7 Stress-Free Pennsylvania Towns For A Weekend Retreat
With summer coming to a close, the demands of everyday life often start to creep back in. The fall season, however, can present just as many opportunities for adventure, particularly if you are open to a quick weekend trip. Across Pennsylvania, weekend escapes range from outdoor retreats at lakes and nature reserves to tasty stops at pretzel bakeries and chocolate parks. These seven towns make the most of Pennsylvania’s variety, giving you the chance to unwind and enjoy a stress-free day or two.
Eagles Mere
Sitting on a lake and surrounded by state parks, Eagles Mere is a wonderful destination for those seeking a weekend in nature. Worlds End State Park is just a 10-minute drive north, covering 780 acres and offering ample mountain views, hiking trails, picnic tables, and more. Travelers looking for a cozy place to spend the night after exploring the great outdoors can head over to the historic Eagle Meres Inn, which dates back to 1887, featuring 17 rooms and offering access to the Eagles Mere Country Club and use of a nearby fitness center. Inn guests can also access the member-only Eagles Mere Lake, located in the heart of town, which is fed by natural springs, making it a popular spot for swimming, fishing, sunbathing, sailing, and canoeing.
Hershey
When it comes to weekend stress relief, is there anything more soothing than chocolate? You will find a chocolate-filled weekend in the community of Hershey, home to the famous chocolate company that everybody knows and loves. Kick off your stay by visiting Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can enjoy a chocolate tour ride, create your own candy bar, grab a sweet treat from the bakery, and much more. For the ultimate relaxing experience, plan an afternoon at the MeltSpa by Hershey, which has over 70 treatments to choose from, including body treatments, facials, and massages, many of which are chocolate-themed. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in town, such as The Hotel Hershey, a full-service, 276-room hotel with villas, guest rooms, and suites.
Jim Thorpe
As the gateway to Lehigh Gorge State Park, Jim Thorpe offers no shortage of outdoor activities. This park spans over 6,100 acres and follows the Lehigh River, with natural features like waterfalls, rock outcroppings, and a steep, river-carved gorge. Hiking, biking, and whitewater boating are a few of the most popular activities. Those interested in a biking adventure can book a tour with Pocono Biking, which offers a variety of trips in the area, some passing through the park and others spanning multiple days, connecting Jim Thorpe to Washington Crossing. Complete your day with a bit of history by lodging at the Harry Packer Mansion, a Gothic-style inn that has dramatic features like gilded mirrors, marble fireplaces, and 15-foot ceilings.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg offers travelers a powerful journey into the Civil War era, where history comes to life. At the center of Gettysburg’s history is the National Military Park Museum, where visitors can tour the battlefield, watch a historic film, and even attend special events at the visitor center. The Gettysburg Museum of History is another fascinating historic stop to add to your itinerary, featuring one of the largest private collections of artifacts from the Civil War, both World Wars, and Presidencies. Gettysburg’s history extends into its lodgings as well. The Brickhouse Inn, for example, dates back to the 19th century, offering an old-world feel with comfortable modern amenities. Guests can choose a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast or upgrade to a three-course homemade breakfast during their stay.
Lititz
Travelers seeking a quirky weekend will find it in Lititz. The town is home to the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the oldest in the country, where visitors can tour the facility, watch pretzels being made, and even try their hand at twisting their own. If you love animals, make sure to spend an afternoon at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, which is home to more than 50 wolves and wolf-dogs. The sanctuary also offers guided tours, providing information about the majestic species along with dispelling common myths. Conclude your day by checking into the Alden House, a bed and breakfast in an 1850 Federal-style home that has been operating in the community since 1987.
West Chester
Situated in the beautiful Brandywine Valley, West Chester is just an hour from Philadelphia, making it a great travel option for those hailing from the city. There are plenty of places to hike near town, such as the Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve, a 571-acre area with grasslands, woodlands, and working farmlands. Downtown, travelers can enjoy a delicious meal at one of West Chester’s local restaurants, such as Limoncello, which serves authentic Italian dishes like ravioli, pasta primavera, and gnocchi. To take advantage of the surrounding countryside, consider staying at the Inn at Whitewing Farm, which is hidden away on a quiet country road on a farm in the valley.
Selinsgrove
Selinsgrove is a tight-knit community along the Susquehanna River with plenty to do both inside the town and on the outskirts. Travelers can enjoy a day of sunshine at the Overlook Section of Shikellamy State Park, which is less than 20 minutes from town. This section of the park covers about 190 acres and features several scenic overlooks, hiking trails, pavilions, and picnic tables. If you visit Selinsgrove at the end of September, you also might be able to attend the Selinsgrove Market Street Festival! This year’s event on September 27 attracts more than 12,000 visitors, all eager to experience the artisans, crafters, music, games, and more. The Selinsgrove Inn is a cozy place to stay over the weekend, within walking distance of many establishments and serving a complimentary breakfast each morning.
Final Thoughts
Fall in Pennsylvania is full of sights to explore. Whether you want to see a few wolves at the Wolf Sanctuary in Lititz, attend the Selinsgrove Market Street Festival, or hike through the gorge at Lehigh Gorge State Park, you won’t have a problem finding an activity that fits your interests. Each of these towns’ inns is just as eager to receive you as well! So grab your calendar, set a date, and get ready to have a memorable weekend away this fall season.
