Day Trips from Philadelphia
← All Philadelphia day tripsDay Trips from Philadelphia: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Philadelphia, PA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Philadelphia
Scenic Overlook
NJ 07732, USA
Just 1 hr 52 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic overlook
Schnecksville, PA 18078
Just 1 hr 17 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 1 hr 41 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.9 stars by 1,147 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocky Ridge Park Hawk Watch North
PA 17406, USA
Just 1 hr 50 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook
Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716
Just 1 hr 38 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.8 stars by 974 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Valley View Overlook
Newmanstown, PA 17073
Just 1 hr 28 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
Sparrow Bush, NY 12780
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.8 stars by 324 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Delaware River Scenic Byway
Stockton, NJ 08559
Just 57 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mountain Top View
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Just 1 hr 58 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.7 stars by 138 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
MD 21402, USA
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Interstate 80 East Scenic Lookout
NJ 07840, USA
Just 1 hr 59 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars by 929 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Paterson, NJ 07503
Just 1 hr 42 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Philadelphia
What are the best scenic drives near Philadelphia, PA?
The best scenic drives near Philadelphia include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Philadelphia?
Most scenic drives near Philadelphia range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Philadelphia?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Philadelphia, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Philadelphia?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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