Kutztown, PA: History, Crystal Cave & More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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