Lewisburg Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty, cultural heritage, exciting activities, and delicious food scene of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn more about must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, best places to stay, local culture and customs, safety, and logistics.


Comprehensive Travel Guide to Lewisburg, Pennsylvania

Located in the heart of Alleghenies and Susquehanna Valley, Lewisburg welcomes tourists with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, exciting activities, and vibrant food scene. If you are planning to visit this charming town soon, our comprehensive guide will help you explore the best attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drinks, local culture, and logistics.

Introduction to Lewisburg

Lewisburg, established in 1784, is a small town in Pennsylvania’s Union County. It is located roughly midway between Harrisburg and Williamsport. The town is famous for Bucknell University, a private liberal arts institution founded in 1846, and its historic downtown area with unique shops, cafes, and galleries. Lewisburg has a rich history and is home to many historic sites and museums that reflect the town’s past.

List of Places to Visit in Lewisburg

Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or adventure, Lewisburg has a lot to offer to its tourists. Here is a list of must-visit attractions when exploring Lewisburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Packwood House Museum: A historic house museum with period furnishings, a collection of glass, and a beautiful garden.
  • The Joseph Priestley House: A National Historic Landmark that tells the story of the revolutionary scientist.
  • The Union County Courthouse: A stunning example of Victorian-era architecture featuring a unique dome-shaped cupola.
  • The Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University: A beautiful campus bookstore with a wide selection of books, magazines, gifts, and Bucknell memorabilia.

Natural Attractions of Lewisburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Shikellamy State Park: A 132-acre park located on the Susquehanna River’s west branch, offering great views of the river and the surrounding hills.
  • The Chillisquaque Creek: A scenic area popular for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
  • The Buffalo Valley Rail Trail: A 9-mile hiking/biking trail that follows the river and offers stunning views of the valley’s countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lewisburg

Lewisburg and its surroundings offer great opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are several hiking, biking, and walking trails that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best trails to try:

  • The Mid State Trail: A 327-mile trail that runs through the heart of Pennsylvania
  • The Susquehanna River Walk: A 1.5-mile trail that borders the river and offers scenic views
  • The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy: A 10-mile trail that takes visitors through scenic woods, farmlands, and along the river

Best Things to Do in Lewisburg: Activities and Tours

Lewisburg has plenty of activities and tours to keep tourists entertained and engaged. Here are some of the things to do in Lewisburg:

  • Visit the Miller Center for the Arts for live music and theatre performances
  • Take a brewery tour to visit the town’s many microbreweries and craft breweries
  • Attend the Lewisburg Arts Festival, which takes place every April with over 100 artists and craftsmen exhibiting their work.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lewisburg

If you have a week to explore the town and its surroundings, here is an itinerary that will help you get the most out of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Check-in at your hotel and explore the historic district on foot; visit the Packwood House Museum
Day 2 Hike the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail and visit the Chillisquaque Creek
Day 3 Go to the Shikellamy State Park and take a kayak tour of the Susquehanna River; have dinner at a downtown restaurant
Day 4 Explore the Mid State Trail; visit the Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University
Day 5 Take a brewery tour of Lewisburg and sample some of the town’s best craft beer
Day 6 Attend the Lewisburg Arts Festival
Day 7 Visit the Joseph Priestley House and the Union County Courthouse before checking out and heading home

Food and Drink Scene of Lewisburg

Lewisburg boasts of a vibrant food scene that has a variety of cuisines to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or casual pub grub, Lewisburg has it all. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to sample:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Lewisburger: A classic burger that features a special sauce and crispy bacon
  • Bucknell Bagel: A grilled cheese with tomato, bacon, and chipotle mayo on a fresh bagel from Sourdough Breads
  • Lewisburg Creamery Ice Cream: Homemade flavors that are made daily

Local Beverages

  • Rusty Rail Brewing Company: A local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers and seasonal options.
  • The Bull Run Tap House: A cozy pub with an impressive selection of local and international beers
  • The Brushstrokes Gallery: An art gallery that serves wine and appetizers

Where to Stay in Lewisburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lewisburg has several accommodation options for tourists, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lewisburg:

  • The Copper Beech Manor: A historic mansion that has five rooms with modern amenities.
  • The Best Western Plus Country Cupboard Inn & Suites: A modern hotel with free wifi, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
  • The Lewisburg Hotel: A boutique hotel that has 25 rooms in the heart of the historic district.

What to Buy in Lewisburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to take a piece of Lewisburg home with you, there are several souvenirs and local products to choose from. Here are some of the most popular local products:

  • Sourdough Breads: Fresh handmade sourdough bread available in the local farmer’s market.
  • Hassenforder’s Maple Syrup: Pure, organic maple syrup that comes from local trees.
  • Bucknell University Merchandise: Unique Bucknell merchandise that represents the town and university.

Local Culture and Customs of Lewisburg

Like any town in America, Lewisburg has its customs and traditions. Tourists are encouraged to follow these customs and learn about the local culture. Some of the customs include:

  • Saying “hello” and “goodbye” to strangers in town
  • Respecting historic sites and memorials
  • Dressing appropriately for different occasions

Best Time to Visit Lewisburg

The best time to visit Lewisburg is between May and October, when the weather is warm and locals have their events and festivals. However, tourists are encouraged to check the weather forecast and event calendar before planning their trip.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lewisburg

Tourists are encouraged to follow these do’s and don’ts when visiting Lewisburg:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Try the local food and beverages
  • Leave a tip at restaurants and cafes

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places
  • Park in no-parking zones
  • Smoke in public areas

Safety and Health

Tourists are encouraged to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and health while in Lewisburg.

Safety in Lewisburg

  • Lock your doors and windows when leaving your hotel room
  • Don’t leave valuable items unattended in public places
  • Get to know your surroundings before heading out

Health in Lewisburg

  • Drink water from a safe and reliable source
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent when outdoors
  • Seek medical care if you experience any symptoms of sickness

Getting to Lewisburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lewisburg is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, from air travel to car rentals. Here are the best ways to get to Lewisburg:

Airports Near Lewisburg

  • Harrisburg International Airport: The nearest major airport, 75 miles from Lewisburg.
  • Williamsport Regional Airport: A regional airport located 25 miles northeast of Lewisburg.
  • Lehigh Valley International Airport: A larger airport, located 85 miles east of Lewisburg.

Bus Stations Near Lewisburg

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Harrisburg: 67 miles southeast of Lewisburg
  • Susquehanna Trailways in Lewisburg: Located on North Derr Street and offering daily bus services to major cities.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station in Harrisburg: 68 miles southeast of Lewisburg
  • Car rentals: Several rental car companies are present at all airports and major bus stations.

How to Get Around in Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a walkable town that can easily be explored on foot. However, tourists may need to rent a car or hire a taxi depending upon their destination and needs. On-demand taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Lewisburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning an extended trip, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some of the most popular destinations:

  • State College, PA: Home to Penn State University and the Nittany Lion Shrine.
  • Williamsport, PA: The birthplace of Little League Baseball and the Millionaires’ Row.
  • Hershey, PA: The “Sweetest Place on Earth” featuring Hershey’s Chocolate World and Amusement Park.

Conclusion

Lewisburg is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, or delicious food, Lewisburg has everything you need to make your trip memorable. Use our comprehensive travel guide to help you plan and navigate your journey through the town and its surroundings.