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- More Of The Prettiest Towns In Pennsylvania To Visit This Year!
Summary
- Pennsylvania is home to numerous picturesque towns that offer a unique holiday experience with outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and cultural vibes.
- Pocono Township is the ultimate gateway to hiking the Poconos, offering thrilling outdoor adventures and beautiful state parks.
- Lititz is a historic destination known for its small-town vibe, rich history, beautiful architecture, and charming art galleries, including the country's oldest pretzel bakery.
There’s so much more to Pennsylvania than its famed bookend cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; any adventurous vacationer willing to hit the road and explore this sprawling state will find a number of picturesque places to visit. And with everything from small(ish) cities to cozy villages, all showcasing the Keystone State’s scenic natural beauty; historic heritage and culture; creative cuisine; and unique stays—these perfect PA towns have it all.
UPDATE: 2023/09/19 08:29 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA
More Of The Prettiest Towns In Pennsylvania To Visit This Year!
Despite being grossly overlooked, the small towns in the Keystone State offer vacationers a unique holiday experience featuring fun outdoor adventures, plush natural scenery, and a unique cultural vibe rarely found in the big cities. This updated article includes two more of the most beautiful places to live and visit in Pennsylvania.
16 Pocono Township
The ultimate gateway to hiking the Poconos, this chic locale in Monroe County promises visitors the ultimate outdoor adventure. It houses some of Pennsylvania's best parks, including Hickory Run State Park and Big Pocono State Park. Camelback Mountain Adventures guarantees thrill-seekers all the fun they can imagine and is a great attraction for the whole family. Whether looking to hunt, camp, or explore the lush wilderness in the state's backcountry, adventurers can expect all that and more in one of the best towns in the Poconos.
- Things To Do: Camelback Ski Resort, Mountain View Park, Camelback Mountain Adventures, Mountain Creek Riding Stable, Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours
- Wine & Dine: Sortino's Italian Kitchen, The Water's Edge Restaurant, Mi Casa Restaurant, B-Lux Grill & Bar
- Stay The Night: Best Western Plus Poconos, Mount Airy Casino Resort, Paradise Strem Resort
15 Lititz
Visitors come to this historic destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and revel in its small-town vibe. Lititz is one of the prettiest towns in Philadelphia and intrigues first-timers with its rich history, gorgeous architecture, quaint boutiques, and charming art galleries. This friendly community of just about 10,000 welcomes guests to discover its unmatched heritage, which includes the country's oldest commercial pretzel bakery.
- Things To Do: Lititz Springs Park, Wilbur Chocolate Retail Store, Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, Lititz Historical Foundation, Moravian House Antiques
- Wine & Dine: Scooter's Restaurant & Bar, Bulls Head Public House, Blackworth Live Fire & Grill, Tomato Pie Café, Appalachian Brewing Company
- Stay The Night: Lititz Srings Inn, Hotel Rock Lititz, Speedwell Forge B&B, The Wilbur Lititz
14 West Chester
Neighborhood in West Chester, PA.
One of the more beautiful towns in Pennsylvania is West Chester. Situated in Chester County, Pennsylvania, near the state capital of Pittsburg, this quaint town has a population of around 20,000. Additionally, West Chester boasts one of the better downtown areas, with 83 shops, 59 restaurants, live music, cultural events, street fairs, walking tours, excursion trains, a farmers market, and museum exhibits. This is a great vacation place, especially if people want a laid-back, art and food-filled trip. West Chester, although small, is much more than meets the eye.
- Things To Do: Chester Country Historical Center, Chester County Art Association, Longwood Gardens, Downtown West Chester, American Helicopter Museum & Education Center
- Wine & Dine: Side Bar & Restaurant, The Social, Market Street Grill
- Stay The Night: Hotel Warner, Brinton Suites, Quality Inn & Suites West Chester
13 Stroudsburg
Moving to the Poconos, there is Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Here, people can enjoy nature and immerse themselves in the area's rich history. What gives Stroudsburg its reputation are the numerous museums and heritage sites throughout the town, as well as quaint inns, restaurants, and local shopping. For people wanting a remote, peaceful vacation: Stroudsburg in Pennsylvania is the spot to head to.
- Things To Do: Gamut Art Gallery, The Sherman Theater, Monroe Farmers Market, Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Old Engine Works Market Place
- Wine & Dine: Willowtree In Restaurant, The Charcuterie, Sarah Street Grill, Floods, Siamsa Irish Pub
- Stay The Night: The Penn Stroud, Stroudsburg - Poconos, Hampton Inn Stroudsburg/Poconos, Stroudsmoor
12 Bellefonte
Known for its dazzling town center and abundance of beautiful trees and flowers, Bellefonte is one of Pennsylvania's must-see fall destinations. Here, visitors will be greeted by classic small-town energy alongside Victorian architecture. When people come to Bellefonte, it often feels like a blast from the past, as the streets are filled with vintage homes, shops, and places to eat and stay. The town offers many opportunities to enjoy nature or even stroll around the downtown area.
- Things To Do: Bellefonte Art Museum, Talleyrand Park, Tussey Mountain Outfitters, Reynolds Mansion, Plaza CenterSmith + Front
- Wine & Dine: URBN Flavourhaus Burgers | Chicken | Tacos, Omar Bar, Bonfatto's Italian Market & Corner Café, The Governors' Pub & Restaurant
- Stay The Night: Our Fair Lady, A Victorian Bed & Breakfast, Gamble Mill, Bellefonte Bed & Breakfast
11 Ligonier
Settled in the 1760s, Ligonier, Pennsylvania, is yet another beautiful town to experience in the state. Not only does Ligonier have a rich history, but it's also quite fun for families. A couple of notable attractions in the area include the nearby Idlewild Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, and Seven Springs Mountain Resort. If someone wants to step back in time and even ride a few amusement park roller coasters: Ligonier is the place to travel in Pennsylvania.
- Things To Do: Fort Ligonier, Ligonier Country Market, Idlewild & SoakZone, Allegory Gallery, Diamond Theatre of Ligonier
- Wine & Dine: The Kitchen On Main, The Road Toad, Carol & Dave's Roadhouse, The Wicked Googly,
- Stay The Night: Thistledown At Seger House, Ramada by Wyndham Ligonier, Colonial House On Main Bed & Breakfast Ligonier
10 New Hope
A bustling tourist destination on the scenic Delaware River, the charming New Hope has it all. Picturesque natural landscapes; cozy, small-town charm; and plenty of eclectic things to see and do make this lovely town a perennial favorite—and a top Pennsylvania weekend getaway.
- Things To Do: Delaware Canal State Park; Bucks County Playhouse; New Hope Railroad; Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserves; New Hope Winery
- Wine & Dine: Spring & Vine; Martine’s Riverhouse Restaurant; Stella
- Stay The Night: River House at Odette’s; HollyHedge Estate
9 Jim Thorpe
Often referred to as “The Switzerland of America” because of its lovely mountain backdrops and quaint, small-town setting, Jim Thorpe is undoubtedly one of Pennsylvania’s prettiest towns. There is no shortage of things to do in Jim Thorpe. From outdoor recreation and historic to charming attractions, this lovely spot is also a gateway to the picturesque Pocono Mountains and the bustling Lehigh Valley region.
- Things To Do: Lehigh Gorge State Park and Scenic Railway; Old Jail Museum; Old Mauch Chunk Landing; Asa Packer Mansion; Switchback Railroad Trail
- Wine & Dine: Notch Eight Craft House; Stone Row Pub and Eatery; Moya
- Stay The Night: The Inn at Jim Thorpe; The Harry Packer Mansion
8 Erie
Located on the southern shore of beautiful Lake Erie, the picturesque Erie may be one of the Keystone State’s largest cities—but its sprawling natural landscapes and lakeside charm make it feel like a cozy haven. But there are plenty of fun attractions here, too, making Erie a fun place for any PA vacationer.
- Things To Do: Presque Isle State Park; Port Erie Bicentennial Tower; Asbury Woods; Great Lakes Seaway Trail; Lake Erie Arboretum
- Wine & Dine: Cloud Nine Wine Bar & Restaurant; The Cork 1794; Jekyll & Hydes Gastropub
- Stay The Night: Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel; Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront
7 Lancaster
Known as the epicenter of Pennsylvania, Dutch Country, Lancaster is an authentic and historic gem tucked away amid the Keystone State’s rolling hills and green farmland. And while this PA town is known for living the Amish life, it’s also a fun place to hang out, explore, and shop—think farm-fresh markets, antique stores, and a vibrant, eclectic downtown area.
- Things To Do: Covered Bridge Driving Tours; Lancaster Central Market; 1719 Museum; Trout Run Nature Preserve; The Amish Farm and House; Day Trip to Lititz
- Wine & Dine: Citronnelle; Cork & Cap Restaurant; Altana Rooftop Lounge
- Stay The Night: Cork Factory Hotel; Lancaster Arts Hotel
6 Milford
Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains get a lot of well-deserved attention because of their natural beauty and parade of small towns bursting with quaint, cozy charm—and the town of Milford is one of the best. History, architecture, and outdoor adventure combine in this Delaware River town, making it the perfect road trip destination (or weekend getaway!)
- Things To Do: Grey Towers National Historic Site; Milford Beach and McDade Recreational Trail; Raymondskill Falls; Columns Museum; The Upper Mill
- Wine & Dine: Tom Quick Inn and Varsity Room Speakeasy; The Historic Dimmick Inn; Jive Bar & Lounge
- Stay The Night: Hotel Fauchére; La Posada Milford
5 Gettysburg
While travelers may know Gettysburg as the home of one of the Civil War’s most definitive battles and the site of President Lincoln’s famous address, there’s more to this historic hub than its storied heritage. Here, visitors can shop, explore, step into nature—and, of course, discover the area’s paranormal (as well as historic) past.
- Things To Do: Gettysburg National Military Park & Museum; Shriver House Museum; Civil War Ghost Tours of Gettysburg; Little Round Top; Devil’s Den
- Wine & Dine: Appalachian Brewing Co.; Blue & Gray Bar and Grill; Dobbin House Tavern
- Stay The Night: The Federal Pointe Inn Gettysburg; The Union Hotel
4 Wellsboro
The Appalachian Mountain town of Wellsboro is a tucked away Tioga County treasure. home to one of the state’s most well-known outdoor attractions: Pine Creek Gorge, aka “the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” However, this small town is so much more than its gorgeous gorge—visitors will find its picturesque downtown bustling with charm and history.
- Things To Do: Pine Creek Gorge; Hills Creek State Park; Pine Creek Rail Trail; Pop’s Culture Shoppe; Gmeiner Art & Cultural Center
- Wine & Dine: The Roost; Beck’s Bistro; Red Lantern House
- Stay The Night: The Old Wellsboro Inn; Penn Wells Hotel
3 Bethlehem
With a nickname like Christmas City, USA, it’s no surprise that the picturesque PA town of Bethlehem is a must-visit during the holiday season. However, this Lehigh Valley gem is so much more than a December destination: there’s plenty of history, culture, fun festivals, and exciting entertainment on tap all year round here, too.
- Things To Do: South Side Arts District; Historic Main Street; National Museum of Industrial History; SteelStacks; Moravian Bethlehem Landmark Sites
- Wine & Dine: Social Still; The Bayou; Fegley’s Bethlehem Brew Works
- Stay The Night: Hotel Bethlehem; The Sayre Mansion
2 Mount Pleasant
There are plenty of small(er) scenic spots to explore in and around the bustling western PA city of Pittsburgh—but Mount Pleasant is definitely one of the best. Less than an hour from Steel City, this Laurel Highlands haven is all village charm—but is still brimming with fun things to see and do downtown.
- Things To Do: Frank Lloyd Wright House Tours at Polymath Park (15 minutes); Greendance the Winery; Mt. Pleasant Glass & Ethnic Festival (fall); Helltown Brewing
- Wine & Dine: The Village Italian Restaurant & Lounge; Osteria 2350; Gorky’s Smokin Grill
- Stay The Night: Log Cabin Lodge and Suites (20 minutes); Polymath Park.
1 Doylestown
Philadelphia may be one of the most exciting cities to visit in Pennsylvania—but there are a number of small towns in the surrounding area that are definitely worth exploring, too. One such spot is the Buck’s County gem Doylestown, a scenic haven whose picturesque, historical, and cultural attractions make it a perennial fave for PA visitors and residents looking for a fun day (or weekend!) away.
- Things To Do: Fonthill Castle; Mercer Museum; Michener Art Museum; Bucks County Civil War Library and Museum; Peace Valley Lavender Farm
- Wine & Dine: 86 West; Nourish by MAMA; Omiza Restaurant
- Stay The Night: The Doylestown Inn; Hargrave House Bed & Breakfast