8 Pennsylvania Towns That Locals Love

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is home to hundreds of small towns, each with a unique character and personality. However, some of these communities have a sense of pride at the core of their cultural fabric, leaving a lasting impression on first-timers and returning visitors in the United States. You can tell this from the broad smiles that greet you on the streets and well-attended events that bring families together in a festive atmosphere. Furthermore, these towns thrive on strong local traditions, independent businesses, and the kind of neighborly spirit that turns strangers into lifelong friends.

Whether nestled in the rolling hills of Amish country or perched along scenic riverbanks, each town offers a story worth discovering. From the charming main street in Lititz to the vibrant farmers market in Kennett Square, here are Pennsylvania towns that locals love.

Kennett Square

40 miles from Philadelphia, Community pride takes precedence in this adorable borough of Chester County, nationally recognized for its agricultural heritage and overall sense of charm. The "Mushroom Capital of the World," as it is popularly known, hosts a colorful farmers' market every Friday that showcases the breadth of agricultural bounty in the region, as local growers display their produce. The Kennett Square Farmers Market is always a jovial affair that allows tourists to feel the warmth of the townspeople. However, it gets even better during the annual Kennett Square Mushroom Festival, when the young and old celebrate their mushroom farming heritage with a range of family-centric activities. From races to pageants and contests, this festive event is one of the best welcomes visitors can get in the town.

The town offers multiple green spaces with clean air and gentle walking areas, providing all the incentives for newcomers to be outside. Prominent among them is the 1,000-acre Longwood Gardens, where nature lovers admire a delightful display of woodlands, gardens, and meadows with various species of local flora. Also, don't miss the opportunity to sample delicious wines at Wayvine Kennett Square.

Lititz

The residents of Lititz coalesce behind a mutual sense of pride for their Moravian heritage and fascinating backstory, promising travelers a fair share of eye-opening experiences. The town's historic district features a cluster of Victorian structures that enhance its rustic charm, inviting first-timers to get in touch with the community's colorful past at the Lititz Historical Foundation. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery is a must-see for anyone exploring the neighborhood. Opened in the 1800s as the county's first commercial bakery, the establishment continues to spread cheer among locals and tourists alike with delicious snack servings and a beautiful story.

The same applies to the Wilbur Chocolate Retail Store, which visiting families can't get enough of. This 19th-century store has been the go-to for high-quality chocolates and premium confectionery products since its establishment in 1884. Every October, the Lititz Chocolate Walk brings the community together for a day of chocolate bliss, as participants tour over 20 downtown locations in search of luscious chocolate treats.

New Hope

New Hope is a happy community along the Delaware River with a reputation for having a thriving art scene and well-preserved historical landmarks. There is a lengthy lineup of live performances and events around the year at the Bucks County Playhouse, which draws enthusiasts from around the region. The young and old congregate in this landmark cultural hub to watch plays, musicals, operas, concerts, and theatrical productions. Meanwhile, the New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival is a must-visit annual event that attracts over 10,000 attendees for two days of art, featuring exhibits by juried artisans and crafters.

The Parry Mansion Museum is the highlight of New Hope's historic district. Built in the 18th century, it is the oldest structure in town and takes guests on an exceptional journey through time with its old-era furnishings, artifacts, and antique displays. Finally, the New Hope Railroad excites families with themed excursions along an 18-mile route on a steam locomotive, leaving lifetime memories.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe is a scenic borough in the Pocono Mountains region, often referred to as the "Switzerland of America" due to its stunning natural surroundings. The town hosts a terrific lineup of events throughout the year, but one of its most anticipated is the Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival. This extremely popular affair ushers in the leaf-peeping season with exquisite train rides, inviting families to hop on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway to witness dazzling hues of crimson, yellow, and orange during an excursion into the untamed wilderness of the Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Jim Thorpe has a fantastic backstory, including adopting the name of an iconic Native Indian athlete. This is extensively documented at the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center, which also highlights other aspects of the town's rich history. Furthermore, residents often meet at the Mauch Chunk Opera House to support the local arts community by watching compelling live productions in a neighborly atmosphere.

Gettysburg

Gettysburg needs no introduction among history buffs and American war historians. This quaint borough is steeped in Civil War heritage and is famous for hosting the landmark Battle of Gettysburg at the height of the national conflict. Almost 1.5 million tourists visit Gettysburg annually to explore its history at the Gettysburg National Military Park. This sprawling site preserves the actual site of the battle and features a resourceful museum with piles of Civil War artifacts, archives, and memorabilia. Meanwhile, you can dive deeper into the past by touring the Gettysburg Museum of History, where over 4,000 artifacts chronicle multiple American wars, former presidents, celebrities, and more.

The Majestic Theater offers vacationers a break from the historic lore with outstanding live performances in an intimate venue, featuring classic plays, musical acts, and comedy shows. Meanwhile, the biannual Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival is an excellent time for everybody to celebrate music, performed by popular artists.

Hershey

Hershey's adorable chocolate heritage makes it one of those Pennsylvania towns that locals love, and welcomes thousands of vacationing families each year, craving to taste its delicious chocolate offerings. The town was formed to house workers from Milton Hershey's chocolate factory, a beautiful story visitors can learn more about while touring the Hershey Story Museum. However, most people come to indulge their sweet tooth, and there is no better destination than Hershey's Chocolate World. This family-centric attraction presents a multi-faceted experience, in which guests get to enjoy tour rides, partake in tastings, sip fresh milkshakes, and try their hand at being a chocolatier.

The facility is just next to Hersheypark, a world-class amusement park with a mix of roller coasters, waterslides, thrill rides, and chocolatey adventures curated for wholesome family fun. Among its many annual events, guests can't afford to miss Choctoberfest, which attracts dozens of crafters, food vendors, and the entire public to downtown Hershey.

Indiana

Nicknamed the "Christmas Tree Capital of the World," this pleasant suburb northeast of Pittsburgh has a cheerful vibe from its vibrant art scene and a fulfilled society. You will often catch residents of all ages gathering inside the Philadelphia Street Playhouse to show support for budding local talent as they perform plays and musicals to an upbeat audience. Indiana maintains a high camaraderie through a sustained lineup of community events, with the highlight being the annual Indiana County Fair. This beloved occasion invites everyone to mark a long-held tradition, featuring dance, food, music, and an array of kid-friendly entertainment.

Meanwhile, the Jimmy Stewart Museum welcomes fans of the revered Hollywood figure to learn about his diligent career and accomplishments while visiting his hometown. Lastly, those who love the outdoors can find 250 acres of serene natural space at Whites Woods Nature Center, ideal for relaxed hikes and picnics.

Lewisburg

This charming borough in Union County boasts one of the nation's most impressively preserved 19th-century communities, with more than 600 contributing 18th-20th-century structures making up its historic district. The Union County Historical Society is responsible for conserving and sharing information about the community's colorful backstory. Downtown Lewisburg is always buzzing with activity, especially during the weekly Lewisburg Farmers Market. This is a prime opportunity to feel the warmth of the locals through genuine interactions while sorting through fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.

The Lewisburg Area Recreation Park allows visitors to enjoy playing in the open spaces on a 22-acre site with recreational amenities like a swimming pool, tennis courts, picnic pavilion, and basketball courts. Meanwhile, the Lewisburg Arts Festival is one of the most satisfying local events you can attend, offering a chance to experience the community's diverse arts culture.

Final Thought

From the chocolate-scented streets of Hershey to the scenic, historic charm of Jim Thorpe, these Pennsylvania towns that locals love sweep tourists off their feet with their charming blend of heart, history, and hospitality. Although each destination harbors a unique identity, they all thrive because of the pride and passion of the people who call them home. Whether enticed by adventure, tradition, or a sense of belonging, they are perfect for those who want to take it easy and experience Pennsylvania at its best.