Day Trips from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Famous as the birthplace of American independence, Philadelphia is a city brimming with history, art, and vibrant neighborhoods. But just beyond the city limits, I discovered as a local and during my return road trip adventures that Pennsylvania (and its nearby states) offer countless escapes with a mix of nature, culture, and charm. Within a couple of hours’ drive, you can find rolling countryside, quaint small towns, lush forests, and seaside havens. Here are the unforgettable day trips that have made my time in the region so special that I think you will love too.
1. Chanticleer Garden (40 minutes)
This enchanting garden oasis swept me away with its whimsical design, lush plantings, and serene pockets of natural beauty — all tucked into the rolling countryside of Pennsylvania. I stayed at Wayne Hotel neaby for two nights. What struck me most was how it balanced artistry and wildness: every path, border, and vignette felt thoughtfully curated, yet the garden still hummed with an effortless, organic charm.
I spent a full day wandering through themed sections like the lush Asian Woods, the intimate Tea Cup Garden, and the exuberant Flowering Lawn. The Ruin Garden — a crumbling stone “mansion” repurposed into a lushly planted architectural folly — felt like stepping into a dream. Everywhere I turned, there were surprises: hidden ponds, playful sculptures, and bursts of seasonal color.
Locals told me Chanticleer Garden shifts dramatically through the year: spring dazzles with bulbs and blossoming trees, summer brims with exuberant perennials, autumn glows with fiery foliage, and even winter has its quiet, sculptural beauty. Unlike many formal gardens, it manages to feel creative, modern, and deeply personal — almost like walking through a living artwork.
And while it’s far less crowded (and far more affordable) than many better-known gardens, the charm is just as high. Bring a picnic and plan to linger!
2. Doylestown (1 hour)
This charming small town completely won me over with its blend of historic architecture, eclectic museums, boutique shopping, and a lively dining scene — all wrapped in a walkable, artsy vibe. I loved how it managed to feel both cultured and cozy at the same time! Just an hour by car from from Philadelphia, we stayed at The Doylestown Inn for two nights.
I strolled through the heart of downtown, where 19th-century brick buildings house cafés, galleries, and indie shops. The Mercer Museum felt like stepping back in time, with its soaring stone walls and curious collection of pre-industrial tools, while Fonthill Castle showed off Henry Mercer’s eccentric concrete craftsmanship in a fairytale-like mansion. The Michener Art Museum added a contemporary flourish, with serene courtyards and exhibits spotlighting Pennsylvania Impressionists.
Locals told me the town buzzes year-round: lively street festivals in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, sparkling lights in winter, and springtime farmers’ markets that spill over with local produce and flowers. Despite its sophistication, Doylestown still feels approachable — a mix of small-town warmth and cultural depth.
My personal highlight was an amazing BLT at The Hattery Stove & Still downtown where are refueled for lunch.
3. Baltimore, MD (1 hour)
Dating from 1729, Baltimore is a historic port city that blends maritime heritage with modern vibrancy. Walking through its diverse neighborhoods felt like stepping into layers of American history — from cobblestoned streets and red-brick rowhouses to bustling waterfront promenades.
Traveling from Washington, D.C., I made the short 1-hour drive north on I-95 to Baltimore, where I spent a long weekend at the 4-star Baltimore Marriott Waterfront. I explored the renowned Inner Harbor, toured the historic ships, browsed the stalls of Lexington Market, admired masterpieces at the Walters Art Museum, and wandered through Fell’s Point with its lively pubs and waterfront views that completely won me over. I also ventured out to Fort McHenry, where the Star-Spangled Banner was born, and strolled through Mount Vernon to see its monuments and cultural landmarks.
4. Longwood Gardens (50 minutes)
This place felt like stepping into a dream — with fountains leaping sky-high, vast greenhouses brimming with orchids and palms, and outdoor gardens that seemed to stretch forever. The contrasts — from formal Italian-inspired water features to wild meadows buzzing with pollinators — left me constantly wide-eyed.
I made Longwood Gardens the final stop on my Pennsylvania trip. From Philadelphia, it was just an easy one-hour drive southwest to Kennett Square, tucked in the rolling Brandywine Valley.
My visit was packed with discoveries — wandering the Flower Garden Walk in full bloom, getting lost (in the best way) inside the grand Conservatory, watching the magical Illuminated Fountain Performance at night, and strolling through the Meadow Garden where nature and artistry blended seamlessly.
5. Exton, Pennsylvania: 40 minutes by car
Just a quick 45-minute drive from Philadelphia, Exton made for the perfect little escape from the city — equal parts nature, history, and easygoing charm.
I started the morning on the Chester Valley Trail, renting a bike and cruising through miles of farmland and quiet woods. The crisp air and rolling fields felt worlds away from Philly’s bustle. By midday, I headed over to Marsh Creek State Park for a picnic by the lake and a short paddle on the water — a serene break with herons gliding overhead.
Afterward, I explored Main Street at Exton, where boutiques and cafés made for a relaxed afternoon stroll (and a much-needed iced coffee). On my way back east, I detoured through the Brandywine Valley, stopping at a farm stand for fresh peaches and cider donuts before rolling back into the city.
6. Bensalem
Just 25 minutes north of Philadelphia, Bensalem turned out to be an easy day trip that mixed riverside calm with bursts of energy. It’s one of those places where you can spend the morning in nature, the afternoon shopping, and the evening at a lively casino — all without much driving around.
I started at Neshaminy State Park (free), where trails weave through woodlands and open up to views of the Delaware River. Sitting by the water with boats drifting past felt like a world away from city noise. Later, I ducked into Parx Casino, Bensalem’s big entertainment draw — a whirlwind of dining, music, and games that contrasted nicely with the park’s quiet vibe.
For something lower-key, Neshaminy Mall offered a classic, retro kind of shopping stop, and nearby local restaurants served up everything from hearty Italian to casual diners. By late afternoon, I wandered along the Delaware River again to watch the sky soften over the water before heading back to Philly.
7. Lapp Valley Farm (1 hour, 20 minutes)
Tucked away in the rolling countryside of Lancaster County, Lapp Valley Farm felt like stepping into a slower, sweeter world. The drive out itself — past horse-drawn buggies, cornfields, and red barns — set the tone for a day rooted in tradition and simple pleasures.
The farm is best known for its homemade ice cream, churned with milk and cream from their own Jersey cows. Watching the cows in the pasture and then savoring a cone of rich butter pecan or fresh peach ice cream made the experience feel both authentic and indulgent. The waffle cones, still warm and crisp from the iron, made it unforgettable.
Beyond ice cream, the farm offered glimpses into daily Amish life — from the rhythm of farm chores to children running barefoot across the yard. I wandered between the barns, met a few friendly calves, and lingered on the porch to take in the wide-open skies.
8. Six Flags Great Adventure (1 hour)
If adrenaline had a home, it would be Six Flags Great Adventure. Just over an hour from both Philadelphia and New York City, this massive New Jersey theme park had me grinning, screaming, and wide-eyed all in a single day. The sheer scale is staggering — towering coasters rising above the treeline, colorful rides spinning and swooping, and the hum of excitement everywhere you go.
I kicked things off with Kingda Ka, the world’s tallest roller coaster, which launched me 456 feet into the sky in seconds (and yes, my heart was still racing long after). From there it was a blur of iconic rides — the smooth gliding turns of Nitro, the floorless drops of Bizarro, and the wild chaos of El Toro, one of the best wooden coasters anywhere.
But Great Adventure isn’t just rides — the park is also home to the Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure, where I cruised past giraffes, rhinos, and even lions, all from the comfort of my car. It was a surreal change of pace to go from roller coasters to a safari in the same afternoon.
9. New York City Spring Trip from Philadelphia
A spring trip to New York City from Philadelphia felt like hitting the refresh button — trading Philly’s familiar streets for the nonstop energy, color, and bloom of Manhattan in April. With the train from 30th Street Station whisking me to Penn Station in under 90 minutes, it was seamless to turn a day (or two) into an unforgettable urban escape.
I spent the morning wandering Central Park, where cherry blossoms framed the Bow Bridge, tulips lined the paths, and rowboats drifted lazily across the lake. From there, I walked down Fifth Avenue, soaking up the shop windows and stopping for a coffee at a cozy corner café.
Spring in New York means the city itself feels like it’s waking up — restaurant patios buzzing, art spilling into the streets, and rooftop bars reopening with skyline views. I ducked into the Metropolitan Museum of Art for an afternoon of timeless masterpieces, then strolled the High Line, where fresh blooms and city views made the walk feel both vibrant and serene.
Conclusion
What these places gave us was a shift in pace. From the elegance of Longwood Gardens to the joy of a ride at Six Flags, each day felt like its own little story. And sometimes that’s all we need: a new scene, a shared laugh, and a bit of quiet outside the buzz. If you're based in Philly, these destinations offer a great way to reconnect with each other.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
