These 10 Towns In Pennsylvania Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2025
Pennsylvania's rich tapestry of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm is exemplified by its small towns, some of which are beloved by locals and visitors alike. From quaint boroughs that echo the past with Victorian architecture, to riverside towns framed by mountains and cultural hubs, these Keystone State towns are some of the most-ranked favorites among Americans. Whether you value walkability, scenery, or vibrant downtown areas, these 10 Pennsylvania towns stand out as places that have captured our nation's imagination.
Jim Thorpe
Known as the "Little Switzerland of America," the tiny Pocono Mountains town of Jim Thorpe, population 4,500, is beautiful in every season. USA Today and Travel & Leisure have both noted Jim Thorpe's and Carbon County's splendor during autumn foliage time.
History buffs will enjoy touring the Asa Packer Mansion, a 19th-century Italianate mansion with Victorian decor and architecture. Lehigh Gorge State Park contains the Lehigh River and 6,100 acres of recreational land for hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting. Jim Thorpe's famous Fall Foliage Festival each October draws both locals and visitors to admire the gorgeous autumnal colors. Stone Row Pub and Eatery on Race Street serves comfort food and drinks in a building from the 1800s.
Camp Hill
The small Harrisburg suburb of Camp Hill, population 8,100, was named one of the best towns to live on a $100,000 salary by GoBankingRates. This honor was given to the Cumberland County town that sits along the Susquehanna River based upon many factors, including school quality, employment opportunities, and amenities. Harrisburg is just three miles to the northeast of town.
The town of Camp Hill has 10 parks with plenty of outdoor space to enjoy, including Siebert Park. The Maurice K. Goddard Trail is a great walking trail running from that park for 4.3 miles to the north side of town. Camp Hill has its share of art and culture as well, with the Gallo'ry on Market featuring local artists' original artwork. A variety of eateries are found on Market Street, including Turning Point, serving breakfast and lunch every day.
Gettysburg
The travel site Booking.com named Gettysburg the "Most Welcoming City in the US" in 2023. The editors chose this Adams County town of 7,100 residents for that honor based upon many factors, including that its local businesses consistently provide outstanding hospitality. The town, which is 40 miles southwest of Harrisburg, draws thousands of tourists each year, many of whom are interested in seeing Gettysburg National Military Park and learning more about the town's Civil War history.
Golfers will enjoy The Links at Gettysburg, a 4.5 Star golf course with spectacular views from each hole. Gettysburg Recreational Park is filled with opportunities for fun and fitness, including trails, playgrounds, fields, and entertainment areas. When it's time to relax and unwind, many enjoy visiting Appalachian Brewing Company. In addition to serving its own brewed beer, the establishment serves brew pub-style food.
Kennett Square
Travel & Leisure named Kennett Square, population 6,000, one of the Best Towns in Pennsylvania in which to live in 2024. This was based upon a number of factors, including the Chester County town's proximity (40 miles) to Philadelphia, the fact that it adjoins northern Delaware, has a great school district, a welcoming community, and a historic, lively town center.
Longwood Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting Kennett Square. This former sanctuary of philanthropist Pierre duPont is now enjoyed by the public, showcasing more than 1,000 acres of indoor and outdoor plants and trees. Anson B. Nixon Park in town covers 160 acres and features a dog park, disc golf course, and walking trails. Every September, Kennett Square celebrates all things mushroom with its annual Mushroom Festival, as the town's mushroom houses are known for producing over a million pounds of mushrooms a day. Sweet Amelia's on State Street serves lunch, dinner, and wine when you're ready to relax after a busy day.
Latrobe
HGTV recently called Latrobe the Best Small Town in Pennsylvania, noting that it had also been listed in Smithsonian Magazine as one of the "20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2018. This Westmoreland County town of 8,000 residents sits in the Laurel Highlands and is just 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. It is known as the home of Latrobe Brewery, the original brewer of Rolling Rock beer, as well as being the home of Fred Rogers and Arnold Palmer.
A bronze statue of Fred Rogers sitting on a park bench is in Latrobe's James H. Rogers Park downtown, standing as a memorial to the hometown boy who became a popular children's entertainer. Saint Vincent College, a Catholic liberal arts college, is also in Latrobe. The Latrobe Country Club, a private club, is where golfer Arnold Palmer learned to play, and it can be visited today. Guests who stay in homes on-site may also play golf at the country club. Lucky B's on Lincoln Avenue is a popular neighborhood bar and grill where locals and visitors are welcomed.
Lititz
Lititz was voted the Coolest Small Town in America in 2013 by Budget Travel magazine. More recently, in 2023, this Lancaster County town of 9,400 was recognized by Main Street America as an accredited Main Street America program for its commitment to preserving economic development and community revitalization.
The Wilbur Chocolate Company storefront, next door to the Wilbur Chocolate factory, beckons visitors inside with its tempting smells. If you prefer salty to sweet, check out the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the oldest commercial pretzel bakery in America, which offers tours. Lititz Springs Park includes a band shell, pavilions, and a stream with ducks. Bulls Head Public House on Main Street serves British pub fare and craft beers.
New Hope
The Bucks County town of New Hope, population 2,600, was ranked by USA Today as one of its Best Small Towns in the Northeast in 2025. The Philadelphia suburb is lauded for its diverse shops, many dining options, historical architecture, and lively art and culture scene.
Hike part of the 60-mile canal towpath along the Delaware River in the Delaware Canal State Park. Check out the town's artistic heritage in New Hope Arts Center, with a gallery showcasing the work of local artists. Take a ride on the New Hope Railroad, a 1925 steam locomotive that takes passengers from New Hope to Lahaska on a nine-mile, 45-minute narrated ride. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat and a drink at OldeStone, housed inside a stone church built in 1872.
Ohiopyle
In 2024, the Fayette County town of Ohiopyle was named USA Today's Best Small Town in the Northeast. The town was selected based on its natural beauty, historic charm, cultural attractions, and superb local dining options. Although the US Census Bureau lists the borough's population as 37, the Fayette County Commissioners note that more than 1.5 million visit the area each year. Ohiopyle is just an hour north of Deep Creek Lake in Maryland and the town of Cumberland, Maryland.
Ohiopyle State Park is filled with gorgeous waterfalls, including Ohiopyle Falls and Cucumber Falls. Hike the Great Allegheny Passage, which runs for 27 miles through the park. Many also enjoy rafting on the Youghiogheny River, with three levels of difficulty: the Lower Yough is versatile and challenging; the Upper Yough is more advanced, and the Middle Yough provides a mild, family-friendly ride. After expending all that energy, grab a bite to eat at Falls Market Inn on Main Street.
Phoenixville
Travel & Leisure named Phoenixville in Chester County the Number One Best Small Town to Live In in the US in 2025. This historic town of 18,600, founded in 1732, on the Schuylkill River, has been praised for its art, cafes, and culture, all just an hour outside of Philadelphia.
Phoenixville's 658-seat Colonial Theatre was opened in 1903 and still shows films today. Outdoor lovers will enjoy Phoenixville's 16 parks, as well as the Schuylkill River Trail, with part of the 60-mile trail running through the town. Art lovers should check out Diving Cat Studio Gallery on Bridge Street. Bistro on Bridge serves craft beer and food, plus offers entertainment and music on weekends.
Wellsboro
The mountain town of Wellsboro, best known as the home of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, was named the Second Most Enchanting Small Town in the Northeast by USA Today in 2024. This town of 3,500 in Tioga County, north-central Pennsylvania, is recognized for its historic architecture, thriving arts and culture scene, welcoming community, and natural beauty.
Pine Creek Gorge, which is the "real" name of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is a spectacular sight that must be viewed. It also offers hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails of varying levels of difficulty. Colton Point State Park, on the gorge's west rim, provides gorgeous views of the gorge and surrounding mountains, as well as opportunities for fishing and hunting. Wellsboro's Wynken, Blynken & Nod Fountain and Statue is also a must-see landmark on the town village green, a gift to the town by Senator Fred Bailey in 1938. The Roost on Main Street is a laid-back pub and eatery serving craft beer and pub food.
The Keystone State's Finest
These 10 towns are the perfect examples of some of the Keystone State's finest small towns, favored by those both in-state and from other states. Each of these towns has its own community and welcoming atmosphere that attracts both visitors and those looking to relocate. Whether you choose a mountain town such as Wellsboro, a riverside gem like New Hope, or a suburban borough like Kennett Square, you cannot go wrong checking out any of these 10 Pennsylvania towns.
