These 11 Towns in Pennsylvania Have Bustling Main Streets
A storied history, captivating culture, and fantastic nature are among the highlights to look forward to when visiting the Keystone State. But instead of going to bustling cities like Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, or Philadelphia, where every tourist flocks, try the little-known destinations in the backcountry for a more fulfilling experience. These hidden gems host beautiful downtown areas with vibrant Main Streets showcasing the town's character and heritage. Exploring them is a rare opportunity to step back in time and interact with welcoming locals invested in their communities.
The following towns in Pennsylvania are worth discovering for their walkable cores lined with independently owned shops, restaurants, and attractions. Wander these bustling thoroughfares to take in small-town charm amid quaint architecture and seasonal events enhancing each location's irresistible appeal.
Jim Thorpe
Stunning Pocono Mountains scenery and captivating historical heritage put this quaint village on the map. It has a historic downtown district with a vibrant main street that you can stroll through to explore some of the town's top attractions. The Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center is a noteworthy stop along Broadway Street. It showcases exhibits and artifacts detailing Jim Thorpe's history and the coal mining era. Walking further down the same route brings you to the Old Jail Museum, where the town's history comes to life from the perspective of inmates in an 1871 jailhouse.
Downtown Jim Thorpe is also a favorite stop for art enthusiasts. It is home to the Mauch Chunk Opera House, whose lineup of enthralling theatrical performances draws tourists from across the Poconos region.
Milford
This historic riverfront community in Pike County embodies small-town appeal. Home to a minute population of about 1,000, it welcomes visitors to discover its pedestrian-friendly downtown at a snail's space. It especially delights with a tree-lined Main Street that evokes nostalgia with its blend of historical landmarks and cultural centers. You will quickly notice the Columns Museum from its unique neoclassical architectural design. Inside the 1904 mansion, exhibits of artifacts and artworks help preserve the town's past.
Visitors can explore local culture at the Golden Fish Art Gallery, which features contemporary and fantasy art along with unique local crafts. Meanwhile, the Milford Wine and Cheese Company has the ideal setting for a relaxing glass of wine and delicious cheese-related treats.
Lititz
Dripping small-town flair, this Lancaster County borough never fails to impress first-timers with its rich mix of experiences. Historians have much to discover, including the iconic Linden Hall School for Girls on Main Street. It was founded in 1746 and remains America's oldest girl's boarding in continuous use. The main drag hosts another must-visit historic landmark in Lititz, the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. This 19th-century brick structure is the first commercial pretzel bakery in the United States, which invites tourists to tour the facility and sample its delicious old-age pretzel recipe.
However, if you crave more of Lititz's colorful history, the Lititz Historical Foundation provides a broader perspective. Its vast artifact collection tells the community's story since its founding by Moravian pioneers.
Honesdale
Honesdale's claim to fame is "Birthplace of the American Railroad." This makes it an exciting destination for train enthusiasts, who can anticipate a thrilling look into the country's railway history. While strolling through its quiet downtown streets, your curiosities about Honesdale's past can be answered at the Wayne County Historical Society. Various interactive exhibits, including vintage rail cars, promise an immersive journey back in time. Besides history, you can get cultured at the Wayne County Arts Alliance, which exhibits various artworks by local artists.
When you have sampled enough of Honesdale's history and culture, consider stopping by Twisted Rail Tavern to unwind with friendly patrons in a welcoming setting. The establishment boasts 12 taps of great-tasting beers to go with delicious eats.
Hawley
Hawley's location on the banks of the Lackawaxen River allows it to have exquisite outdoor scenery that lures nature enthusiasts. However, tourists also come to explore the gorgeous antique architecture in its historic downtown district. The Hawley Silk Mill offers a hint of local history. This restored mill from the 1880s currently hosts various unique shops and businesses. Among these is the popular Hopping Eagle Brewing Company, where craft beer lovers can sample some of the town's best brews.
Along Keystone Street, the Ritz Company Playhouse entertains visitors with an impressive lineup of compelling live performances, from plays and musicals to concerts. Alternatively, you may opt for a wine-tasting experience at Three Hammers Winery.
East Stroudsburg
This lovely college town in the Pocono Mountains region delights with a blend of natural scenery and bustling downtown. The packed neighborhood promises a range of fun experiences from its diverse attractions. These include a dive into local history at the Pocono Indian Museum, which houses ancient artifacts documenting the story of the Delaware Indians. Meanwhile, the Frazetta Art Museum intrigues newcomers with a charming display of intimate drawings, paintings, and other pieces associated with Frank Frazetta.
Strolling through the main drag, you will come across the Sherman Theater, which evokes a feeling of nostalgia with its 1920s interior. However, the live musical performances inside ensure an upbeat atmosphere that will raise your spirits.
York
If you enjoy American history, you will love exploring one of the most historic towns in Pennsylvania. Walking around York's old town district reveals a rich tapestry of national and state history. The York County History Center preserves the town's past through exciting archives and artifacts, chronicling how it became the nation's first capital. Shopping at the Central Market House doubles the fun as you sample delicious local treats and intricate handmade crafts in one of the oldest landmarks in the town.
York is notably home to the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, reputed for staging engrossing Broadway shows and other theatrical performances. Despite opening in the early 1900s, the venue impresses with quality shows at budget-friendly rates.
New Hope
New Hope blends a rich historical adventure with a delightful cultural experience to ensure newcomers return for more. This is all available in New Hope's historic downtown region, which displays exciting old-world structures, hinting at its storied heritage. The Parry Mansion Museum is an excellent example, built in 1784 by the town's founder. It maintains original furnishings and artifacts, offering a window into the formative years. The Bucks County Playhouse exposes the town's cultural heritage with thrilling live shows on stage, including dramas and concerts.
The same applies to the New Hope Arts Center, which focuses on visual arts by exhibiting rotating pieces by different regional artists. After a long day exploring, consider stocking up with a hearty meal at New Hope Ferry Market.
Media
Less than 15 miles from downtown Philadelphia, this Delaware County borough balances small-town appeal and big-city flair. This can be credited to the rich mix of attractions, notably the Media Theatre for the Performing Arts on State Street. People converge there to watch musicals, concerts, and other live shows in a 1927 venue. Along the same route, the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum interests visitors with interactive exhibits paying tribute to the country's military heroes.
Another exciting experience awaits at the Media Farmers Market. This ecstatic gathering draws crafters and farmers from around the region, inviting tourists to shop for fresh-from-the-farm produce and handicrafts.
Bellefonte
This easygoing community in Centre County packs a punch of attractions to cater to all visitor preferences. It has a quaint downtown area that allows you to discover its treasures during a laid-back walk. You can start at the Bellefonte Art Museum to browse an exciting collection of pieces by local artists. While discovering the quiet streets, you can stop by Plaza Centre to check out the diverse vintage items and collectibles that make for a remarkable memento.
If you enjoy craft spirits, consider passing by Big Spring Spirits for a drink with friendly townsfolk in a welcoming atmosphere. Finally, Talleyrand Park presents the perfect setting to relax and enjoy fresh air when exhausted from all the exploration.
Kennett Square
Another Philadelphia suburb, this Brandywine Valley gem is known for its thriving agricultural industry. It is surrounded by sprawling farms that allow townsfolk to enjoy a bountiful yield each year, which you can sample at the Kennett Square Farmers Market. This is an excellent destination to experience what the town is most synonymous with while interacting with local vendors. Those who appreciate natural surroundings can visit Longwood Gardens to admire the different species of plants it harbors while enjoying a serene environment.
Elsewhere, the Square Pear Fine Art Gallery invites fans to interact with the local creative community by perusing different art forms. Its quiet, welcoming atmosphere makes for a popular stop in the town's busy shopping district.
Experience Authentic Small-Town Life in Pennsylvania
Exploring these charming towns in Pennsylvania showcases the cultural vibrancy and local pride that lives on through their Main Streets. From bustling squares to quaint thoroughfares lined with homegrown businesses, each destination highlights the character and heritage central to Pennsylvania's small communities. Interacting with merchants and artisans along streets steeped in history provides lasting memories beyond major tourist hubs. Visitors gain a unique perspective, experiencing authentic small-town life and supporting the ongoing vitality of these hidden gems in the United States.
