8 Best Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia in 2025 (Within 2 Hours)

Best Day Trips & Weekend Escapes Near Philadelphia

Looking for the best weekend getaways from Philadelphia in 2025? Philadelphia’s prime location makes it the perfect jumping-off point for exploring charming small towns in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. These 8 picturesque destinations offer historic main streets, waterfront dining, unique shopping, and scenic landscapes—all within a convenient two-hour drive of Center City. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend trip to New Hope, a family adventure to Peddlers Village, or a solo escape to the Chesapeake Bay, these nearby small towns deliver unforgettable experiences without extensive travel.

Perfect for day trips from Philadelphia, scenic road trips through Bucks County, or full weekend escapes to the Eastern Shore, these destinations provide the ideal getaway for every season. From fall foliage tours to summer waterfront dining, spring garden visits to cozy winter retreats, these small-town treasures offer the best things to do near Philadelphia when you need a break from city life.

 

1. New Hope, PA & Lambertville, NJ: Twin Towns for the Perfect Weekend Escape

Distance from Philadelphia: 1 hour (40 miles)
Perfect for: Art lovers, antiquing enthusiasts, romantic getaways

New Hope stands out as the crown jewel of Bucks County weekend getaways, offering a perfect blend of artistic charm, riverside beauty, and eclectic shopping along its vibrant Main Street. Just across the Delaware River via a walkable bridge is Lambertville, NJ, creating one of the most romantic weekend trips from Philadelphia when these sister towns are experienced together.

Where to Stay in New Hope & Lambertville

1. River House at Odettes: Luxury accommodations with Delaware River views
2. Woolverton Inn: Historic lodging (established 1727) in downtown New Hope
3. Lambertville House: Elegant accommodations in a Federal-style building

Top 6 Things to Do in New Hope & Lambertville

1. Stroll the scenic towpath along the Delaware Canal State Park
2. Browse Lambertville’s antique shops and art galleries (Bridge Street has the highest concentration)
3. Catch a performance at the historic Bucks County Playhouse
4. Take a ride on the New Hope Railroad’s vintage trains
5. Explore Hunterdon County attractions just minutes from Lambertville
6. Shop at unique boutiques like Heart of the Home and Topeo Galleries

Where to Eat in New Hope & Lambertville

• Marsha Brown: Upscale Creole cuisine in a converted church (New Hope)
• Nektar: Craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates (New Hope)
• Under the Moon Cafe: Homestyle Italian comfort food (Lambertville)
• Lambertville Station: Riverside dining with American cuisine (Lambertville)

Best Time to Visit New Hope & Lambertville

These twin towns shine year-round:

• Spring: Cherry blossoms along the canal and fewer crowds
• Summer: Outdoor dining and riverside activities
• Fall: Spectacular foliage and pleasant temperatures
• Winter: Festive holiday decorations and cozy restaurants

Local Tip for New Hope & Lambertville

Parking can be challenging on weekends. Use the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to explore both towns on foot, parking in whichever town has available spaces when you arrive.

2. Peddlers Village: A Colonial Shopping Destination in Bucks County

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Perfect for: Shoppers, families, seasonal festival-goers

Often considered part of the greater New Hope area, Peddlers Village in Lahaska, PA deserves special recognition as one of the most enchanting weekend getaways near Philadelphia. This colonial-style shopping village features 65+ specialty shops, winding brick pathways, and gorgeous seasonal gardens that make it perfect for a day trip or weekend stay.

Where to Stay in Peddlers Village

• Golden Plough Inn: Charming accommodations right in the heart of the village, with 67 rooms and suites featuring four-poster beds, fireplaces, and countryside views
• Fox and Hound Bed & Breakfast: Historic B&B just a short drive away in New Hope
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Doylestown: Family-friendly option with kitchen suites nearby

Top 5 Things to Do in Peddlers Village

1. Shop at unique boutiques like Greenology, Skip’s Candy Corner, and Lace Silhouettes 
2. Visit during one of the seasonal festivals, such as the Apple Festival, Scarecrow Festival, or Gingerbread Competition
3. Enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens and seasonal decorations
4. Visit Giggleberry Fair, a family entertainment center with a restored 1922 carousel
5. Dine, snack, and sip at one of the many onsite eateries and shops.

Where to Eat in Peddlers Village

• Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant: Pennsylvania Dutch specialties in a colonial setting
• Earl’s New American: Upscale cuisine with seasonal ingredients
• Buttonwood Grill: Casual dining with craft beers and gourmet burgers
• Hart’s Tavern: Cozy pub atmosphere with comfort food favorites

Best Time to Visit Peddlers Village

Peddlers Village shines year-round, with each season offering something special:

Local Tip for Peddlers Village

Visit midweek if possible to avoid crowds, especially during holiday seasons. For weekend visits, arrive when shops open at 10am to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience before the afternoon rush.

3. Kennett Square: Mushroom Capital and Garden Paradise

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Perfect for: Garden enthusiasts, foodies, wine lovers

Known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Square offers much more than just fungi, with a charming downtown, world-class gardens, and excellent dining options that make it one of the best day trips from Philadelphia for nature and food lovers alike.

Where to Stay in Kennett Square

• Kennett House Bed & Breakfast: Historic charm within walking distance to downtown
• Inn at Whitewing Farm: Secluded country experience on 13 acres
• Fairfield Inn & Suites: Modern accommodations close to Longwood Gardens

Top 5 Things to Do in Kennett Square

1. Visit Longwood Gardens, one of America’s premier horticultural displays (allow at least 3-4 hours)
2. Explore State Street’s boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops
3. Tour Phillips Mushroom Farm to learn about local mushroom cultivation
4. Visit nearby Brandywine Valley wineries like Galer Estate and Penns Woods
5. Check out The Creamery, a revitalized industrial space with food vendors and events

Where to Eat in Kennett Square

• 1906 at Longwood Gardens: Fine dining inside the gardens
• Talula’s Table: Famous farm-to-table dining (reserve the farm table a year in advance!)
• Victory Brewing Company: Casual atmosphere with great food and craft beer brewed on-site
• La Verona: Exceptional Italian cuisine with a charming atmosphere

Best Time to Visit Kennett Square and Longwood Gardens

• Spring: Stunning tulip and spring bloom displays at Longwood Gardens
• Summer: Festival of Fountains with illuminated evening shows
• Fall: Chrysanthemum displays and mushroom celebrations
• Winter: Half-million light Christmas display and indoor conservatory flowers

Local Tip for Kennett Square

Purchase Longwood Gardens tickets online in advance, especially for special events and holiday displays. Consider becoming a member if you plan to visit more than twice in a year for significant savings and member preview days.

4. Jim Thorpe: Pennsylvania’s Mountain Gem

Distance from Philadelphia: 1.5 hours (80 miles)
Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, scenery seekers

Nestled in the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe is often called the “Switzerland of America” for its mountainous setting and European-style architecture. This historic town in Pennsylvania has reinvented itself as an outdoor recreation hub and arts destination, making it perfect for active weekend getaways from Philadelphia.

Where to Stay in Jim Thorpe

• The Inn at Jim Thorpe: Victorian elegance in a historic 1849 building
• Times House Bed & Breakfast: Boutique accommodations in a restored 1870s home
• Dolon House: Luxury B&B with antiques and modern amenities

Top 5 Things to Do in Jim Thorpe

1. Ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for breathtaking mountain views (16-mile round trip)
2. Visit the Asa Packer Mansion Museum to explore Gilded Age opulence ($10 admission)
3. Bike or hike the 25-mile Lehigh Gorge Trail along the former railroad bed
4. Go whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River (Class II-III rapids)
5. Browse the eclectic shops and galleries on Broadway and Race Street

Where to Eat in Jim Thorpe

• Stone Row Pub & Eatery: Upscale comfort food in a historic row house
• Moya: Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine with vegetarian options
• Marion Hose Bar: Craft cocktails and small plates in a former firehouse
• Broadway Grille: Classic American fare in a historic hotel

Best Time to Visit Jim Thorpe

• Summer: Ideal for rafting, kayaking, biking, and hiking
• Fall: Spectacular foliage views and Fall Foliage Festival weekends
• Winter: Nearby skiing at Blue Mountain and cozy fireside dining
• Spring: Whitewater season begins as spring rains fill the Lehigh River

Local Tip for Jim Thorpe

Park in the County parking lot for $6/day and walk into town, as street parking is limited. For outdoor activities, make reservations with outfitters like Jim Thorpe River Adventures or Pocono Whitewater in advance during peak season.

5. Doylestown: Cultural Hub with Small Town Charm

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Perfect for: Culture lovers, history enthusiasts, architecture fans

Rich in history and culture, Doylestown combines small-town charm with sophisticated attractions, including world-class museums and a vibrant downtown filled with local businesses, making it one of the most cultured small towns near Philadelphia for a weekend escape.

Where to Stay in Doylestown

• The Doylestown Inn: Boutique accommodations right on Main Street
• Hargrave House Bed & Breakfast: Historic charm in an 1813 Federal-style building
• Homewood Suites: Family-friendly option with kitchenettes

Top 5 Things to Do in Doylestown

1. Explore the Mercer Museum, a concrete castle filled with pre-industrial tools and artifacts
2. Visit Fonthill Castle, Henry Mercer’s eccentric concrete mansion with 44 rooms
3. Tour the James A. Michener Art Museum, featuring Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings
4. Stroll through the shops and galleries of downtown’s walkable center
5. Relax at Doylestown’s Central Park with gardens and walking paths

Where to Eat in Doylestown

• Honey: Creative farm-to-table cuisine with seasonal ingredients
• Genevieve’s Kitchen: Excellent Italian fare with homemade pasta
• Pag’s Pub: Casual gastropub with craft beer selection
• Marketplace by Nourish: Healthy breakfast and lunch options

Best Time to Visit Doylestown

• Year-round appeal with indoor cultural attractions
• Summer: Outdoor dining and Doylestown Arts Festival
• Fall: Beautiful colors in nearby Peace Valley Park
• Winter: Holiday decorations and fewer crowds at museums
• Spring: Blooming gardens at Fonthill Castle

Local Tip for Doylestown

Purchase a combined ticket for the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle to save money. Fonthill Castle tours fill quickly, so book in advance online. Park in the Bucks County Parking Garage for easy access to the downtown area.

6. St. Michaels: Maritime Charm on the Chesapeake Bay

Distance from Philadelphia: 2 hours (100 miles)
Perfect for: Maritime enthusiasts, seafood lovers, waterfront relaxation

This picturesque Chesapeake Bay town offers maritime charm, waterfront views, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere that feels worlds away from city life, creating one of the most refreshing weekend trips from Philadelphia for those seeking water and relaxation.

Where to Stay in St. Michaels

• Inn at Perry Cabin: Luxury waterfront resort with sailing and spa services
• The Wildset Hotel: Stylishly renovated boutique hotel with modern amenities in a historic setting

Top Things to Do in St. Michaels

1. Explore the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s 18 waterfront acres and historic lighthouse
2. Take a scenic cruise on the Miles River aboard the Patriot or Selina II
3. Shop the boutiques and galleries along Talbot Street (over 50 shops in walkable downtown)
4. Tour and taste at Lyon Distilling Company and St. Michaels Winery
5. Rent bicycles to explore the flat, scenic roads around town

Where to Eat in St. Michaels

Best Time to Visit St. Michaels

• Late April to June: Perfect weather and fewer crowds
• Summer: Peak season with all attractions open and waterfront activities
• Fall: Oyster season begins and beautiful autumn scenery
• Winter: Quiet, romantic atmosphere with holiday events

Local Tip for St. Michaels

Make dinner reservations well in advance for summer weekends, especially for waterfront restaurants. For the best experience of St. Michaels, stay at least two nights to enjoy both water activities and the charming downtown at a relaxed pace.

7. Kent Narrows: Waterfront Dining and Boating Paradise

Distance from Philadelphia: 1 hour 43 minutes (104.9 miles) via I-95 S and US-301 S
Perfect for: Seafood lovers, boating enthusiasts, waterfront views

Located along Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Kent Narrows is a waterfront paradise known for its incredible seafood restaurants, marina culture, and stunning Chesapeake Bay views. This narrow waterway connecting the Chester River and Eastern Bay offers a true water-oriented weekend getaway from Philadelphia with a focus on fresh seafood and maritime activities.

Where to Stay in Kent Narrows

Top 6 Things to Do in Kent Narrows

1. Enjoy the famous Kent Narrows sunsets from waterfront restaurants or hotel decks
2. Visit Ferry Point Park and climb the observation tower at Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center
3. Take a boat tour or fishing charter from one of the local marinas
4. Explore the Cross Island Trail for beautiful waterfront views (perfect for biking or walking)
5. Visit the Maryland Watermen’s Monument at the entrance to Fisherman’s Village
6. Spot local wildlife including blue herons, ospreys, and Chesapeake Bay terrapins

Where to Eat in Kent Narrows

Best Time to Visit Kent Narrows

• Late Spring/Early Summer: Perfect temperatures and fewer crowds
• Summer: Peak season with all attractions open and boating activities
• Fall: Stunning sunsets and continuing seafood season
• Year-round: Many restaurants remain open throughout the year

Local Tip for Kent Narrows

For the complete Kent Narrows experience, stay in Fisherman’s Village where all dining is walkable. Request a waterfront room with a balcony at the Hyatt Place, and time your dinner reservations at Fisherman’s Crab Deck or Harris Crab House to coincide with sunset for unbeatable views. Don’t leave without trying Maryland’s famous steamed blue crabs and a signature Orange Crush cocktail.

8. Phoenixville: Revitalized Small Town with Urban Energy

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (28 miles)
Perfect for: Craft beverage enthusiasts, dining, historic cinema fans

Once a steel town, Phoenixville has transformed into a vibrant community with an impressive food and beverage scene, regular festivals, and a walkable downtown that makes it perfect for day trips from Philadelphia or weekend stays.

Where to Stay in Phoenixville

• Residence Inn Philadelphia Valley Forge: Extended stay option with kitchen suites nearby
• Staybridge Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge: Comfortable suites within short driving distance
• Hilton Garden Inn Valley Forge/Oaks: Modern accommodations close to Phoenixville

Top 5 Things to Do in Phoenixville

1. Explore Bridge Street’s shops, galleries, and restaurants (over 30 in walkable downtown)
2. Visit Bluebird Distilling for craft spirits tasting and distillery tours
3. Enjoy a movie at the historic Colonial Theatre, famous for the 1958 film “The Blob”
4. Attend First Friday events with street performances and extended store hours
5. Stroll through Reeves Park with its Victorian bandshell and walking paths

Where to Eat in Phoenixville

• Avlos Greek Cuisine: Authentic Mediterranean dishes in an upscale setting
• Iron Hill Brewery: Craft beers and elevated pub fare
• Sedona Taphouse: Extensive menu and drink selection
• Bistro on Bridge: Rooftop bar and American bistro fare

Best Time to Visit Phoenixville

• Year-round destination with primarily indoor attractions
• Summer: Outdoor dining and Blobfest celebration in July
• Spring: Dogwood Festival in May with carnival and craft fair
• Fall: Food festival and Halloween celebrations
• Winter: Holiday decorations and cozy restaurant scene

Local Tip for Phoenixville

If you enjoy craft beverages, follow the “Phoenixville Pour Tour” to experience the town’s impressive collection of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Park in the Main and Bridge Streets municipal lot for easy downtown access.

Planning Your Perfect Small Town Getaway from Philadelphia

These eight destinations represent the best weekend getaways from Philadelphia, each offering unique charm and attractions within a short drive of the city. For an extended experience, consider combining nearby towns into a single trip—Peddlers Village, New Hope, and Lambertville can easily be visited over a long weekend, as can Doylestown and Phoenixville.

For a Chesapeake Bay-focused trip, pair Kent Narrows with nearby St. Michaels for a complete Eastern Shore experience.

Practical Planning Tips for Your Weekend Escape

1. Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds at most destinations
2. Accommodation Booking: Reserve rooms 2-3 months in advance for weekend stays, especially during summer and fall foliage season
3. Dining Reservations: Make dinner reservations at least 1-2 weeks ahead for popular restaurants
4. Transportation: While having a car provides the most flexibility, SEPTA trains reach Doylestown and nearby stations to Phoenixville
5. Multi-Town Itineraries: Plan for no more than two towns per day to avoid feeling rushed

Themed Weekend Itineraries

FAQs About Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia

What is the closest small town to visit from Philadelphia? Phoenixville is the closest at just 28 miles and about 45 minutes from Center City Philadelphia.

Which town is best for a romantic weekend getaway? New Hope and Lambertville offer the most romantic atmosphere, with riverside walks, intimate restaurants, and charming accommodations like the River House at Odettes.

What’s the best small town for families near Philadelphia? Peddlers Village is ideal for families with its Giggleberry Fair attraction, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly dining options.

Can I visit these towns using public transportation? Doylestown is directly accessible via SEPTA Regional Rail. Others require a car or rideshare services from nearby train stations.

What’s the best multi-day itinerary for exploring these towns? For a three-day weekend, combine New Hope/Lambertville with Peddlers Village and Doylestown, as they’re all within 20 minutes of each other. For a Chesapeake Bay weekend, pair Kent Narrows with St. Michaels for the complete Eastern Shore experience.

No matter which small town you choose to explore, you’ll find a welcome respite from city life without sacrificing excellent dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. These weekend getaways near Philadelphia prove that sometimes the best vacations are right in your backyard.

What’s your favorite small town getaway from Philadelphia? Let us know in the comments below!

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Last Updated: March 2025