9 Undiscovered Small Towns in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the most populated states in the US, with bustling towns and cities. Yet, some towns still exist in the shadows of others, waiting to be discovered and explored. Although behind the spotlight, these towns are full of scenic beauty, historical charms, and things to do. For instance, a town like Ohiopyle may be small and have less than 50 people, but it boasts one of the state's most elegant waterfalls, while another town like Ambler glows in history with many ancient buildings and landmarks. Discover more spectacular attractions and excitement in these nine little-known towns in the Keystone State.

Ohiopyle

Ohiopyle is often overlooked as it is home to just around 37 people. However, it is surrounded by Ohiopyle State Park, an outdoor paradise and touristy jewel in Pennsylvania. This park is centered around the Youghiogheny River Gorge, which runs through it and sets the stage for kayaking, paddling, canoeing, fishing, and whitewater rafting. The park is also home to the majestic waterfalls, Ohiopyle, Cucumber, and Jonathan Run Falls, which further add to its appeal.

Meanwhile, the park is connected to the Youghiogheny River Trail South Section of the Grand Allegheny Passage for hikers to explore. When hungry, adventurers can always head to the Falls City Pub & Restaurant on Garret Street and grab antiques at Oddly Enough gift shop while leaving.

Ambler

Ambler is a quaint, undiscovered town with a proud history, rich arts and culture. Hence, it is home to several historic properties visitors would love, such as Dawesfield House, dating back to 1777 during the Revolutionary War. The Opera House (1906) and Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church (1906) are more iconic attractions in town worth checking out. In the meantime, art enthusiasts can head to the Act II Playhouse to catch a thrilling show or enjoy a movie at the iconic Ambler Theatre.

Afterward, go to the Ambler Borough Park along Rose Valley Creek for picnics and hike around to observe its natural surroundings. For more outdoor adventures, head to the Four Mills Nature Reserve, home to two trails along the Wissahickon Creek, with views of floodplains and a variety of trees.

Stroudsburg

Stroudsburg is a Monroe County town nestled in the Pocono Mountains, at about 500 feet above sea level. Largely unsung and untapped, the town hosts a handful of interesting attractions like Gamut Art Gallery, where one can appreciate art, and Creative Canvas Studio, where art newbies and veterans can get busy painting. For history buffs, Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm is in town and features 19th-century homesteads and farmhouses reflecting life in the days when peasant living thrived.

Stroud Mansion is another history lure, built in 1795 by the town’s founder, Jacob Stroud. The mansion is a museum that also serves as the headquarters of the Monroe County Historical Society. Although closed, visitors can admire the 12-room Georgian mansion and learn about it at its temporary office on Main Street. More incredible things to love in Stroudsburg include Stroud Mall (perfect for shopping) and Bovino's Brewery, which offers incredibly delicious meals and the finest craft beer in town.

Bedford

Bedford may be seen by many as an outback town as it is more than 100 miles from Harrisburg. However, this town has a lot going for it in terms of history and tourism. First off, the town is home to the Fort Bedford Museum, housing over 4,000 artifacts from the area’s past. Bedford also hosts the iconic Big Coffee Pot (1927), which represents novelty architecture and now serves as a gift shop.

While in town, don’t forget to check out the National Museum of the American Coverlet to see various woven coverlets dating back to the 19th century. Afterward, visit the Bedford Fine Art Gallery to browse its collection and then grab chocolates at Bedford Candies or catch a show at the Off Pitt Street Theater.

Franklin

Franklin is a charming and laid-back town along the meeting point of French Creek and Allegheny River, which has a long list of attractions and iconic Victorian architecture. Here, visitors will be delighted with attractions like DeBence Antique Music World, which hosts over 100 mechanical musical instruments curated from different eras. More antiques are available at the Liberty Street Antiques, while the nearby Trails to Ales Brewery always welcomes visitors to enjoy delicious craft beer and great food.

Additionally, visitors can head to Two Mile Run County Park anytime to relax and enjoy picnics, with charming views of Justus Lake, which is also available for fishing and boating. For more adventures, head to the Allegheny River to boat, kayak, canoe, paddle, and fish or hike, run, jog, and bike on the scenic Allegheny River Trail that links to nearby Emlenton.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a pristine gem town waiting to be discovered and explored. To begin, the town is surrounded by scenic beauty as it is positioned by the east bank of the Schuylkill River, where visitors can swim and enjoy thrilling water sports like paddling and boating. For more outdoor fun, tourists are invited to the outskirts of the town to fish and boat on the 40-acre lake in Kaercher Creek Park. History enthusiasts can visit the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum, an enduring tribute to the Reading Railroad featuring railroad artifacts and classic trains.

For art lovers, the Art & Craft Gallery of Hamburg is a great place to see various paintings, sculptures, and craft items. Additionally, visitors can always enjoy a blockbuster movie at the 200-seater Hamburg Strand Theater and shop for jewelry at Muller Rare Coins and Fine Jewelry store.

New Hope

New Hope is a small borough of just below 3,000 people that sits elegantly along the west bank of the Delaware River, where it joins Aquetong Creek. Although it lies in the shadows of bigger cities, New Hope brims with historic charms and outdoor activities. Visitors here can begin an unforgettable adventure by visiting the Parry Mansion Museum (1784) to see furniture from different forgotten eras. Next, enjoy a show at the Bucks County Playhouse and dine at the New Hope Ferry Market.

Later, enjoy the incredible art creations at the New Hope Arts Center, or visit the Arete Gallery for more paintings and sculptures. Before leaving, marvel at the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge over the Delaware River and visit the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve to see over 800 indigenous plant species.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe is a beautiful town at the foothills of the Pocono Mountains renowned as the burial site of legendary Native American sportsman Jim Thorpe. The town also hosts several attractions, such as The Old Jail Museum (1871), which offers a glimpse at the history of its early inmates. Asa Packer Mansion (1861) is another top landmark in town. It is located on a majestic hill and is complete with its original Victorian decor.

Other historic attractions Jim Thorpe worth mentioning include St. Mark’s & St. John’s Episcopal Church (1869) and the Stabin Museum, which displays incredible artworks of renowned artist Victor Stabin. For outdoor recreation and scenic views, head to Mauch Chunk Lake to swim and fish, or go to the nearby Lehigh River and Gorge for whitewater rafting, tubing, and more fishing. Wrap up with a tantalizing lunch at Stone Row Pub And Eatery.

Wellsboro

Wellsboro is a cozy, small town of just below 4,000 people in Tioga County, full of quaint vibes and remarkable attractions. Notably, this town is home to Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. This magnificent canyon sliced by Pine Creek is within the Tioga State Forest, and it sets the stage for endless hiking adventures with spellbinding views of the creek and the Allegheny plateau. Hills Creek State Park is another fascinating outdoor destination to explore in this town, as it has a lake for fishing and swimming, while its banks are perfect for camping and picnicking.

Moreover, a walk through downtown Wellsboro is also a visual treat, with gas lamps lining its gorgeous streets. While in the area, stop by the Arcadia Theatre to see a movie or theatre performance and enjoy a steak lunch at the Steak House. Before leaving, check out stunning paintings and artworks at the Gmeiner Art and Cultural Center.

These towns in Pennsylvania are perfect escapes from the regular vibes and chaos of big cities. While they may be small and hidden, they remain exciting with their vibrant downtowns, iconic histories, and natural attractions. Depending on the traveler, a vacation in these towns can be full of rigorous outdoor adventures, laid-back moments at picnic areas, or blissful shopping and dining experiences. There is something for everybody in these nine undiscovered towns in Pennsylvania.