Philadelphia is a very fun and entertaining city to visit, especially if you are a history lover. It makes for a great weekend trip as there are many fun cheap things to do and places to eat, and a great place to base yourself as there are many amazing day trips from Philadelphia. Plan to spend at least a week in Philadelphia if you want to explore the surrounding area.
US Ghost Adventures is an awesome company that offers a variety of guided tours and haunted experiences across different cities in the United States. Visitors can learn the compelling history and stories of the paranormal and the city’s darker side. Make sure to check out the variety of tours offered in Philadelphia here. They are very affordable too!
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Where to Stay in Philadelphia
TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Search for the best Philadelphia hotels here! Other options include the following hotels.
- Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center
- Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia City Center
- Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
- Aloft Philadelphia Downtown
Best Day Trips from Philadelphia: Under 1 Hour
Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
Valley Forge is one of the best day trips from Philadelphia, especially for people interested in Revolutionary War history. Valley Forge is located about 24 miles northwest of Philadelphia and will take about 30-40 minutes to drive to.
You will need a car to get here as there is not great public transportation available. This self-driving tour is a great option. If you have a larger group, you may like this all inclusive tour.
Valley Forge is worth a day trip because it is such a historical place from the American Revolution. George Washington and his army spent a very harsh winter camping here, so it is interesting to see where they lived and what battles were fought in the area. It is run by the National Park Service, so there is a lot of historical information posted around the park.
Visitors can opt to drive, walk, or bike around the park to see all of the stops. In addition, you can spend time in the visitor’s center where they have an informational film and exhibits. Children may like becoming a Junior Ranger!
You will want to spend at least half a day here or more if you end up walking around the entire site. Make sure to attend a Ranger Program for getting the most information. You can check in on the times at the visitor’s center.
Haverford: The Main Line, Pennsylvania
By Amber of Amber Everywhere
Just a 30 minute (8 mile) drive from Philadelphia is the Main Line, one of the oldest suburbs in the United States. The Main Line is not a single place, but instead a collection of towns that extend along the “Main Line” train line that runs from Philadelphia to Pittsburg via Harrisburg.
There are a few towns along the Main Line that are one of the best day trips from Philadelphia. The best way to see the Main Line is to make a few stops to enjoy the scenery and variety of each town.
Haverford has a cute town center and is home to Haverford College, where you can spend an hour walking along the nature trail that encircles the campus. Ardmore has a modern shopping mall and covered farmers market on one side of the train tracks and an adorable historic downtown on the other side. The town of Wayne is also very cute, with the Griffon Cafe and a cinema.
If you make it all of the way to Malvern, don’t miss the Malvern Buttery – a little cafe with great food and coffee. The easiest way to reach the Main Line from Philly is to take the PAO Paoli/Thorndale Line that runs from Temple University to Malvern. However, it’ll be easier to see everything you might want to see if you drive and park in each town.
Wilmington, Delaware
By Susan of Gen X Traveler
Wilmington, Delaware, is one of the amazing day trips from Philadelphia, just a 40-minute drive away, offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities for all ages. The Wilmington Riverfront is a hub for entertainment, dining, and shopping. Enjoy a concert in Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park or take in a first run film at the IMAX Theater. Sports enthusiasts can catch a Wilmington Blue Rocks baseball game, see a minor league basketball game or visit the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame.
Docked at the Copeland Maritime Center on the riverfront. The Kalmar Nyckel, Delaware’s official Tall Ship, is a floating classroom offering visitors hands-on historical experiences. Families will love the Delaware Children’s Museum, a kid-focused museum that engages children’s creativity through play and informal learning. Learners of all ages will love the newly renovated Delaware Museum of Nature and Science offers large interactive exhibits across multiple dedicated galleries.
Art lovers can enjoy the performing arts at the Delaware Theatre Company or the Grand Opera House. Fine art enthusiasts can explore the Delaware Contemporary and the Delaware Art Museum both feature collections from local, regional, and international artists. Don’t miss the Copeland Sculpture Garden located on the grounds of the Delaware Art Museum.
The Brandywine Valley, once dominated by the DuPont family, features stunning public estates and gardens each with its own distinctive style. Outdoorsy types will find tons to do. Visit one of Delaware’s State Parks. Lum’s Pond State Park features GO Ape Treetop Adventures offering rope courses and zip line adventures. Alapocas Run State Park holds the only natural rock-climbing wall in Delaware and offers wonderful biking and hiking trails.
Canoeing, kayaking, and tubing on the Brandywine River are also popular outdoor activities. Take a bike ride along the scenic 5.5-mile Jack A. Markell Trail connecting Wilmington to Historic New Castle. Explore the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge along the way. Wilmington’s diverse attractions make it a great day trip destination from Philadelphia.
Best Day Trips from Philadelphia: 1-2 Hours
Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania
By Tim of Fork & Wander
The Brandywine Valley is a picturesque region in southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware, known for its rolling hills, scenic countryside, and charming small towns. Located an hour southwest of Center City Philadelphia, it’s an easy drive, perfect for a day trip. The region is famous for its gardens, museums, historic sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
A highlight of any visit to the area is a stop at either of the two amazing gardens. Longwood Gardens is a historic botanical garden located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. The gardens feature impressive fountains, an Italian water garden with impressive statues, a tranquil and peaceful grotto, a breathtaking conservatory, and a beautiful meadow garden.
A highlight of a visit to Longwood is the daily fountain performances in the Main Fountain Garden. It’s an incredible show with over 1,700 jets spinning and dancing to music. Returning for 2024 is the Fireworks & Fountains Show, which requires special tickets and features reserved seating for guests.
Winterthur Gardens and Museum is a beautiful destination rich in history and culture. Located in Winterthur, Delaware, this stunning estate has an impressive collection of art and antiques and an incredible woodland garden. The gardens are perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Around the Brandywine Valley, there are small towns to explore; one of the most popular is Chadds Ford. It is known for its historic sites, including the Brandywine Battlefield and the Brandywine River Museum of Art. Another town worth checking out is Kennett Square, home to Longwood Gardens.
A visit to this area demands a stop at Terrain. The concept originated at the Glen Mills location near Chadds Ford. It’s a beautiful home and garden store that is fun to browse and a great place to eat. No matter what, the Brandywine Valley is one of the best day trips from Philadelphia.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
By Travel Addicted Unicorn
Atlantic City, New Jersey, is approximately 60 miles from Philadelphia, making it a convenient quick getaway and one of the best day trips from Philadelphia. The drive typically takes about an hour and a half, depending on traffic.
To get there, you can take the Atlantic City Expressway directly from Philadelphia, which is a straightforward route and offers a smooth drive. If you prefer not to drive, there are also train and bus services available, such as NJ Transit’s Atlantic City Rail Line, which connects Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station to Atlantic City, providing a comfortable and scenic journey.
Atlantic City offers a lively atmosphere and a diverse range of activities. Known for its iconic Boardwalk, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the ocean, explore numerous shops, and indulge in delicious boardwalk treats such as the Salt Water Taffy. The city’s famous casinos, like Caesars, Borgata, and Harrah’s, offer gaming, entertainment, and dining options.
Additionally, Atlantic City has a long beach strip, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. For those interested in culture and history, the Absecon Lighthouse and the Atlantic City Historical Museum provide intriguing insights into the area’s past. Also, the Steel Pier amusement park offers fun rides and attractions for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the Tanger Outlets, featuring a wide range of stores. A few tips for making the most of your day trip: check the weather forecast to ensure a pleasant beach and boardwalk experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops for the beach, and plan your visit during weekdays if possible to avoid the weekend crowds. Atlantic City offers a perfect day trip from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia, packed with activities that cater to all interests.
Allentown, Pennsylvania
By Ossama of Awesome Traveler
Located 1 hour and 47 minutes away from Philadelphia, Allentown is a charming city that is culturally and historically significant. The queen city is worth the visit during your road trip from Philadelphia because it is brimming with activities that locals and tourists of all ages can enjoy.
For starters, Allentown is the home of two well known amusement parks. You can enjoy water slides at Wildwater Kingdom, or adrenaline pumping roller coasters at Dorney Park. Both offer some thrilling adventures that can awaken the kids spirit within you, so you should pay them a visit.
This amazing city is also the home to some amazing museums that you can visit. Located in Allentown downtown, the Allentown Art Museum contains some cultural heritage artwork that dated back to 2,000 years ago. You can also visit the Museum of Indian Culture to learn about the first inhabitants of the United States. There are some illustrated tools, artifacts, jewelries, and potteries that were recovered from archeological sites.
Not to forget, the Miller Symphony Hall, which is the home of the Allentown Symphony Orchestra. They offer some amazing classical music and pop performances that are suitable for the whole family, thus making it one of the best day trips from Philadelphia.
A fun way to discover Allentown is by taking a self-guided scavenger hunt like this one.
If you are looking for a thrilling adventure that both kids and adults can enjoy, then you should visit the Lehigh Valley Grand Prix. It is an indoor go-kart race that speeds for about 45 miles per hour. Coca-Cola Park is another must visit destination because it hosts many events all over the year, so check their calendar for some events.
Lititz, Pennsylvania
By Annick of The Common Traveler
The quaint town of Lititz, Pennsylvania, is just an hour and a half (about 76 miles) from Philadelphia. If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Philadelphia, including chocolate and a walkable Main Street, then add Lititz to your bucket list!
Embarking on a journey to Lititz is a breeze – a scenic drive on Interstate 76, a turn onto US-222, and a final stretch on PA-772 will lead you to the heart of downtown Lititz in beautiful Lancaster County. No wonder Lititz was crowned the “Coolest Small Town” by Budget Travel Magazine.
If you’re a foodie, the Lititz is the perfect match! From making your own pretzel to seeing chocolate made, a food tour is a great way to experience this town.
For the avid shopper, Lititz’s charming boutiques and small shops are a treasure trove waiting to be discovered! A leisurely walk along Lititz’s Main and side streets unveils a variety of stores offering locally crafted products, delectable baked treats, and even a refreshing craft beer.
Visit on the second Friday of every month when the town comes alive! Enjoy live music and dancers, as well as artists of all types. Or visit in October when Lititz hosts its annual chocolate walk, where you can sample chocolate offerings at more than 25 different venues.
Although you can explore this charming town at your own pace, if you are into history, check out this walking tour.
Easton, Pennsylvania
By Briann of A Traveling Life
The vibrant college town of Easton sits on the eastern bank of the Delaware River about 80 miles directly north of Philadelphia. Home to Lafayette College, Easton is an easy day trip if you’re looking for a walkable downtown with a booming food and drink scene. If you’re traveling with kids, your first stop will likely be the Crayola Experience right at Centre Square–Easton is where Binney & Smith produced the first Crayola crayons in 1903.
Easton is also known for being home to the longest-running outdoor farmers market in the U.S.–it was established in 1752. You can check it out on Saturday mornings from May to December along the river. For lunch, head to Easton Public Market on Northampton St. There, you’ll find everything from ramen to pizza to barbeque, along with a year-round farm stand. Or, choose from one of the many notable downtown restaurants, like Aman’s Artisan Indian Cuisine, 3rd & Ferry Fish Market or Thyme Rooftop Grille.
For shopping, Mercantile carries unique, vintage and handmade items, and Belleville Market features 70+ merchants under one roof. If you can, time your visit to coincide with one of Easton’s many festivals and events, like Bacon Fest, Heritage Day or the Winter Village, or get tickets to a matinee performance at the historic State Theater. These things make it one of the best day trips from Philadelphia.
Driving to Easton is your easiest option–depending on your route, it’s about 1 hour and 45 minutes. You can find street parking or park at the 4th Street Parking Garage behind the Public Market. Unfortunately, the only public transportation option is FlixBus, which takes you to William Penn Park & Ride–from there, it’s about a 15-minute Uber ride to downtown.
Best Day Trips from Philadelphia: 2+ Hours
New York City, New York
By Lanie of Make More Adventures
Less than 100 miles northwest of Philadelphia is New York City. It is one of the best day trips from Philadelphia you can take.
It takes about 2 hours to get to NYC from Philadelphia by car, bus, or train. The easiest way to get from Philadelphia to NYC is by taking an Amtrak train to Penn Station. Depending on the time of day, you may be able to get there in just slightly over an hour! Once you arrive in New York City, it is easy to get around without a car, and there is plenty to do.
With just a day in the city, it is best to stick to a neighborhood or two or even take a tour. That way you can see a lot in a small amount of time. Food tours are a great way to learn about a neighborhood and try a lot of different things that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to try in a day.
Other popular things to do include walking the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan, strolling through Central Park, seeing a Broadway show (go on a Wednesday or a weekend for the matinee), or wandering through a museum.
NYC has so much to offer, and though you can’t see it all in a day, the truth is, you likely can’t ever see it all. That’s why NYC makes such a great day trip and is even more fun when you visit in the wintertime. Your day can be packed with fun new experiences, and you’ll never be bored.
Final Thoughts About the Best Day Trips from Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a seriously underrated city in the United States. People often think of visiting Boston, NYC, or Washington, DC when wanting to learn about the history of the United States, but Philadelphia is often overlooked. It is a fantastic place to base yourself to take some of the best day trips from Philadelphia as well as spend some time seeing what the city has to offer. Other fun day trips from Philadelphia include Cape May, Hershey, Lancaster, Baltimore, and Trenton.
