9 Best Day Trips and Weekend Getaways From Southern Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania and the surrounding states are full of many historical towns, popular cities, and famous beaches. Being along the East Coast and close to our nation’s capital, there is so much to see and do. If you are looking for the best day trips from southern Pennsylvania or a fun weekend getaway with family, friends, or even solo, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you enjoy the mountains, beaches, history, art, sports, or adventure – this list has it all! Make your road trip possible with a new car loan or refinance with 1st Ed Credit Union. With our competitive rates, you can put more money in your pocket to take the vacation you deserve.
1. Gettysburg, PA
Day Trip Distance: Less than an hour
Gettysburg is a must-see destination when taking a day trip from Pennsylvania. The small, quaint town is filled with history from The Battle of Gettysburg which lasted for 3 days during the Civil War in 1863.
We recommend visiting the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center with a variety of exhibits and artifacts. Following the museum, go to the battlefield at Gettysburg National Military Park to see where it all took place.
The city is also filled with amazing food tours and breweries!
2. Philadelphia, PA
Day Trip Distance: 2.5 hours
If a trip involving Philly Cheesesteaks, a visit to the Liberty Bell, and a history of our Founding Fathers excites you – then a trip to Philadelphia is right up your alley. Get a “Taste of Philly” when you experience Philadelphia’s food, culture, and history.
Enjoy a free visit to the Liberty Bell Center to take a photo in front of the iconic Liberty Bell which represents our country’s freedom. While you’re in town, stop by a few of their many museums and attractions. Of course, you can’t leave until you try one of these best restaurants for Philly Cheesesteaks.
3. Washington D.C.
Day Trip Distance: 2 hours
D.C. is full of history, politics, arts, and culture. The city is full of year-round events for all ages. You can visit the U.S. Capitol and even attend an event while you are in town. The city is also home to many Smithsonian Museums. Be sure to plan ahead for the locations you want to visit!
For more things to do, go to a festival, see the National Gallery of Art, or catch a baseball game at the Washington Nationals Stadium.
With so many things to do, you can purchase The Washington D.C. Sightseeing Pass for a well-rounded experience during your day trip or weekend getaway from PA.
4. Pocono Mountains, PA
Day Trip Distance: 2.5 hours
The Poconos are in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania, and a gorgeous area for a romantic getaway or family vacation. Lehigh Gorge State Park presents a beautiful mountainous scenery with activities like white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and spotting waterfalls. While you’re there, enjoy a train ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway from Jim Thorpe into Lehigh Gorge State Park.
The Poconos has a variety of resorts for families, romantic getaways, or luxury travel. Depending on the location, enjoy some outdoor activities for the family like horseback riding, NASCAR racing, skydiving with spectacular views, and so much more!
5. Hershey, PA
Day Trip Distance: 1 hour
Hershey, “The Sweetest Place on Earth” was named after Milton Hershey, creator of Hershey Chocolates. See what it really means to be a kid at a candy store at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Don’t miss the 30 minute free ride on the Chocolate Tour to watch the entire process of how a chocolate bar is made.
For other things to do in Hershey, visit the HersheyPark theme park, the local Zoo, visit Milton Hershey’s mansion, or stay at one of their many resorts.
6. Baltimore, MD
Day Trip Distance: 1.5 hours
Baltimore, MD is the historical city where the 30-foot-by-42-foot Star-Spangled Banner was made by Mary Pickersgill in 1793. Visit the Star-Spangled Banner House to see where it was made and learn about the history.
Another must-see for the family is the National Aquarium. This is one of the top US aquariums with award-winning exhibits. For baseball fans, catch a game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, home of the Baltimore Orioles!
You will have a fun-filled and packed day when you visit Baltimore during your day trip from Pennsylvania.
7. Liberty State Park, NJ
Day Trip Distance: 3.5 hours
Catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island from Liberty State Park. The Statue of Liberty was built in 1924, and is the most iconic monument in the US.
If you love camping, stay at one of the many campground sites nearby. Enjoy some hiking, fishing, and water activities in the area.
8. Rehoboth Beach, DE
Day Trip Distance: 3.5 hours
Rehoboth Beach is a popular and fun beach that attracts visitors all throughout the year. Enjoy some time on the boardwalk, visit the amusement park, or catch one of their many events, including festivals, concerts, and wine tasting.
Make sure to plan ahead with Rehoboth Beach, as this is a very popular destination and books up fast! If you enjoy camping, stay at one of their many nearby campgrounds.
9. Dewey Beach, DE
Day Trip Distance: 3.5 hours
If you enjoy nightlife and adventure, Dewey Beach is your go-to spot for a Pennsylvania road trip getaway. The area is filled with local restaurants and bars with upbeat live music and dancing. The beach is also full of adventure, like parasailing, surfing, kayaking, waterskiing, and other watersports.
If you’re in the area this fall, don’t miss out on Fifer’s Farm. It’s a local’s favorite with a 6-acre Jurassic Maze and tractor train rides!
Ready for one of These Day Trips or Weekend Getaways from Pennsylvania? 1st Ed Can Help!
We know the costs of vacations can add up, even when you’re not driving far. Whether you’ve purchased a new car for your adventure, or taking the go-to family vehicle, choose 1st Ed for your auto loan or refinance.
With our low rate auto loans, you can put more cash in your pocket to take the vacation you deserve.
1st Ed Credit Union is located in Southern Pennsylvania, serving students and staff of schools in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, and York Counties, and more! Visit our website for membership eligibility.