Finest Day Journeys & Weekend Escapes Close to Philadelphia
In search of the finest weekend getaways from Philadelphia in 2025? Philadelphia’s prime location makes it the right jumping-off level for exploring charming small cities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. These 8 picturesque locations provide historic important streets, waterfront eating, distinctive procuring, 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 means of Bucks County, or full weekend escapes to the Japanese Shore, these locations present the perfect getaway for each season. From fall foliage excursions to summer season waterfront eating, spring backyard visits to cozy winter retreats, these small-town treasures provide the finest issues to do close to Philadelphia while 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 procuring village with seasonal sights (45 minutes)
- • Kennett Sq.: House to Longwood Gardens and farm-to-table eating (45 minutes)
- • Jim Thorpe: Mountain city with outside 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 Dwelling
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 procuring alongside its vibrant Important Avenue. Simply throughout the Delaware River through a walkable bridge is Lambertville, NJ, creating some 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 Avenue has the very best focus)
- Catch a efficiency on the historic Bucks County Playhouse
- Take a experience on the New Hope Railroad’s classic trains
- Discover Hunterdon County sights simply minutes from Lambertville
- Store at distinctive boutiques like Coronary heart of the House 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)
- Underneath the Moon Cafe: Homestyle Italian consolation meals (Lambertville)
- Lambertville Station: Riverside eating with American delicacies (Lambertville)
Finest Time to Go to New Hope & Lambertville
These twin cities shine year-round:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms alongside the canal and fewer crowds
- Summer season: Out of doors 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 will be difficult on weekends. Use the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to discover each cities on foot, parking in whichever city has out there areas while you arrive.
2. Peddlers Village: A Colonial Purchasing Vacation spot in Bucks County
The quaint outlets of Peddlers Village in springtime | Photograph: Higher Dwelling
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Customers, households, seasonal festival-goers
Typically thought-about a part of the larger New Hope space, Peddlers Village in Lahaska, PA deserves particular recognition as some of the enchanting weekend getaways close to Philadelphia. This colonial-style procuring village options 65+ specialty outlets, winding brick pathways, and lovely 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 possibility 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 Pageant, Scarecrow Pageant, or Gingerbread Competitors
- Benefit from the superbly maintained gardens and seasonal decorations
- Go to Giggleberry Truthful, a household leisure middle 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 components
- Buttonwood Grill: Informal eating with craft beers and gourmand burgers
- Hart’s Tavern: Cozy pub ambiance with consolation meals favorites
Finest 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 procuring expertise earlier than the afternoon rush.
3. Kennett Sq.: Mushroom Capital and Backyard Paradise
Longwood Gardens Conservatory in Kennett Sq. | Photograph: Higher Dwelling
Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Backyard fanatics, foodies, wine lovers
Often known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Sq. provides way more than simply fungi, with an enthralling downtown, world-class gardens, and wonderful eating choices that make it one of many finest 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: Fashionable lodging near Longwood Gardens
High 5 Issues to Do in Kennett Sq.
- Go to Longwood Gardens, one in every of America’s premier horticultural shows (enable at the very least 3-4 hours)
- Discover State Avenue’s boutiques, galleries, and specialty outlets
- Tour Phillips Mushroom Farm to find out about 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: High-quality 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
Finest Time to Go to Kennett Sq. and Longwood Gardens
- Spring: Gorgeous tulip and spring bloom shows at Longwood Gardens
- Summer season: Pageant 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. Contemplate changing into a member for those who 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: Out of doors fanatics, 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 magnificence in a historic 1849 constructing
- Occasions Home Mattress & Breakfast: Boutique lodging in a restored 1870s residence
- Dolon Home: Luxurious B&B with antiques and fashionable facilities
High 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 outlets 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 Japanese 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 resort
Finest Time to Go to Jim Thorpe
- Summer season: Ideally suited for rafting, kayaking, biking, and mountain climbing
- Fall: Spectacular foliage views and Fall Foliage Pageant 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 outside 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 refined sights, together with world-class museums and a vibrant downtown full of native companies, making it some 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 Important Avenue
- Hargrave Home Mattress & Breakfast: Historic appeal in an 1813 Federal-style constructing
- Homewood Suites: Household-friendly possibility with kitchenettes
High 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 means of the outlets and galleries of downtown’s walkable middle
- 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 components
- Genevieve’s Kitchen: Wonderful Italian fare with selfmade pasta
- Pag’s Pub: Informal gastropub with craft beer choice
- Market by Nourish: Wholesome breakfast and lunch choices
Finest Time to Go to Doylestown
- Yr-round attraction with indoor cultural sights
- Summer season: Out of doors eating and Doylestown Arts Pageant
- 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 save cash. Fonthill Fortress excursions fill shortly, so guide upfront on-line. Park within the Bucks County Parking Storage for straightforward entry to the downtown space.
6. St. Michaels: Maritime Allure on the Chesapeake Bay
Purchasing on Talbot St in St. Michaels MD | Photograph: Higher Dwelling
Distance from Philadelphia: 2 hours (100 miles)
Excellent for: Maritime fanatics, seafood lovers, waterfront rest
This picturesque Chesapeake Bay city provides maritime appeal, waterfront views, and a relaxed coastal ambiance that feels worlds away from metropolis life, creating some of the refreshing weekend journeys from Philadelphia for these looking 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 resort 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 Avenue (over 50 outlets in walkable downtown)
- Tour and style at Lyon Distilling Firm and St. Michaels Vineyard
- Hire bicycles to discover the flat, scenic roads round city
The place to Eat in St. Michaels
Finest Time to Go to St. Michaels
- Late April to June: Excellent climate and fewer crowds
- Summer season: Peak season with all sights open and waterfront actions
- Fall: Oyster season begins and delightful autumn surroundings
- Winter: Quiet, romantic ambiance with vacation occasions
Native Tip for St. Michaels
Make dinner reservations nicely upfront for summer season 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 resort | Photograph: Higher Dwelling
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
Situated alongside Maryland’s Japanese Shore, Kent Narrows is a waterfront paradise identified for its unbelievable seafood eating places, marina tradition, and gorgeous Chesapeake Bay views. This slender waterway connecting the Chester River and Japanese Bay provides a real water-oriented weekend getaway from Philadelphia with a give attention to contemporary seafood and maritime actions.
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 resort 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 (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
Finest Time to Go to Kent Narrows
- Late Spring/Early Summer season: Excellent temperatures and fewer crowds
- Summer season: Peak season with all sights 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 whole 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 go away 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 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 possibility 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 Avenue’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 by means 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: Intensive menu and drink choice
- Bistro on Bridge: Rooftop bar and American bistro fare
Finest Time to Go to Phoenixville
- Yr-round vacation spot with primarily indoor sights
- Summer season: Out of doors eating and Blobfest celebration in July
- Spring: Dogwood Pageant in Could with carnival and craft truthful
- Fall: Meals pageant and Halloween celebrations
- Winter: Vacation decorations and comfortable restaurant scene
Native Tip for Phoenixville
If you happen to 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 Important and Bridge Streets municipal lot for straightforward downtown entry.
Planning Your Excellent Small City Getaway from Philadelphia
The Pink Mill in Clinton, NJ – Hunterdon County | Photograph: Higher Dwelling
These eight locations signify the finest weekend getaways from Philadelphia, every providing distinctive appeal and sights 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 a protracted weekend, as can Doylestown and Phoenixville.
For a Chesapeake Bay-focused journey, pair Kent Narrows with close by St. Michaels for a whole Japanese Shore expertise.
Sensible Planning Suggestions for Your Weekend Escape
- Finest Time to Go to: Spring and fall provide nice climate and fewer crowds at most locations
- Lodging Reserving: Reserve rooms 2-3 months upfront for weekend stays, particularly throughout summer season and fall foliage season
- Eating Reservations: Make dinner reservations at the very least 1-2 weeks forward for fashionable eating places
- Transportation: Whereas having a automotive gives essentially 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 finest for a romantic weekend getaway? New Hope and Lambertville provide essentially 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 right for households with its Giggleberry Truthful 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 practice 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 whole Japanese Shore expertise.
Regardless of which small city you select to discover, you’ll discover a welcome respite from metropolis life with out sacrificing wonderful eating, procuring, and cultural experiences. These weekend getaways close to Philadelphia show that generally one of the best holidays are proper in your yard.
What’s your favourite small city getaway from Philadelphia? Tell us within the feedback under!
Final Up to date: March 2025
