10 Serene Pennsylvania Towns For A Weekend Retreat
When the constant rigors of life in the city take a toll on you, a quiet retreat away from the crowds is a great way to rest, refresh, and rejuvenate. Fortunately, the Keystone State harbors a long list of adorable towns where you can find all the peace in the world. Isolated from the urban sprawl and rural vibes, these hidden gems present the ideal setting to let loose, clear your mind, and allow yourself to let go.
Visiting them is a chance to discover the rich history, diverse culture, beautiful nature, and exciting adventures synonymous with the state. From delving into Civil War heritage in Gettysburg to enjoying craft brews in Lansdale, here are the top serene Pennsylvania towns for a weekend retreat.
Marietta
Marietta is a quaint town on the banks of the Susquehanna River, known for its lush natural spaces and abundance of outdoor opportunities. It promises vacationers a relaxed retreat featuring thrilling adventures across its many park areas. Riverfront Park is always jostling with extroverted visitors, offering a spacious pavilion with picnic amenities where you can sit and admire the river views. Meanwhile, a lazy morning or evening stroll along the Northwest River Trail is a perfect way to let your mind wander while reveling in the tranquil outdoor scenery.
The town is as impressive as its backcountry, dotted with structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Walking down rustic streets brings you to the Old Town Hall Museum, which transports guests back to the 19th century with period memorabilia. After a long day of discovering the small town, you can spend the night comfortably at the enduring Railroad House Inn, built in 1823.
Pottstown
Vibrant arts and beautiful architecture draw tourists to this delightful borough in Montgomery County. The town traces its beginning to the middle of the 18th century and has several markers preserving its old memories. Noteworthy among them is the stunning Pottsgrove Manor, a fabulous Georgian-style home that once housed the Potts family. Pottstown's art scene is recognized around the region, attracting enthusiasts with remarkable musical presentations inside the Steel River Playhouse. This crucial cultural hub supports local talent by showcasing their performances on a live stage.
Shopaholics look forward to a modern retail therapy encounter at the sprawling Philadelphia Premium Outlets. Covering at least 550,000 square feet, the mall houses multiple brand retailers, including Adidas and Calvin Klein. There is no shortage of hotel options in the city, and you can spend a cozy night at the revamped Comfort Inn & Suites.
Wellsboro
Wellsboro sets the stage for an unforgettable weekend retreat in the great outdoors, promising tourists a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Pine Creek Gorge up close. The town is home to what's also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, a 50-mile gorge surrounded by the dense wilderness of the Tioga State Forest. This popular recreation hub provides hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing opportunities. The outdoor fun continues at Leonard Harrison State Park, which lies on the east rim of the gorge and offers unprecedented views of the natural phenomenon.
Away from the backcountry, downtown Wellsboro boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, which resides in the intimate interior of the Deane Center for the Performing Arts. Here, people gather to watch plays, concerts, and musicals. Later, they can book a stay at Penn Wells Lodge to be close to all the action in the city's heart.
Easton
Easton is a picturesque riverfront borough set along the junction of the Delaware River and Lehigh River. It delivers a wholesome visitor experience, with a delicate balance of indoor and outdoor attractions. The Sigal Museum documents centuries of regional history by displaying artifacts and archives dating back to the pre-European settlement. Meanwhile, art lovers find a mutual pursuit inside the State Theatre Center for the Arts, a landmark live performance center listed on the NRHP.
Elsewhere, outdoorsy tourists can try adrenaline-inducing excursions down the river, courtesy of Twin Rivers Tubing. Finally, when your body is sore and tired from the demanding activity, allow it ample time to recover by booking a room at the luxurious Hampton Inn Easton.
Jim Thorpe
A tour of this picturesque eastern Pennsylvania community allows first-timers to discover the raw beauty of the Pocono Mountains. Jim Thorpe's dynamic past, which intertwines with coal mining, is documented inside the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center. This former Victorian church was repurposed into a vital museum telling interesting stories about the old days. The town's numerous landmarks offer a vivid glimpse of the past. A tour of the Asa Packer Mansion Museum provides an idea of life for the upper-middle class during the Victorian era.
Jim Thorpe's surroundings feature Pocono Mountains peaks and undulating forestlands, which deliver exquisite vistas for tourists riding the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. When you have to rest for the night, take advantage of a rustic lodging experience at the Inn at Jim Thorpe.
Hershey
This tiny town near the Pennsylvania capital has all the hallmarks of a memorable family getaway. With a nickname like "Sweetest Place on Earth," guests can look forward to a barrage of fun experiences, starting at Hershey's Chocolate World. This magnificent facility welcomes first-timers to witness the creations of America's favorite chocolate brands, with a chance to sample sweet chocolate milkshakes and candies. Hersheypark offers tens of thrill rides, roller coasters, a waterpark, and family-friendly attractions.
Exotic wildlife encounters at ZooAmerica help spread cheer among the young tourists in Hershey. This remarkable sanctuary houses many beautiful species, including mountain lions and black bears. After a fun-filled day, the whole family can find a nice spot to rest at Hotel Hershey.
Gettysburg
If you enjoy American Civil War history, Gettysburg is one of the best Pennsylvania towns for a weekend retreat. Tourists come to this landmark borough to witness the remains of the Battle of Gettysburg at the Gettysburg National Military Park. The site preserves the memories of the battle at the resourceful Visitor Center and Museum using a vast collection of related artifacts. Gettysburg's many landmarks provide a vivid look into the past, transporting those who visit the Jennie Wade House Museum back to the peak of the war.
The downtown region harbors a vibrant art scene; first-timers can get a feel for it when they catch a performance inside the Majestic Theatre. Finally, several hotel options guarantee a nice spot to lay your head, and guests can consider staying at the 1863 Inn of Gettysburg.
Lititz
This tiny community in Lancaster County stands out for its blend of German and Moravian roots. Tracing its origins to the 18th century, Lititz is steeped in history, and you can tell this from its collection of old sites and markers. This heritage is chronologically documented inside the Lititz Historical Foundation through archives and artifacts. A city of many firsts, Lititz also boasts the first commercial pretzel bakery in America, where visitors can tour and taste delicious snacks at the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery.
At the heart of the town square, Lititz Springs Park provides a tranquil escape to enjoy fresh air and relax amidst green nature. When it's time to call it a night, remember to book a room at the enduring Lititz Springs Inn for a wonderful lodging experience in an 18th-century hotel.
Lansdale
Lansdale is a lovely suburban town about an hour from Philadelphia and presents a necessary reprieve for city dwellers. It is known for its vibrant craft winery and brewery scene, promising visitors flavorful tastings of locally crafted drinks. Round Guys Brewing Company is a popular stop along Main Street, serving 16 house-made beers, while Boardroom Spirits Distillery is where people can find premium bourbon, vodka, gin, and liqueur. Historians can enjoy a look into the past at the Peter Wentz Farmstead, which highlights pioneer life for German immigrants in the region.
Lansdale hosts an impressive lineup of festivals, and those who happen to visit in August can plan to attend the Festival of the Arts to mingle with the vibrant local arts fraternity. Lastly, remember to book a night's rest at Homewood Suites by Hilton.
West Chester
This tiny borough of Chester County impresses first-timers with a site-rich downtown district, which merges culture and entertainment to make for a popular social hub. Exploring the area reveals an eclectic combination of galleries, museums, and restaurants, with the Chester County History Center providing a breakdown of the area's long-standing past. Meanwhile, the Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center captivates enthusiasts with enthralling concerts and theater in a quaint setting.
Outdoor lovers can make the most of the over 570 acres awaiting them at Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve. This pleasant playground harbors opportunities for hikers, bikers, picnickers, and other adventurers. Ultimately, Hotel Warner is one of the best places to spend the night.
A brief getaway in the Keystone State is an excellent way to discover the unmatched diversity harbored across its vast territory. While most people tend to rush to the city, the best serene Pennsylvania towns for a weekend retreat prove that you can have a gratifying experience when you ditch the urban noise and embrace the quiet that embodies its rural destinations. From taking in the rich nature in Wellsboro to entertaining the kids with chocolaty treats in Hershey, there is something for all ages.
