Are you looking for some fantastic small towns in PA that are perfect for a family day trip or weekend getaway? We’ve got you covered!
We love Pennsylvania! There are many incredible places to explore, especially its big cities, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
But the Keystone State also has some gorgeous, small towns that are perfect for a family weekend getaway, day trip, or even a stop on a road trip through the state.
Pennsylvania’s small towns offer fun museums, cool train rides, hiking, history, and more! And living in PA, we’ve visited some of the best in the state.
The guide below shares some of the best small towns in Pennsylvania that are perfect for visiting with kids. Did we pick your favorite? Let’s find out!
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The Best Small Towns in Pennsylvania to Visit With Kids
1. Erie
Erie, PA, located on the shore of Lake Erie, is a fantastic small town in Pennsylvania for families to visit. There are so many fun things to do with kids in Erie, whether you love nature, history, or just having a good time.
Presque Isle State Park is one of the top spots to visit in Erie. It’s a natural playground with over 13 miles of beaches, trails, and even a lighthouse to explore. Kids can play on the beach, go swimming, and learn about local wildlife. If your family loves adventures, you can also try kayaking or paddle boarding on the lake.
For a unique experience, hop on the Scallywags Pirate Adventures boat tour. Kids can dress up as pirates and go on a treasure hunt! If you’re looking for more traditional fun, Waldameer Amusement Park & Water World has rides for all ages.
- Erie Restaurant Recommendation: The Flagship City Food Hall has many tasty options when you get hungry. And for a touch of history, don’t miss the Erie Maritime Museum.
- Where to Stay in Erie: Stay close to the action at Erie’s Bayfront District at the Hampton Inn Suites Erie Bayfront. It’s a lovely area by the water with great views, and you can even play mini-golf at Oliver’s Mini-Golf.
2. Ohiopyle
Ohiopyle is a small town tucked away in the southwest corner of Pennsylvania. With less than 100 permanent residents, this is one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania to visit with kids who love water and the outdoors.
Enjoying the Youghiogheny River is one of the top things in Ohiopyle. Kids as young as 5 can raft down the Youghiogheny River, enjoying a leisurely float or an exciting whitewater trip of varying difficulties.
If this sounds a little too adventurous, there are also natural waterslides where you can cool off during the summer months. You can also hike to beautiful waterfalls or enjoy a bike ride on the crushed-stone Greater Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail.
- Ohiopyle Restaurant Recommendation: We loved eating nearby after a day of adventures at the Maywood Grill and Braddock’s Restaurant and Tavern.
- Where to Stay in Ohiopyle: Camping at Ohiopyle State Park’s Kentuck Campground is a great way to enjoy everything nearby for a reasonable price. Those looking for more creature comforts in a hotel room can enjoy a stay about 30 minutes from Ohiopyle at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in nearby Uniontown. Breakfast and an onsite pool are included if your kids don’t get enough water during the day.
😊 Are you a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright? Take a private tour of two of his architectural masterpieces near Ohiopyle.
3. Ligonier
Ligonier, Pennsylvania, is a small town in Pennsylvania that’s packed with history and charm. Ligonier is located in Western Pennsylvania and has a population of under 2,000.
Historically, the town is known for being a strategic base for the Seven Years War (a.k.a. The French and Indian War.) For that reason, one of the most popular attractions in Ligonier is Fort Ligonier. This museum and re-created fortress are full of American and World history, mainly related to the Seven Years’ War events.
There are more great museums around Ligonier, including the Lincoln Highway Experience, the Ligonier Valley Rail Museum, and the Compass Inn Museum.
One of the most popular things to do in Ligonier, PA, for families is Idlewild & SoakZone.
This classic amusement park dates back to the 1800s. The park is full of older, nostalgic rides and fast-paced, newer rides. It’s particularly great for younger kids, with Storybook Forest, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, and an excellent kiddie ride area.
The focal point of the town of Ligonier is a charming Gazebo in the middle of the Ligonier Diamond. The “diamond” is the town’s center filled with locally-owned shops and restaurants.
- Ligonier Restaurant Recommendation: Two of the most popular restaurants in Ligonier are The Kitchen and Carol & Dave’s Roadhouse. And no trip to Ligonier is complete without getting ice cream at the Ligonier Creamery.
- Where to Stay in Ligonier: If you want to stay for the weekend, the Ramada by Wyndham is right in the heart of town and within walking distance of many of the attractions listed.
4. Bedford
As “Small Town America”, Bedford offers all of the charm of a small town with plenty of fun things to do.
First, you’ll want to visit Old Bedford Village, a living history museum with over three dozen buildings built in the 18th and 19th centuries. Kids will love exploring real-life log cabins!
You can enjoy some outdoor activities like hiking and biking at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort. The Fort Bedford Museum, where you’ll find all kinds of fun artifacts from the French and Indian War. And don’t forget to check out the big Coffee Pot on Pitt Street!
- Bedford Restaurant Recommendations: Check out the delicious options in town, like the Pub at the Golden Eagle Inn or the Bedford Tavern. Get some ice cream after you visit Old Bedford Village at The Penguin ice cream shop.
- Where to Stay in Bedford: For a more luxurious option, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort is close to downtown Bedford, the hiking trails at the resort, and the Coffee Pot. The Hampton Inn Bedford is a great, affordable option. The rooms were comfortable and spacious, and the complimentary breakfast was a nice perk.
5. Gettysburg
History lovers do not want to miss out on visiting Gettysburg. Its namesake battle during the Civil War put this town on the map. But its charm has kept visitors coming for over a century!
You can easily spend a weekend in Gettysburg exploring both the town and the battlefield. Gettysburg town has several museums, shops, and restaurants to fill a day. Don’t miss the Shriver House tour. You’ll get a great perspective of what the townspeople endured during the battle.
Of course, visiting Gettysburg means visiting the battlefield. Your first stop should be the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center. There, you can pick up a map of the battlefield tour. We recommend purchasing tickets to see the film, cyclorama, and museum to help bring the battle to life.
When you’re done at the Visitor Center, take the time to drive around the battlefield. You can take a self-guided driving tour that includes historical information about each stop. Don’t forget to include the Devil’s Den (not an official tour stop) so the kids can climb and explore the rocks!
- Gettysburg Restaurant Recommendation: Garryowen Irish Pub has some of the best food offering in town. Then you’ll want to walk over to Mr. G’s Ice Cream for dessert!
- Where to Stay in Gettysburg: If you’re planning on spending the night, we highly recommend the Hampton Inn just outside of town. The large rooms, free breakfast, and indoor pool make it a perfect place to stay with kids.
👻Have some spooky fun with a family-friendly ghost tour around Gettysburg!
6. Hershey
You can’t have a “Best Small Towns in PA” list without including the Sweetest Place on Earth! Hershey is known for its fantastic amusement park, Hersheypark, but many other kid-friendly attractions exist in town.
We suggest starting at Hersheypark and Chocolate World. Hersheypark has rides and attractions for all ages, so it’s perfect for any family, no matter how old or young your children are.
And Chocolate World is more than a store. With several activities and attractions (like the Chocolate Factory Tour Ride), your kids will not want to leave!
We love some of the other fun attractions in Hershey, but one of our favorites is the Hershey Gardens. Kids will love the butterfly house and children’s garden. Adults will love the beautiful landscaping and flowers.
- Hershey Restaurant Recommendation: There are several delicious places to eat in town, including the food court in Chocolate World. However, we recommend the Tröegs Brewery. In addition to their unique beers, they offer small plates and sandwiches and even have a kids’ menu!
- Where to Stay in Hershey: You’ll want to extend your trip with a stay at the Hershey Lodge. Guests receive FREE admission to the Hershey Gardens and Hershey Story Museum. Plus, their indoor pool rivals any indoor waterpark.
7. Strasburg
If you have a train lover in your family, you must visit Strasburg! Within a few miles, there are several attractions to see that feature trains.
First, stop by the historic Strasburg Railroad for a ride through the beautiful countryside.
Depending on your style and budget, you can ride in the coach class cars (which still feel luxurious with velvet-like seating) or splurge on the first-class or President’s cars. They even offer specialty trains like fall foliage rides or Christmas-themed rides.
When you’re off the train, the station at Strasburg has many fun activities for the kids to enjoy. A small playground, cranky cars, and a pump car are some of the activities included with your ticket. Ride dates and times vary throughout the year, so visit their website for their schedule.
Head across the street to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania for more train fun. They have over 100 locomotives and cars on display.
For model train lovers, there are two great attractions within a few minutes of the Strasburg Railroad: The National Toy Train Museum and the Choo Choo Barn, which showcases a HUGE model train display. You won’t have to go too far for a bite to eat. Isaac’s Restaurant is in the same shopping center as the Choo Choo Barn.
There are even more things to do in the Lancaster area. You can plan an entire weekend or week-long getaway.
- Strasburg Restaurant Recommendation: The Tavern by Springhouse Brewing is a perfect stop for families in Strasburg. They have a varied menu and delicious beer.
- Where to Stay In Strasburg: Keep the train theme going with an overnight stay at the Red Caboose Motel. The hotel is made up of 19 cabooses converted to private rooms.
8. Jim Thorpe
This small town along the Lehigh River is big on history! Founded as Mauch Chunk in 1818, Jim Thorpe grew thanks to coal mining and shipping.
The town’s name changed to Jim Thorpe in 1954 in honor of the first Native American to win a gold medal in the Olympics. He attended college in nearby Carlisle.
Although Jim Thorpe is a small town, there are still plenty of things to do to fill a day or weekend.
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway gives visitors a gorgeous tour of the area as it follows along the Lehigh River. The fall foliage rides draw visitors from all over.
Hiking and biking in Lehigh Gorge State Park, along the river, are popular activities. Bike rentals are available in town. Visitors can also take the train to White Haven and then ride their bikes back to town (approximately a 25-mile trip).
Whitewater rafting down the Lehigh River is also a popular activity for the more adventurous type.
In town, plenty of shops and cafes keep visitors entertained as they walk down historic Broadway. And those who like history would enjoy a tour of the old Carbon County Prison, where members of the “Molly Maguires” were hanged.
- Jim Thorpe Restaurant Recommendation: You’ll want to grab a bite to eat at Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub, right next to the train station.
- Where to Stay in Jim Thorpe: Stay the night in the heart of town at the Inn at Jim Thorpe. It’s within walking distance of all of the activities mentioned above!
9. Hawley
Hawley is located on Lake Wallenpaupack in Eastern Pennsylvania, right over the New Jersey – New York border.
The town is a beautiful escape for many tri-state area residents, mainly because of its close proximity to the large, tranquil lake. Many family-friendly activities are offered in the area, from water activities in the summer and ‘leaf peeping’ in the fall to skiing in the winter.
Pennsylvania Rail Bike is a family-run business hosting a fun and active activity, though not challenging!
Guests bike on tandem bikes attached to a track. The 10-mile ride runs along the creek with beautiful views of nature. The sights are stunning in the fall, with the leaves on the trees changing color and falling around the tracks.
Costa’s Family Fun Park is an outdoor amusement park open for the summer season from May 20 through Labor Day. It offers go-karts, batting cages, mini-golf, water slides, and other activities.
- Hawley Restaurant Recommendation: Just down the road from Hawley, The Boat House Restaurant is a must. This part-café part-bar serves up delicious food. The French Onion Soup is one of the best I’ve ever had!
- Where to Stay Near Hawley: Stay right in the town of Hawley at the beautiful Ledges Hotel or drive a little further out to Woodloch Lodge, one of the best family resorts in the Poconos.
10. Milford
Milford is a charming small town on the Delaware River. The town is a few miles south of a point where Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York meet. It is a great day trip destination for you and your kids.
There are a lot of family-friendly activities in and around Milford. Those who enjoy the great outdoors will like spending time at Milford Beach in Delaware Water Gap. It is perfect for younger kids. You could go swimming, fishing, kayaking, or picnic at this beach.
Milford is also close to many gorgeous waterfalls in Pennsylvania, including Raymondskill Falls, which is the tallest in the state!
Hike to the top of Milford Knob or explore Grey Towers National Historic Site to tire your older children. Both parks provide ample space to enjoy Milford’s nature. Grey Towers also offers historic mansion tours between Memorial Day and Halloween.
- Milford Restaurant Recommendation: Back in town, grab a bite at Milford Diner. It is a family-friendly restaurant with plenty of food options.
- Where to Stay in Milford: Look no further than Hampton Inn Matamoras if you would like to stay in Milford overnight.
11. Kennett Square
Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is a lovely small town located less than an hour outside Philadelphia and a half-hour from Wilmington, Delaware. It has a historic center and the nickname Mushroom Capital of the World!
It is excellent for families with kids (even if they don’t like mushrooms!) because there is lots to do, including the famous Longwood Gardens, local parks, and places to eat.
Longwood Gardens is a stunning 1,000-acre of formal and more natural gardens just 4 miles outside of downtown Kennett Square. You could enjoy the botanical gardens, historic houses, conservatory, and fountains all day.
Kids will love the Lookout Loft Treehouse and the Bird House, both beautiful wooden homes in the trees! There is also an indoor Children’s Garden and an Idea Garden, which is both educational and fun.
Longwood Gardens is even more spectacular to visit at Christmastime! Their holiday light display is one of the best in the region.
And check out Nixon Park, close to downtown Kennett Square, for a smaller but free park for kids to explore. It has 106 acres with playgrounds and ponds.
- Kennett Square Restaurant Recommendation: For a great place to eat as a family, go to the Creamery of Kennett Square, which is a pop-up restaurant and community space. We also enjoy the café inside Longwood Gardens.
- Where to Stay in Kennett Square: If you’re planning to stay overnight, the Fairfield Inn & Suites has an indoor pool and FREE breakfast.
12. Doylestown
Doylestown is one of those small towns in PA that doesn’t feel small once you visit. With several shops and restaurants on Main Street and its crossroads, you could visit Doylestown several times before seeing everything the town offers.
One of the most unique attractions in Doylestown is the Mercer Museum. Designed by Henry Mercer to house his collection of 18th-century tools and artifacts, it was completed in 1918.
The museum is built entirely out of concrete and has an MC Escher feel as you wander inside. Kids will love the chairs hanging from the ceiling and other unique features of this small museum. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Bucks County.
Another fun attraction for kids in Doylestown is located just outside of the “downtown.” The Kids Castle in Doylestown’s Central Park draws visitors from all over.
This two-story-tall structure has ramps, slides, and fun climbing structures contained within the castle. The castle and other play equipment are surrounded by a fence, with only one way in and out, giving parents peace of mind to let their children play freely.
- Doylestown Restaurant Recommendation: For lunch or dinner, head back into town to grab a bite at the Hattery Stove & Still on State Street. Nestled on the lower floors of the Doylestown Inn, it offers a delicious, varied menu.
- Where to Stay in Doylestown: There is a lot to do in this awesome town, so you might want to stay the night. We recommend the Hampton Inn just outside of town, with FREE breakfast and indoor swimming pool.
13. New Hope
Located right along the Delaware River in Bucks County, New Hope is a small town everyone enjoys. It’s the perfect town to stroll and shop, with several stores on and off Main Street that offer everything from crystals to hats.
Besides all of the lovely stores and restaurants, there are two attractions kids will love the most. The Bucks County Children’s Museum is a perfect way to spend an hour or two in town. Several attractions depict the area’s history, giving kids a way to learn about this cute small town in Pennsylvania.
Adjacent to the museum is the New Hope-Ivyland Railroad. Several excursions take you through the beautiful Bucks County countryside using diesel or steam engines. Most trips last about 1 hour.
- New Hope Restaurant Recommendation: For a delicious lunch or dinner, stop by Havana on Main Street. With an extensive, varied menu, there is something sure to please every diner. Plus, its location on Main Street makes it a great place to “people watch” when you sit outside on their large patio.
- Where to Stay in New Hope: It’s worth staying overnight in New Hope with all of the fun things to do in the area. the Ghost Light Inn is right in the heart of town and sits along the Delaware River, giving you gorgeous views and a great location.
Other Things to Do In Pennsylvania With Kids
Pennsylvania is a fantastic state and offers many fun and unique family experiences. Even though we love our small towns in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia are also great locations for a family getaway.
We also love hiking in Pennsylvania! There are several family-friendly hikes close to Philadelphia. And don’t forget about the rich history of the state. Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood is more than just Independence Hall.
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