Planning on taking a short day trip from Philadelphia for a quick getaway or just to enjoy some time away from the city? Everyone needs a break once in a while, so take a look at this guide to help you choose between 20 amazing day trips to quaint towns near and around Philadelphia.
1. Haddonfield, NJ
There’s a great downtown main street filled with restaurants and boutique retail. It also has a quaint, historic feel with a cultural heritage that dates all the way back to 1682.
2. Collingswood, NJ
Situated close to Haddonfield, Collingswood is a beautiful, historic town that is known for its lively downtown and eclectic dining scene.
3. New Hope, PA
New Hope has a small, quaint downtown scene that is home to amazing boutique ships, riverside restaurants, lots of art galleries, and stunning attractions. You can also visit near-by Peddler’s Village shopping destination.
4. Doylestown, PA
This is another spectacular little town with historic character, excellent dining and specialty shops to visit downtown. Also home to Fonthill Castle, Peace Valley Park.
5. Wayne, PA
Wayne is a vibrant Philly suburb with a smaller but lively downtown off N Wayne Avenue. There are a few specialty shops and lot of restaurants.
6. Kennett Square, PA
This is a charming community that is also known as the Mushroom capital of the world. Here you will see the breathtaking Longwood gardens and can also grab lunch at some amazing historic restaurants.
7. Valley Forge, PA
For a day of history and greenery, head over to the Valley Forge Historical Park where you can walk or bike and take in the beauty of the local region.
8. Lancaster, PA
This quaint little town is rich in history, culture and heritage. It is also home to Amish County with plenty to do and experience.
9. Hershey Park, PA
This is a great family theme park in Hershey. Hersey Park is not just a theme park, there are plenty of attractions, including an arboretum, and zoo.
10. Lititz, PA
This little town has an amazingly preserved small-town culture with a vibrant downtown area that is a must-visit, not too far from Lancaster.
11. Jim Thorpe, PA
A little historic town with plenty of shops, eateries, outdoor adventures and museums, known as the Switzerland of PA because of the hills and architecture.
12. The Shore, NJ
Head over to the vast coastline and beaches of New Jersey and explore the action at Atlantic City, Ventnor or just enjoy your day in the sun at any of the shore locations.
13. Wilmington, Delaware
This city has a great backstory with many estates, museums, and gardens to explore. When here, you can check out the Nemours Mansion, a 77-room mansion set on 300 acres. It is also the largest French Gardens in America.
14. Gettysburg, PA
Another historic city and downtown that is famous for a three-day Civil War battle as well as the location for one of Abraham Lincoln’s most famous speeches.
15. Bucks County Wine Tour
Like wine? Check out the Bucks County Wine Tour for a perfect way to taste some of the finest wines in the county. There are also several wineries in Montgomery County as well.
16. New York City
A short train ride away to one of the most thrilling and vibrant cities in the world.
17. Washington D.C.
Also a short train ride south, you can explore America’s capital city. While here, you can check out the White House, US Capitol, National Gallery of Art, and more.
18. Pocono Mountains
A series of beautiful, flat-topped mountains with plenty of outdoor beauty and activities to enjoy.
19. Brandywine Valley Wine Tour
A chance to sample some of the finest wines in the region.
20. Delaware Water Gap
Get back to nature with this beautiful spot featuring 100 miles of hiking trails, swim beaches, and recreation.
