11 Undisturbed Towns To Visit In Pennsylvania
Although major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh put Pennsylvania on the national map, there is much more to the Keystone State beyond its famous urban hubs. A detour from the major highways reveals a hoard of countryside gems that never fail to impress first-timers.
Shadowed by stunning natural landscapes, from the Pocono Mountains and the Allegheny National Forest to Lake Erie, these beautiful destinations offer small-town appeal and a slow pace of life that allows city dwellers to escape daily life pressures for a deserved retreat.
Their unique histories, cultures, and outdoor opportunities enable tourists to fashion their itinerary around fun activities for a more exciting getaway. Whether seeking a short sojourn by the lake to recharge in Hawley or a fascinating journey through America's war history in Gettysburg, here are 11 undisturbed towns to visit in Pennsylvania.
Towanda
Towanda is a historic borough in northeastern Pennsylvania, set along the banks of the Susquehanna River. Many of its old buildings remain standing in downtown, with some listed on the NRHP. The Keystone Theatre is an excellent example, originally built in 1886 as the Hale’s Opera House, before it was renamed in 1921 to its current name. For years, it has been a central piece in Towanda's cultural scene, and continues hosting live performances, movies, and community events.
The Bradford County Historical Society shares the town's evolution since it was established in the 1870s. It welcomes guests to take educational tours and access records and documents chronicling the years. Foodies can make the most of delectable Mexican cuisine at The Flying Taco Mexican Grill to savor local flavors as outdoor lovers unwind with an easygoing game of golf at the Towanda Golf Club.
Easton
This picturesque village, situated on the confluence of the Delaware River and the Lehigh River, charms visitors with its chilled atmosphere and vibrant downtown district. Guests can learn about its enduring river heritage at the National Canal Museum, whose hands-on exhibits document 1800s canal life. Furthermore, an easygoing canal boat tour is available to guests as they explore the surrounding garden and trails. Every Saturday, dozens of regional vendors take over Centre Square, inviting vacationers to sort through fresh farm produce, antiques, and handmade crafts for something to buy during the Easton Farmers' Market.
The State Theatre Center for the Arts is a major stop for performance enthusiasts. Since the 1910s, it has captivated people with Broadway-style musicals, plays, and other theatrical presentations. Finally, nature lovers can find a pleasant mix of greenery and sculptures to admire as they revel in the relaxed setting of the Karl Stirner Arts Trail.
Williamsport
Popularly known as the "Lumber Capital of the World," Williamsport is a quaint riverfront town with a thriving art scene and scenic outdoor spaces. Visitors enjoy leisurely strolls along the Susquehanna River Walk to admire the unprecedented views of the Susquehanna River and feel the embrace of Mother Nature. Theater enthusiasts look forward to an electric lineup of performances at the Journey Bank Community Arts Center, which entertains locals and visitors alike with Broadway-style productions, dance shows, comedy acts, live music, and other stage presentations.
Elsewhere, the Thomas T. Taber Museum showcases a vast collection of rotating artifacts highlighting the region's history since the Native Indian population through the 1900s. Lastly, remember to sample Williamsport's famous craft brews at Bullfrog Brewery and meet the locals before leaving the town.
Lebanon
This small borough in Lebanon County traces its beginnings to 1740 when George Steitz founded it. It promises tourists an eye-opening journey into its rich history at the Lebanon County Historical Society, where piles of photographs, documents, memorabilia, and artifacts provide resourceful information about significant historical events. Besides history, newcomers can encounter talented local performers at the Lebanon Community Theatre, which stages an array of live shows, including musicals and plays.
Meanwhile, shoppers can find handmade crafts, farm produce, home decor items, and other assorted wares at the Lebanon Farmers Market, with an opportunity to interact with friendly local vendors. When you need to escape the downtown crowds for some alone time, Stoever's Dam Park provides a 150-acre waterfront oasis with a quiet environment and picnicking, boating, hiking, and fishing opportunities.
Carlisle
Home to Dickinson College, Carlisle is a charismatic town in the Cumberland Valley, known for its active arts community, thriving bar and restaurant scene, and lush outdoor spaces. Performance art fans from across the region often gather inside the Carlisle Theatre to enjoy an array of live acts, from musical concerts and theatrical productions to films. Several restaurants dot the downtown district, acting as the perfect hangout for friends and families in the city. Rustic Tavern is one of the trendy spots in the area, favored for its sumptuous steaks and family-friendly atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Army fans can learn interesting facts about the country's military heritage at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center, which shares historical documents and resources honoring soldiers. Lastly, the outdoor inclined feel at ease when visiting LeTort Park, a 12-acre recreational hub with a playground, picnic areas, sports fields, and a fishing pond.
Chester
Chester is not only beautiful but also one of the most historic towns to visit in Pennsylvania. It is home to the William Penn Landing Site, the first point of contact for William Penn before going on to establish the state of Pennsylvania. Subaru Park is one of the major tourist draws in Chester, especially for sports lovers. The state-of-the-art 18,000-seater arena hosts electric Major League Soccer home games for the Philadelphia Union and major concerts and events. Several downtown galleries, including Nebula Gallery, invite newcomers to connect with the region's arts community by browsing their works. Outdoor recreational opportunities are readily available at Chester Park.
New Hope
New Hope is a popular destination in Bucks County that enchants first-timers with its appealing river vistas, thriving arts, and historical heritage. The town lies on the banks of the Delaware River, whose beautiful banks host the Bucks County Playhouse. This restored grist mill from the 18th century stages dramas, musicals, and children's shows in a fun atmosphere. The Parry Mansion Museum is one of the oldest structures in New Hope, constructed in 1784 by the city's founder, and it takes guests on a fascinating journey through time with its rustic furnishings from diverse periods.
Elsewhere, several outdoor spaces beckon guests with fun moments amidst nature. Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve provides a serene natural oasis with quiet walking trails cutting through lush gardens with trees, flowers, and other plants.
Jim Thorpe
This beautiful borough lies at the heart of the Pocono Mountains region, surrounded by rolling natural landscapes and harboring a rich coal mining history. Its downtown is full of historical markers offering a vivid glimpse into its enduring past. A tour of the Asa Packer Mansion Museum transports guests back to the Victorian era inside a Grand Italianate structure built by a former railroad magnate. Furthermore, the Old Jail Museum depicts the old days through the eyes of inmates in Jim Thorpe. The 1871 jailhouse invites tours that showcase the cells and other related artifacts.
Those who want to discover the vibrant countryside can book a tour on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway and witness the lush forests, waterfalls, bridges, and gorges inside Lehigh Gorge State Park. Alternatively, you can go for a swim or picnic on the sandy shores of Mauch Chunk Lake Park to reconnect with nature.
Hawley
Hawley provides tourists with a blend of a relaxed, rural feel and waterfront charm to ensure an unforgettable getaway. This unassuming village lies near the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, which serves as a hub for diverse water-based activities. Guests can witness the area's unrivaled beauty from the water during the Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tour. The Hawley Silk Mill stands as a testament to Hawley's enduring backstory, initially constructed in 1880. It has undergone several incarnations through the years to eventually become a lifestyle center with retail shops, a gym, and an event space.
Those who appreciate the arts can catch a live event at the Ritz Company Playhouse, where townsfolk gather to watch thought-provoking plays and musicals by professional artists. Later, you can shop for vintage items and collectibles at Hawley Antique Exchange.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg promises Civil War fans and American historians an eye-opening look into one of the country's most consequential battles. This laid-back borough famously hosted the Battle of Gettysburg, which caused a monumental shift in the Civil War, recounting all the details through artifacts, documents, and relics at the Gettysburg National Military Park. While the war was a defining moment in the community's history, there is much more to learn and discover at the Gettysburg Heritage Center. This resourceful facility provides a broad perspective of the yesteryears beyond the battle.
Several historical markers, including the Jennie Wade House Museum, provide a vivid picture of civilian life during the war. The museum was dedicated to Jennie Wade, a civilian casualty claimed by the war. History aside, Gettysburg welcomes newcomers to enjoy electric stage performances at the Majestic Theater for a change of activity.
Hershey
Aptly nicknamed the "Sweetest Place on Earth," Hershey is a go-to for families visiting Pennsylvania, promising unforgettable experiences. The town is home to Hershey's Chocolate World. A tour provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the chocolate-making process, with tastings of delicious flavors as the highlight. Meanwhile, those interested in the brand's humble beginnings can visit the Hershey Story Museum to learn about the fascinating journey of its founder, Milton Hershey.
Elsewhere, the historic Hersheypark delivers unadulterated fun for all ages in a world-class theme park. The property hosts everything from roller coasters and water slides to live shows and children's activities, proving to be a must-visit attraction.
The Keystone State's true charm lies outside its busy cities and away from the choking crowds and nosy streets they are known for. Instead, it is best experienced in the small towns to visit in Pennsylvania, where life dances to a slower beat and the communities are more welcoming and accommodating in the United States. Whenever you need a change of atmosphere to unwind and forget your troubles, any of the above options make for a fine holiday destination, whether enjoying the arts in New Hope or learning history in Towanda.
