Our Favorite Day Trips for Every Weekend Vibe

Want to get away and take a break from all of the political chatter? Here are some ideas for adventuring around the region by train or car. The spots are all within two hours of Philadelphia, so you can leave in the morning and still return home by nightfall to sleep in your own bed 😴

🍷 For a Chill Wine-Tasting Experience: Penns Woods Winery

~45 minutes from Philly (driving)

Head out to this Delco winery for a vineyard tour, live music, and local beers, wines, ciders, and light bites.

😋 If You’re in a Foodie Mood: Lancaster, PA

~1 hour, 15 minutes from Philly (Amtrak)

While there’s lots to love about this small Central Pennsylvania city, the vibrance and diversity of Lancaster’s food scene stands out. Make sure you visit on a Saturday to check out the historic Central Market. If you opt to drive there, you can also feast on PA Dutch goodies at the country’s largest buffet, located a half-hour away from the city.

🏡 For Small-Town Vibes: Doylestown, PA

~1 hour, 20 minutes from Philly (SEPTA Regional Rail)

Surprisingly enough, this Bucks County town of less than 10,000 people can fill your day, whether you’d like to get lost in a quirky museum, hunt down little treats, or shop ’til you drop.

🏙️ If It’s a Lively Concrete Jungle You Seek: New York City

~1 hour, 30 min from Philly (Amtrak)

There’s just so much to do in the Big Apple. Explore neighborhoods! Eat your heart out! See a Broadway show! Planning a day trip here is really about choosing your own adventure.

⭐ To Celebrate Your Home State: Harrisburg, PA

~1 hour, 50 minutes from Philly (Amtrak)

Spend a day exploring Harrisburg, and you’ll likely come away with some fun Pennsylvania facts to share with your friends. If you go, send me your favorite new commonwealth knowledge 🤓

⛰️ For a Rocky Climb: Mt. Tammany, NJ

~2 hours from Philly (driving)

Are you seeking a strenuous but rewarding journey? This steep, 3.5-mile trek offers some beautiful views of the Delaware Water Gap.

🏛️ For Free Museums and Monuments: Washington, D.C.

~2 hours from Philly (Amtrak)

Speaking as a bargain lover, I can very much confirm that a day in Washington is a penny pincher’s paradise. Spend the day exploring the Smithsonian, or stroll through scenic parks and neighborhoods.