Franklintown PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Thunder River Alpacas offers visitors a chance to meet and learn about these gentle, fluffy creatures in a picturesque farm setting. Visitors can take guided tours, learn about alpaca fiber production, and even purchase unique alpaca products from the gift shop.

Dill's Tavern and Plantation is a beautifully preserved 18th-century tavern and historic site near Franklintown that offers a glimpse into colonial America. The property features original architecture, period furnishings, and hosts regular historical reenactments and educational events throughout the year.

Haars Drive In provides a nostalgic movie-watching experience under the stars, just a short drive from Franklintown. This classic drive-in theater has been entertaining families for generations with current film releases and a charming concession stand offering traditional movie snacks.

White Rocks Trail offers hikers stunning views of the Cumberland Valley and unique white quartzite rock formations. The trail winds through lush forests and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography throughout all seasons.

The Eastern Museum of Motor Racing celebrates the rich history of auto racing in Pennsylvania and the mid-Atlantic region. Visitors can explore an impressive collection of vintage race cars, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that chronicle the evolution of the sport from dirt tracks to modern speedways.

Archie Hess Memorial Park serves as a central gathering place for Franklintown residents and visitors, named after local businessman William Archer Hess. The park offers recreation facilities, picnic areas, and hosts community events throughout the year, honoring the legacy of a man who was an integral part of the community for forty years.

Gifford Pinchot State Park centers around a beautiful 340-acre lake and offers a wide range of outdoor activities near Franklintown. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and hiking on numerous trails that wind through diverse habitats including wetlands, forests, and meadows.

Ski Roundtop Mountain Resort transforms from a winter wonderland of ski slopes to a summer adventure park offering activities for all ages near Franklintown. Winter visitors enjoy skiing and snowboarding on varied terrain, while summer guests can experience ziplines, challenge courses, and mountain biking on the same scenic slopes.

Yellow Breeches Creek is renowned among anglers as one of Pennsylvania's finest limestone streams for fly fishing, located a short drive from Franklintown. The creek's crystal-clear waters support a healthy population of wild and stocked trout, with the famous 'Catch and Release' section providing year-round fishing opportunities in a picturesque setting.

South Mountain Fairgrounds hosts the annual South Mountain Fair and numerous other events throughout the year near Franklintown. The historic fairgrounds preserve agricultural traditions with livestock exhibitions, home arts competitions, carnival rides, and live entertainment that have been drawing families for generations.

Kings Gap Environmental Education Center encompasses over 2,500 acres of forest on South Mountain with a 32-room stone mansion serving as its centerpiece. Visitors can explore more than 25 miles of hiking trails, participate in educational programs, and enjoy spectacular views of the Cumberland Valley from this elevated nature preserve.

The Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex showcases one of America's most beautiful government buildings with its distinctive green dome visible from miles around. Visitors from Franklintown can take guided tours to admire the ornate interior featuring stunning murals, rare antiques, and magnificent stained glass while learning about Pennsylvania's rich political history.

Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the site of the Civil War's most decisive battle and Lincoln's famous address, located within driving distance of Franklintown. Visitors can explore the hallowed grounds where history was made through ranger-led programs, an impressive museum with interactive exhibits, and scenic drives passing hundreds of monuments and historic landmarks.

Hersheypark delights visitors of all ages with its unique blend of thrilling rides and chocolate-themed attractions, making it a popular day trip from Franklintown. The park features over 70 rides including 14 roller coasters, a water park, live entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to indulge in the famous Hershey chocolate products that inspired this sweet destination.

Pine Grove Furnace State Park encompasses the historic remnants of the iron industry while offering outstanding recreational opportunities near Franklintown. The park features two mountain lakes for swimming and fishing, the Appalachian Trail Museum, and marks the halfway point of the famous 2,186-mile Appalachian Trail where hikers traditionally celebrate by eating a half-gallon of ice cream.