8 Small Rural Towns Near Philadelphia That Are Downright Delightful
Discover eight charming rural towns near Philadelphia perfect for autumn day trips, each offering unique historic sites, scenic views, and local dining experiences.
Philadelphia is a huge city that somehow retains its small town feel in the neighborhoods that we live in, but sometimes you really just want to get away from city life. Luckily, there are so many cute rural towns near Philadelphia that it's easy to escape for a day trip, visit some farms, dine in a charming cafe, and stroll along quiet main streets. Check out these 8 towns below and plan your next autumn day trip.
Chadds Ford is a charming town on the border of Delaware in the heart of the Brandywine Valley. It's got a great small-town feel, and the history here is incredible. It was the site of the Battle of the Brandywine, and you'll find many remnants of Chadds Ford's historic past as you explore. The Brandywine Valley is known for its rolling hills and gorgeous landscapes, so this is a town that's perfect for a country drive and a comfort food dinner at Hank's Place diner.
Lambertville, New Jersey is just across the Delaware River from New Hope, and it's a wonderful pair to Pennsylvania's most charming town. While most people visit Lambertville for the downtown district full of shops, the rest of Lambertville is full of rural, rolling hills and charming farm life. Lambertville's local farms inlcude the Howell Living History Farm and the Homestead Farmstand, so be sure to take the time to explore this whole town.
Bethlehem was once a bustling steel town, but after the factories closed down, the residents brought new life to their hometown... and it shows! Bethlehem is a perfect place to explore if you're looking to kill some time in the mountains. Explore the center of town, dine in a historic building, and enjoy the quaint shops throughout the city. One of the coolest cocktail bars around is called The Bayou and it's located at 700 Hawthorne Road. It's a little hard to find and you'll may have to wait in line before you find yourself a table in this cozy establishment, but it's worth it for the best catfish and Southern comfort food for miles.
Lancaster is a relatively big town that will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Enjoy the best of Pennsylvania's Amish country on your drive out to the most unique of these rural towns near Philadelphia. Give yourself plenty of time to walk around downtown and see what the town has going on! There's usually a festival, craft show, or an event at the town theater, so you'll never be bored, no matter when you visit. You'll have endless dining options, whether you want to treat yourself to a fancy meal at The Pressroom or dine with the rowdier locals at Annie Bailey's Irish Public House.
Hammonton's charming main street is just one of the draws of this delightful New Jersey town. While many people drive through on the way to Atlantic City, not enough people stop and enjoy the historic, rural, agriculture based town! Did you know it's the blueberry capital of the world? In the summer, be sure to stop by a farmstand and try them (freshly picked, of course) for yourself. Any other time of year, pick up a fresh pie at The Red Barn or try the best homemade spaghetti ever at Joe's Maplewood Inn on Route 30.
Doylestown is known for its history - you can't visit this town and skip the Mercer Museum - and for its bustling downtown, with cafes, shops, and pubs as far as the eye can see. You can't go wrong with any of the State Street restaurants for lunch or dinner. For a real treat, head uptown a little to Crossroads Bakery and pick up some fresh baked breads and pastries.
Jim Thorpe is known as the Gateway to the Poconos, and it's just under an hour and a half from Philadelphia. The drive up through the mountains is scenic, and you can't beat this town when it comes to fall foliage, charming shops, and gorgeous hiking. Carefully hike through Glen Onoko Falls in the morning for some unbeatable views, and then refuel with a meal at any of the delicious cafes and brew-pubs in town. The artisan shops are wonderful to explore, and you'll leave this town feeling like you just might run away to the mountains forever.
Medford, New Jersey is one of the most delightful rural towns near Philadelphia, with a charming main street and miles of countryside and farmland to drive through. The historic Kirby's Mill on the outskirts of town is worth tracking down, as is Johnson's Corner Farm for a hayride and some pumpkin ice cream. You can't go wrong with a meal at ITA101 or The Pop Shop on Main Street, either!
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Of course, sometimes you want to get away from the city and go on a real outdoor adventure. For those trips, you should check out 9 Amazing State Parks Around Philadelphia That Will Blow You Away and get your fall foliage hike in before the weather cools down!
Do you have any other favorite little towns to add to this list? Let us know where we should explore next in the comments!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
There's nothing wrong with loving the city life, but sometimes you want to get out to the small towns around Philadelphia to experience a slow-paced afternoon and enjoy boutiques, restaurants, and green space in a more relaxed, rural environment. Check out our picks for the 15 best small towns near Philly - each one is perfect for a day trip or an extended weekend getaway!
Ardmore is right on the Main Line, but you'll feel like you're in a tiny town far away from the city. Enjoy award winning bakeries and restaurants, catch a show at the Ardmore Music Hall, or just stroll around town for the pretty sights. It's worth the quick ride or drive from Center City and it's absolutely beautiful all year long.
Doylestown is a fun town to explore if you like castles! The architecture and history of this area will impress you as you stroll through the downtown shops and restaurants. Catch a show at the County Theater for an old-fashioned good time. Doylestown is located about one hour north of Philadelphia and the scenic drive will enchant you.
Downtown Ambler is a great place to eat, shop, and explore. Catch a show at the Ambler Theater or Act II Playhouse, or try different restaurants during the Ambler Restaurant Week, which will take place from January 29th - February 5th, 2018. You don't have to travel far; Ambler is located just 20 miles north of Philly. You'll feel like you've barely left the city by the time you get here.
Lambertville is a charming farm town where you can find scenic overlooks, gorgeous farm roads, abandoned trains and barns, and a gorgeous downtown area. It's a very walkable town, but if you drive through the rural areas surrounding Lambertville, you'll be treated with a scenic view of rolling hills, farmland, and the Delaware River. In town, you could spend hours strolling the vintage bookshops, charming local boutiques, and snacking at the cafes and restaurants. Lambertville is located about an hour north of Philadelphia.
Right across the bridge from Lambertville is the PA town of
New Hope - you'll want to walk across and explore both towns in the same day! New Hope has plenty of cute shops and charming restaurants, plus pretty views of the river. Check out the New Hope Winery for a great day trip destination. If you have time, take a ride on the scenic and historic New Hope & Ivyland Railroad.
Haddonfield is a historic small town along the PATCO line, so it's very easy to get to from Philadelphia. The Kings Highway & Haddon Avenue blocks are filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and fun things to explore. Be sure to check out the dinosaur statue, which commemorates the first dinosaur found in America, right here in this small south Jersey town. Haddonfield is located just 13 miles from Philly, so it's too close not to visit!
Collingswood is right near Haddonfield, so you can spend the day in Haddonfield and take the train two stops further for a night out in Haddonfield. Until 2015, it was a dry town, so you'll find the streets packed with high quality BYOB restaurants. It's no wonder that Collingswood is the best foodie town in New Jersey! Along with great restaurants, you'll find shops and boutiques and plenty of green space.
Medford, New Jersey is a small farm town with a bustling Main Street section that has grown over the past few years. You can find breweries, shops, parks and restaurants all within walking distance of where you park your car! One of the best family friendly restaurants in the area, the Pop Shop, is located in a historic buidling right on Main Street. Take the time to drive around town, too - you'll be treated to views of the old mills that made this town popular, and can even head to Johnson's Farm to pick your own veggies or shop in their country store. Medford is located just 40 minutes east of Philly.
Pretty farms, historic architecture, restaurants, shops, and friendly people are what you'll find when you visit Downingtown. Drive through the countryside to see the covered bridges in the surrounding farmland if you want a real rural treat or take a hike in a nearby park. A 50 minute drive west of the city will take you to this lovely area.
There are plenty of restaurants in Media and most of the town is walkable. Enjoy nearby parks or head downtown, where you're likely to find events taking place on the weekends. The town hosts holiday parades and weekend farmers markets in the summer, and local programs at the library, the tot lot, and the community center are great for young families.
Hammonton is a farm town in South Jersey that's a bit more of a trek from Philadelphia (about a 40 minute drive southeast), but it's so worth it. Take the White Horse Pike from the Ben Franklin Bridge until the towns fade into blueberry fields and you'll know you're close; it's the blueberry capital of the world! Downtown, you'll find cute boutiques, lively bars, country stores, and the best homemade pasta in South Jersey at Joe's Maplewood Inn.
A visit to Chadds Ford is like a visit to the French countryside. Enjoy Pennsylvania and Delaware's chateau country as you explore wineries, historic restaurants and inns, and scenic trails through town. The Brandywine River provides the perfect backdrop to this escape just outside of the city. If you want to see the Brandywine Valley, take this gorgeous Pennsylvania drive. Chadds Ford is close to Longwood Gardens, one of the best estates in the entire country.
Phoenixville is a small town that used to be a manufacturing hub. In recent years, it's become known for its great dining scene and performances at the Colonial Theater. Take the time to explore the parks along the French Creek and Schuylkill River.
West Chester is right in the middle of the action, close to Philadelphia and Upper Darby, but the town itself is quaint, small, and slow-paced. Downtown you'll find shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of green space to make you feel like you've really escaped the city. Some of Pennsylvania's most scenic drives start and end in West Chester.
Lititz is a Lancaster County farm town that's worth visiting for the food and history, or just for a scenic drive. Try out some local restaurants or visit the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery for a tour. Lititz is just over an hour and a half drive west of Philly, but the trip will take you through some of the prettiest spots in the state.
For an even more awesome day trip to Lambertville and New Hope, take a ride on the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad - they even have a wine-themed train trip!
What's your favorite small town near Philadelphia? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or nominate your favorite towns using our online form. Happy travels!
