9 Cozy Pennsylvania Destinations To Visit In 2025

Pennsylvania's colorful and diverse heritage makes it one of the most interesting states to visit in the United States. It is one of the original founding states, played a key role in the country's emancipation from the British Empire, and was a key industrial center for coal and steel. Add this to its stunning natural landscapes, from the Pocono Mountains to the Susquehanna River, and there is a bag full of surprises awaiting tourists.

It gets even better when you depart from your usual itinerary in the big cities to explore the less visited towns on the fringes of the state. Between the history-rich streets of Gettysburg and the chocolate-drenched downtown in Hershey, travelers can set the stage for enthralling encounters by touring these cozy Pennsylvania destinations in 2025.

Kennett Square

Nicknamed the "Mushroom Capital of the World," Kennett Square lives up to its billing as an agricultural powerhouse known for its stunning nature and multiple events celebrating its heritage. It hosts the Kennett Square Farmers Market every Friday, where you can sample assorted farm-fresh produce, flowers, and baked goods from local vendors in a festive setting. However, it all comes to a head during the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival, to be held in September 2025, as more than 100,000 participants come to celebrate everything mushrooms. This features mushroom-eating competitions, mushroom-cooking contests, and even mushroom costumes.

Kennett Square's Longwood Gardens is a wonder you need to see to believe. This 1,000-acre oasis features a dazzling display of over 9,000 species of plants and flowers. Quiet pathways weave through the gardens, dotted with stunning fountains, exposing guests to Mother Nature's splendor. During your visit, you can spend the night at the Bookhouse Hotel.

Ridgway

This small borough in Elk County is steeped in industrial heritage and harbors a well-maintained historic district that provides a vivid glimpse into its past. According to the Elk County Historical Society, Ridgway was founded in 1881 and later took a keen interest in manufacturing clay, leather, iron, and lumber products. The museum is part of the over 700 buildings making up the Nationally Registered Ridgway Historic District, highlighted by the imposing Elk County Courthouse and its attached jail.

The Laurel Mill Golf Course presents a fun way of spending laid-back time outdoors, offering a 9-hole course with well-groomed greens and fairways and challenging play for all skill levels. There is no shortage of accommodation options; the Royal Inn favors those who want to limit their budget.

Ohiopyle

Tourists who prefer trees to people can escape the choking crowds in the city and immerse themselves in the numerous outdoor adventures Ohiopyle offers. This tiny borough is home to Ohiopyle State Park, a 20,000-acre playground with spectacular landscapes at every turn featuring rapids, ledges, and rock slabs. Over 14 miles of the Youghiogheny River cut through the park, allowing guests to indulge in fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting activities courtesy of local outfitters like Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours.

Chasing waterfalls is a pertinent part of the Ohiopyle experience. Most people target the relatively easy Cucumber Falls trail, which leads to a spell-binding 36-foot waterfall. An overhanging ceiling of rocks creates a dramatic scene that nature photographers can't get enough of. Meanwhile, the Ohiopyle Luxury Treehouse provides a romantic spot for overnight stays.

Honesdale

Popularly known to locals as the "Birthplace of American Railroad," this Wayne County municipality harbors a rich railway history as the site of the country's first steam locomotive. Today, visitors can hop on the Stourbridge Line Train for a sightseeing tour exploring the stunning Pocono Mountains landscapes. Outdoor lovers can wear their favorite trainers for a mile-long hike to Tanners Falls, a breathtaking multi-level waterfall enveloped by lush vegetation.

The Wayne County Farmers Market grants first-timers an authentic taste of Honesdale. It offers an opportunity to sample farm-fresh flavors of vegetables, fruits, home-baked goods, ice cream, jewelry, and crafts, bringing together over 30 regional vendors. Meanwhile, you can get better opportunities to mingle with the locals during the Harvest and Heritage Days in October 2025. Remember to book a room at Honesdale Retreat if you want value for your money.

Yardley

This secluded village near the Delaware border is famous for its historic downtown center with old-timey buildings. Shady Brook Farm is one of Yardley's top attractions, providing a family-friendly hub where guests and locals congregate to participate in seasonal events, go grocery shopping, pick fresh crops, and engage in other fun activities. Elsewhere, the Yardley Country Club presents a gratifying pastime for all ages on well-maintained greens with terrific views.

Also, the Garden of Reflection is a must-visit for newcomers to Yardley. This quiet memorial pays tribute to those who perished in the 9/11 attack. It is a suitable escape for those looking for personal reflection. Elsewhere, festival goers can target September 2025, when the town celebrates the Yardley Harvest Day. For your accommodation, head to the Hampton Inn & Suites Newtown.

Hershey

One of the "sweetest" Pennsylvania destinations to visit in 2025, Hershey is world-famous for Hershey's Chocolate World, which draws families looking to indulge in chocolaty splendor. The Hershey Story Museum details the captivating journey of the Hershey brand since its founding by Milton Hershey. It showcases interactive artifacts, documents, and items associated with the founder. If you visit with kids, take them to Hersheypark for a riveting tour with fun rides, luscious tastings, and captivating theatrical performances.

Nature enthusiasts will feel in their element at the Hershey Gardens, home to a 23-acre botanical garden with a remarkable collection of shrubs and flowers. Milton Hershey built the oasis as a gift to his wife. If you want to be near all the action, select the Hotel Hershey as your lodging destination.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe's allure lies in its stunning outdoor scenery and rich history, which intertwines with the coal mining peak in eastern Pennsylvania. Vacationers can familiarize themselves with the town's colorful heritage at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center, which exhibits a collection of artifacts and archives highlighting the coal industry and Jim Thorpe, the iconic Native American athlete who inspired the town's name. The community's past also comes alive at the Old Jail Museum. This 19th-century jailhouse features reconstructed gallows and dungeons, providing a glimpse of the yesteryears from a prisoner's perspective.

Jim Thorpe's setting in the Pocono Mountains region cultivates exciting sightseeing excursions on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. For more than an hour, the journey weaves through the Lehigh Gorge State Park and features awe-inspiring vistas of rivers, gorges, bridges, and more. Finally, consider sleeping at the Inn at Jim Thorpe and experience its charming blend of rustic feel and modern amenities.

Lititz

This Lancaster County borough has a romantic downtown district where history, the arts, and entertainment harmoniously interact. The walkable neighborhood harbors interesting points of interest, starting with the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. This rustic brick structure opened in 1861 as America's first commercial pretzel bakery. Guests can take a tour to watch old-fashioned pretzel-twisting techniques and even enjoy a savory snack. Follow this up by stopping at Wilbur Chocolate Retail Store to indulge their sweet tooth with delicious chocolate treats. The store has been a local mainstay since 1894.

Animal lovers can find inspiration at the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania. This lovely refuge, spread over 80 acres of woodland, allows visitors to learn about the majestic canines in their natural habitat. Lastly, spend a cozy night's sleep at Lititz Springs Inn, strategically located on Main Street.

Gettysburg

This historic borough is a haven for American war historians and hosts a treasure trove of vintage landmarks and sites. Gettysburg is remembered for the Battle of Gettysburg, which marked a turning point in the Civil War, and is currently preserved at the Gettysburg National Military Park. Visitors first stop at the site's Museum and Visitor Center to browse informative exhibits about the war before exploring the many trails leading to the actual battle site in the park. At Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum, intriguing testimonials highlight the life of civilians before and after the infamous conflict.

It exposes extraordinary eyewitness stories and over 1,000 artifacts across 12 interactive galleries. Gettysburg also hosts the Eisenhower National Historic Site, where you can tour the former home of America's 34th president. While there are numerous events to attend in town, wine lovers can't afford to miss the Gettysburg Wine and Music Festival in September 2025. Lastly, the Best Western Gettysburg is one of the accommodation options to select in town.

Whether exploring Civil War battle sites in Gettysburg or sampling sumptuous pretzels in Lititz, these fun Pennsylvania destinations to visit in 2025 showcase the Keystone State's diversity beyond the big cities. Together, they are a true reflection of the state's raw character and heritage, exposing tourists to a unique side that few experience in the United States. The best part is that there is something to address all preferences, from historical experiences and culinary encounters to cultural immersions, culminating in a wholesome vacation.