Atlas Obscura Itineraries

Explorer’s Guide to Susquehanna River Valley

Central Pennsylvania’s Susquehanna River Valley is bucolic Americana at its finest, with small town vibes and lush greenery fed by the meandering river. The quirky, the quaint, and the unexpected are on order in the region, which spans Union, Snyder, and Northumberland counties. A jaunt through the area reveals the hospitality of small town America in the valley’s charming wineries, antique stores, and mom-and-pop eateries. This region of Pennsylvania holds intriguing sites in American history, and preservation is of strong value to locals. Landmarked sites and structures can be found throughout the region, along with walking tours to contextualize the artifacts of another era. You’ll also want to partake of the river valley’s other signature charm: The area is considered a playground for outdoor adventure and sport, thanks to the sweeping greenspaces that surround the Susquehanna River. On a road trip (or bike ride, if you’re very ambitious) from town to town, stop for beloved local noshes like hot dogs at the Squeeze-In, enjoy the SRV’s many outdoor recreation areas, and check out artifacts that reflect the country’s founding era.