Anchored by urbane and culturally rich Philadelphia, and home to the charming river hamlet of New Hope, southeastern Pennsylvania has long been popular with LGBTQ travelers. In more recent years, however, this region characterized by lush river valleys, pastoral farmland, and several smaller diverse cities and college towns has developed increasing queer resonance in less expected places. With former industrial sites that have been transformed into museums and cultural spaces and one of the state’s largest LGBTQ populations, the Lehigh Valley is currently undergoing an impressive renaissance, while the capital city of Harrisburg has a steadily evolving art and food scene along with several noteworthy points of interest. And in the traditional heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, the increasingly hip and energetic city of Lancaster hums with cafes, cocktail bars, art galleries, and indie-spirited shops.
Whether you have just a weekend or several days to explore this part of the Keystone State, consider these noteworthy neighborhoods, attractions, events, and places to stay.