years. This rustic charm becomes evident for newcomers as they wander its old district, which displays a collection of 18th-century structures. The Parry Mansion Museum is one of the oldest buildings in New Hope, an 8-room Georgian-style Colonial house from 1784. Inside the mansion, antique furnishings and artifacts transport guests to different eras in the area's chronology.
Culture vultures in New Hope gravitate towards the Bucks County Playhouse, which stages concerts, plays, and other theater shows in a former grist mill on the banks of the Delaware River. Finally, those who visit with kids can take them to the Bucks County Children's Museum for a fun learning experience.
Chester
One of the oldest towns to visit in Pennsylvania, Chester was first settled by the Swedes in 1644 and became a colonial settlement in 1681. It is home to the William Penn Landing Site, the first landing site of the Philadelphia territory by William, who ended up founding the Province of Pennsylvania. Chester has a decent art scene, and walking the downtown avenues allows you to interact with the creative community at establishments like Nebula Gallery.
Many sports fans converge at Subaru Park to catch an invigorating soccer match in an electric stadium atmosphere. This 18,500-seater arena is home to the Philadelphia Union, who play in Major League Soccer.
New Castle
The first Europeans settled in New Castle towards the end of the 18th century, and the town retains its historical significance through several well-preserved landmarks. The Scottish Rite Cathedral is one of the city's most stunning buildings. It was built in 1925 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, the Lawrence County Historical Society preserves the region's past. Visiting the center exposes guests to cultural and historical artifacts shedding light on New Castle's heritage.
Outdoor enthusiasts will prefer the environment at Cascade Park. This lovely natural area embodies the town's pastoral beauty with a gorgeous landscape dotted with colorful wildflowers, pristine waterfalls, and boulders. The setting is ideal for a secluded picnic with friends or family.
Bellefonte
Bellefonte's history dates back to the 1700s when the first settlers arrived. Its long heritage manifests through Victorian architecture and buildings, with the Plaza Theater ranking among the most notable venues in Bellefonte. Constructed in 1925, it was designed by Pennsylvania's first female architect. The former movie venue harbors a gallery with historical artifacts exploring the culture of 20th-century theater.
The Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society chronicles the town's railway heritage through a collection of related archives, relics, and memorabilia. It is surrounded by Talleyrand Park, a delightful natural space ideal for picnicking and relaxing. The park's mix of lush greenery, quaint walking paths, and idyllic water vistas makes it one of the most visited parks in the region.
Bedford
This Bedford County borough is famous for its military past and connection with George Washington. In 1794, the president stopped in the area to inspect troops charged with quashing the Whiskey Rebellion. Fort Bedford Museum grants tourists a rare glimpse into this rich heritage. Wandering the rustic hallways exposes you to a collection of artifacts documenting the region's cultural, developmental, and war history. Elsewhere, the National Museum of the American Coverlet exhibits intimate coverlets woven in the 19th century and originating from different parts of the country.
But history is not the only thing you will be sampling. The Olde Bedford Brewing Company invites newcomers to taste homegrown brews on its nine beer taps. This is also an opportunity to mingle with the locals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lewistown
Steeped in history, Lewistown was first settled in the 1790s and has a captivating Civil War heritage that newcomers can discover in its historic district. One of the first places to visit for this is the Mifflin County Historical Society. The venue stands out for its stunning architecture and delights guests with a vast selection of historical exhibits. More local history resides at the McCoy House, constructed in the 1840s. Travelers can explore the different period furnishings and artifacts inside as a window to the past eras.
History aside, Lewistown grants visitors a remarkable movie experience at Miller Cinemas 6. This quaint, six-screen movie venue showcases newly released flicks in 3D and features a concession stand.
Final Thought
From small-town German heritage amid the charming shops and architecture of Lititz to the artsy village atmosphere in the well-preserved streets of New Hope, each municipality offers a glimpse into Pennsylvania's storied past through thriving main drags, historic homes, and cultural traditions maintained for modern visitors. Many of these towns to visit in Pennsylvania still honor traditions and events dating back centuries, solidifying their status as treasured slices of old Europe within the Keystone State. Visitors can step back in time by exploring any of these picturesque townships in the United States.
