Philadelphia sits at the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, so you can switch scenes fast—beach towns, mountain lakes, historic small cities, and world-class capitals lie just a short drive or train ride away. This guide spotlights the best weekend getaways from Philadelphia, with practical travel times, can’t-miss activities, and where to stay for every style and budget. Whether you crave a quiet cabin, a foodie escape, or an urban culture fix, you’ll find short trips near Philadelphia that fit into two or three days without the stress. Read on to map out the best weekend destinations near Philadelphia and start planning your next reset.
Read about day trip: Best Day Trips from Philadelphia
Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Philadelphia?
A short getaway resets your routine without the cost or logistics of a long vacation. From Philly, you can reach beaches, mountains, river towns, and major cities in 1–3 hours by car or train, which makes 2–3 days ideal. You’ll explore new scenery, taste regional flavors, and return Monday feeling refreshed.
Why should I plan a weekend trip from Philadelphia?
Because you can reach diverse destinations in under three hours, keep costs manageable, and still enjoy a full slate of experiences—outdoors, cultural, or culinary—within a 2–3 day window.
Additionally, travel is easy. Major corridors like I-95, I-76, the PA Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and US-202 connect you quickly. Meanwhile, Amtrak, NJ Transit, SEPTA, and intercity buses offer frequent, budget-friendly options. With smart timing—leaving Friday after lunch or early Saturday—you maximize time on the ground without taking extra PTO.
Top Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
The Pocono Mountains — Lakes, Waterfalls, and Cozy Cabins
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 1.75–2.5 hours via I-476/PA-611. Martz Trailways buses reach Mount Pocono in about 2–2.5 hours. • Why Visit: You’ll trade city streets for forested peaks, clear lakes, and fresh mountain air. A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to the Pocono Mountains packs in hiking, waterfall-chasing, spa time, and family-friendly fun at indoor waterparks. Winter brings skiing and tubing; summer adds boating and zip lines; fall dazzles with foliage. • Top Things to Do:
- Hike to Hawk Falls or explore Boulder Field at Hickory Run State Park.
- See “Pennsylvania’s Niagara” at Bushkill Falls.
- Paddle the Delaware River or bike the D&L Trail.
- Ski or ride coasters at Camelback; splash year-round at Kalahari or Great Wolf Lodge. • Where to Stay: Choose a woodsy cabin, a lakefront vacation rental, or a classic resort. Couples love adults-only boutique inns; families gravitate to waterpark resorts. For deals, compare refundable rates on reputable platforms and filter for free parking and breakfast. • Best Time to Visit: Year-round. Visit June–August for lakes, September–mid-October for foliage, and December–March for snow sports. Spring offers lower prices and waterfall volume from snowmelt.
SEO tip in action: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to the Pocono Mountains delivers maximum variety with minimal travel time, which makes it perfect for active travelers and relaxed loungers alike.
Cape May, New Jersey — Victorian Charm by the Sea
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 1.5–2 hours via the Garden State Parkway. Public transit is possible via NJ Transit to Atlantic City plus a connecting bus, but driving is fastest. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Cape May pairs wide beaches with a stunning Victorian historic district and top birding. You’ll savor seafood, local wines, and porch-swing evenings. Romantic inns line leafy streets, and the lighthouse views are photo-ready. • Top Things to Do:
- Lounge on Cape May’s guarded beaches or stroll the Washington Street Mall.
- Climb the Cape May Lighthouse; catch sunset at Cape May Point.
- Book whale and dolphin-watching cruises in season.
- Tour the Emlen Physick Estate; explore area wineries and breweries. • Where to Stay: Pick a Victorian B&B for charm, a beachfront hotel for convenience, or a family-friendly motel with a pool. To secure summer weekends, reserve early with flexible cancellation. Shoulder-season weekends often yield great rates. • Best Time to Visit: Late May–June and September–October shine with warm water or mild weather and fewer crowds. July–August bring peak buzz; winter weekends are quiet and cozy.
In short, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Cape May gives you timeless seaside relaxation with walkable streets and classic shore ambiance.
Lancaster & Amish Country, Pennsylvania — Farmland, Markets, and Slow Travel
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 1.25–1.5 hours via US-30. Amtrak’s Keystone Service from 30th Street Station takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to Lancaster. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Lancaster & Amish Country slows the pace. Scenic farms, covered bridges, and artisan markets invite you to unplug. You’ll enjoy farm-to-table dining, family attractions, and cultural experiences rooted in tradition. • Top Things to Do:
- Ride the historic Strasburg Rail Road through Amish countryside.
- Sample local produce at Lancaster Central Market (one of the nation’s oldest).
- Book an Amish buggy tour and browse quilt and craft shops.
- See a show at Sight & Sound Theatres; hunt covered bridges by bike. • Where to Stay: Choose a farmhouse B&B, a countryside inn with spa, or a budget-friendly hotel near Route 30. Families appreciate suite-style stays; couples gravitate to quiet inns. Book early for fall harvest weekends and holiday shows. • Best Time to Visit: April–June and September–October offer pleasant weather, farm events, and foliage. December brings festive markets and theater. Winter is calm and value-friendly.
Ultimately, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Lancaster blends pastoral scenery with meaningful, family-friendly experiences.
New Hope, PA & Lambertville, NJ — Artsy River Towns and Canal Paths
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive about 1–1.25 hours via I-95/US-1. Public transit combinations via SEPTA to Yardley plus rideshare work, but driving is easiest. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to New Hope and Lambertville serves up galleries, antique shops, riverside dining, and miles of easy biking along the Delaware Canal towpath. The vibe is creative and walkable, with nightlife and live theater. • Top Things to Do:
- Bike or stroll the canals on the Delaware Canal State Park Towpath.
- Catch a show at the historic Bucks County Playhouse.
- Explore Lambertville’s antique stores and art galleries.
- Visit Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve or go river tubing in summer. • Where to Stay: Opt for a riverside boutique hotel, a romantic B&B, or a historic inn steps from Main Street. Weekends book up quickly—look for flexible rates and free parking. Midweek add-ons (like dining credits) sometimes extend to shoulder-season weekends. • Best Time to Visit: Spring blooms and fall foliage are superb. Summer is lively for riversports; December brings charming holiday lights.
In essence, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to New Hope & Lambertville is perfect for foodies, art lovers, and anyone who wants small-town charm without long driving times.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware — Boardwalk Vibes and Tax-Free Finds
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 2–2.5 hours via DE-1. Seasonal beach buses run locally, but driving from Philly is most direct. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Rehoboth Beach mixes a classic boardwalk with craft beer, dining, and tax-free shopping. The scene feels relaxed and inclusive, with easy access to dunes, bays, and bike trails. • Top Things to Do:
- Stroll the boardwalk with Thrasher’s fries and Dolles sweets.
- Bike the Junction & Breakwater or Gordons Pond Trail in Cape Henlopen State Park.
- Take a brewery tour at Dogfish Head or sample local wine and cider.
- Shop tax-free at Tanger Outlets; explore nearby Lewes for history and calm beaches. • Where to Stay: Choose oceanfront hotels for sunrise views, boutique B&Bs downtown for walkability, or condo rentals for families. Summer weekends sell out—reserve well ahead and consider refundable rates. Off-season weekends offer standout value. • Best Time to Visit: Late May–June and September deliver warm beach days without peak crowds. July–August is prime time (with higher rates). Winter weekends feel quiet and cozy with excellent dining specials.
Overall, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Rehoboth Beach offers sand, surf, and scenic bike paths—plus the bonus of tax-free shopping.
Hershey & Harrisburg, Pennsylvania — Chocolate Thrills and Riverfront Culture
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 1.5–2 hours via I-76 or US-322. Amtrak to Harrisburg takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, then it’s a 20-minute drive to Hershey. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Hershey & Harrisburg blends amusement park thrills with museums and a stately capitol. Families love Hersheypark, while culture-seekers appreciate the National Civil War Museum and riverfront trails. • Top Things to Do:
- Ride coasters at Hersheypark and tour Hershey’s Chocolate World.
- Stroll Hershey Gardens and the Butterfly Atrium.
- Visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol and explore the State Museum.
- Cruise the Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat; see Indian Echo Caverns. • Where to Stay: Choose a family resort (like full-service properties near Hershey attractions), mid-range downtown Harrisburg hotels for nightlife access, or budget chains close to the park. Bundled park packages can save money on tickets and parking. • Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall suits outdoor attractions. Halloween events and December’s holiday lights are beloved. Winter weekdays may see reduced hours; check schedules before you go.
Put simply, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Hershey & Harrisburg sweetens your itinerary with iconic attractions and easy logistics.
New York City, New York — Big-City Buzz on a Short Hop
• Distance/Travel Time: Amtrak Northeast Regional or NJ Transit/SEPTA combo via Trenton takes 1.5–2 hours to Midtown. Driving can take 2–3+ hours with tolls and pricey parking. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to New York City delivers world-class museums, Broadway, global cuisine, and famous skyline views—without a long flight. You can target one or two neighborhoods and still feel like you’ve had a full urban escape. • Top Things to Do:
- Walk the High Line and explore Chelsea Market.
- Visit the Met or MoMA; stroll Central Park.
- Cross the Brooklyn Bridge; grab pizza or bagels in Brooklyn.
- Sail past the Statue of Liberty on the free Staten Island Ferry. • Where to Stay: For first-timers, base in Midtown for easy transit. For a trendier vibe, try boutique hotels in Chelsea, SoHo, or Brooklyn. Pod hotels keep costs down. Consider flexible rates and check weekend deals, which sometimes undercut weekdays. • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are comfortable and photogenic. December dazzles with holiday lights. Summer offers long days and frequent hotel promotions, though it can be hot.
In short, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to New York City unlocks an iconic city experience in just a couple of hours by train.
Washington, DC — Monuments, Museums, and Leafy Neighborhoods
• Distance/Travel Time: Amtrak Northeast Regional runs about 2–2.5 hours to Union Station. Driving via I-95 takes 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic; buses average 3–3.5 hours. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Washington, DC means free Smithsonian museums, grand monuments, and dynamic dining. Moreover, compact neighborhoods and the Metro make it simple to explore without a car. • Top Things to Do:
- Tour the National Mall museums (Air and Space, Natural History, National Gallery).
- Visit monuments by day, then return at night for illuminated views.
- Explore Georgetown’s canal and waterfront; browse Eastern Market.
- Hike or bike Rock Creek Park; catch jazz on U Street. • Where to Stay: Stay in Downtown/Penn Quarter for walkability, Capitol Hill for townhome charm, or Arlington and Alexandria for budget-friendly Metro access. Look for weekend hotel rates, which often drop when business travel slows. • Best Time to Visit: Late March–early April brings cherry blossoms. Fall offers crisp air and colorful trees. Winter is quieter with mild days; summer runs hot but lively.
Altogether, a weekend getaway from Philadelphia to Washington, DC layers history, culture, and green space into an easy car- or train-accessible trip.
Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Philadelphia
- Pack light: Use a carry-on or weekender bag. Roll clothing, choose neutral layers, and wear your bulkiest shoes.
- Save time: Leave early Saturday if Friday isn’t possible. Book timed-entry attractions in advance where offered.
- Choose transit wisely: Trains reduce stress for city trips (NYC, DC). Drive for beach, mountain, or rural stays. Consider EZPass for toll roads.
- Book smart: Compare refundable hotel rates and watch for member-only discounts. For attractions, Go City and similar passes can cut costs in NYC and DC. Amtrak Saver Fares often drop if you book 2–3 weeks ahead.
- Navigate: Use Google Maps or Waze for live traffic, ParkMobile for parking, and AllTrails for hikes.
What should I pack for a weekend trip from Philadelphia?
Bring a compact bag with weather-appropriate layers, comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket, a portable charger, reusable water bottle, toiletries, medications, ID, and any prebooked tickets or passes on your phone.
Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
- Spring (March–May): 50–70°F on average; blooms, festivals, and comfortable hiking. Ideal for DC cherry blossoms, New Hope gardens, and Lancaster markets.
- Summer (June–August): 75–90°F; beach season peaks and mountain lakes shine. Book early for Cape May and Rehoboth. Afternoon storms pop up, so pack a light rain jacket.
- Fall (September–November): 50–70°F; prime foliage in the Poconos (late Sept–mid-Oct) and crisp city exploring in NYC and DC.
- Winter (December–February): 30–45°F; holiday lights, off-season hotel deals, and ski weekends in the Poconos. Coastal towns feel quiet and romantic.
Plan around holiday weekends, when traffic and prices rise. For beaches, late May–June and September offer warm water with fewer crowds. For mountains, late September–October delivers peak color.
Budget and Planning Advice
Approximate budget for a 2–3 day weekend for two:
- Accommodation: $180–$350 per night for mid-range hotels; $120–$200 for budget; $300+ for boutique and resorts.
- Transportation: Amtrak or buses $40–$140 per person round-trip (route and timing vary). Driving may cost $40–$90 in gas plus tolls and parking.
- Food: $25–$60 per person per day for casual dining; more with fine dining or brunch add-ons.
- Activities: Many museums in DC are free; tickets for attractions or tours often run $10–$40 per person. Beach tags vary by town.
How much does a weekend trip from Philadelphia cost?
For two people, expect about $450–$1,000 total for 2–3 days, depending on lodging tier, transit choice, and activities.
Money-saving tools:
- Booking platforms with free cancellation help you lock good rates early.
- Compare rail prices with the Amtrak app; check NJ Transit and SEPTA for cheaper (slower) options to NYC.
- Use Wanderlog or Roadtrippers to map stops and timing; set dining reservations with OpenTable.
- Look for city passes (Go City, New York Pass) if you plan multiple paid attractions in one weekend.
With a flexible plan, smart bookings, and realistic drive or train times, you can enjoy memorable, stress-free weekend getaways from Philadelphia all year.
Frequently Asked Questions
The top picks within roughly 2 hours include:
– New Hope & Lambertville (1–1.25 hours): Artsy river towns, canal paths, great dining.
– Lancaster/Amish Country (1.25–1.5 hours or 1:10 by Amtrak): Covered bridges, markets, countryside stays.-
– Hershey/Harrisburg (1.5–2 hours): Hersheypark, museums, riverfront trails.
– The Pocono Mountains (1.75–2.5 hours): Waterfalls, lakes, ski and spa resorts.
– Cape May, NJ (1.5–2 hours): Victorian charm, beaches, lighthouse views.
– Rehoboth Beach, DE (2–2.5 hours): Boardwalk, tax-free shopping, bike trails. For big-city energy without flying, take the train: New York City (1.5–2 hours) and Washington, DC (2–2.5 hours).
Choose Cape May if you want Victorian B&Bs, a walkable historic district, birding at Cape May Point, and a quieter, romantic vibe. Pick Rehoboth if you prefer a lively boardwalk, craft breweries, bike-friendly state park trails (Cape Henlopen), and tax-free outlet shopping. Driving times are similar (about 1.5–2 hours to Cape May; 2–2.5 hours to Rehoboth). Note: New Jersey beaches like Cape May require beach tags in summer, while Delaware beaches do not.
Yes. For cities, trains work best:
– NYC: Amtrak or SEPTA + NJ Transit via Trenton to Penn Station (about 1.5–2 hours).
– Washington, DC: Amtrak Northeast Regional to Union Station (about 2–2.5 hours).
– Lancaster/Harrisburg: Amtrak Keystone Service from 30th Street Station (about 1:10 to Lancaster; 1:45 to Harrisburg).
– New Hope: SEPTA to Yardley or Doylestown, then a short rideshare.
– Cape May/Rehoboth: Use NJ Transit or SEPTA/Atlantic City Line plus a local bus connection for Cape May; for Rehoboth, look for seasonal buses or rideshare from Lewes. It’s doable, but slower than driving.
– Poconos: Take intercity buses (e.g., Greyhound or FlixBus) to Stroudsburg/Mt. Pocono, then use local taxis/rideshare. No direct rail yet.
For the Jersey Shore or Delaware beaches:
– Heading out: Leave before 2 p.m. on Friday or before 8 a.m. on Saturday. After 7 p.m. Friday also works once peak has passed.
– Returning: Aim for early Sunday morning or after 8 p.m. Sunday. Midday Sunday on the Garden State Parkway and DE-1 often backs up, especially in summer and on holiday weekends. Use live traffic apps and consider taking US-9/Coastal routes as alternates when the main highway stalls.
A typical 2–3 day trip for two people runs about $450–$1,000, depending on where you go and how you travel.
– Hotels: $120–$200 per night (budget), $180–$350 (mid-range), $300+ (boutique/resort).
– Transport: Amtrak or bus $40–$140 per person round-trip; driving $40–$90 in gas plus tolls/parking.
– Food: $50–$120 per day for two with casual meals; more with brunch or fine dining.
– Activities: Many DC museums are free; attractions typically $10–$40 per person. NJ beach tags add a small daily cost in summer.
Top family picks:
– Hershey: Hersheypark, Chocolate World, Hershey Gardens, and a mix of rides for all ages.
– Lancaster: Strasburg Rail Road, farm visits, hands-on museums, buggy rides.-
– The Poconos: Indoor waterparks (Kalahari, Great Wolf), Camelback’s rides, and easy hikes to waterfalls.
– Rehoboth Beach: Wide, family-friendly beach, boardwalk treats, and bike paths in Cape Henlopen State Park.
– Washington, DC: Free Smithsonian museums (Air and Space, Natural History) and wide-open monument spaces. All sit within about 1–3 hours, so you can maximize fun time and minimize drive time.
For couples, choose:
– Cape May: Victorian B&Bs, candlelit dining, lighthouse sunsets, and winery visits.
– New Hope & Lambertville: Boutique inns, riverfront dining, art galleries, and canal path strolls.-
– The Poconos: Cozy cabins, spa resorts, lakeside sunsets, and fall foliage drives.
– Lancaster countryside: Quiet inns, hot-air balloon rides, and scenic farm roads. Travel times range from about 1 to 2.5 hours, which makes these ideal for a quick Friday-to-Sunday escape.
Most New Jersey shore towns require beach tags from roughly Memorial Day to Labor Day (exact dates vary). Cape May, Ocean City, Avalon, Stone Harbor, and Sea Isle City all require tags. However, Wildwood and Atlantic City beaches are free (no tags needed). Delaware beaches—including Rehoboth, Dewey, and Lewes—don’t use tags, but they enforce metered or permitted parking in season. Always check the town’s official site for current tag prices and hours.
Expect peak color from late September to mid-October in higher elevations like the Poconos, and mid- to late October in Bucks County (New Hope/Lambertville) and Lancaster. City destinations like Philadelphia itself and Washington, DC usually peak later, from late October into early November. For the best leaf-peeping, drive Route 209 along the Delaware Water Gap, hike Hickory Run State Park in the Poconos, or cycle the Delaware Canal Towpath near New Hope.
You’ll find plenty to do, but plan carefully. Many Amish-owned businesses close on Sundays, and the Lancaster Central Market closes Sundays as well. However, attractions like the Strasburg Rail Road, certain museums, restaurants, and non-Amish shops often operate with Sunday hours. If your heart is set on farm stands and Amish-run shops, visit Friday or Saturday and use Sunday for scenic drives, covered-bridge routes, and theater performances.
Susan CalliesSusan Callies is a travel writer at Travleon.com, where she shares guides, itineraries, and hidden gems from around the world. When she’s not writing about new destinations, Susan enjoys playing the violin, ice skating during the winter months, and exploring local food scenes wherever she travels. She's also passionate about photography, journaling her adventures, and visiting art museums. Susan believes that the best stories are found off the beaten path — and she’s always chasing the next one.