Searching for Pennsylvania Dutch culture, local charm, and scenic farmland? Visit Kutztown! Nestled between rolling hills, Kutztown blends small-town warmth with rich folk traditions, farm-fresh markets, and a vibrant arts and college scene.
Kutztown, PA Highlights:
- For Families: Visit the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center – Step back in time at this open-air museum preserving PA Dutch traditions.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike the trails at Kutztown Park – Enjoy open spaces, walking paths, and seasonal events in a community green space.
- For Kids: Tour Rodale Institute’s organic farm – Learn about sustainable agriculture and see animals, greenhouses, and gardens.
- For an Adventure: Explore Hawk Mountain Sanctuary – Just 25 minutes away, it offers scenic hikes and incredible raptor-watching views.
- For Shoppers: Browse Renningers Antique and Farmers Market – Hunt vintage treasures, produce, and baked goods every weekend.
When I like to visit Kutztown, PA
The best time to visit Kutztown is in spring through fall (April to October), especially during festival season when weather is mild and countryside landscapes are at their most colorful.
Tips for getting to Kutztown, PA
- If you are traveling by car: Kutztown is just off U.S. Route 222, about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and 2.5 hours from New York City.
- By Bus: Bieber and other local carriers offer regional bus services to nearby Allentown and Reading.
- By Air: Lehigh Valley International Airport is just 30 minutes away, with car rentals and shuttles available.
Where I like to stay in Kutztown, PA
- Hampton Inn & Suites Kutztown – Modern hotel with breakfast, an indoor pool, and quick access to Kutztown University.
- Main Street Inn – Elegant Victorian-style bed and breakfast in the heart of downtown.
- Bear Creek Mountain Resort – Just 25 minutes away, offers ski slopes, hiking trails, and a relaxing spa retreat.
Best Things to Do in Kutztown, PA
1. Crystal Cave
Limestone miners discovered Crystal Cave in November of 1871. Today’s guests can descend the 125 feet into the cave to discover some of nature’s wonders. Because of the enclosed conditions and flowing waters, this cave remains 54 degrees, but walking shoes and a jacket are suggested. The tour begins with a movie that about the cave’s history. Those who complete the tour can then enter the gift store to purchase apparel and bags of dirt. These bags are taken outside and used in the running sluice to pan for gemstones. Afterward, guests can get a treat at the ice cream parlor or restaurant, and do some golfing at the miniature golf course.
Address: 963 Crystal Cave Rad, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-6765
2. Stay Overnight at the Rodale Institute Farm
Originally named the Soil and Health Foundation, the Rodale Institute is the birthplace of the organic food movement. Back in the 1930s, J.I. Rodale and his wife purchased a rundown farm in Kutztown with the hope of growing farm without pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Since its conception, the Rodale Institute has published several works advocating the organic agricultural movement. Now made up of several campuses and farms, visitors to the Rodale Institute Founders Farm can stay overnight on the farm and visit the apiary and original farm grounds. Those who visit the institute can take part in one of the many classes and workshops to learn more about organic farming.
Address: 611 Siegfriedale Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-1400
3. Setter Ridge Vineyards
Family owned by the Blair family, Setter Ridge Vineyards has been making wine since 2004. The Blairs believe the cool mountains of Pennsylvania are the most similar to Northern European wine country, so Setter wines are closest to French wines.
The tasting room in the vineyard is open every day, and guests can purchase a flight of wine (five wines) or a tasting to try the various wines available on site. Guests can visit the winery to see operations. Today’s gravity flow winery is three stories, the basement being built into the hillside to keep temperatures at a constant 58 degrees.
Address: 99 Dietrich Valley Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-8463
Recommended Activities for Families
4. Allentown and Auburn Railroad
Pennsylvania has a proud railroad heritage. The Allentown and Auburn Railroad wants to showcase some of the deep history found in areas like Kutztown. The living museum has roots way back in 1853, when it was an active railroad line.
Today’s guests can ride the 4 ½-mile track on one of the old train cars. Though they only have one passenger car, they have several caboose cars and an open-air car for those interested in seeing what riding the rails is like outside the passenger car. Special events are held often, such as a night time ride or a Father’s Day ride and lunch. Seats are not assigned, so tickets and seating are on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Address: 232 Railroad Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 570-778-7531
5. Kutztown Fairgrounds
No visit to a city would be complete without a trek to the fairgrounds, which showcases the best the city has to offer. The Kutztown Fairgrounds has undergone many changes and owners since its original founding in 1831 as a military fair. Since then, there are a number of additions added, including a folk festival that celebrates the German heritage in the area. Along with a grandstand, stages, a beer garden, and a restaurant, the Kutztown Fairgrounds is home to Action Track USA. This dirt track is home to many motorsports and even tractor pulls.
Address: 450 Wentz Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-7696
For History Buffs
6. Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center
Visitors to Kutztown will find many German influences in the food, activities, and traditions of the locals. One place you may want to visit is the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at the University of Pennsylvania. This open-air, living museum is a place where guests can learn about the Pennsylvania Dutch folklore and culture.
Guests can tour the restored barn, house, schoolhouse, and other small buildings. Those interested, can look in the library for genealogical information. Many of the people who take part in this living museum go to events, like the Folk Festival, to spread the history of the area.
Address: 22 Luckenbill Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-1589
7. Kutztown Area Historical Society
A trip to Kutztown should include a look at some of the area’s history. Held in an 1892 school building, the Kutztown Area Historical Society is a museum and library in one.
Not only does this old building hold some fantastic artifacts, but the building itself was placed on the National Register of Historic Buildings in 1980 as a prime example of Victorian architecture. Visitors can check out one of the many non-circulated books on the premises or look at some of the exquisite objects, like original Keith Haring drawings, old farm and textile equipment, and 19th century toys and clothing. Those interested can also trace their genealogy with the help of historians.
Address: Normal Avenue, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-7697
Where to Eat
8. Saucony Creek Craft Brewery & Gastropub
Founded by former professional X Games snowboarder, Matt Lindenmuth, Saucony Creek Craft Brewery & Gastropub utilizes German and Belgium beer traditions.
Today, visitors to Saucony Creek Brewing can purchase any of the outrageous flavor profile beers offered, such as the xReserve Imperial Coffee Stout, Maple Mistress Ale, or Pa Preferred: Pepper Porter. The flavors aren’t the only wild thing, with names like Dad Jokes Brut IPA, Unicorns Driving Army Tanks, and Schnickelfritz Chocolate Stout, patrons can have as much fun picking out their beers as tasting them. Of course, the beer is just one edge to this sword, the gastropub features delicious pub-style food to accompany the beers, like pierogi fries and pork tots.
Address: 15032 Kutztown Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-3128
9. Basin Street Hotel, Restaurant, & Pub
What would eventually become the foundation of the Basin Street Hotel, Restaurant, & Pub began in 1876. After fires, rebuilds, renovation, and owner changes, what now stands as the Basin Street Hotel, Restaurant, & Pub is a great place to stop for an entertaining story and some great food.
Regulars and employees say that the building is haunted, but its up to visitors to decide if these are just stories are something more. Visitors can rent rooms upstairs for nightly or monthly stays, and then head downstairs to the pub and restaurant for some specialty cocktails, local beer, and pub-style food.
Address: 42 East Main Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-7900
My favorite local events:
- Kutztown Folk Festival (July) – One of America’s oldest folklife festivals, celebrating the region’s culture and crafts.
- Green Fair (Spring) – Hosted by Kutztown University, featuring sustainability talks, vendors, and activities.
- Renningers Antique Extravaganza (April, June, Sept) – A massive vintage market drawing collectors from across the region.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Kutztown, Pennsylvania:
- Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (25–30 min) – Scenic hikes and stunning birdwatching above the Appalachian ridgeline.
- Reading (25 min) – Visit the Reading Public Museum, Santander Arena, and the famous Pagoda.
- Allentown (30 min) – Explore the Allentown Art Museum, Dorney Park, or shop the Farmers Market.
- Fleetwood (10–15 min) – Enjoy small-town shops, local eats, and bike paths through farmland.
- Topton (10–15 min) – Stop by quaint diners or catch a local ballgame at the Topton Park fields.
- Virginville (10 min) – A quiet hamlet with countryside charm and beautiful drives.
Plan Your Trip