10 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a knack for turning an ordinary visit into a story you’ll keep telling. In one weekend, you can watch a waterfall braid under Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, ride century-old railcars into Lehigh Gorge, and wander a town square that once parked horses.
The breathtaking towns below feel shaped by hands thanks to their brick storefronts warmed by bakeries, theaters with marquee lights, and museums built from one person’s obsession. History shows up as battlefield memories in Gettysburg and Victorian porches in Ridgway. Even the quiet streets carry a sense of occasion, as if someone pressed “pause” on the best parts of American life. Here are ten towns that make Pennsylvania feel bigger, richer, and surprisingly cinematic.
Ridgway
Ridgway is a charming borough along the Clarion River, named after its founder, Jacob Ridgway. Its beautiful 19th and early 20th-century architecture has earned it recognition as a National Historic Register District known affectionately as the "Lily of the Valley." The historic district is home to over 725 treasured structures, including the lovely David Robinson House on Center Street. Visitors are warmly invited to enjoy self-guided tours of this charming area, with helpful brochures available for download on the town's website.
The Ridgway Historic Homes Tour offers a guided experience, taking visitors past beautiful historic homes like the William H. Hyde Mansion, and sharing stories about the importance of these treasured "century homes." Stroll along tree-lined streets that beautifully frame the surrounding mountains, making for a perfect self-guided adventure. One standout is the home built in 1891, showcasing the timeless elegance of the Queen Victorian style.
Ligonier
Ligonier is a charming small borough well-loved for Idlewild Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country. Named after Fort Ligonier, a historic fort from the French and Indian War that visitors can still explore today, it offers a wonderful glimpse into the past. The lively Diamond Town Square is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike, functioning as the heart of community events and gatherings.
The Diamond itself is a lovely decorative feature downtown that used to be a
Mill Run
Mill Run is beautifully renowned for the stunning Falling Water, an architectural marvel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935. This charming house seems to gently hang over a waterfall on the Bear Run River, adding to its magic. The town also boasts breathtaking natural scenery, including sparkling streams, lush forests, and the serene Bear Run Nature Preserve. It's a wonderful place for outdoor lovers, with a variety of trails for all skill levels, such as the Bear Run Black Loop, known as the most challenging trail in the reserve.
Families will enjoy fun-filled attractions like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, where you can experience exciting whitewater rafting, go on thrilling ATV adventures, and explore nature's wonders. The charming downtown area has plenty to delight visitors, from vintage shops to cozy dining spots, making it the heart of the community. Take a leisurely stroll through town to appreciate its charming architecture, or enjoy a delicious meal at Falls City Restaurant and Pub.
Jim Thorpe
The charming town of Jim Thorpe, nestled in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, proudly bears the name of the legendary Native American athlete Jim Thorpe. Visitors can explore several inviting museums, such as the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center, which celebrate the town's rich coal mining past. Stroll through Jim Thorpe's picturesque downtown, characterized by charming vintage brick buildings and a variety of delightful attractions.
Enjoy amenities like The Inn at Jim Thorpe, visit the fascinating Old Jail Museum, or indulge at the cozy Broadway Grill. For a scenic adventure, hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, powered by charming 100-year-old diesel coaches that wind through the stunning Lehigh Gorge State Park. This enchanting small town near the Poconos dazzles visitors with its breathtaking natural scenery and captivating history.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg is one of the most historic towns in America. The Gettysburg National Battlefield was pivotal in the US Civil War. This living museum includes the Gettysburg Museum with Civil War artifacts and live reenactments. The National Cemetary includes a memorial at the location where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address.
The downtown area is pleasant, with a brick aesthetic and a town clock. One of these structures, the David Wills House, explores the era after the Civil War. The Jennie Wade House displays domestic life during the war and is dedicated to civilian casualty Jennie Wade. Though most of it is not pretty, the past comes alive in Gettysburg, and it is truly a stunning town to visit.
Doylestown
Doylestown is a beautiful small town with an amazing historical district and classic architecture. The National Trust For Historic Preservation has designated it one of America's "Distinctive Destinations." Downtown has an art-deco theatre, museums, and a vibrant nightlife.
Archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer founded the Mercer Museum to house his extensive collection of pre-industrial-age artifacts. Fonthill Castle, on the museum grounds, is an architectural marvel. Another unique museum is the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, which has historical artifacts and workshops.
Lititz
The town of Lititz is a historic town with beautiful scenery. The charming downtown includes the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the first pretzel shop in the country. The town was founded in 1756 by Moravians seeking religious freedom, and its history remains visible today.
The intersection of Broad and Main Streets makes up the heart of town and contains unique shops and eateries, including the Wilbur Chocolate Store. The tight-knit community hosts several festivals throughout the year. The Chocolate Walk is held downtown every October. Over 30 merchants pass out chocolate treats to those who have purchased a ticket. Lititz looks and feels like a better time that has gone by.
New Hope
New Hope is popular for its shopping district, riverside restaurants, and cultural attractions. Adjacent to the Delaware River, the pleasing Main Street is the heart of town. The 60-mile canal has a small bridge, which is excellent for photo opportunities. The New Hope Historical Society provides walking tours to learn about the town's past.
The tour leads to Parry Mansion, built in 1784 by one of the town's founders. The Bucks County Playhouse is a historic performing arts theatre. Entertainers like Grace Kelley and Dick Van Dyke have performed here, and photos are honoring them. There are several bed and breakfast inns, like the 1870 Wedgwood Inn, which is a veritable walk through time.
Wellsboro
Wellsboro emerged as a historic trading and logistic center in the early 19th century. It is named after Mary Wells, the wife of one of the founders. A memorial to her stands at the historic Robinson House. The downtown is also pleasing and includes a 1930s movie theatre and the last family-operated department store in the country.
Pine Creek Gorge, known as Pennsylvania's "Grand Canyon," is jaw-dropping, especially in Autumn. The stunning vistas provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and camping. Plenty of lodging is available, including historic bed and breakfasts to complete your stay. They are within walking distance of the many restaurants and boutiques in town.
Stroudsburg
Lumber and textile mills contributed to Stroudsburg's growth in the 19th century, while today, tourism is the economic driver of this Poconos town. It is five miles from the Delaware River and sits on the confluence of the Brodhead, McMichaels, and Pocono Creeks. Along with its natural beauty, Stroudsburg has a charming downtown with shops like the Olde Engine Works Market Place.
Many visitors to the Pocono Mountains stay the night in Stroudsburg for its culinary and cultural scene. One of the more popular night spots is The Renegade Winery. It is the Poconos' first urban concept winery and offers hard cider. The wines are crafted in the heart of historic Stroudsburg and are a perfect nightcap.
Pennsylvania is a picturesque state celebrated for its expansive rivers and mountain ranges. It is also deeply immersed in history, being one of the original thirteen colonies. Perhaps no other town exemplifies historical importance as much as Gettysburg. Towns such as Mill Run and Lititz are distinguished for their diverse architectural styles and rich histories. Wellsboro and Ridgway offer stunning scenery and are favored destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. These towns are breathtaking in their natural and architectural beauty, embodying the finest qualities of Pennsylvania's small communities.
