9 Charming Small Towns in Pennsylvania That Most Travelers Miss Completely

Pennsylvania is home to numerous charming small towns that often fly under the radar for travelers. Here are nine charming small towns in Pennsylvania that most travelers miss completely:

1. Phoenixville

   • Location: Chester County

   • Description: Known for its historic charm, wine-tasting rooms, local art galleries, and lively theater scene. The town hosts unique festivals like Blobfest and the Firebird Festival.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville Dogwood Festival

2. Sewickley

   • Location: Near Pittsburgh

   • Description: Offers tree-lined lanes, historic homes, and a bustling main street with shops and restaurants. It provides a mix of small-town charm and proximity to a metropolis.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: McLaughlin Distillery, Sewickley Cemetery

3. Saltsburg

   • Location: Southwestern Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh

   • Description: This historic town offers a charming getaway with easy access to outdoor activities. It’s less than an hour from Pittsburgh.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: Local historical sites, nearby outdoor destinations

4. Volant

   • Location: Mercer County

   • Description: Known for its quaint shops and winery. It’s a hidden gem for those looking for a peaceful retreat.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: Local winery, Volant shops

5. Forksville

   • Location: Sullivan County

   • Description: Offers a charming general store and is near World’s End State Park. It’s perfect for nature lovers.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: The General Store, World’s End State Park

6. Quakertown

   • Location: Bucks County

   • Description: Features a great borough park and is working to revitalize its downtown area. It has a rich history, including the McCoole’s/Fries Rebellion.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: QMart, Borough Park

7. Lewisburg

   • Location: Union County

   • Description: Known for its charming downtown area and cultural events. It’s a hidden gem in central Pennsylvania.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: Downtown shops, cultural events

8. Latrobe

   • Location: Westmoreland County

   • Description: Recognized as one of the most charming small towns in Pennsylvania. It honors TV pioneer Fred Rogers and is famous for its ice cream shops and breweries.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: Fred Rogers Trail, Latrobe Brewery

9. Wellsboro

   • Location: Tioga County

   • Description: Surrounded by natural beauty, including Pine Creek Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” It offers a serene getaway with Victorian-era homes and charming stores.

   • Must-Visit Attractions: Pine Creek Rail Trail, Colton Point State Park

Each of these towns offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them must-visit destinations for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in Pennsylvania.

Sources

1. https://vista.today/2024/12/phoenixville-charming-small-town/
2. https://traveltriangle.com/blog/small-towns-in-pennsylvania/
3. https://www.reddit.com/r/Pennsylvania/comments/114zgrn/what_the_best_lesser_known_towns_and_cities_in/
4. https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/latrobe-americas-most-charming-small-towns/
5. https://www.islands.com/1788511/pennsylvania-saltsburg-history-small-hidden-gem-town-underrated-outside-pittsburgh-charming-getaway/