Five Amazing Day Trips: Pennsylvania

From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, there is something for everyone in Pennsylvania. Each of the major cities affords travelers with world-class museums, historic sites, and performing arts. For outdoor recreation, choose from over 120 state parks for hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and more. Explore the ten travel regions and discover small towns and hidden gems in every direction. There might not be a better place to watch a professional or collegiate sports game, with top notch venues and extremely passionate fans rooting for the local teams. With so many choices and what seems like an endless list of options, don’t forget to plan a weekend in the Pocono Mountains at a luxury resort and spa. Our day trip recommendations start in Philadelphia and lead you to some of the best destinations across the eastern and central portions of the state. 

Here are five great day trip destinations across the Keystone State: 

Photo: Fernando Garcia Esteban

Doylestown (Museums & Attractions) 

Located in Doylestown just 40 miles north of Philadelphia you’ll find Font Hill Castle, one of the most unique historic homes in the United States. The castle was owned by archeologist Henry Chapman Mercer to showcase his collection of Moravian tiles and prints. Informative tours of this national historic landmark provide visitors with a glimpse into the life of Henry Mercer as well as interesting facts about the home. Before leaving the property, stop in the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works to purchase handmade reissues of tiles and mosaics made in the American Arts & Crafts tradition. The final stop of the day trip is the Mercer Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate. The six-story castle-like building designed by Henry Mercer houses a permanent collection of over 50,000 pre-Industrial tools. This unique day trip will consume most of the day, but if you have a little extra time, explore the independent stores and local restaurants in charming downtown Doylestown.  

Hershey (Tours & Experiences) 

Located 95 miles northwest of Philadelphia is the community of Hershey, the home of The Hershey Company, founded by Milton S. Hershey. The small town is the perfect destination for family fun with a wide range of attractions and things to do. This day trip takes you to Hershey’s Chocolate World, an attraction that includes a free Chocolate Tour ride, Hershey’s Great Chocolate Factory Mystery in 4D, Hershey Trolley Works experience, Create Your Own Candy Bar, and Hershey’s Unwrapped Chocolate Tasting Journey. Choose a few activities that interest you or participate in them all! Take a break for lunch in the Food Hall and, before you leave, purchase some of your favorite sweets and unique souvenirs from Hershey’s Largest Candy Store. If you have time, a perfect way to end this day of family fun is an evening of amusement rides and roller coasters at nearby Hersheypark. 

Jim Thorpe (Tours & Experiences) 

The small Victorian town of Jim Thorpe is located about 85 miles north of Philadelphia in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. The small town has an abundance of activities to choose from, including historic sites, performing arts, and outdoor recreation. This day trip is geared towards outdoor family fun on the Lehigh River. There are multiple rafting tour companies in the area— we suggest Pocono Whitewater Rafting as they offer multiple rafting adventures from tame to thrilling. There are also combination trips that incorporate biking, hiking, and paintball into your experience.  After the tour, wander around the downtown area for unique stores and local restaurants. Take note of the large and impressive Victorian house on the hill. The Harry Packer Mansion is said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion ride. The unique inn would be a great choice for an overnight stay on your next trip to Jim Thorpe. 

Lancaster (Tours & Experiences) 

Located about 80 miles west of Philadelphia is the famous Pennsylvania Dutch Country. On this day trip experience Amish Heritage, beginning at the historic Lancaster Center Market. Sample delicious cuisine from 60 local vendors at the oldest continuously running public farmers’ market in the country. After trying the local specialties and breakfast treats, it’s on to the Amish Farm and House, Lancaster’s original Amish educational farm museum. The tour highlights the activities and buildings on the 15-acre, 300-year-old working farm. While in the area, it’s worth driving through the nearby small towns, stopping at places that pique your interest. To complete your Lancaster County experience, dine at one of the delicious Amish restaurants— we highly recommend the Good ‘N Plenty Restaurant & Bakery. 

Strasburg (Museums & Attraction) 

Nicknamed “Train Town USA”, the historic town of Strasburg is located just 60 miles west of Philadelphia and is known for its railroad history and landmarks. Spend the morning at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, a world-class collection that includes more than 100 historically significant locomotives and train cars housed in the Rolling Stock Hall and Outdoor Yard. Additionally, there are over 17,000 smaller unique artifacts and thousands of photographic images and documents across the informative exhibits. With a new appreciation for the railroad history of Pennsylvania, it’s time for a scenic train ride on America’s oldest short line railroad, the Strasburg Railroad. Reserve a seat for a regular excursion train ride, lasting 45-minutes and traveling 4.5 miles east before returning to the station. Choose to ride in a premium car, the caboose, or on one of the many themed train adventures throughout the year. Complete your Strasburg day trip with a visit to the historic downtown with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants.