Greatest Day Journeys & Weekend Escapes Close to Philadelphia
Searching 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 foremost streets, waterfront eating, distinctive buying, and scenic landscapes—all inside a handy two-hour drive of Heart 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 street journeys by way of Bucks County, or full weekend escapes to the Jap Shore, these locations present the best 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 once you want a break from metropolis life.
Fast Information: Prime Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
- • New Hope & Lambertville: Riverside twin cities with creative vibes (1 hour)
- • Peddlers Village: Colonial buying village with seasonal points of interest (45 minutes)
- • Kennett Sq.: Dwelling to Longwood Gardens and farm-to-table eating (45 minutes)
- • Jim Thorpe: Mountain city with out of doors recreation and historic appeal (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 | Photograph: Higher Residing
Distance from Philadelphia: 1 hour (40 miles)
Excellent for: Artwork lovers, antiquing fanatics, romantic getaways
New Hope stands out because the crown jewel of Bucks County weekend getaways, providing an ideal mix of creative appeal, riverside magnificence, and eclectic buying alongside its vibrant Predominant Avenue. Simply throughout the Delaware River through 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
Prime 6 Issues to Do in New Hope & Lambertville
- Stroll the scenic towpath alongside the Delaware Canal State Park
- Browse Lambertville’s vintage retailers and artwork galleries (Bridge Avenue has the very best focus)
- Catch a efficiency on the historic Bucks County Playhouse
- Take a trip 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 Dwelling 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)
- Beneath 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 season: Outside eating and riverside actions
- Fall: Spectacular foliage and nice temperatures
- Winter: Festive vacation decorations and comfy eating places
Native Tip for New Hope & Lambertville
Parking will be difficult on weekends. Use the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to discover each cities on foot, parking in whichever city has accessible areas once you arrive.
2. Peddlers Village: A Colonial Purchasing Vacation spot in Bucks County
The quaint retailers of Peddlers Village in springtime | Photograph: Higher Residing
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Buyers, households, seasonal festival-goers
Typically thought-about 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 buying village options 65+ specialty retailers, winding brick pathways, and lovely seasonal gardens that make it excellent 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 brief drive away in New Hope
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Doylestown: Household-friendly choice with kitchen suites close by
Prime 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 fantastically maintained gardens and seasonal decorations
- Go to Giggleberry Honest, a household leisure middle with a restored 1922 carousel
- Dine, snack, and sip at one of many many onsite eateries and retailers.
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 substances
- 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 retailers open at 10am to take pleasure in a extra relaxed buying expertise earlier than the afternoon rush.
3. Kennett Sq.: Mushroom Capital and Backyard Paradise
Longwood Gardens Conservatory in Kennett Sq. | Photograph: Higher Residing
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Backyard fanatics, foodies, wine lovers
Generally known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Sq. gives far more than simply fungi, with an enthralling downtown, world-class gardens, and wonderful 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 appeal inside strolling distance to downtown
- Inn at Whitewing Farm: Secluded nation expertise on 13 acres
- Fairfield Inn & Suites: Trendy lodging near Longwood Gardens
Prime 5 Issues to Do in Kennett Sq.
- Go to Longwood Gardens, one among America’s premier horticultural shows (enable no less than 3-4 hours)
- Discover State Avenue’s boutiques, galleries, and specialty retailers
- 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: Tremendous eating contained in the gardens
- Talula’s Desk: Well-known farm-to-table eating (reserve the farm desk a yr upfront!)
- Victory Brewing Firm: Informal ambiance with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site
- La Verona: Distinctive Italian delicacies with an enthralling ambiance
Greatest Time to Go to Kennett Sq. and Longwood Gardens
- Spring: Gorgeous tulip and spring bloom shows at Longwood Gardens
- Summer season: Competition of Fountains with illuminated night reveals
- Fall: Chrysanthemum shows and mushroom celebrations
- Winter: Half-million gentle Christmas show and indoor conservatory flowers
Native Tip for Kennett Sq.
Buy Longwood Gardens tickets on-line upfront, particularly for particular occasions and vacation shows. Take into account turning into a member when you plan to go to greater than twice in a yr for important financial savings and member preview days.
4. Jim Thorpe: Pennsylvania’s Mountain Gem
Distance from Philadelphia: 1.5 hours (80 miles)
Excellent for: Outside fanatics, historical past buffs, surroundings seekers
Nestled within the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe is usually referred to as the “Switzerland of America” for its mountainous setting and European-style structure. This historic city in Pennsylvania has reinvented itself as an out of doors recreation hub and humanities vacation spot, making it excellent for lively weekend getaways from Philadelphia.
The place to Keep in Jim Thorpe
- The Inn at Jim Thorpe: Victorian magnificence in a historic 1849 constructing
- Instances Home Mattress & Breakfast: Boutique lodging in a restored 1870s dwelling
- Dolon Home: Luxurious B&B with antiques and fashionable facilities
Prime 5 Issues to Do in Jim Thorpe
- Trip 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 retailers and galleries on Broadway and Race Avenue
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 season: 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 comfy fireplace 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 avenue parking is proscribed. For out of doors actions, make reservations with outfitters like Jim Thorpe River Adventures or Pocono Whitewater upfront throughout peak season.
5. Doylestown: Cultural Hub with Small City Allure
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Tradition lovers, historical past fanatics, structure followers
Wealthy in historical past and tradition, Doylestown combines small-town appeal with subtle points of interest, together with world-class museums and a vibrant downtown full of 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 Predominant Avenue
- Hargrave Home Mattress & Breakfast: Historic appeal in an 1813 Federal-style constructing
- Homewood Suites: Household-friendly choice with kitchenettes
Prime 5 Issues to Do in Doylestown
- Discover the Mercer Museum, a concrete citadel full of pre-industrial instruments and artifacts
- Go to Fonthill Fortress, Henry Mercer’s eccentric concrete mansion with 44 rooms
- Tour the James A. Michener Artwork Museum, that includes Pennsylvania Impressionist work
- Stroll by way of the retailers and galleries of downtown’s walkable middle
- Loosen up at Doylestown’s Central Park with gardens and strolling paths
The place to Eat in Doylestown
- Honey: Inventive farm-to-table delicacies with seasonal substances
- Genevieve’s Kitchen: Glorious Italian fare with do-it-yourself pasta
- Pag’s Pub: Informal gastropub with craft beer choice
- Market by Nourish: Wholesome breakfast and lunch choices
Greatest Time to Go to Doylestown
- Yr-round attraction with indoor cultural points of interest
- Summer season: 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 Fortress
Native Tip for Doylestown
Buy a mixed ticket for the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Fortress to economize. Fonthill Fortress excursions fill rapidly, so e book upfront 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
Purchasing on Talbot St in St. Michaels MD | Photograph: Higher Residing
Distance from Philadelphia: 2 hours (100 miles)
Excellent for: Maritime fanatics, seafood lovers, waterfront rest
This picturesque Chesapeake Bay city gives maritime appeal, 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 in search of water and rest.
The place to Keep in St. Michaels
- Inn at Perry Cabin: Luxurious waterfront resort with crusing and spa companies
- The Wildset Resort: Stylishly renovated boutique lodge with fashionable facilities in a historic setting
Prime 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 Avenue (over 50 retailers 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 season: 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 nicely upfront for summer time weekends, particularly for waterfront eating places. For the most effective expertise of St. Michaels, keep no less than two nights to take pleasure in 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 | Photograph: Higher Residing
Distance from Philadelphia: 1 hour 43 minutes (104.9 miles) through I-95 S and US-301 S
Excellent for: Seafood lovers, boating fanatics, waterfront views
Positioned alongside Maryland’s Jap Shore, Kent Narrows is a waterfront paradise recognized for its unbelievable seafood eating places, marina tradition, and gorgeous Chesapeake Bay views. This slim waterway connecting the Chester River and Jap Bay gives a real water-oriented weekend getaway from Philadelphia with a deal with contemporary seafood and maritime actions.
The place to Keep in Kent Narrows
Prime 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 statement tower at Chesapeake Heritage and Customer Heart
- Take a ship tour or fishing constitution from one of many native marinas
- Discover the Cross Island Path for stunning waterfront views (excellent 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 season: Excellent temperatures and fewer crowds
- Summer season: Peak season with all points of interest open and boating actions
- Fall: Gorgeous sunsets and persevering with seafood season
- Yr-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 fanatics, eating, historic cinema followers
As soon as a metal city, Phoenixville has reworked right into a vibrant group with a powerful meals and beverage scene, common festivals, and a walkable downtown that makes it excellent 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: Comfy suites inside brief driving distance
- Hilton Backyard Inn Valley Forge/Oaks: Trendy lodging near Phoenixville
Prime 5 Issues to Do in Phoenixville
- Discover Bridge Avenue’s retailers, galleries, and eating places (over 30 in walkable downtown)
- Go to Bluebird Distilling for craft spirits tasting and distillery excursions
- Get pleasure from a film on the historic Colonial Theatre, well-known for the 1958 movie “The Blob”
- Attend First Friday occasions with avenue performances and prolonged retailer hours
- Stroll by way of 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: In depth menu and drink choice
- Bistro on Bridge: Rooftop bar and American bistro fare
Greatest Time to Go to Phoenixville
- Yr-round vacation spot with primarily indoor points of interest
- Summer season: Outside eating and Blobfest celebration in July
- Spring: Dogwood Competition in Could with carnival and craft honest
- Fall: Meals pageant and Halloween celebrations
- Winter: Vacation decorations and comfy restaurant scene
Native Tip for Phoenixville
For those who take pleasure in craft drinks, observe the “Phoenixville Pour Tour” to expertise the city’s spectacular assortment of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Park within the Predominant and Bridge Streets municipal lot for simple downtown entry.
Planning Your Excellent Small City Getaway from Philadelphia
The Purple Mill in Clinton, NJ – Hunterdon County | Photograph: Higher Residing
These eight locations symbolize the greatest weekend getaways from Philadelphia, every providing distinctive appeal and points of interest inside a brief drive of the 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 an extended weekend, as can Doylestown and Phoenixville.
For a Chesapeake Bay-focused journey, pair Kent Narrows with close by St. Michaels for a whole 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 upfront for weekend stays, particularly throughout summer time and fall foliage season
- Eating Reservations: Make dinner reservations no less than 1-2 weeks forward for standard eating places
- Transportation: Whereas having a automotive offers 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 Heart 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 the most effective small city for households close to Philadelphia? Peddlers Village is right 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 instantly accessible through SEPTA Regional Rail. Others require a automotive or rideshare companies from close by prepare stations.
What’s the most effective 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 wonderful eating, buying, and cultural experiences. These weekend getaways close to Philadelphia show that generally the most effective 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: March 2025