If you love food and history, this road trip is about to be your dream come true.
We’re talking about restaurants that have been around since before cars, before electricity and some even before America was a country!
You’ll get to eat in spots where founding fathers once ate, where secret tunnels hid freedom seekers, and where recipes have been passed down for generations.
From cozy taverns to shiny diners, each stop on this trip has stories baked right into the walls and the food is just as legendary.
Grab some stretchy pants and get ready to eat your way through Pennsylvania’s past.
1. King George II Inn – Bristol
King George II Inn in Bristol is the oldest continuously operating inn in the entire state, first opening its doors way back in 1681, before America was even a country.
It’s located right on the Delaware River in a cute little town about 22 miles northeast of Philly, and it’s got creaky wooden floors, cozy fireplaces, and old-school charm.
People love coming here for the crab cakes, colonial-style rooms, and the awesome riverfront patio where you can watch boats drift by while sipping a cocktail like it’s the 1700s.
2. McGillin’s Olde Ale House – Philadelphia
Next we’re heading into the heart of Philly for McGillin’s Olde Ale House, which has been pouring pints since 1860—right around when Abraham Lincoln was running for president.
Located down a little alley off Chestnut Street, this place is packed wall-to-wall with history, from the old wooden bar to the walls covered in vintage signs and Philly sports memorabilia.
The vibe here is rowdy in the best way, with locals singing along to the jukebox, soft pretzels on every table, and a beer list that would make Ben Franklin proud.
3. William Penn Inn – Lower Gwynedd
For something a little more elegant, the William Penn Inn in Gwynedd is your spot.
It’s been welcoming guests since 1714 (making it the oldest continuously operating country inn in PA) and it feels like a fancy colonial dinner party.
This place is all white tablecloths, chandeliers, and roast duck on the menu, and it’s the kind of restaurant where people celebrate big birthdays or go all out for Sunday brunch.
It’s just a short drive from Philly, but with its grand old dining room and perfectly manicured gardens, it feels like you’ve stepped into a country estate from the 18th century.
4. General Warren – Malvern
Ready for some Revolutionary War vibes with your dinner?
The General Warren in Malvern dates back to 1745 and once hosted officers during the actual Battle of Paoli.
Today it’s part restaurant, part inn, with candlelit dining rooms, a cozy outdoor terrace, and a menu full of classics like beef wellington that feels just fancy enough without being too fussy.
5. Dobbin House Tavern – Gettysburg
The Dobbin House Tavern in Gettysburg takes you straight back to 1776, with servers in colonial outfits and rooms that look like they haven’t changed in 200 years.
It was actually once a stop on the Underground Railroad, and then later converted into a restaurant in 1978.
You can still peek into the secret crawl space where freedom seekers once hid!
The food is hearty and old-school (think roast beef and other traditional treats), and if you’re lucky, you might snag a seat by the massive stone fireplace in the candlelit dining room.
6. Glider Diner – Scranton
Now let’s switch gears with a stop at the Glider Diner in Scranton which has been flipping pancakes and pouring coffee since 1945.
It’s got that shiny stainless steel vibe, cushy red booths, and a menu that goes big on comfort food—people rave about the hot baked meatloaf and other hearty classics.
This place is no-frills, and yes, it’s the same Scranton made famous by The Office, so don’t be surprised if you see a Dunder Mifflin bumper sticker in the parking lot.
7. The Tavern – State College
Next let’s head over to State College where The Tavern has been a Penn State favorite since 1948, serving up comfort food with a smile.
It’s got a warm, wood-paneled vibe with black-and-white photos, and it’s the kind of place where alumni come back for the prime rib and memories.
Whether you’re here for game day or just craving a classic dessert, this spot delivers cozy charm and serious portions every single time.
8. Original Oyster House – Pittsburgh
Now it’s time to roll into Pittsburgh for some seafood history at the Original Oyster House, a downtown staple slinging fried fish and oysters since 1870.
It’s located right inside Market Square and still has an old-school look, tin ceiling, and photos of local legends covering the walls like wallpaper.
Grab a fish sandwich the size of your head, slurp down some oysters, and soak up the charm in Pittsburgh’s oldest restaurant.
9. Lawrence Park Dinor – Lawrence Park Township (near Erie)
Last but definitely not least, we’re heading way up near Erie to the tiny-but-mighty Lawrence Park Dinor, a railcar-style gem that’s been dishing out breakfast since 1948.
It’s spelled “dinor” instead of “diner” because that’s how northwest Pennsylvania rolls, and it’s one of the last of its kind still rocking that chrome-and-counter magic.
Regulars swear by the homemade gravy, the pancakes are fluffy enough to float, and the atmosphere is as retro as it gets.
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