Southeastern PA Towns Perfect for a Romantic Getaway
“Day Tripper Mom” infers the material is primarily about taking day trips with children, and it is….but sometimes we need a little break from them. In fact, to keep your relationship healthy, you do need to get away, probably at least once a year. Although I would love a fabulous trip to Europe with my husband, the budget and our family’s schedule doesn’t allow for such things as of now. I’ve discovered with a little planning and research, you can take an overnight trip relatively close by and still feel like you experienced a romantic getaway. PA offers many wonderful small towns and interesting destinations, giving you plenty to keep you busy. Some are best at the holidays and others are wonderful during the fall season. All would be good during the spring and summer. I’ve selected these towns based on their beauty and charm, historical value, appealing shopping districts, and delightful dining options. Websites such as Trip Advisor can help you find the perfect B & B or hotel to ensure your stay is restful .
1. Old City/Society Hill
Although a neighborhood of Philadelphia and just 10 blocks or so from Center City, this section of the city feels more like a town and has a flavor all its own. Hands down my favorite to visit (I’ve been many times!) I love that there is always something new to explore (new museum, new restaurant, etc.) while maintaining a comparatively quiet charm, especially when you stroll through the historic Society Hill neighborhood. A bonus…Penn’s Landing is right there, giving you waterfront options as well. I could go on and on about all there is to do, but I won’t take the time to do that here. Check out my other Philadelphia posts for more helpful insights. Consider visitphilly.com to find a Philly Getaway package, which gives you money-savings perks such as area attraction tickets, dining gift cards, and free hotel parking when you book a hotel room!
2. Doylestown
A fairly small town north of Philadelphia, there is something pretty awesome about this place. I visited once to explore the Fonthill Castle/Mercer Museum and realized instantly that it would be a fabulous getaway spot. Of course the aforementioned attractions contribute immensely, but the downtown is endearing and just asks to be explored. The Michener Art Museum, Pearl Buck House, and Moravian Pottery and Tile Works are a few more of the sites worth visiting. doylestownalive.com/visiting.
3. New Hope
Another Bucks County treasure, this artistic haven situated nicely on the Delaware River and the canal boasts a dazzling array of cuisine and unique shopping options. Named one of “America’s Favorite Towns” by Travel & Leisure, New Hope caters to the traveler. Washington Crossing National Park is nearby for history lovers and the Bowman’s Hill Tower for breathtaking views of the Bucks County countryside. visitnewhope.com.
4. Chadds Ford
My husband and I celebrated our first anniversary here and I look back on that time fondly. The Brandywine Valley contains a plethora of distinguished attractions that appeal to the senses. From spectacular gardens and elegant mansions to historical landmarks and renowned art museums, you can easily fill a few days here soaking up the beauty! Longwood Gardens, Winterthur, the Brandywine Battlefield, and the Brandywine River Museum of Art are a few of the notables here. visitpa.com/pa/chadds-ford/attractions-activities.
5. Jim Thorpe
Consistently highly rated on “Best” lists for travel destinations, this quaint little town nestled in the scenic Lehigh Gorge is attractive any time of year but is particularly a fan favorite during autumn and the holidays. The walkable Victorian downtown, replete with culinary delights and cultural curiosities balances out the many outdoor recreational activities offered in the surrounding Lehigh Gorge State Park. Many visitors come for a chance to ride on the nostalgic Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Another winner with too many amenities to list! www.jimthorpe.org.
6. Strasburg
A true Pennsylvania Dutch experience complete with Amish attractions, this small town packs a big punch. Main Street offers a visual feast of gorgeous historic architecture and cute boutiques. The Strasburg Railroad offers a plethora of rail-related attractions to awaken your inner child. World-class entertainment awaits at the quintessential Sight and Sound Theatres and endless shopping at the nearby outlet malls. strasburgpa.com.
7. Bethlehem
Most recognized for their Christmas festivals, this historic town with a modern twist gives visitors a reason to come all year long. History lovers will rejoice at the array of tours, museums, and architecture to take them back to a simpler time in the Historic Moravian District boasting a designation on the National Register. More recent history focuses on the town’s industrial past as one of the nation’s supplier of steel and ships. Currently this college town (Moravian and also Lehigh University) has transformed into a lively and eclectic mecca of entertainment and the arts. The Banana Factory Arts Center and the SteelStacks outdoor venue are interesting destinations to explore. historicbethlehem.org/visit.
8. Chestnut Hill/Germantown
Get ready for a bumpy ride when you visit a town with the only road in the United States to be a National Historic Landmark! This town is the perfect blend of history and hipster, with little delights around every bend. Historic mansions have become luxurious living at its finest giving the visitor plenty of eye candy for a stroll on a beautiful spring or summer day. Glorious gardens abound including the whimsical Morris Arboretum and fascinating history awaits on the “Freedom’s Trail” in Germantown including the Cliveden Mansion, the site of the Battle of Germantown in the Revolutionary War. I highly recommend a trip here! chestnuthillpa.com/visit, www.freedomsbackyard.com.
9. Bryn Athyn
Although this town is downright tiny, you may consider it for a low-key getaway in Montgomery County’s best-kept secret. The Bryn Athyn Historic District (also on the National Register) boasts three magnificent architectural gems stemming from a religious community founded in the late 19th century. The cathedral, the Glencairn Museum, and the Cairnwood Estate are the highlights you don’t want to miss. Christmas tours and an event in June called “Landmarks in Lights” puts a special twist on these sites. The campus of Bryn Athyn College is situated in town, and nearby communities provide abundant lodging options. bahistoricdistrict.org.
10. Lititz
Named “America’s Coolest Small Town” in 2013, come discover the amenities that make it so cool. Create a pretzel at Julius Sturgis, the oldest commercial pretzel bakery or step back into the 18th century and see how life was lived at the Johannes Mueller House. Sweet treats abound as you go for a stroll downtown or wile away the time at the 200 year old Lititz Springs Park in the center of town. You can even take a walk on the wild side at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. lititzpa.com.
