The Most Picturesque Small Towns in Pennsylvania
The Keystone State is a prime destination for travelers passing through the Midwest. The town is famous for its rich Civil War history, bustling cities, and scenic outdoor landscapes, which draw admirers from around the country. While world-class metropolises like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh dominate the headlines, several hidden gems across the state effectively harbor Pennsylvania's heart and soul. Despite being grossly underrated, they promise tourists a unique experience, which is often rarely accessible elsewhere.
Jim Thorpe
This underrated Pocono Mountains town has beautiful outdoor scenery, a captivating historical heritage, and a rich cultural landscape. Jim Thorpe vacationers embark on a remarkable trip full of unforgettable experiences. The town is surrounded by the rolling and thick wilderness area, which comes alive with the changing fall colors and is best explored within the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. There is a detailed history behind the making of modern-day Jim Thorpe, including naming the town after an iconic Native American athlete. This, and more exciting stories about the area's past, are well-preserved at the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center.
You can explore multiple historical structures offering a window into old-world Jim Thorpe, such as the Victorian-era Asa Packer Mansion. However, if you desire to sample its respectable art scene, consider a tour of the Stabin Museum.
Lititz
A city of many firsts, Lititz is home to America's first commercial pretzel bakery, as well as the first private girls' boarding school. Luckily, this famous part of the town's history is still alive, and visitors can experience it by touring the 19th-century Julis Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, and the 18th-century Linden Hall School for Girls. Meanwhile, a deeper dive into the town's storied past awaits at the Lititz Historical Foundation, where a vast collection of artifacts, archives, and memorabilia transports guests to an immersive journey back in time.
Wandering downtown Lititz, tourists easily fall for the neighborhood's rich mix of shops, restaurants, museums, and other businesses. However, the highlight for most is usually Lititz Springs Park. This stunning urban oasis stands out for its relaxing tree-shaded environment, as well as a set beautiful fountain, culminating in the perfect spot for relaxation.
New Hope
Set along the scenic banks of the Delaware River, this eastern Pennsylvania town boasts stunning natural landscapes, a walkable downtown with gorgeous antique architecture, and a bustling arts community. Lovers of the outdoors can find comfort in the 134-acre Bowman's Hill Wildlife Preserve. This delightful preserve hosts serene nature trails passing through some of the rarest native plant species in Pennsylvania. New Hope's captivating history can be summarized by touring the Parry Mansion Museum. With a legacy dating back to 1784, this rustic mansion exhibits period furnishings and other artifacts from the early centuries.
As well as this, many tourists visit New Hope for its remarkable art offerings. The Bucks County Playhouse invites theater lovers to an entertaining performance within art shows, whereas the New Hope Arts Center displays fascinating pieces by local and regional artists.
Kennett Square
Kennett Square's fertile soils and prominent agricultural industry produce postcard-worthy outdoor landscapes. Nicknamed "Mushroom Capital of the World," it accounts for 60% of the country's mushroom production. The town has lovely green spaces, such as the Anson B. Nixon Park, inviting tourists to embrace nature. Here, they can take brisk walks and have tranquil picnics across its 100-acre territory. Longwood Gardens is a nature lover's dream, featuring over 1,000 acres of woodlands, gardens, and meadows.
An air of friendliness and hospitality envelops the town, and visitors can sense this while shopping at the Kennett Square Farmers Market. The down-to-earth vendors engage newcomers in good-natured interactions as they buy their fresh-from-the-farm produce.
Lewistown
Around 60 miles from Harrisburg, this laid-back locale along the Juniata River welcomes visitors to discover rich history, sip tasty wines, and explore its pedestrian-friendly downtown streets. A seat of the county, it hosts the Mifflin County Historical Society, where a library of exciting archives and records provide a detailed account of the region's history. The town center harbors historical gems like the McCoy House along Main Street. This rustic Federal-style building was constructed in the 1830s, and stands out for its unique brick frame.
Lewistown offers generous wine-tasting opportunities thanks to multiple wineries downtown. Hawstone Hollow Winery is among the top local establishments; known for handcrafting refreshing wine varieties that oenophiles will fancy sampling.
Wellsboro
Home to the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Wellsboro offers rare alluring views and landscapes. The town houses the Pine Creek Gorge, whose majesty can be experienced by visiting Leonard Harrison State Park. Straddling 585 acres, the preserve is an outdoor adventurer's playground with recreation opportunities like camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. A more easygoing option for outdoorsy travelers would be to opt for a golf session at the serene Tyoga Golf Course, which boasts stunning green surroundings.
Beyond the outdoors, visitors may be tempted to visit Wellsboro's arts community, which promises to entertain them with moving live shows at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts, from plays and musicals to concerts.
Bedford
A beautiful countryside with lush valleys and sprawling farms is a perfect description of the outdoor scenery within this tiny village. However, its award-winning downtown makes the town a go-to tourist destination. Exploring the neighborhood allows visitors to discover treasures like Fort Bedford Museum, an 18th-century fortress erected by the British during the French and Indian War. Bedford is also home to the National Museum of the American Coverlet, which interests newcomers with its dazzling displays of antique American woven coverlets.
Besides its history, Bedford is an excellent destination for art lovers, thanks to a quaint mix of centers like the Bedford Fine Art Gallery. Additionally, Bedford's Fall Foliage Festival serves as one of the best times to visit the town.
Yardley
Stunning golf courses and a bustling wine and dining scene make this Bucks County community one of the most exciting small towns in Pennsylvania. Golf lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to indulging in their chosen pastime, with options ranging from the Yardley Country Club to Makefield Highlands Golf Club. When not practicing their golf swing, tourists can find inspiration by visiting the surreal scene of the Garden of Reflections to honor victims of the September 11 bombings.
Downtown Yardley features a vibrant Main Street lined with various shops, restaurants, galleries, and historic structures. Dining is often a favorite part of being a newcomer to Yardley, with Yardley Inn Restaurant and Bar tantalizing taste buds with sumptuous American fare.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg's charm lies in its eventful history, particularly concerning the Civil War. This town was the site of the infamous Gettysburg Battle, which momentarily changed America's Civil War odds. Travelers can witness the location inside the Gettysburg National Military Park, which also features a visitor center and museum showcasing a vast portfolio of war-related artifacts. The town is chock-full of historic venues hinting at its rich past; the Dobbie House Tavern is an excellent example, an antique stone home that is as old as the country and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Gettysburg was also the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and his former home and estate are preserved at the Eisenhower National Historic Site. Touring the museum offers eye-opening insight into the president's fascinating legacy and lifestyle.
Stroudsburg
Another scenic destination in the Pocono Mountains region is Stroudsburg. This town charms tourists with its serene outdoors, quaint wineries, and world-class art centers. Wine tasting is a favorite visitor pursuit in the town, and wine enthusiasts can visit Eagle Rest Cellars to sample some of the region's award-winning wines. Meanwhile, one of the best experiences in town awaits at the Monroe Farmers Market. Meeting local farmers vending their fresh produce is often exciting for many first-timers.
In addition, your trip is only complete when you visit some of Stroudsburg's top art centers. Gamut Art Gallery makes an excellent starting point, exhibiting a combination of contemporary art, vintage pieces, crafts, sculptures, and other forms of art.
Pottstown
Pottstown's long tenure dates back beyond its incorporation in 1815. As a result, the town harbors an excellent selection of historic treasures, such as Pottsgrove Manor, as evidence of its colorful past. Featured on the National Register of Historic Places, this 1752 mansion spots a gorgeous Georgian facade and offers a look into 18th-century Pottstown. A wide array of parks encourage outdoor lovers to enjoy the beauty of open spaces while in the town. At Memorial Park, guests walk along quiet paths while reveling in the serene atmosphere of the 70-acre space.
Shopaholics have much to expect from Pottstown, courtesy of Philadelphia Premium Outlets. The 553.000-square-foot facility plays host to multiple nationally recognized brands, ranging from Michael Kors and Adidas to Tommy Hilfiger.
Hershey
Hershey is an ideal destination for vacationing families in Pennsylvania, promising children lots of delicious treats and fun experiences. The town is famously home to the Hershey chocolate factory, and visitors can learn more about its "sweet legacy" at Hershey's Chocolate World. This popular candy store packs a selection of chocolates, gifts, and themed souvenirs. A deeper look into local history is accessible at the Hershey Story Museum, which presents diverse exhibits focused on the legacy of Milton S. Hershey, as well as other crucial aspects of the community.
Numerous family-friendly fun opportunities at Hersheypark mean the town is constantly exciting. This popular amusement park draws enthusiasts of all ages to ride its thrilling roller coasters, sample sweet treats, and indulge in kid-friendly activities.
The Takeaway
From idyllic river enclaves to beautiful valley retreats and mountain villages, these hidden Pennsylvania gems showcase the natural beauty intertwined with their cultural heritage. Exploring their walkable historic districts amid postcard-worthy backcountry's offers visitors experience slices of Americana rarely found elsewhere. While large cities dominate the tourism landscape, venturing off the beaten path to these understated towns in Pennsylvania rewards travelers with a more authentic taste of the Keystone State's pastoral charm and small-town living.
