8 Greatest Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia in 2025 (Inside 2 Hours)

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Greatest Day Journeys & Weekend Escapes Close to Philadelphia

In search of the finest weekend getaways from Philadelphia in 2025? Philadelphia’s prime location makes it the proper jumping-off level for exploring charming small cities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. These 8 picturesque locations provide historic primary streets, waterfront eating, distinctive procuring, and scenic landscapes—all inside a handy two-hour drive of Heart Metropolis. Whether or not you’re planning a romantic weekend journey to New Hope, a household journey to Peddlers Village, or a solo escape to the Chesapeake Bay, these close by small cities ship unforgettable experiences with out in depth journey.

Excellent for day journeys from Philadelphia, scenic street journeys by Bucks County, or full weekend escapes to the Jap Shore, these locations present the best getaway for each season. From fall foliage excursions to summer time waterfront eating, spring backyard visits to cozy winter retreats, these small-town treasures provide the finest issues to do close to Philadelphia once you want a break from metropolis life.

Fast Information: Prime Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia

• New Hope & Lambertville: Riverside twin cities with inventive vibes (1 hour)
• Peddlers Village: Colonial procuring village with seasonal points of interest (45 minutes)
• Kennett Sq.: House to Longwood Gardens and farm-to-table eating (45 minutes)
• Jim Thorpe: Mountain city with outside recreation and historic attraction (1.5 hours)
• Doylestown: Cultural hub with world-class museums (45 minutes)
• St. Michaels: Chesapeake Bay maritime city (2 hours)
• Kent Narrows: Waterfront eating and boating paradise (1 hour 45 minutes)
• Phoenixville: Revitalized former metal city with vibrant eating (45 minutes)

1. New Hope, PA & Lambertville, NJ: Twin Cities for the Excellent Weekend Escape

The historic green steel truss bridge that connects New Hope, Pennsylvania to Lambertville, New Jersey spanning across the Delaware River. The distinctive green-painted metal structure features multiple truss segments supported by stone pillars rising from the calm river below. The blue sky with scattered white clouds is perfectly reflected in the still water, creating mirror images of both the bridge and clouds. Buildings are visible on the shoreline, and the surrounding landscape shows lush spring or summer vegetation. This bridge serves as both a functional connection between the twin towns and a scenic landmark in the region.

The historic inexperienced metal truss bridge that connects New Hope, PA to Lambertville, NJ | Picture: Higher Residing

Distance from Philadelphia: 1 hour (40 miles)
Excellent for: Artwork lovers, antiquing lovers, romantic getaways

New Hope stands out because the crown jewel of Bucks County weekend getaways, providing an ideal mix of inventive attraction, riverside magnificence, and eclectic procuring alongside its vibrant Major Avenue. Simply throughout the Delaware River through a walkable bridge is Lambertville, NJ, creating probably the most romantic weekend journeys from Philadelphia when these sister cities are skilled collectively.

The place to Keep in New Hope & Lambertville

River Home at Odettes: Luxurious lodging with Delaware River views
Woolverton Inn: Historic lodging (established 1727) in downtown New Hope
Lambertville Home: Elegant lodging in a Federal-style constructing

Prime 6 Issues to Do in New Hope & Lambertville

Stroll the scenic towpath alongside the Delaware Canal State Park
Browse Lambertville’s vintage retailers and artwork galleries (Bridge Avenue has the best focus)
Catch a efficiency on the historic Bucks County Playhouse
Take a experience on the New Hope Railroad’s classic trains
Discover Hunterdon County points of interest simply minutes from Lambertville
Store at distinctive boutiques like Coronary heart of the House and Topeo Galleries

The place to Eat in New Hope & Lambertville

Marsha Brown: Upscale Creole delicacies in a transformed church (New Hope)
Nektar: Craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates (New Hope)
Beneath the Moon Cafe: Homestyle Italian consolation meals (Lambertville)
Lambertville Station: Riverside eating with American delicacies (Lambertville)

Greatest Time to Go to New Hope & Lambertville

These twin cities shine year-round:

Spring: Cherry blossoms alongside the canal and fewer crowds
Summer time: Out of doors eating and riverside actions
Fall: Spectacular foliage and nice temperatures
Winter: Festive vacation decorations and comfortable eating places

Native Tip for New Hope & Lambertville

Parking could be difficult on weekends. Use the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to discover each cities on foot, parking in whichever city has out there areas once you arrive.

2. Peddlers Village: A Colonial Procuring Vacation spot in Bucks County

A charming colonial-style shopping building at Peddlers Village in Lahaska, Pennsylvania. The red barn-like structure features stone foundation walls and white trim accents. A decorative American-style windmill with red, white, and blue blades stands prominently beside the building. Outdoor dining areas with orange umbrellas are visible, and the building houses "Sticky Fingers" and another shop as indicated by signage. A split-rail fence borders well-maintained landscaping with spring green trees and manicured lawns. The scene captures the rustic, colonial charm that makes Peddlers Village a popular shopping destination.

The quaint retailers of Peddlers Village in springtime | Picture: Higher Residing

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Buyers, households, seasonal festival-goers

Usually thought of a part of the larger New Hope space, Peddlers Village in Lahaska, PA deserves particular recognition as probably the most enchanting weekend getaways close to Philadelphia. This colonial-style procuring village options 65+ specialty retailers, winding brick pathways, and beautiful seasonal gardens that make it excellent for a day journey or weekend keep.

The place to Keep in Peddlers Village

Golden Plough Inn: Charming lodging proper within the coronary heart of the village, with 67 rooms and suites that includes four-poster beds, fireplaces, and countryside views
Fox and Hound Mattress & Breakfast: Historic B&B only a brief drive away in New Hope
Homewood Suites by Hilton Doylestown: Household-friendly choice with kitchen suites close by

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Peddlers Village

Store at distinctive boutiques like Greenology, Skip’s Sweet Nook, and Lace Silhouettes
Go to throughout one of many seasonal festivals, such because the Apple Competition, Scarecrow Competition, or Gingerbread Competitors
Benefit from the superbly maintained gardens and seasonal decorations
Go to Giggleberry Honest, a household leisure heart with a restored 1922 carousel
Dine, snack, and sip at one of many many onsite eateries and retailers.

The place to Eat in Peddlers Village

Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant: Pennsylvania Dutch specialties in a colonial setting
Earl’s New American: Upscale delicacies with seasonal elements
Buttonwood Grill: Informal eating with craft beers and connoisseur burgers
Hart’s Tavern: Cozy pub ambiance with consolation meals favorites

Greatest Time to Go to Peddlers Village

Peddlers Village shines year-round, with every season providing one thing particular:

Native Tip for Peddlers Village

Go to midweek if potential to keep away from crowds, particularly throughout vacation seasons. For weekend visits, arrive when retailers open at 10am to take pleasure in a extra relaxed procuring expertise earlier than the afternoon rush.

3. Kennett Sq.: Mushroom Capital and Backyard Paradise

The interior of Longwood Gardens' magnificent conservatory greenhouse featuring a lush tropical display. Hanging from the soaring glass and steel ceiling structure are three large spherical arrangements of bromeliads and orchids with vibrant orange and red flowers. Below, a central water feature runs through a garden path flanked by diverse tropical plants including banana trees, palms, ferns, and flowering specimens. The glass-paneled roof allows natural light to flood the space, creating a bright, verdant atmosphere. Planters with pink and yellow flowers add splashes of color at the entrance to the pathway.

Longwood Gardens Conservatory in Kennett Sq. | Picture: Higher Residing

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Backyard lovers, foodies, wine lovers

Referred to as the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Sq. affords rather more than simply fungi, with an enthralling downtown, world-class gardens, and glorious eating choices that make it one of many finest day journeys from Philadelphia for nature and meals lovers alike.

The place to Keep in Kennett Sq.

Kennett Home Mattress & Breakfast: Historic attraction inside strolling distance to downtown
Inn at Whitewing Farm: Secluded nation expertise on 13 acres
Fairfield Inn & Suites: Fashionable lodging near Longwood Gardens

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Kennett Sq.

Go to Longwood Gardens, one in every of America’s premier horticultural shows (permit no less than 3-4 hours)
Discover State Avenue’s boutiques, galleries, and specialty retailers
Tour Phillips Mushroom Farm to find out about native mushroom cultivation
Go to close by Brandywine Valley wineries like Galer Property and Penns Woods
Try The Creamery, a revitalized industrial house with meals distributors and occasions

The place to Eat in Kennett Sq.

1906 at Longwood Gardens: Wonderful eating contained in the gardens
Talula’s Desk: Well-known farm-to-table eating (reserve the farm desk a yr prematurely!)
Victory Brewing Firm: Informal ambiance with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site
La Verona: Distinctive Italian delicacies with an enthralling ambiance

Greatest Time to Go to Kennett Sq. and Longwood Gardens

Spring: Gorgeous tulip and spring bloom shows at Longwood Gardens
Summer time: Competition of Fountains with illuminated night exhibits
Fall: Chrysanthemum shows and mushroom celebrations
Winter: Half-million mild Christmas show and indoor conservatory flowers

Native Tip for Kennett Sq.

Buy Longwood Gardens tickets on-line prematurely, particularly for particular occasions and vacation shows. Contemplate changing into a member when you plan to go to greater than twice in a yr for important financial savings and member preview days.

4. Jim Thorpe: Pennsylvania’s Mountain Gem

Distance from Philadelphia: 1.5 hours (80 miles)
Excellent for: Out of doors lovers, historical past buffs, surroundings seekers

Nestled within the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe is commonly known as the “Switzerland of America” for its mountainous setting and European-style structure. This historic city in Pennsylvania has reinvented itself as an out of doors recreation hub and humanities vacation spot, making it excellent for energetic weekend getaways from Philadelphia.

The place to Keep in Jim Thorpe

The Inn at Jim Thorpe: Victorian magnificence in a historic 1849 constructing
Occasions Home Mattress & Breakfast: Boutique lodging in a restored 1870s dwelling
Dolon Home: Luxurious B&B with antiques and trendy facilities

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Jim Thorpe

Experience the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for breathtaking mountain views (16-mile spherical journey)
Go to the Asa Packer Mansion Museum to discover Gilded Age opulence ($10 admission)
Bike or hike the 25-mile Lehigh Gorge Path alongside the previous railroad mattress
Go whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River (Class II-III rapids)
Browse the eclectic retailers and galleries on Broadway and Race Avenue

The place to Eat in Jim Thorpe

Stone Row Pub & Eatery: Upscale consolation meals in a historic row home
Moya: Mediterranean and Jap European delicacies with vegetarian choices
Marion Hose Bar: Craft cocktails and small plates in a former firehouse
Broadway Grille: Basic American fare in a historic resort

Greatest Time to Go to Jim Thorpe

Summer time: Ultimate for rafting, kayaking, biking, and climbing
Fall: Spectacular foliage views and Fall Foliage Competition weekends
Winter: Close by snowboarding at Blue Mountain and comfortable fireplace eating
Spring: Whitewater season begins as spring rains fill the Lehigh River

Native Tip for Jim Thorpe

Park within the County parking zone for $6/day and stroll into city, as road parking is proscribed. For outside actions, make reservations with outfitters like Jim Thorpe River Adventures or Pocono Whitewater prematurely throughout peak season.

5. Doylestown: Cultural Hub with Small City Appeal

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Excellent for: Tradition lovers, historical past lovers, structure followers

Wealthy in historical past and tradition, Doylestown combines small-town attraction with refined points of interest, together with world-class museums and a vibrant downtown stuffed with native companies, making it probably the most cultured small cities close to Philadelphia for a weekend escape.

The place to Keep in Doylestown

The Doylestown Inn: Boutique lodging proper on Major Avenue
Hargrave Home Mattress & Breakfast: Historic attraction in an 1813 Federal-style constructing
Homewood Suites: Household-friendly choice with kitchenettes

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Doylestown

Discover the Mercer Museum, a concrete fortress stuffed with pre-industrial instruments and artifacts
Go to Fonthill Fort, Henry Mercer’s eccentric concrete mansion with 44 rooms
Tour the James A. Michener Artwork Museum, that includes Pennsylvania Impressionist work
Stroll by the retailers and galleries of downtown’s walkable heart
Calm down at Doylestown’s Central Park with gardens and strolling paths

The place to Eat in Doylestown

Honey: Inventive farm-to-table delicacies with seasonal elements
Genevieve’s Kitchen: Wonderful Italian fare with home made pasta
Pag’s Pub: Informal gastropub with craft beer choice
Market by Nourish: Wholesome breakfast and lunch choices

Greatest Time to Go to Doylestown

12 months-round enchantment with indoor cultural points of interest
Summer time: Out of doors eating and Doylestown Arts Competition
Fall: Stunning colours in close by Peace Valley Park
Winter: Vacation decorations and fewer crowds at museums
Spring: Blooming gardens at Fonthill Fort

Native Tip for Doylestown

Buy a mixed ticket for the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Fort to economize. Fonthill Fort excursions fill rapidly, so e-book prematurely on-line. Park within the Bucks County Parking Storage for simple entry to the downtown space.

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

A charming street scene in downtown St. Michaels, Maryland showing historic buildings that now house shops and restaurants. A couple walks along the brick sidewalk past a Victorian-style building with a distinctive tower and red brick construction. The building appears to house "Eatery 208" as indicated by signage. Adjacent is a white colonial-style building with black shutters and small red awnings over each window. Lush greenery and flowering bushes line the walkway, and a white SUV drives past on the street. The scene captures the quaint, walkable atmosphere of this Eastern Shore town.

Procuring on Talbot St in St. Michaels MD | Picture: Higher Residing

Distance from Philadelphia: 2 hours (100 miles)
Excellent for: Maritime lovers, seafood lovers, waterfront rest

This picturesque Chesapeake Bay city affords maritime attraction, waterfront views, and a relaxed coastal ambiance that feels worlds away from metropolis life, creating probably the most refreshing weekend journeys from Philadelphia for these searching for water and rest.

The place to Keep in St. Michaels

Inn at Perry Cabin: Luxurious waterfront resort with crusing and spa companies
The Wildset Resort: Stylishly renovated boutique resort with trendy facilities in a historic setting

Prime Issues to Do in St. Michaels

Discover the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s 18 waterfront acres and historic lighthouse
Take a scenic cruise on the Miles River aboard the Patriot or Selina II
Store the boutiques and galleries alongside Talbot Avenue (over 50 retailers in walkable downtown)
Tour and style at Lyon Distilling Firm and St. Michaels Vineyard
Hire bicycles to discover the flat, scenic roads round city

The place to Eat in St. Michaels

Greatest Time to Go to St. Michaels

Late April to June: Excellent climate and fewer crowds
Summer time: Peak season with all points of interest open and waterfront actions
Fall: Oyster season begins and exquisite autumn surroundings
Winter: Quiet, romantic ambiance with vacation occasions

Native Tip for St. Michaels

Make dinner reservations properly prematurely for summer time weekends, particularly for waterfront eating places. For the very best expertise of St. Michaels, keep no less than two nights to take pleasure in each water actions and the charming downtown at a relaxed tempo.

7. Kent Narrows: Waterfront Eating and Boating Paradise

A stunning pastel sunset over Kent Narrows waterway in Maryland, viewed from an elevated position likely at the Hyatt hotel. The water reflects golden-orange sunset hues as boats are docked along wooden piers. Several fishing and pleasure crafts are moored in the marina, with a small boat moving across the calm waters. The shoreline features pine trees silhouetted against the dramatic sky filled with pink, orange, and purple clouds. A waterfront restaurant with outdoor seating is visible on the right, perfectly positioned for sunset dining.

Sundown in Kent Narrows from the balcony of the Hyatt Place resort | Picture: Higher Residing

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

Positioned alongside Maryland’s Jap Shore, Kent Narrows is a waterfront paradise identified for its unimaginable seafood eating places, marina tradition, and beautiful Chesapeake Bay views. This slim waterway connecting the Chester River and Jap Bay affords a real water-oriented weekend getaway from Philadelphia with a concentrate on recent seafood and maritime actions.

The place to Keep in Kent Narrows

Prime 6 Issues to Do in Kent Narrows

Benefit from the well-known Kent Narrows sunsets from waterfront eating places or resort decks
Go to Ferry Level Park and climb the remark tower at Chesapeake Heritage and Customer Heart
Take a ship tour or fishing constitution from one of many native marinas
Discover the Cross Island Path for stunning waterfront views (excellent for biking or strolling)
Go to the Maryland Watermen’s Monument on the entrance to Fisherman’s Village
Spot native wildlife together with blue herons, ospreys, and Chesapeake Bay terrapins

The place to Eat in Kent Narrows

Greatest Time to Go to Kent Narrows

Late Spring/Early Summer time: Excellent temperatures and fewer crowds
Summer time: Peak season with all points of interest open and boating actions
Fall: Gorgeous sunsets and persevering with seafood season
12 months-round: Many eating places stay open all year long

Native Tip for Kent Narrows

For the entire Kent Narrows expertise, keep in Fisherman’s Village the place all eating is walkable. Request a waterfront room with a balcony on the Hyatt Place, and time your dinner reservations at Fisherman’s Crab Deck or Harris Crab Home to coincide with sundown for unbeatable views. Don’t go away with out making an attempt Maryland’s well-known steamed blue crabs and a signature Orange Crush cocktail.

8. Phoenixville: Revitalized Small City with City Vitality

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (28 miles)
Excellent for: Craft beverage lovers, eating, historic cinema followers

As soon as a metal city, Phoenixville has remodeled right into a vibrant neighborhood with a formidable meals and beverage scene, common festivals, and a walkable downtown that makes it excellent for day journeys from Philadelphia or weekend stays.

The place to Keep in Phoenixville

Residence Inn Philadelphia Valley Forge: Prolonged keep choice with kitchen suites close by
Staybridge Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge: Comfy suites inside brief driving distance
Hilton Backyard Inn Valley Forge/Oaks: Fashionable lodging near Phoenixville

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Phoenixville

Discover Bridge Avenue’s retailers, galleries, and eating places (over 30 in walkable downtown)
Go to Bluebird Distilling for craft spirits tasting and distillery excursions
Get pleasure from a film on the historic Colonial Theatre, well-known for the 1958 movie “The Blob”
Attend First Friday occasions with road performances and prolonged retailer hours
Stroll by Reeves Park with its Victorian bandshell and strolling paths

The place to Eat in Phoenixville

Avlos Greek Delicacies: Genuine Mediterranean dishes in an upscale setting
Iron Hill Brewery: Craft beers and elevated pub fare
Sedona Taphouse: Intensive menu and drink choice
Bistro on Bridge: Rooftop bar and American bistro fare

Greatest Time to Go to Phoenixville

12 months-round vacation spot with primarily indoor points of interest
Summer time: Out of doors eating and Blobfest celebration in July
Spring: Dogwood Competition in Could with carnival and craft truthful
Fall: Meals pageant and Halloween celebrations
Winter: Vacation decorations and comfortable restaurant scene

Native Tip for Phoenixville

If you happen to take pleasure in craft drinks, comply with the “Phoenixville Pour Tour” to expertise the city’s spectacular assortment of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Park within the Major and Bridge Streets municipal lot for simple downtown entry.

Planning Your Excellent Small City Getaway from Philadelphia

A picturesque historic red mill building sits alongside a small waterfall on the Raritan River in Clinton, New Jersey. The multi-story wooden structure features white-trimmed windows and a stone foundation. A small red outbuilding with a Union Jack flag is visible nearby. The mill is surrounded by lush green trees, and the scene includes a peaceful millpond with a dam creating a gentle waterfall. The bright blue sky with white clouds completes this quintessential American historical landscape.

The Pink Mill in Clinton, NJ – Hunterdon County | Picture: Higher Residing

These eight locations symbolize the finest weekend getaways from Philadelphia, every providing distinctive attraction and points of interest inside a brief drive of the town. For an prolonged expertise, contemplate combining close by cities right into a single journey—Peddlers Village, New Hope, and Lambertville can simply be visited over an extended weekend, as can Doylestown and Phoenixville.

For a Chesapeake Bay-focused journey, pair Kent Narrows with close by St. Michaels for a whole Jap Shore expertise.

Sensible Planning Ideas for Your Weekend Escape

Greatest Time to Go to: Spring and fall provide nice climate and fewer crowds at most locations
Lodging Reserving: Reserve rooms 2-3 months prematurely for weekend stays, particularly throughout summer time and fall foliage season
Eating Reservations: Make dinner reservations no less than 1-2 weeks forward for widespread eating places
Transportation: Whereas having a automotive offers essentially the most flexibility, SEPTA trains attain Doylestown and close by stations to Phoenixville
Multi-City Itineraries: Plan for not more than two cities per day to keep away from feeling rushed

Themed Weekend Itineraries

FAQs About Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia

What’s the closest small city to go to from Philadelphia? Phoenixville is the closest at simply 28 miles and about 45 minutes from Heart Metropolis Philadelphia.

Which city is finest for a romantic weekend getaway? New Hope and Lambertville provide essentially the most romantic ambiance, with riverside walks, intimate eating places, and charming lodging just like the River Home at Odettes.

What’s the very best small city for households close to Philadelphia? Peddlers Village is right for households with its Giggleberry Honest attraction, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly eating choices.

Can I go to these cities utilizing public transportation? Doylestown is instantly accessible through SEPTA Regional Rail. Others require a automotive or rideshare companies from close by prepare stations.

What’s the very best multi-day itinerary for exploring these cities? For a three-day weekend, mix New Hope/Lambertville with Peddlers Village and Doylestown, as they’re all inside 20 minutes of one another. For a Chesapeake Bay weekend, pair Kent Narrows with St. Michaels for the entire Jap Shore expertise.

Irrespective of which small city you select to discover, you’ll discover a welcome respite from metropolis life with out sacrificing glorious eating, procuring, and cultural experiences. These weekend getaways close to Philadelphia show that typically the very best holidays are proper in your yard.

What’s your favourite small city getaway from Philadelphia? Tell us within the feedback beneath!

Final Up to date: March 2025