Greatest Day Journeys & Weekend Escapes Close to Philadelphia
On the lookout for the greatest weekend getaways from Philadelphia in 2025? Philadelphia’s prime location makes it the proper jumping-off level for exploring charming small cities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. These 8 picturesque locations supply historic primary streets, waterfront eating, distinctive purchasing, and scenic landscapes—all inside a handy two-hour drive of Middle Metropolis. Whether or not you’re planning a romantic weekend journey to New Hope, a household journey to Peddlers Village, or a solo escape to the Chesapeake Bay, these close by small cities ship unforgettable experiences with out in depth journey.
Excellent for day journeys from Philadelphia, scenic highway journeys via Bucks County, or full weekend escapes to the Jap Shore, these locations present the perfect getaway for each season. From fall foliage excursions to summer time waterfront eating, spring backyard visits to cozy winter retreats, these small-town treasures supply the greatest issues to do close to Philadelphia if you want a break from metropolis life.
Fast Information: High Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
- • New Hope & Lambertville: Riverside twin cities with creative vibes (1 hour)
- • Peddlers Village: Colonial purchasing village with seasonal points of interest (45 minutes)
- • Kennett Sq.: Residence to Longwood Gardens and farm-to-table eating (45 minutes)
- • Jim Thorpe: Mountain city with out of doors recreation and historic allure (1.5 hours)
- • Doylestown: Cultural hub with world-class museums (45 minutes)
- • St. Michaels: Chesapeake Bay maritime city (2 hours)
- • Kent Narrows: Waterfront eating and boating paradise (1 hour 45 minutes)
- • Phoenixville: Revitalized former metal city with vibrant eating (45 minutes)
1. New Hope, PA & Lambertville, NJ: Twin Cities for the Excellent Weekend Escape
The historic inexperienced metal truss bridge that connects New Hope, PA to Lambertville, NJ | Picture: Higher DwellingDistance from Philadelphia: 1 hour (40 miles)
Excellent for: Artwork lovers, antiquing fans, romantic getaways
New Hope stands out because the crown jewel of Bucks County weekend getaways, providing an ideal mix of creative allure, riverside magnificence, and eclectic purchasing alongside its vibrant Fundamental Road. Simply throughout the Delaware River by way of a walkable bridge is Lambertville, NJ, creating one of the romantic weekend journeys from Philadelphia when these sister cities are skilled collectively.
The place to Keep in New Hope & Lambertville
- River Home at Odettes: Luxurious lodging with Delaware River views
- Woolverton Inn: Historic lodging (established 1727) in downtown New Hope
- Lambertville Home: Elegant lodging in a Federal-style constructing
High 6 Issues to Do in New Hope & Lambertville
- Stroll the scenic towpath alongside the Delaware Canal State Park
- Browse Lambertville’s vintage outlets and artwork galleries (Bridge Road has the best focus)
- Catch a efficiency on the historic Bucks County Playhouse
- Take a journey on the New Hope Railroad’s classic trains
- Discover Hunterdon County points of interest simply minutes from Lambertville
- Store at distinctive boutiques like Coronary heart of the Residence and Topeo Galleries
The place to Eat in New Hope & Lambertville
- Marsha Brown: Upscale Creole delicacies in a transformed church (New Hope)
- Nektar: Craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates (New Hope)
- Below the Moon Cafe: Homestyle Italian consolation meals (Lambertville)
- Lambertville Station: Riverside eating with American delicacies (Lambertville)
Greatest Time to Go to New Hope & Lambertville
These twin cities shine year-round:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms alongside the canal and fewer crowds
- Summer time: Outside eating and riverside actions
- Fall: Spectacular foliage and nice temperatures
- Winter: Festive vacation decorations and comfortable eating places
Native Tip for New Hope & Lambertville
Parking may be difficult on weekends. Use the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to discover each cities on foot, parking in whichever city has accessible areas if you arrive.
2. Peddlers Village: A Colonial Buying Vacation spot in Bucks County
The quaint outlets of Peddlers Village in springtime | Picture: Higher DwellingDistance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Consumers, households, seasonal festival-goers
Usually thought of a part of the higher New Hope space, Peddlers Village in Lahaska, PA deserves particular recognition as one of the enchanting weekend getaways close to Philadelphia. This colonial-style purchasing village options 65+ specialty outlets, winding brick pathways, and beautiful seasonal gardens that make it good for a day journey or weekend keep.
The place to Keep in Peddlers Village
- Golden Plough Inn: Charming lodging proper within the coronary heart of the village, with 67 rooms and suites that includes four-poster beds, fireplaces, and countryside views
- Fox and Hound Mattress & Breakfast: Historic B&B only a quick drive away in New Hope
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Doylestown: Household-friendly choice with kitchen suites close by
High 5 Issues to Do in Peddlers Village
- Store at distinctive boutiques like Greenology, Skip’s Sweet Nook, and Lace Silhouettes
- Go to throughout one of many seasonal festivals, such because the Apple Competition, Scarecrow Competition, or Gingerbread Competitors
- Benefit from the superbly maintained gardens and seasonal decorations
- Go to Giggleberry Honest, a household leisure heart with a restored 1922 carousel
- Dine, snack, and sip at one of many many onsite eateries and outlets.
The place to Eat in Peddlers Village
- Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant: Pennsylvania Dutch specialties in a colonial setting
- Earl’s New American: Upscale delicacies with seasonal elements
- Buttonwood Grill: Informal eating with craft beers and connoisseur burgers
- Hart’s Tavern: Cozy pub ambiance with consolation meals favorites
Greatest Time to Go to Peddlers Village
Peddlers Village shines year-round, with every season providing one thing particular:
Native Tip for Peddlers Village
Go to midweek if doable to keep away from crowds, particularly throughout vacation seasons. For weekend visits, arrive when outlets open at 10am to get pleasure from a extra relaxed purchasing expertise earlier than the afternoon rush.
3. Kennett Sq.: Mushroom Capital and Backyard Paradise
Longwood Gardens Conservatory in Kennett Sq. | Picture: Higher DwellingDistance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Backyard fans, foodies, wine lovers
Often called the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Sq. gives far more than simply fungi, with a captivating downtown, world-class gardens, and glorious eating choices that make it one of many greatest day journeys from Philadelphia for nature and meals lovers alike.
The place to Keep in Kennett Sq.
- Kennett Home Mattress & Breakfast: Historic allure inside strolling distance to downtown
- Inn at Whitewing Farm: Secluded nation expertise on 13 acres
- Fairfield Inn & Suites: Fashionable lodging near Longwood Gardens
High 5 Issues to Do in Kennett Sq.
- Go to Longwood Gardens, one among America’s premier horticultural shows (permit at the very least 3-4 hours)
- Discover State Road’s boutiques, galleries, and specialty outlets
- Tour Phillips Mushroom Farm to study native mushroom cultivation
- Go to close by Brandywine Valley wineries like Galer Property and Penns Woods
- Try The Creamery, a revitalized industrial house with meals distributors and occasions
The place to Eat in Kennett Sq.
- 1906 at Longwood Gardens: Wonderful eating contained in the gardens
- Talula’s Desk: Well-known farm-to-table eating (reserve the farm desk a yr prematurely!)
- Victory Brewing Firm: Informal ambiance with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site
- La Verona: Distinctive Italian delicacies with a captivating ambiance
Greatest Time to Go to Kennett Sq. and Longwood Gardens
- Spring: Gorgeous tulip and spring bloom shows at Longwood Gardens
- Summer time: Competition of Fountains with illuminated night reveals
- Fall: Chrysanthemum shows and mushroom celebrations
- Winter: Half-million mild Christmas show and indoor conservatory flowers
Native Tip for Kennett Sq.
Buy Longwood Gardens tickets on-line prematurely, particularly for particular occasions and vacation shows. Think about changing into a member if you happen to plan to go to greater than twice in a yr for vital financial savings and member preview days.
4. Jim Thorpe: Pennsylvania’s Mountain Gem
Distance from Philadelphia: 1.5 hours (80 miles)
Excellent for: Outside fans, historical past buffs, surroundings seekers
Nestled within the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe is commonly known as the “Switzerland of America” for its mountainous setting and European-style structure. This historic city in Pennsylvania has reinvented itself as an outside recreation hub and humanities vacation spot, making it good for energetic weekend getaways from Philadelphia.
The place to Keep in Jim Thorpe
- The Inn at Jim Thorpe: Victorian class in a historic 1849 constructing
- Instances Home Mattress & Breakfast: Boutique lodging in a restored 1870s house
- Dolon Home: Luxurious B&B with antiques and fashionable facilities
High 5 Issues to Do in Jim Thorpe
- Journey the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for breathtaking mountain views (16-mile spherical journey)
- Go to the Asa Packer Mansion Museum to discover Gilded Age opulence ($10 admission)
- Bike or hike the 25-mile Lehigh Gorge Path alongside the previous railroad mattress
- Go whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River (Class II-III rapids)
- Browse the eclectic outlets and galleries on Broadway and Race Road
The place to Eat in Jim Thorpe
- Stone Row Pub & Eatery: Upscale consolation meals in a historic row home
- Moya: Mediterranean and Jap European delicacies with vegetarian choices
- Marion Hose Bar: Craft cocktails and small plates in a former firehouse
- Broadway Grille: Basic American fare in a historic lodge
Greatest Time to Go to Jim Thorpe
- Summer time: Ideally suited for rafting, kayaking, biking, and mountain climbing
- Fall: Spectacular foliage views and Fall Foliage Competition weekends
- Winter: Close by snowboarding at Blue Mountain and comfortable hearth eating
- Spring: Whitewater season begins as spring rains fill the Lehigh River
Native Tip for Jim Thorpe
Park within the County car parking zone for $6/day and stroll into city, as road parking is restricted. For out of doors actions, make reservations with outfitters like Jim Thorpe River Adventures or Pocono Whitewater prematurely throughout peak season.
5. Doylestown: Cultural Hub with Small City Allure
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Tradition lovers, historical past fans, structure followers
Wealthy in historical past and tradition, Doylestown combines small-town allure with refined points of interest, together with world-class museums and a vibrant downtown stuffed with native companies, making it one of the cultured small cities close to Philadelphia for a weekend escape.
The place to Keep in Doylestown
- The Doylestown Inn: Boutique lodging proper on Fundamental Road
- Hargrave Home Mattress & Breakfast: Historic allure in an 1813 Federal-style constructing
- Homewood Suites: Household-friendly choice with kitchenettes
High 5 Issues to Do in Doylestown
- Discover the Mercer Museum, a concrete fort stuffed with pre-industrial instruments and artifacts
- Go to Fonthill Citadel, Henry Mercer’s eccentric concrete mansion with 44 rooms
- Tour the James A. Michener Artwork Museum, that includes Pennsylvania Impressionist work
- Stroll via the outlets and galleries of downtown’s walkable heart
- Calm down at Doylestown’s Central Park with gardens and strolling paths
The place to Eat in Doylestown
- Honey: Inventive farm-to-table delicacies with seasonal elements
- Genevieve’s Kitchen: Glorious Italian fare with home made pasta
- Pag’s Pub: Informal gastropub with craft beer choice
- Market by Nourish: Wholesome breakfast and lunch choices
Greatest Time to Go to Doylestown
- 12 months-round attraction with indoor cultural points of interest
- Summer time: Outside eating and Doylestown Arts Competition
- Fall: Stunning colours in close by Peace Valley Park
- Winter: Vacation decorations and fewer crowds at museums
- Spring: Blooming gardens at Fonthill Citadel
Native Tip for Doylestown
Buy a mixed ticket for the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Citadel to economize. Fonthill Citadel excursions fill rapidly, so e book prematurely on-line. Park within the Bucks County Parking Storage for simple entry to the downtown space.
6. St. Michaels: Maritime Allure on the Chesapeake Bay
Buying on Talbot St in St. Michaels MD | Picture: Higher DwellingDistance from Philadelphia: 2 hours (100 miles)
Excellent for: Maritime fans, seafood lovers, waterfront rest
This picturesque Chesapeake Bay city gives maritime allure, waterfront views, and a relaxed coastal ambiance that feels worlds away from metropolis life, creating one of the refreshing weekend journeys from Philadelphia for these searching for water and rest.
The place to Keep in St. Michaels
- Inn at Perry Cabin: Luxurious waterfront resort with crusing and spa companies
- The Wildset Lodge: Stylishly renovated boutique lodge with fashionable facilities in a historic setting
High Issues to Do in St. Michaels
- Discover the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s 18 waterfront acres and historic lighthouse
- Take a scenic cruise on the Miles River aboard the Patriot or Selina II
- Store the boutiques and galleries alongside Talbot Road (over 50 outlets in walkable downtown)
- Tour and style at Lyon Distilling Firm and St. Michaels Vineyard
- Lease bicycles to discover the flat, scenic roads round city
The place to Eat in St. Michaels
Greatest Time to Go to St. Michaels
- Late April to June: Excellent climate and fewer crowds
- Summer time: Peak season with all points of interest open and waterfront actions
- Fall: Oyster season begins and exquisite autumn surroundings
- Winter: Quiet, romantic ambiance with vacation occasions
Native Tip for St. Michaels
Make dinner reservations properly prematurely for summer time weekends, particularly for waterfront eating places. For one of the best expertise of St. Michaels, keep at the very least two nights to get pleasure from each water actions and the charming downtown at a relaxed tempo.
7. Kent Narrows: Waterfront Eating and Boating Paradise
Sundown in Kent Narrows from the balcony of the Hyatt Place lodge | Picture: Higher DwellingDistance from Philadelphia: 1 hour 43 minutes (104.9 miles) by way of I-95 S and US-301 S
Excellent for: Seafood lovers, boating fans, waterfront views
Situated alongside Maryland’s Jap Shore, Kent Narrows is a waterfront paradise recognized for its unimaginable seafood eating places, marina tradition, and beautiful Chesapeake Bay views. This slender waterway connecting the Chester River and Jap Bay gives a real water-oriented weekend getaway from Philadelphia with a deal with recent seafood and maritime actions.
See additionally
The place to Keep in Kent Narrows
High 6 Issues to Do in Kent Narrows
- Benefit from the well-known Kent Narrows sunsets from waterfront eating places or lodge decks
- Go to Ferry Level Park and climb the commentary tower at Chesapeake Heritage and Customer Middle
- Take a ship tour or fishing constitution from one of many native marinas
- Discover the Cross Island Path for lovely waterfront views (good for biking or strolling)
- Go to the Maryland Watermen’s Monument on the entrance to Fisherman’s Village
- Spot native wildlife together with blue herons, ospreys, and Chesapeake Bay terrapins
The place to Eat in Kent Narrows
Greatest Time to Go to Kent Narrows
- Late Spring/Early Summer time: Excellent temperatures and fewer crowds
- Summer time: Peak season with all points of interest open and boating actions
- Fall: Gorgeous sunsets and persevering with seafood season
- 12 months-round: Many eating places stay open all year long
Native Tip for Kent Narrows
For the entire Kent Narrows expertise, keep in Fisherman’s Village the place all eating is walkable. Request a waterfront room with a balcony on the Hyatt Place, and time your dinner reservations at Fisherman’s Crab Deck or Harris Crab Home to coincide with sundown for unbeatable views. Don’t depart with out attempting Maryland’s well-known steamed blue crabs and a signature Orange Crush cocktail.
8. Phoenixville: Revitalized Small City with City Power
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (28 miles)
Excellent for: Craft beverage fans, eating, historic cinema followers
As soon as a metal city, Phoenixville has remodeled right into a vibrant neighborhood with a powerful meals and beverage scene, common festivals, and a walkable downtown that makes it good for day journeys from Philadelphia or weekend stays.
The place to Keep in Phoenixville
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Valley Forge: Prolonged keep choice with kitchen suites close by
- Staybridge Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge: Snug suites inside quick driving distance
- Hilton Backyard Inn Valley Forge/Oaks: Fashionable lodging near Phoenixville
High 5 Issues to Do in Phoenixville
- Discover Bridge Road’s outlets, galleries, and eating places (over 30 in walkable downtown)
- Go to Bluebird Distilling for craft spirits tasting and distillery excursions
- Take pleasure in a film on the historic Colonial Theatre, well-known for the 1958 movie “The Blob”
- Attend First Friday occasions with road performances and prolonged retailer hours
- Stroll via Reeves Park with its Victorian bandshell and strolling paths
The place to Eat in Phoenixville
- Avlos Greek Delicacies: Genuine Mediterranean dishes in an upscale setting
- Iron Hill Brewery: Craft beers and elevated pub fare
- Sedona Taphouse: Intensive menu and drink choice
- Bistro on Bridge: Rooftop bar and American bistro fare
Greatest Time to Go to Phoenixville
- 12 months-round vacation spot with primarily indoor points of interest
- Summer time: Outside eating and Blobfest celebration in July
- Spring: Dogwood Competition in Could with carnival and craft truthful
- Fall: Meals pageant and Halloween celebrations
- Winter: Vacation decorations and comfortable restaurant scene
Native Tip for Phoenixville
In the event you get pleasure from craft drinks, comply with the “Phoenixville Pour Tour” to expertise the city’s spectacular assortment of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Park within the Fundamental and Bridge Streets municipal lot for simple downtown entry.
Planning Your Excellent Small City Getaway from Philadelphia
The Pink Mill in Clinton, NJ – Hunterdon County | Picture: Higher DwellingThese eight locations signify the greatest weekend getaways from Philadelphia, every providing distinctive allure and points of interest inside a brief drive of town. For an prolonged expertise, think about combining close by cities right into a single journey—Peddlers Village, New Hope, and Lambertville can simply be visited over a protracted weekend, as can Doylestown and Phoenixville.
For a Chesapeake Bay-focused journey, pair Kent Narrows with close by St. Michaels for an entire Jap Shore expertise.
Sensible Planning Ideas for Your Weekend Escape
- Greatest Time to Go to: Spring and fall supply nice climate and fewer crowds at most locations
- Lodging Reserving: Reserve rooms 2-3 months prematurely for weekend stays, particularly throughout summer time and fall foliage season
- Eating Reservations: Make dinner reservations at the very least 1-2 weeks forward for well-liked eating places
- Transportation: Whereas having a automobile gives probably the most flexibility, SEPTA trains attain Doylestown and close by stations to Phoenixville
- Multi-City Itineraries: Plan for not more than two cities per day to keep away from feeling rushed
Themed Weekend Itineraries
FAQs About Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
What’s the closest small city to go to from Philadelphia? Phoenixville is the closest at simply 28 miles and about 45 minutes from Middle Metropolis Philadelphia.
Which city is greatest for a romantic weekend getaway? New Hope and Lambertville supply probably the most romantic ambiance, with riverside walks, intimate eating places, and charming lodging just like the River Home at Odettes.
What’s one of the best small city for households close to Philadelphia? Peddlers Village is good for households with its Giggleberry Honest attraction, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly eating choices.
Can I go to these cities utilizing public transportation? Doylestown is straight accessible by way of SEPTA Regional Rail. Others require a automobile or rideshare companies from close by prepare stations.
What’s one of the best multi-day itinerary for exploring these cities? For a three-day weekend, mix New Hope/Lambertville with Peddlers Village and Doylestown, as they’re all inside 20 minutes of one another. For a Chesapeake Bay weekend, pair Kent Narrows with St. Michaels for the entire Jap Shore expertise.
Irrespective of which small city you select to discover, you’ll discover a welcome respite from metropolis life with out sacrificing glorious eating, purchasing, and cultural experiences. These weekend getaways close to Philadelphia show that typically one of the best holidays are proper in your yard.
What’s your favourite small city getaway from Philadelphia? Tell us within the feedback beneath!
Final Up to date: April 2025
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