Pennsylvania's 10 Most Underrated Towns to visit in 2024

While famous destinations like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia draw millions of visitors annually with their bustling cityscapes, world-class museums, and major sports teams, some of Pennsylvania's most charming small towns often get overlooked. Offering a slow pace of life and lush natural surroundings, they present the ideal setting to escape the urban chaos and commotion, serving as a relaxed retreat from city life. If you plan to tour the Keystone State soon, 2024 seems the right time to detour off the major highways.

From historic river towns dating back to the 1800s to quaint villages nestled in the tranquil mountains, Pennsylvania is home to scenic hamlets begging to be discovered. Whether you want to take in beautiful natural scenery, learn about local history, or simply slow down and experience a slower pace, these underrated small towns in Pennsylvania are primed for a visit this year.

Franklin

This adorable small town in northwest Pennsylvania delights with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. Its colorful past is evident in the Victorian-era architecture dominating the downtown skyline, best embodied by St. John’s Episcopal Church. The 19th-century basilica draws admirers with its imposing façade, who hardly get to put down their cameras. Among Franklin’s top points of interest is DeBence Antique Music World, an interesting museum housing over 100 antique musical instruments, including band organs, music boxes, pianos, and more.

Franklin’s bustling arts landscape gives connoisseurs something to look forward to. The downtown harbors venues like the Barrow-Civic Theatre and the Franklin Fine Arts Council, offering a selection of performances and art exhibits. But for a more immersive experience, you can schedule your visit to coincide with the exciting Applefest Festival in October.

Titusville

Considered the birthplace of America's petroleum industry, Titusville was home to the world's first commercial oil well. Today, tourists visit the town to witness how the lucrative oil industry began at the Drake Well Museum & Park, which chronicles the history of the petroleum trade in America through a collection of exhibits, including artifacts, films, and old oil machinery. Titusville also celebrates the legacy of famous investigative journalist Ida Minerva Tarbell, a longtime town resident in the 19th century. Her former family home currently serves as a museum, the Tarbell House.

Nature lovers will be drawn to the atmosphere of the area's oldest community park, Burgess Park. The green space is a popular recreation hub, providing amenities like picnic shelters, a playground, a skate park, a splash pad, and a sledding hill.

Emmaus

A mix of captivating historical landmarks, numerous outdoor opportunities, and a world-class brewery scene makes Emmaus an enticing prospect for tourists in Pennsylvania. Located in the lush Lehigh Valley, this tiny community is dotted with lovely nature spaces, led by the over 300-acre Wildlands Conservancy's South Mountain Preserve. Multiple trails run through the wooded nature space, inviting hikers, mountain bikers, and wildlife watchers to explore the town’s wilderness. Beer lovers can look forward to an unforgettable beer-tasting experience in a town hosting world-class breweries, including Funk Brewing Company and Yergey Brewing.

While there, don’t forget to explore the town’s arts scene with a tour of places like Laura’s Custom Framing & Fine Art. Alternatively, you can visit the Emmaus Historical Society to browse photographs, archives, and other memorabilia preserving the borough’s past since its establishment in 1759.

Ohiopyle

Ohiopyle's modest population might lead tourists to overlook it. With less than 100 residents, the town might seem quiet at first glance. However, it's actually the ultimate playground for outdoor adventurers, boasting an impressive array of natural spots across the area. A prime attraction is Ohiopyle State Park, sprawling over 20,500 acres. Its rugged wilderness provides the perfect setting for activities such as hiking, camping, whitewater rafting, and picnicking amidst nature.

Several local outfitters offer thrilling opportunities for tourists to navigate the rough waters of Ohiopyle through adrenaline-pumping river rafting adventures, including Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours. After indulging in outdoor activities, visitors can explore Fallingwater, an architectural masterpiece by America's most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Ephrata

Ephrata's origins trace back to a bustling agricultural community that grew around the country's first religious commune. Today, its early history can be explored at the Ephrata Cloister, dating back to the mid-1700s. This living history museum spans 30 acres and features ancient buildings showcasing unique German colonial architecture. Ephrata's deep Amish roots have fostered a close-knit community, which visitors can experience during various market days in town. The Green Dragon Market allows interactions with friendly locals and the chance to shop for fresh produce, baked goods, meats, and Amish handcrafts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the local art scene, including live performances at the Ephrata Performing Arts Center, where audiences enjoy a range of shows from drama and musicals to comedies. Wine lovers should not miss a visit to Weathered Vineyards Ephrata for a taste of fresh, local wine.

Stroudsburg

Stroudsburg, set in the scenic Poconos region, offers abundant opportunities for nature enthusiasts. It is located just five miles from the expansive Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, providing easy access to activities such as fishing, hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing. Stroudsburg's proximity to the Delaware Water Gap also enables hikers to explore sections of the famous Appalachian Trail. Alternatively, kayaking excursions along the Delaware River offer additional outdoor fun.

For those who prefer indoor activities, Stroudsburg does not disappoint. Art aficionados will enjoy the eclectic mix of fine, contemporary, and vintage artworks at the Gamut Art Gallery. The Sherman Theater caters to performance arts fans, captivating audiences with a variety of shows, including drama, music, and comedy.

Ardmore

Ardmore strikes the perfect balance between rural charm and urban amenities, making it one of the best towns in Pennsylvania for all types of travelers. This small community, with about 13,500 residents, is renowned for its impressive dining scene and shopping opportunities. Shopaholics can indulge in retail therapy at Suburban Square, which hosts a variety of stores. Meanwhile, culinary connoisseurs have several options to sample local cuisine, including Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft and Lola’s Garden.

For those inclined towards outdoor activities, Ardmore offers cozy open spaces to escape the crowds. Linwood Park is an excellent spot in the heart of the town for a laid-back setting and people-watching. For those who enjoy mingling, the Ardmore Farmers Market provides an opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their culture, and shop for farm-fresh produce.

Wellsboro

This charming village in Tioga County is home to some of the state’s best-kept secrets, including the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania." The Pine Creek Gorge, stretching 45 miles wide and boasting a depth of 1,500 feet, draws adventurers from both within and outside the state. The area is popular among hikers and nature explorers, surrounded by stunning waterfalls and lush forests. The Pine Creek Rail Trail offers hikers a path through multiple natural wonders within the gorge.

Visiting families will find a welcoming and kid-friendly alternative at Packer Park. This small recreation hub in downtown Wellsboro provides amenities such as basketball and tennis courts, picnic areas, and nature trails, ensuring a delightful family day out. Additionally, movie enthusiasts can catch the latest releases at the Arcadia Theater.

Jim Thorpe

The quaint town of Jim Thorpe, nestled in the Pocono Mountains of eastern Pennsylvania, is scenic throughout the year. However, it transforms magically in the fall, with a breathtaking display of changing leaves. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers an ideal way to admire Jim Thorpe’s charm during a relaxed journey through the surrounding wilderness. Established in 1818, Jim Thorpe has a rich history visible in several landmark sites offering unique insights into past eras.

The Mauch Chunk Museum allows visitors to delve into the town’s development, from its coal mining origins and growth during the Industrial Revolution to its renaming in honor of the famous Native American athlete, Jim Thorpe. Another notable destination is the Asa Packer Mansion Museum. Built in 1861, this Italianate mansion once belonged to philanthropist Asa Packer and provides a glimpse into pioneer life in Jim Thorpe.

New Hope

The laid-back town of New Hope, nestled along the picturesque banks of the Delaware River, is celebrated for its vibrant Main Street and rich cultural offerings. To best explore this town, consider making the New Hope Visitors Center your first stop for valuable information and guides about all the top attractions. Notable sights in the town include the Parry Mansion Museum, an 18th-century home built by the town's founder, Benjamin Parry. This house museum preserves relics and furnishings that showcase New Hope's development across various eras. Another highlight is the historic Bucks County Playhouse, which has entertained audiences with a diverse range of live performances since the 1930s, not the 1700s.

When you need to rest after a long day of exploration, the 1870 Wedgwood Inn Bed & Breakfast in New Hope provides a quaint accommodation experience. With period furnishings and charm, it completes the experience of stepping back in time to New Hope's storied past.

Final Thoughts

Pennsylvania is often celebrated for its big cities, but there's much more for tourists to explore. The small towns described above are beautiful and exciting in their unique ways. They each offer a mix of relaxing nature-based activities, captivating history lessons, and enriching cultural experiences. These lesser-visited gems deserve attention for their authentic local appeal and distinct charm. In 2024, why not venture beyond the main metro areas to find rewarding experiences in Pennsylvania’s less traveled paths? After all, the most memorable journeys often come from exploring the unknown, not just the well-trodden tourist destinations.