Sometimes, you just need to hit the road and shake things up—but without the hassle of booking flights or packing for a whole week.
Lucky for you, Philly’s got a ton of amazing spots that are just a quick drive (or train ride) away.
We’re talking beaches, mountains, cozy small towns, buzzing cities, and even a few sweet surprises—all easy to reach in a day.
Whether you’re craving fresh air, delicious food, a bit of history, or a fresh adventure, these day trips have it all… and trust us, you’ll want to hit up every single one.
1. New Hope, PA
New Hope is a super cute riverfront town sitting right on the Delaware River, about 40 miles north of Philly.
You can hop in the car and be there in about 50 minutes, cruising up I-95 and Route 32—perfect for a quick escape from the city.
It’s famous for its artsy vibes, with lots of unique boutiques, cozy cafés, and the old-school Bucks County Playhouse that kicked off countless Broadway careers.
Fun fact: There’s even a scenic train ride, the New Hope Railroad, where you can ride vintage steam trains through the countryside like it’s 1890!
2. Cape May, NJ
If you’re in the mood for beaches, boardwalk snacks, and some seaside charm, Cape May is calling your name.
It’s located at the southern tip of New Jersey, roughly 90 miles from Philly—an easy 90-minute drive down the Garden State Parkway.
This place is all about colorful Victorian houses, fresh seafood shacks, and dolphin-watching cruises that’ll have you grinning like a kid.
Bonus: You can climb to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse for epic views or hit Washington Street Mall for ice cream and souvenirs.
3. Lancaster, PA
Head west to Lancaster—where rolling farmland, horse-drawn buggies, and fresh pretzels rule the scene.
It’s about 80 miles from Philly, so you’re looking at a chill 90-minute drive via I-76 W.
While Lancaster’s steeped in Amish tradition, there’s much more to explore.
Head downtown to see indie coffee shops, Central Market (the country’s oldest farmers’ market!), and vibrant mural-covered alleys.
Don’t leave without grabbing a shoofly pie or hopping on a guided Amish farm tour—you’ll feel like you stepped into a totally different world.
4. Princeton, NJ
Ready for a mix of brainy and beautiful? Princeton, New Jersey is just the spot.
Located 45 miles northeast of Philly, it’s about a 50-minute drive, or you can reach it by train.
Of course, it’s home to the famous Princeton University, where you can wander the gorgeous ivy-covered campus or hit up Art@Bainbridge downtown (yes, it’s free!).
You’ll also find lovely bookstores, farm-to-table eats, and even canoe rentals on Carnegie Lake if you’re feeling outdoorsy.
5. The Pocono Mountains, PA
If you’re craving fresh mountain air and outdoor adventures, the Pocono Mountains are your go-to getaway.
About an hour and 40 minutes north of Philly, a straight shot up I-476 lands you in a world of hiking trails, waterfalls, ski slopes, and scenic lakes.
Whether you’re zip-lining at Camelback, kayaking on Lake Wallenpaupack, or admiring Bushkill Falls (the “Niagara of Pennsylvania”), boredom doesn’t stand a chance.
More into relaxing? Plenty of cozy cabins and retro resorts are scattered around, making it easy to unplug for the weekend.
6. Baltimore, MD
Switch things up with a cityscape and cruise down I-95 for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Baltimore, Maryland—a super easy day trip.
This harbor city is packed with personality, starting at the lively Inner Harbor—home to giant ships and the National Aquarium.
You’ll also find colorful rowhouses and street art in neighborhoods like Fells Point and Hampden.
You can chow down on some delicious crab cakes, tour Edgar Allan Poe’s old stomping grounds, or even catch an Orioles game if you feel sporty.
Best of all, many attractions are within walking distance, so you can eat, explore, and snap a million photos without hopping back in the car.
7. Valley Forge National Historical Park, PA
For a bit of history mixed with wide-open green spaces, Valley Forge National Historical Park is just less than a 30-minute drive from Philly via I-76.
This spot is famous for being George Washington’s winter headquarters during the Revolutionary War.
Today, you can check out reconstructed soldier huts, cannons, and the massive National Memorial Arch.
But it’s not all history—there are over 30 miles of designated trails perfect for biking, hiking, or just strolling with a coffee in hand.
Plus, it’s super close to King of Prussia Mall if you feel like swapping battlefields for a little shopping spree afterward.
8. Asbury Park, NJ
When you’re in the mood for boardwalk fun with a side of rock ‘n’ roll, Asbury Park in New Jersey delivers big time.
It’s about 75 miles east of Philly, roughly an 80-minute drive along I-95 N and I-195 E.
Once you’re there, it’s all about sandy beaches, retro arcades, and the iconic Stone Pony music venue (where Bruce Springsteen used to perform!).
You can stroll past colorful murals, grab a bite at one of the cool waterfront restaurants, or search for vinyl and vintage finds in the downtown shops.
And if you’re a pinball fan, don’t miss the Silverball Museum Arcade—it’s basically a shrine to classic games.
9. Ocean City, MD
If you’re up for a classic beach day with a little extra excitement, Ocean City in Maryland, is worth the 2.5-hour drive south from Philly.
This place is all about its 3-mile-long boardwalk loaded with candy shops, thrill rides, old-school arcades, and nonstop summer fun.
Beyond the boardwalk, you’ve got 10 miles of sandy beach ideal for swimming, sandcastle-building, or just kicking back with some Thrasher’s fries in hand.
And if you’re into watersports, you can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or hop on a boat tour to spot wild ponies on nearby Assateague Island.
10. New York City, NY
When you’re ready to go big—like, really big—a day trip to New York City is hard to beat.
It’s around a 90-minute ride from Philly by car, or you can kick back on an Amtrak or NJ Transit train and skip the traffic altogether.
The city offers nonstop energy—think Times Square, Central Park strolls, a pizza slice in Little Italy, or a Broadway show if you’re feeling fancy.
Plus, neighborhoods like SoHo, the Lower East Side, and Brooklyn’s DUMBO are packed with photo ops, cool shops, and enough bagels to keep you fueled all day.
11. Hershey, PA
Got a sweet tooth? Hershey is basically a candy paradise, sitting just under two hours west of Philly via I-76 and US-322.
Milton Hershey founded this town, and today, you can tour Hershey’s Chocolate World, ride the free chocolate-making tour ride, and stock up on candy bars.
If you’re up for more, Hersheypark has roller coasters, a water park, and even a zoo!
Don’t miss the streetlights shaped like Hershey Kisses lining the roads—they’re the kind of fun detail that makes this place extra special.
(Hersheypark normally runs weekends April 5–May 18, daily May 22–September 7, plus seasonal hours for fall and winter events.)
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