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

March 23, 2025

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Finest Day Journeys & Weekend Escapes Close to Philadelphia

On the lookout for the greatest weekend getaways from Philadelphia in 2025? Philadelphia’s prime location makes it the right jumping-off level for exploring charming small cities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. These 8 picturesque locations provide historic foremost streets, waterfront eating, distinctive purchasing, and scenic landscapes—all inside a handy two-hour drive of Middle 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 intensive journey.

Good for day journeys from Philadelphia, scenic highway journeys by Bucks County, or full weekend escapes to the Japanese 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 greatest issues to do close to Philadelphia if you want a break from metropolis life.

Fast Information: High Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia

• New Hope & Lambertville: Riverside twin cities with creative vibes (1 hour)
• Peddlers Village: Colonial purchasing 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 out of doors 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 Good 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 | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

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

New Hope stands out because the crown jewel of Bucks County weekend getaways, providing an ideal mix of creative attraction, riverside magnificence, and eclectic purchasing alongside its vibrant Primary Avenue. Simply throughout the Delaware River through a walkable bridge is Lambertville, NJ, creating one of the 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

High 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 very 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)
Underneath the Moon Cafe: Homestyle Italian consolation meals (Lambertville)
Lambertville Station: Riverside eating with American delicacies (Lambertville)

Finest 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 comfy 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 accessible areas if you arrive.

2. Peddlers Village: A Colonial Purchasing 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 | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

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

Typically thought-about a part of the higher New Hope space, Peddlers Village in Lahaska, PA deserves particular recognition as one of the enchanting weekend getaways close to Philadelphia. This colonial-style purchasing village options 65+ specialty retailers, winding brick pathways, and lovely 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 quick drive away in New Hope
Homewood Suites by Hilton Doylestown: Household-friendly possibility with kitchen suites close by

High 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 Pageant, Scarecrow Pageant, or Gingerbread Competitors
Benefit from the fantastically 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 components
Buttonwood Grill: Informal eating with craft beers and gourmand burgers
Hart’s Tavern: Cozy pub environment with consolation meals favorites

Finest 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 attainable to keep away from crowds, particularly throughout vacation seasons. For weekend visits, arrive when retailers open at 10am to get pleasure from a extra relaxed purchasing 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. | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

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

Often called the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Sq. provides far more than simply fungi, with an enthralling downtown, world-class gardens, and glorious eating choices that make it one of many greatest 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: Trendy lodging near Longwood Gardens

High 5 Issues to Do in Kennett Sq.

Go to Longwood Gardens, one among America’s premier horticultural shows (enable at the least 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: High quality 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 environment with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site
La Verona: Distinctive Italian delicacies with an enthralling environment

Finest Time to Go to Kennett Sq. and Longwood Gardens

Spring: Gorgeous tulip and spring bloom shows at Longwood Gardens
Summer time: Pageant of Fountains with illuminated night reveals
Fall: Chrysanthemum shows and mushroom celebrations
Winter: Half-million gentle 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. Think about turning into a member in case 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)
Good for: Out of doors fanatics, 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 lively weekend getaways from Philadelphia.

The place to Keep in Jim Thorpe

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

High 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 Japanese European delicacies with vegetarian choices
Marion Hose Bar: Craft cocktails and small plates in a former firehouse
Broadway Grille: Traditional American fare in a historic lodge

Finest Time to Go to Jim Thorpe

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

Native Tip for Jim Thorpe

Park within the County car parking zone for $6/day and stroll into city, as avenue parking is proscribed. For out of doors 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)
Good for: Tradition lovers, historical past fanatics, 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 one of the cultured small cities close to Philadelphia for a weekend escape.

The place to Keep in Doylestown

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

High 5 Issues to Do in Doylestown

Discover the Mercer Museum, a concrete citadel 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
Chill out at Doylestown’s Central Park with gardens and strolling paths

The place to Eat in Doylestown

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

Finest Time to Go to Doylestown

Yr-round enchantment with indoor cultural points of interest
Summer time: Out of doors eating and Doylestown Arts Pageant
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 shortly, so ebook prematurely on-line. Park within the Bucks County Parking Storage for straightforward 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.

Purchasing on Talbot St in St. Michaels MD | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

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

This picturesque Chesapeake Bay city provides maritime attraction, waterfront views, and a relaxed coastal environment that feels worlds away from metropolis life, creating one of the refreshing weekend journeys from Philadelphia for these looking 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 Lodge: Stylishly renovated boutique lodge with fashionable facilities in a historic setting

High 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
Lease bicycles to discover the flat, scenic roads round city

The place to Eat in St. Michaels

Finest Time to Go to St. Michaels

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

Native Tip for St. Michaels

Make dinner reservations effectively prematurely for summer time weekends, particularly for waterfront eating places. For the perfect expertise of St. Michaels, keep at the least two nights to get pleasure from 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 lodge | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

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

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

The place to Keep in Kent Narrows

High 6 Issues to Do in Kent Narrows

Benefit from the well-known Kent Narrows sunsets from waterfront eating places or lodge decks
Go to Ferry Level Park and climb the statement tower at Chesapeake Heritage and Customer Middle
Take a ship tour or fishing constitution from one of many native marinas
Discover the Cross Island Path for lovely 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

Finest Time to Go to Kent Narrows

Late Spring/Early Summer time: Good 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
Yr-round: Many eating places stay open all year long

Native Tip for Kent Narrows

For the whole 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)
Good for: Craft beverage fanatics, eating, historic cinema followers

As soon as a metal city, Phoenixville has remodeled right into a vibrant group 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 possibility with kitchen suites close by
Staybridge Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge: Snug suites inside quick driving distance
Hilton Backyard Inn Valley Forge/Oaks: Trendy lodging near Phoenixville

High 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
Take pleasure in a film on the historic Colonial Theatre, well-known for the 1958 movie “The Blob”
Attend First Friday occasions with avenue 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

Finest Time to Go to Phoenixville

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

Native Tip for Phoenixville

For those who get pleasure from craft drinks, observe the “Phoenixville Pour Tour” to expertise the city’s spectacular assortment of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Park within the Primary and Bridge Streets municipal lot for straightforward downtown entry.

Planning Your Good 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 Purple Mill in Clinton, NJ – Hunterdon County | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

These eight locations symbolize the greatest weekend getaways from Philadelphia, every providing distinctive attraction and points of interest inside a brief drive of town. For an prolonged expertise, think about 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 an entire Japanese Shore expertise.

Sensible Planning Ideas for Your Weekend Escape

Finest 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 at the least 1-2 weeks forward for well-liked eating places
Transportation: Whereas having a automotive supplies probably 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 Middle Metropolis Philadelphia.

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

What’s the perfect small city for households close to Philadelphia? Peddlers Village is good 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 practice stations.

What’s the perfect 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 whole Japanese 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, purchasing, and cultural experiences. These weekend getaways close to Philadelphia show that generally the perfect holidays are proper in your yard.

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

Final Up to date: March 2025