11 Overlooked Towns In Pennsylvania Worth Visiting

Granted, Philly and Pittsburgh generate all the hype with their urban cityscapes and world-famous landmarks, but people seem to forget about the tiny towns that are the heart and soul of the state. Pennsylvania is replete with unique destinations that don't necessarily appear on the map, yet make up for it with unforgettable experiences for tourists. Hiding cool museums, historic downtowns, and thrilling adventures, these hidden gems offer a refreshing escape from the usual travel circuit.

Whether you hunger for outdoor beauty, crave small-town charm, or simply want to discover something new, these overlooked towns in Pennsylvania promise surprises at every turn. From riding buggies with the Amish in Bird in Hand to uncovering rare Civil War lore in Chambersburg, these destinations reveal the underappreciated charm of the Keystone State.

Indiana

Nicknamed the "Christmas Tree Capital of the World," Indiana comes into its own during the holiday season, yet remains just as delightful at any time of year. The town has an interesting story to tell at the Historical & Genealogical Society of Indiana County, where a series of artifacts chronicle the region's history, including Native American traditions.

Additionally, the Jimmy Stewart Museum pays tribute to one of the most celebrated entertainers and an Indiana native, inviting fans to explore engaging exhibits about his life on television, radio, and in the movies. Indiana also boasts a lively art scene, with the Philadelphia Street Playhouse presenting a range of live performances. Lastly, outdoor enthusiasts can challenge themselves with a round of golf at the Indiana Country Club, which also features a full-service bar and dining room with patio seating, and a saltwater pool.

Eagles Mere

This secluded Sullivan County village offers a blend of lakeside charm and mountain adventure, making it the ideal escape for travelers seeking peace of mind. Eagles Mere lies on the shores of Eagles Mere Lake, which spans 116 acres and offers an array of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.

The lush greenery and mountains surrounding Eagles Mere make for exciting nature viewing experiences, inviting newcomers to take it all in while golfing on the 18-hole course of Eagles Mere Country Club. Meanwhile, a tour of the Eagles Mere Museum enables tourists to learn about the village's rich and dynamic history. This is full of exhibits with a focus on commerce, culture, tradition, and more. Alternatively, you can visit the Eagles Mere Historic Village for a vivid glimpse of life in the 1800s.

Honesdale

Honesdale's claim to fame is being home to America's first commercial steam locomotive. It boasts a long history steeped in railroading, which you can investigate at the Wayne County Historical Society. This engaging venue features a vast collection of exhibits, highlighted by a full-size replica of the first train to run on commercial tracks, the Stourbridge Lion. Guests can hop aboard a Stourbridge Line Train Excursion to discover the beauty of the Pocono Mountains. The vintage ride cuts through the Pocono wilderness and the Lackawaxen River Valley, delivering terrific sightseeing opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Wayne County Arts Alliance showcases a variety of works by local artists, inviting fans to browse and purchase beautiful creations as gifts or decorative items. The town offers more artistic experiences at the Great Wall of Honesdale, where art installations are exhibited in an outdoor gallery in the heart of the community.

Lewistown

Lewistown is a historic borough in Mifflin County, situated along the Juanita River and renowned for its chill downtown district. The walkable corridor offers several points of interest, starting with the historic Embassy Theatre. Built in the 1920s, this Georgian Revival structure is undergoing extensive renovations to bring it back to life. It is open to the public for tours, and regular fundraisers bring opportunities for locals and visitors alike to contribute to the restoration efforts.

Additionally, the town square welcomes silver screen fans to watch first-run movies in 3D at Miller Cinemas 6, accompanied by delicious snacks, beverages, and other concessions. Elsewhere, the Mifflin County Historical Society offers a unique perspective on regional history with a display of artifacts from across the region, and those who simply want to relax can head to Fountain Square Park, which offers benches for calm reflection.

Bird In Hand

Set in the heart of Pennsylvania's Amish country, Bird in Hand is a welcoming community with fun cultural experiences. It invites tourists to sample its simple way of life by touring the Amish Farm and House. This historic farmhouse offers an authentic Amish experience, where guests ride in buggies, tour local farms, and get a chance to see how the Amish community lives.

The Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market is another fantastic way to engage with local vendors, who sell a wide range of items, including Amish crafts, baked goods, fresh cheese, and artisanal candles. Additionally, vacationers can head to the Bird in Hand Stage for wholesome, live entertainment, featuring musicals and plays by homegrown talent. Finally, you can't miss out on the Lancaster Balloon Rides, which provide a unique aerial tour of the countryside with a bird's-eye view.

Chambersburg

This historic town in South Central Pennsylvania was the only city in the North burned by the Confederacy at the height of the Civil War. Given its history, it has a couple of notable landmarks, including the Old Jail. This 1818 structure is one of the few surviving buildings after the town was destroyed by fire in 1864.

Meanwhile, theater enthusiasts have been gathering at the Capitol Theatre Center for years, which has served as the cultural hub in the region, hosting concerts, live shows, and movie screenings for nearly a century. Chambersburg also welcomes guests for a fun shopping experience at Jim's Farmers Market, a historic, year-round market where local vendors sell a variety of products, including baked goods, cheese, and farm produce. Lastly, outdoor lovers can escape to Memorial Park, with walking trails, miniature golf, and a large pool complex.

Bellefonte

Bellefonte is a lovely borough renowned for its Victorian downtown district and rich natural surroundings. It is home to Talleyrand Park, a 3.5-acre oasis featuring lush vegetation, charming sculptures, and tranquil walking paths along Spring Creek. The park is home to the Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society, which preserves the region's railroad heritage through a collection of exhibits. Guests can also enjoy a nostalgic ride through scenic landscapes on the first Monday of the month, and a special holiday train in December.

The Bellefonte Art Museum connects the community with the arts using cultural exhibitions, promoting the creations of local artists. Meanwhile, those with a taste for craft beer can sample local drafts and handmade pizza at Robin Hood Brewing Company.

New Hope

This lovely borough, situated 40 miles from Philadelphia, charms vacationers with its vibrant cultural scene and intriguing landmarks. New Hope has a rustic historic district bustling with vintage treasures, such as the Parry Mansion Museum. Constructed in the 18th century, the building features a collection of original artifacts and furnishings that depict life in the town's early years.

The Bucks County Playhouse has long served as the hub for theater lovers in the community, entertaining them with dramas, musicals, and plays. A sightseeing tour aboard the New Hope Railroad offers an exciting way to enjoy the beautiful scenery around downtown and the backcountry. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers can visit the botanical gardens, nursery, and visitor center at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve.

Carlisle

Carlisle is a beautiful town in the Cumberland Valley with Victorian architecture in its charming downtown and lush natural spaces surrounding the town square. It boasts a diverse array of attractions within the walkable district, such as the historic art deco Carlisle Theatre, which features concerts, live film screenings, and stage shows. Historians can learn useful facts about the past at the Cumberland County Historical Society.

Those who enjoy shopping can check out an assortment of local produce by dozens of local vendors at Farmers on the Square each Wednesday throughout the year. Lastly, outdoorsy tourists are free to explore the backcountry during a secluded walk along the picturesque LeTort Spring Run Nature Trail, which stretches approximately 2.5 miles and offers serene nature hikes and birdwatching opportunities.

Lititz

An hour from Harrisburg, Lititz is renowned for its captivating history and a vibrant downtown district filled with an eclectic mix of galleries, restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery is a longtime fixture in downtown Lititz, serving guests delicious snacks since its establishment in the 19th century.

Those curious about the town's history can visit the Lititz Historical Foundation to explore an extensive collection of artifacts and take walking tours around downtown. Lititz also offers a nice spot to chill after hours of wandering its streets. Everybody loves to gather at Lititz Springs Park for community events and free concerts, or simply to unwind on grassy picnic spots with a walking path, playground, and concession stand.

Jim Thorpe

Nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is one of the most underappreciated towns in Pennsylvania worth visiting. It boasts a picturesque downtown area with architectural treasures, including the Asa Packer Mansion Museum. This Grand Italianate mansion was built in 1861 and belonged to a former railroad tycoon. Meanwhile, the Old Jail Museum preserves memories of the town during its Victorian era, depicting what life was like for prisoners and wardens at the time.

Jim Thorpe also entertains theater lovers with performances at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, featuring concerts, dance, comedy, and a range of plays. Finally, riding the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is the ideal way to witness the borough's beauty, with journeys into the isolated heart of Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Final Thought

Whether chilling by the lake in Eagles Mere or watching a play in New Hope, these underrated towns in Pennsylvania are well worth visiting and remind travelers that the state’s best-kept treasures lie outside its biggest cities. These adorable communities boast a unique blend of history, culture, and nature that transforms ordinary moments into lasting memories. So take the scenic route, slow down, and explore the places most people overlook in the United States; you may just discover your new favorite getaway tucked quietly between Pennsylvania’s rolling hills.