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

Greatest 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 supply historic fundamental 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 intensive journey.

Good 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 season waterfront eating, spring backyard visits to cozy winter retreats, these small-town treasures supply the greatest issues to do close to Philadelphia once you want a break from metropolis life.

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

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

Distance from Philadelphia: 1 hour (40 miles)
Good 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 Principal Road. Simply throughout the Delaware River by way of a walkable bridge is Lambertville, NJ, creating one of the crucial romantic weekend journeys from Philadelphia when these sister cities are skilled collectively.

The place to Keep in New Hope & Lambertville

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

Prime 6 Issues to Do in New Hope & Lambertville

1. Stroll the scenic towpath alongside the Delaware Canal State Park
2. Browse Lambertville’s vintage retailers and artwork galleries (Bridge Road has the very best focus)
3. Catch a efficiency on the historic Bucks County Playhouse
4. Take a trip on the New Hope Railroad’s classic trains
5. Discover Hunterdon County points of interest simply minutes from Lambertville
6. Store at distinctive boutiques like Coronary heart of the Dwelling 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)
• Below 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 season: Outside 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 obtainable areas once you arrive.

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

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

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

Usually thought of a part of the higher New Hope space, Peddlers Village in Lahaska, PA deserves particular recognition as one of the crucial 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 good 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 choice with kitchen suites close by

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Peddlers Village

1. Store at distinctive boutiques like Greenology, Skip’s Sweet Nook, and Lace Silhouettes 
2. Go to throughout one of many seasonal festivals, such because the Apple Pageant, Scarecrow Pageant, or Gingerbread Competitors
3. Benefit from the fantastically maintained gardens and seasonal decorations
4. Go to Giggleberry Truthful, a household leisure middle with a restored 1922 carousel
5. 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 substances
• 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 attainable 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

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

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

Generally known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” Kennett Sq. provides way 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

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Kennett Sq.

1. Go to Longwood Gardens, one in all America’s premier horticultural shows (permit a minimum of 3-4 hours)
2. Discover State Road’s boutiques, galleries, and specialty retailers
3. Tour Phillips Mushroom Farm to find out about native mushroom cultivation
4. Go to close by Brandywine Valley wineries like Galer Property and Penns Woods
5. 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 12 months upfront!)
• 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 season: Pageant of Fountains with illuminated night reveals
• 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 upfront, particularly for particular occasions and vacation shows. Contemplate changing into a member in case you plan to go to greater than twice in a 12 months for vital financial savings and member preview days.

4. Jim Thorpe: Pennsylvania’s Mountain Gem

Distance from Philadelphia: 1.5 hours (80 miles)
Good for: Outside lovers, historical past buffs, surroundings seekers

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

The place to Keep in Jim Thorpe

• The Inn at Jim Thorpe: Victorian class 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

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

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 lodge

Greatest Time to Go to Jim Thorpe

• Summer season: Excellent for rafting, kayaking, biking, and mountain climbing
• 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 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 upfront throughout peak season.

5. Doylestown: Cultural Hub with Small City Appeal

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (35 miles)
Good 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 full of native companies, making it one of the crucial cultured small cities close to Philadelphia for a weekend escape.

The place to Keep in Doylestown

• The Doylestown Inn: Boutique lodging proper on Principal Road
• 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

1. Discover the Mercer Museum, a concrete fortress full of pre-industrial instruments and artifacts
2. Go to Fonthill Citadel, Henry Mercer’s eccentric concrete mansion with 44 rooms
3. Tour the James A. Michener Artwork Museum, that includes Pennsylvania Impressionist work
4. Stroll by the retailers and galleries of downtown’s walkable middle
5. Chill out at Doylestown’s Central Park with gardens and strolling paths

The place to Eat in Doylestown

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

Greatest Time to Go to Doylestown

• Yr-round attraction with indoor cultural points of interest
• Summer season: Outside eating and Doylestown Arts Pageant
• Fall: Lovely colours in close by Peace Valley Park
• Winter: Vacation decorations and fewer crowds at museums
• Spring: Blooming gardens at Fonthill Citadel

Native Tip for Doylestown

Buy a mixed ticket for the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Citadel to save cash. Fonthill Citadel excursions fill rapidly, so ebook upfront 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

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

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

This picturesque Chesapeake Bay city provides maritime attraction, waterfront views, and a relaxed coastal ambiance that feels worlds away from metropolis life, creating one of the crucial refreshing weekend journeys from Philadelphia for these searching for water and leisure.

The place to Keep in St. Michaels

• Inn at Perry Cabin: Luxurious waterfront resort with crusing and spa providers
• The Wildset Lodge: Stylishly renovated boutique lodge with trendy facilities in a historic setting

Prime Issues to Do in St. Michaels

1. Discover 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. Store the boutiques and galleries alongside Talbot Road (over 50 retailers in walkable downtown)
4. Tour and style at Lyon Distilling Firm and St. Michaels Vineyard
5. Lease 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: Good climate and fewer crowds
• Summer season: 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 effectively upfront for summer season weekends, particularly for waterfront eating places. For one of the best expertise of St. Michaels, keep a minimum of 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

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

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

Situated alongside Maryland’s Jap Shore, Kent Narrows is a waterfront paradise identified for its unbelievable seafood eating places, marina tradition, and gorgeous Chesapeake Bay views. This slim waterway connecting the Chester River and Jap Bay provides 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

1. Benefit from the well-known Kent Narrows sunsets from waterfront eating places or lodge decks
2. Go to Ferry Level Park and climb the remark tower at Chesapeake Heritage and Customer Heart
3. Take a ship tour or fishing constitution from one of many native marinas
4. Discover the Cross Island Path for lovely waterfront views (good for biking or strolling)
5. Go to the Maryland Watermen’s Monument on the entrance to Fisherman’s Village
6. 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 season: Good temperatures and fewer crowds
• Summer season: 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 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 attempting Maryland’s well-known steamed blue crabs and a signature Orange Crush cocktail.

8. Phoenixville: Revitalized Small City with City Power

Distance from Philadelphia: 45 minutes (28 miles)
Good 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 good 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: Snug suites inside quick driving distance
• Hilton Backyard Inn Valley Forge/Oaks: Trendy lodging near Phoenixville

Prime 5 Issues to Do in Phoenixville

1. Discover Bridge Road’s retailers, galleries, and eating places (over 30 in walkable downtown)
2. Go to Bluebird Distilling for craft spirits tasting and distillery excursions
3. Take pleasure in a film on the historic Colonial Theatre, well-known for the 1958 movie “The Blob”
4. Attend First Friday occasions with road performances and prolonged retailer hours
5. 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

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

Native Tip for Phoenixville

For those who 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 Principal and Bridge Streets municipal lot for straightforward downtown entry.

Planning Your Good Small City Getaway from Philadelphia

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

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 a protracted weekend, as can Doylestown and Phoenixville.

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

Sensible Planning Suggestions for Your Weekend Escape

1. Greatest Time to Go to: Spring and fall supply nice climate and fewer crowds at most locations
2. Lodging Reserving: Reserve rooms 2-3 months upfront for weekend stays, particularly throughout summer season and fall foliage season
3. Eating Reservations: Make dinner reservations a minimum of 1-2 weeks forward for standard eating places
4. Transportation: Whereas having a automobile gives probably the most flexibility, SEPTA trains attain Doylestown and close by stations to Phoenixville
5. 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 greatest for a romantic weekend getaway? New Hope and Lambertville supply probably the most romantic ambiance, with riverside walks, intimate eating places, and charming lodging just like the River Home at Odettes.

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

Can I go to these cities utilizing public transportation? Doylestown is straight accessible by way of SEPTA Regional Rail. Others require a automobile or rideshare providers from close by practice stations.

What’s one of the 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.

Regardless 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 generally one of the 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