Philadelphia's top day trips combine history, beachside enjoyment, and ice cream delights.

As the cradle of American democracy — where the Founding Fathers debated and signed the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution — Philadelphia is renowned for its rich historical significance. Not to mention its famous cheesesteaks and that iconic movie about a boxer.

You could easily spend weeks immersing yourself in the City of Brotherly Love and its myriad attractions, including museums, murals, restaurants, and gardens. However, it’s also essential to escape the city for a bit. Philly serves as a fantastic launching pad to discover beaches, farms, wineries, and a delightful ice cream trail.

1. Explore Antiques in New Hope, Pennsylvania

Travel time: 50 minutes

Located about 30 miles north of Philadelphia along the Delaware River, the picturesque town of New Hope boasts a vibrant antique shopping scene, a thriving LGBTQ+ community, riverside dining options (including Stella and Odette’s at the River House), and the renowned Bucks County Playhouse. (Hollywood icons like Robert Redford and Grace Kelly have graced its stage.)

History enthusiasts should not miss Washington Crossing Historic Park, just a few miles downstream, where America’s first president led his Continental Army in 1776. On sunny days, enjoy the outdoors at the 134-acre Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve and botanical garden, or hike at Ringing Rocks Park. Remember to bring a hammer: striking the boulders produces a bell-like ring. There’s also a scenic riverside walking path through town.

Getting to New Hope from Philadelphia: From Center City, Philadelphia, take I-95 north to I-295 east. Public transportation options are not available.

2. Enjoy beaches and brews in Cape May, New Jersey

Travel time: 45 minutes

A day in Cape May, celebrated as America’s first seaside resort, can be spent basking in the sun on your favorite patch of sand or wandering through the charming beach town. (Or why not do both if you can stay a bit longer?)

Take a tour of Cape May Brewing Co. and enjoy a flight of their freshly crafted beers in the newly enhanced outdoor beer garden. Then, ascend the 199 steps to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse, constructed in 1859 at New Jersey's southern tip, for panoramic views of the region.

Once you've built up an appetite, visit the delightful Beach Plum Farm, which offers a few luxurious private cottages for guests. Even those not staying overnight can explore the 62-acre working farm, feed the chickens, and dine at Beach Plum Farm Kitchen. This laid-back spot, located inside an Amish barn, features a daily-changing menu that showcases the farm's freshest produce.

Before you leave the beach, take a stroll through town and don’t miss the Original Fudge Kitchen for delicious homemade treats and boxes of saltwater taffy.

How to reach Cape May from Philadelphia: By car, follow the Atlantic City Expressway to the Garden State Parkway. Alternatively, trains run from 30th Street Station to Atlantic City, where you can easily catch an Uber or bus to Cape May.

3. Explore history in Wilmington, Delaware

Travel time: 35 minutes

Located just a short drive south of Center City, Wilmington is Delaware’s largest city and boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and a thriving dining scene. Navigate the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway at your own pace with a self-guided driving tour that showcases significant locations in Tubman’s journey. The city is also home to stunning mansions and historical sites established by the Du Pont family, founders of the gunpowder manufacturing industry along the Brandywine River in the early 19th century. Visit Hagley, the original site of the Du Pont mills, and enjoy the scenic walking trails. During the summer, check for pop-up beer gardens, concerts, and family-friendly events.

Just a few miles away, the former residence of the Du Pont family, Winterthur (pronounced winter-tour), is now accessible to the public. This expansive 175-room mansion showcases a remarkable 90,000-piece collection of American decorative arts, inviting hours of exploration. Be sure to wander through the gardens, especially the Enchanted Woods, which features a charming stone fairy cottage and a tulip treehouse that children adore. The Du Pont estate spans 3,000 acres and boasts gardens and fountains reminiscent of Versailles. Don't forget to reserve a table at Le Cavalier, the brasserie located in the historic Hotel Du Pont in downtown Wilmington.

Directions from Philadelphia to Wilmington: If driving, take I-95 south. Amtrak provides regular train service from 30th Street Station directly to downtown Wilmington.

4. Explore the wineries in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania

Travel time: 45 minutes

Just a short 45-minute drive from lively Philadelphia, the Brandywine Valley boasts rolling green hills, Revolutionary War history, quaint wineries, and a top-notch museum. Start your day with breakfast at Hank’s Place before exploring the Brandywine Valley River Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of works from the renowned Wyeth family of artists.

Wine enthusiasts can dedicate an entire day to the Brandywine Valley wine trail, featuring stops at the stunning Penns Woods or Chaddsford Winery, both of which have received awards. For those seeking treasures, a visit to the Brandywine River Antiques Market is a must, offering a variety of prints, coins, and artwork from numerous dealers. On warm evenings, enjoy a meal on the lush patio at Gables at Chadds Ford, where local farms provide fresh ingredients.

Directions from Philadelphia to Chadds Ford: If driving, take I-95 S to US-322 West. While public transportation isn’t available, you can opt for private or group tours.

5. Enjoy Pick-Your-Own Fruits in Princeton, New Jersey

Travel time: 60 minutes

Famous for its Ivy League university, the charming town of Princeton is definitely worth the hour-long trip from Philadelphia. Don’t miss the Princeton University Art Museum, where you can explore a wide range of collections, including ancient African art and pieces by Picasso. While on campus, admire the Gothic architecture and treat yourself to a scoop of small-batch ice cream from The Bent Spoon, featuring seasonal flavors.

Just outside the town lies Terhune Orchards, a 200-acre farm where you can stroll through gardens, pick your own fruit, and meet friendly animals like sheep, horses, and chickens. Be sure to visit the farm store to grab fresh fruit, jams, and delicious apple cider donuts for the journey home. On your way back to Philly, stop by Hamilton, New Jersey, which is home to Grounds for Sculpture, a vast outdoor art collection. Purchase timed tickets to wander through gardens adorned with approximately 400 large-scale contemporary art pieces.

Directions from Philadelphia to Princeton: If driving, take I-95 N and I-295 E. Allow an extra 20 minutes if you plan to visit Grounds for Sculpture. Amtrak also runs regular trains to Princeton Junction, located about half a mile from downtown Princeton.

6. Explore the Nation’s Oldest Farmer’s Market in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Travel time: 90 minutes

If you enjoyed tasting Pennsylvania Dutch treats like whoopie pies and scrapple at Philly’s historic Reading Terminal Market, you’ll be pleased to know you can visit the original source of these delights.

During the hour-long journey to Lancaster, you’ll encounter picturesque farmland and Amish horses and buggies. Once you arrive, wander through Lancaster Central Market, established in 1730, which holds the title of the oldest continuously operating public farmer’s market in the nation. Don’t miss the stalls offering soft pretzels, homemade baked goods, and fresh meat and produce straight from the farm.

For an authentic Pennsylvania Dutch experience, enjoy a meal at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, featuring 200 feet of local delicacies like country ham and fruit pies. Be sure to visit one of the working farms, especially one that produces ice cream.

At Lapp Valley Farm Creamery, you can watch Jersey cows being milked before indulging in scoops served in handmade waffle cones. (Fun fact: Lapp Valley is also a stop on Pennsylvania’s ice cream trail.)

How to travel from Philadelphia to Lancaster, Pennsylvania: Drive via I-76 W, or take the train from 30th Street Station.

7. Hunt for mushrooms in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Travel time: 45 minutes

Celebrated for its extensive farms that yield hundreds of millions of pounds of mushrooms annually, Kennett Square also features one of the most famous gardens in the nation and eateries worth the trip. Visit during the Mushroom Festival, held the weekend after Labor Day, which offers a carnival, cooking contests, and a variety of mushrooms including creminis, buttons, and shiitakes.

Longwood Gardens spans 1,077 acres filled with stunning greenhouses and exquisite landscaping, captivating visitors year-round. Its annual holiday light show is particularly popular, often selling out quickly, so securing tickets in advance is essential. Additionally, be sure to book a table at Talula’s Table — a farm-to-table dining experience by Aimee Olexy that books up to a year ahead. For a more laid-back meal, check out Victory Brewing Company’s tap room for a selection of stouts, sours, and session IPAs.

How to travel from Philadelphia to Kennett Square, Pennsylvania: The 35-mile journey typically takes around 45 minutes via I-95 S from Philadelphia.