Here Are The 9 Most Charming (And Underrated) Small Towns In Pennsylvania

Every state has it’s special, small towns and Pennsylvania is no different. Here are a list of some of the most heartwarming and charming small towns in Pennsylvania that aren’t well known about, but well worth visiting.

1. Lititz, PA

With a name like that, you just know the place must be interesting. This place has unique shops and attractions for everyone. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery was founded in 1861 and gives pretzel baking tours and lessons. Lititz Spring Park is a seven acre park with Spring Run, a small spring fed river. It often hosts various events. There’s even a five story, Wilbur’s Chocolate Factory (related to Willy Wonka?) that was built in 1913. Add in the Saturday Farmer’s Market, and you have one unique, heartwarming little town.

Via Wikipedia

2. New Hope, PA

This town is located across the Delaware River, from New Jersey, and six miles north of where George Washington crossed the river. This town of only a few thousand is known for annual film festivals, broadway show testing, and auto shows. They even have a fantasy fair, which took on the Steam Punk theme in 2014. Definitely something I’d check out!

Via Wikipedia

3. Jim Thorpe, PA

This is such a charming little mountain town, it has been dubbed the “Switzerland of America.” It’s filled with art galleries and historic attractions of various sorts, such as the Old Mauch Chunk Train Station. There is even a butterfly sanctuary. The surrounding wilderness offers all manner of outdoor recreation opportunities, and the lodging and dining options are top notch.

Via Wikimedia

4. Manayunk, PA

This charming town is located about 15 miles from Philadelphia, and was labeled a National Historical District in 1983. This town was built along the banks of the Schuylkill River (who came up with that name?), which has a canal that was never completed. The shopping district is dog friendly, and the housing offers everything from Victorian era styles, to turn of the century. Fitness is a large part of town culture, so the recreation and healthy yet tasty dining options are quite extensive.

Via Ballin on a Budget 411

5. Ligonier, PA

Steeped in French and Indian War history at Fort Ligonier, The Washington Post has labeled this place a “Small-Town Charmer.” This place has plenty of specialized shops and dining opportunities, as well as a historic bandstand, where regular concerts are held. There are art galleries, a golf course, and numerous other leisure activities. Throw in the fact that the town is so close to Idlewald & Soakzone, known as the “Best Amusement Park for Children in the World,” and what family wouldn’t want to live here?

Via Ligonier.com

6. Farmington, PA

This is a fun little “stop through” for those visiting Fort Necessity and Fallingwater. There is a Stone House Restaurant and Inn, which offers fine dining, as well as the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. It may be the smallest town on the list.

Via Explore Route 40

7. Foxburg, PA

This tiny town located near Pittsburgh. One of the main attractions is the RiverStone Estate (formerly the Fox Estate), which holds various fund raising tours, concerts, etc. There is a Divani Chocolatier and Barista, with a full espresso and tea bar. Also, check out the Foxburg Pizza bistro, famous for it’s amazing pizza pies. There are art galleries, a free library, and the amazing Allegheny River to delight your senses and recreation time as well.

Via Allegheny RiverStone Arts

8. York, PA

York is filled with history. There is a Farmer’s Market that is over a century old, and a Fire Museum of York County that has over two centuries worth of fire fighting equipment on display. You can get your groove on at the Strand Capitol Performing Arts Center, where they have regular concerts, plays, and film showings. Add in the range of pleasant dining choices and beautiful city parks, and you have a lovely destination waiting to be experienced.

Via Flickr

9. Grove City, PA

Grove is home to the gorgeous Grove City College, a top rated Christian college. If you live in this town, chances are there is a park within easy walking distance of your house. There is even a Grove City Memorial Park. This town is also known for its exceptional shopping outlets, an original single screen movie theater, and manufacturing locomotive engines. There is also the George J. Howe Company, which specialized in chocolates, nuts, and candies. Perhaps there are more hidden gems to find as well.