There are so many things to do in Philadelphia, but sometimes you want to escape the city and take a day trip. In those times, you'll be grateful to have this list of best day trips near Philadelphia handy! We looked all over Philly and compiled some of our favorite picks for fantastic adventures you can have within a short drive of the city, and a few that you can reach from PATCO or SEPTA, if you don't feel like driving at all. so the next time someone asks, "Do you know of any unique day trips near Philly?" you'll know what to say!

1. Ringing Rocks State Park

Ringing Rocks State Park is one of the most interesting places in the area. It's the one hike where you'll want to take a hammer with you because you'll arrive at a boulder field where the rocks, when struck, sound like bells. Read more about Ringing Rocks State Park

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2. Visit the charming town of Haddonfield, New Jersey.

Haddonfield is home to one of the best British shops in the world, believe it or not. With world-class shopping, pretty parks, and delicious restaurants, this town is the perfect place to escape. Plus, there's a PATCO stop right in town.Read more about this charming Garden State town in this article.

3. Dine in Collingswood, the best foodie town.

Collingswood is another town along the PATCO Speedline, and it's one of the best destinations for foodies in the area. From Italian BYOBs to lively sushi bars, you'll find whatever your taste buds are craving here. Read more about this foodie favorite in this article.

4. New Hope and Lambertville

There's no better pair of towns than New Hope and Lambertville. They are both historic towns full of charm, restaurants, shopping, and art.

Read more about this dynamic duo

in this article.

5. The Village of Arden, Delaware

Arden is a fairy tale village that you won't believe is real. Attend their Shakespeare showings, join the dinner guild for supper, visit the Oddporium, or just admire the unique architecture. There's no other town like this in the world.Read more about this charming village in this article.

6. The Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion

This northeast Philly museum and butterfly house is a perfect place for a day trip without straying too far from the city. Visit their bearded dragon named "Trash Dragon," and enjoy the butterfly pavilion where monarchs may land on your shirt!Check out this article to learn why The Insectarium is one of the best day trips near Philadelphia.

7. Visit Jim Thorpe, the Gateway to the Poconos.

Jim Thorpe is one of Pennsylvania's best towns! You can hike the wild Glen Onoko Falls trail,

enjoy the scenic railway, stroll the town's quaint shops, and dine at several delicious eateries. We wax poetic about Jim Thorpe in this article.

8. Longwood Gardens

One of the most favorite day trips from Philly is to Longwood Gardens, one of the best gardens in the entire country. It's a place of magical walking paths, mesmerizing fountains, and stunning displays. No wonder it made our list of 10 Most Beautiful Gardens in Pennsylvania.

9. Any Jersey Shore

Of course, nothing can beat a trip to the shore! No matter the weather —

something about salt air and sand on your toes is the cure for every ailment. If you want to go north, check out Asbury Park. If you choose to head south, Sea Isle is perfect. What's your favorite Jersey Shore town?

Did any of these places pop up when you did a search for "best day trips near me?" If so, which ones? Where is your favorite place to spend a day when you're running away from the city? Share your picks for the best day trips near Philadelphia with us in the comments below!

If you’re still in the mood for more Pennsylvania adventures, take a look at this video about the Philadelphia Magic Garden: