Pennsylvania may be best known for its bookend cities – Philadelphia in the eastern half of the state and Pittsburgh in the western half. In between the two major cities, the landscape is dotted with darling villages and enchanting small towns that really define the heart and the soul of Pennsylvania. These seven downtowns in Pennsylvania, for example, are perfect when you want to experience a bit of yesteryear.

1. Lititz
Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Facebook/Downtown Lititz
Journey back in time when you visit the enchanting town of Lititz, previously named the "Coolest Small Town in America." Get a glimpse of the small town's rich past at Lititz Historical Foundation and Museum; learn how to twist pretzels at Julius Sturgis Pretzel Factory, and indulge your sweet tooth at Wilbur Chocolate Store. Lititz Springs Park is picture-perfect for a relaxing stroll. Discover why Lititz is the best small town getaway in Pennsylvania.
2. Bedford
Bedford, PA 15522, USA
Flickr/Jon Dawson
Downtown Bedford has been a prime destination for more than 250 years, and chances are you'll fall head over heels for the historic town. The charming downtown is home to a popular seasonal farmers market and hosts events throughout the year. You'll find a full menu of destinations in Bedford - museums, shops, and restaurants. Read more about one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania in our previous article.
3. New Hope
New Hope, PA 18938, USA
Facebook/New Hope, PA
The charming town of New Hope sits right across the river from Lambertville, New Jersey, and attracts visitors from both states and beyond. If you're a fan of the paranormal, join a walking ghost tour. Or if trains are your jam, climb aboard a scenic ride with the New Hope Railroad. Don't forget to save time for exploring the eclectic shops and restaurants. Plan your visit to this fairy tale town in Pennsylvania.

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4. Bloomsburg
Bloomsburg, PA 17815, USA
Facebook/Downtown Bloomsburg, Inc.
Carve out plenty of time for your visit to beautiful downtown Bloomsburg, which boasts an abundance of destinations - from shops and restaurants to art galleries and theaters. The darling downtown also hosts events throughout the year, including the Renaissance Jamboree and the WHLM Parade of Lights. Read more about the only real town in Pennsylvania in our previous article.
5. Bellefonte
Bellefonte, PA 16823, USA
Facebook/Downtown Bellefonte, Inc.
Bellefonte's the perfect destination for a getaway. If it's your first time visiting, consider striking out on a self-guided tour of the charming small town that's teeming with paranormal activity. The darling Victorian town features an electic selection of restaurants, shops, and things to do. For a unique holiday experience, visit during the town's annual Victorian Christmas Celebration. Take a peek at the twinkliest town in Pennsylvania.
6. Bethlehem
Bethlehem, PA, USA
Facebook/Visit Bethlehem
Bethlehem's downtown boasts an abundance of activity no matter when you visit. The historic downtown area hosts events throughout the year, and it's the place to be during the Christmas season. Stroll through the historic downtown, where you can go shopping, check out quaint restaurants, and visit an assortment of historic sites. Learn how Bethlehem turns into a winter wonderland in Pennsylvania.
7. Indiana
Indiana, PA, USA
Facebook/Downtown Indiana
If you've ever wondered what it felt like to live in Bedford Falls, make your way to Downtown Indiana, the home of beloved actor Jimmy Stewart. The enchanting downtown, in fact, transforms into Bedford Falls each Christmas season for the It's A Wonderful Life Festival. Wander down Philadelphia Street, which is dotted with small shops and restaurants. You'll also pass a statue of Jimmy Stewart and might want to drop by The Jimmy Stewart Museum. Get a glimpse of this small Pennsylvania town in our previous article.

Have you been to any of these downtowns in Pennsylvania? Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! If you’re looking for the perfect small town in Pennsylvania to just get away from it all, plan a visit to Tionesta.

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More to Explore

Small Towns In Pennsylvania

Beth Price-Williams | September 12, 2022

What are some of the best small towns in Pennsylvania?

The darling towns featured in the above article showcase some of the best downtowns in Pennsylvania. However, we’re fortunate that there are quite a few amazing small towns in Pennsylvania. Did you know that the Switzerland of America is right here in Pennsylvania? Yep, and you’ll definitely want to visit Jim Thorpe. It boasts one of the best downtowns in Pennsylvania, where you’ll find eclectic restaurants, quaint shops, and the Inn at Jim Thorpe, one of the most haunted hotels in Pennsylvania. Nestled along the Allegheny River, Foxburg is a tiny Pennsylvania town that offers something for everyone – from gorgeous waterfront views to plenty of ways to explore, including by bike.

Are there any rural small towns in Pennsylvania?

Getting out and exploring Pennsylvania means visiting big cities, tiny villages, and small towns. If you feel like getting away from it all, you can never go wrong with a visit to some of the best rural small towns in Pennsylvania – like Coudersport. The adorable small town is perhaps best known for two attractions – Cherry Springs State Park and Coudersport Ice Mine. Cherry Springs State Park boasts the darkest skies on the Eastern Seaboard, drawing stargazers from all over the state and beyond. Coudersport Ice Mine showcases a natural phenomenon where the ice inside the cave forms in the summer and melts in the winter. Get a glimpse of Amish life in the small Western Pennsylvania town of New Wilmington, where you can grab a bite to eat and check out the quaint shops. Ligonier, on the other hand, is brimming with history and family-friendly fun, including Idlewild & SoakZone, an old-fashioned amusement park. Drink in the beauty of the Pennsylvania countryside on a train ride with the New Hope Railroad then explore the rural small town that sits across the river from Lambertville, New Jersey.

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