Numidia Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and travel logistics to make the most of your trip to Numidia, Pennsylvania.


Introduction to Numidia

Located in the Alleghenies and Susquehanna Valley region of Pennsylvania, Numidia offers a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and small-town charms. This once-thriving coal town boasts a rich history, stunning views of the mountains and valleys, and a lively local culture that’s sure to captivate visitors. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and travel logistics to make the most of your trip to Numidia, Pennsylvania.

List of Places to Visit in Numidia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Numidia Dragway: One of the longest running drag racing tracks in the country, Numidia Dragway is a must-visit destination for racing enthusiasts. Watch high-powered cars compete in a variety of events throughout the year.
  • Knoebels Amusement Resort: Located just a short drive from Numidia, Knoebels is a family-friendly destination that offers rides, games, food, and fun for all ages. Don’t miss the legendary Phoenix Wooden Coaster, voted the best wooden coaster in the world by Amusement Today.
  • Eckley Miners’ Village: Explore the history of coal mining in Pennsylvania at this living history museum, which offers tours of an authentic 19th-century mining town. Learn about the lives of the miners and their families, and discover the tools and techniques used in extracting coal from the mountains.
  • Centralia Ghost Town: Once a bustling mining town, Centralia is now largely abandoned due to an underground mine fire that’s been burning since 1962. Explore the eerie ruins of the town, including abandoned buildings and streets that lead to nowhere.

Natural Attractions of Numidia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ricketts Glen State Park: With over 24 waterfalls, Ricketts Glen offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in Pennsylvania. Hike along the Falls Trail, which takes you past many of the park’s waterfalls, or explore one of the other numerous hiking trails that wind through the park’s 13,000 acres.
  • Hickory Run State Park: This park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and swimming. Don’t miss Boulder Field, a unique geological formation that features over 16 acres of boulder-strewn terrain.
  • Glen Onoko Falls: Located in the Lehigh Gorge State Park, Glen Onoko Falls features a stunning series of waterfalls that cascade down the sides of the mountains. Hike the challenging trail to the top of the falls for incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Eagle Rock Vista: This scenic overlook offers panoramic views of the valleys and mountains of Pennsylvania. From the top, you can see for miles in all directions, and it’s an especially stunning spot during sunset.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Numidia

  • Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park: A 7.2-mile loop trail that takes you past over 20 waterfalls, including the stunning 94-foot Ganoga Falls.
  • D&L Trail: Follow the path of the Delaware and Lehigh canals on this 165-mile-long trail that runs through the heart of eastern Pennsylvania. You’ll pass through small towns, historic sites, and beautiful natural areas along the way.
  • Hazleton Rail-Trail: This 16-mile trail runs from downtown Hazleton to the outskirts of Mountaintop, a former coal town. Along the way, you’ll see remnants of the region’s mining past, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Lehigh Gorge Trail: This 26-mile trail follows the Lehigh River through the Lehigh Gorge State Park, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape. The trail is open to hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

Best Things to Do in Numidia: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking or Rafting on the Susquehanna River: Enjoy a leisurely paddle or an exciting whitewater rafting trip on the Susquehanna River, one of the longest rivers on the East Coast.
  • Visiting the Local Farmers’ Markets: Sample local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods at one of the many farmers’ markets in the area. Some of the most popular include the Bloomsburg Farmers Market and the Berwick Farmers Market.
  • Touring Local Breweries: Pennsylvania is known for its craft beer, and there are several breweries in the area offering tours and tastings. Check out Turkey Hill Brewing Company in Bloomsburg or Marley’s Brewery and Grille in Bloomsburg for some of the best local brews.
  • Exploring the Coal Mines: Learn about the history of coal mining in Pennsylvania by visiting one of the many historic mines in the area. Some options include Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train or No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Numidia

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic downtown of Danville.
Day 2 Hike the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park.
Day 3 Visit the Eckley Miners’ Village and Centralia Ghost Town.
Day 4 Take a whitewater rafting trip down the Susquehanna River.
Day 5 Visit the Knoebels Amusement Resort or go on an underground mine tour.
Day 6 Tour a local brewery and sample some of the best craft beer in Pennsylvania.
Day 7 Visit Glen Onoko Falls for some incredible mountain views.

Food and Drink Scene of Numidia

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogi: A traditional Polish dish, pierogi is a dumpling filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and other delicious ingredients.
  • Scrapple: An Amish delicacy made from pork scraps and cornmeal, scrapple can be boiled or fried and is often served as a breakfast side dish.
  • Shoofly Pie: A Pennsylvania Dutch specialty, shoofly pie is a molasses-based pie that’s sweet and sticky, with a crumbly topping.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer: The oldest brewery in America, Yuengling has been producing beer since 1829. Their Lager is a classic Pennsylvania favorite.
  • Birch Beer: A non-alcoholic soda made from birch bark, birch beer is a uniquely Pennsylvania drink that has a sweet, refreshing taste.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch Eggnog: Made with plenty of cream, eggs, and sugar, Pennsylvania Dutch Eggnog is a rich and decadent holiday treat that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.

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

  • Pine Barn Inn: This historic hotel in Danville features 98 rooms, an on-site restaurant, and beautiful grounds to explore.
  • Hampton Inn Bloomsburg: Located just a short drive from Numidia, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Happy Acres Resort: For a more rustic experience, check out Happy Acres Resort, which offers cabins, camping sites, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

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

  • Coal Carvings: Carvings made from local coal are a popular souvenir in the area, and there are many shops and galleries that feature these unique works of art.
  • Handmade Quilts: Quilts made by the Amish or Mennonite communities in the area are a beautiful and functional reminder of your trip to Pennsylvania.
  • Pottery: Local artisans create stunning pottery inspired by the natural beauty of the region. Look for pieces that feature glazes reminiscent of the mountains and rivers of Pennsylvania.

Local Culture and Customs of Numidia

Numidia has a rich cultural heritage that’s evident in its architecture, food, and traditions. The area was settled by German immigrants in the 1700s, and many of the local customs, such as quilting and baking shoofly pie, have been passed down through generations. Visitors can also learn about the region’s coal mining history and the impact it had on the community. Respect for traditional values and hard work is an important part of the local culture in Numidia.

Best Time to Visit Numidia

The best time to visit Numidia is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is also a popular time to visit, as the changing colors of the leaves create a stunning landscape. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it’s a great time to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Numidia

Do:

  • Do visit Ricketts Glen State Park and hike the Falls Trail.
  • Do try the local cuisine, especially pierogi and shoofly pie.
  • Do take the time to learn about the history of coal mining in the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t ignore safety guidelines when participating in adventure sports like whitewater rafting or skiing.

Safety and Health

Safety in Numidia

Numidia is a generally safe destination, but visitors should take normal precautions such as locking car doors and keeping valuables out of sight. Outdoor activities like hiking and rafting can carry inherent risks, so be sure to follow safety guidelines and stay aware of your surroundings.

Health in Numidia

Medical facilities are available in nearby towns like Danville, but it’s always a good idea to bring basic first aid supplies and any necessary medications with you on your trip. Be sure to take measures to prevent tick bites, as Lyme disease is common in the area.

Getting to Numidia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Numidia is located in central Pennsylvania, and there are several ways to get there.

Airports Near Numidia

  • Harrisburg International Airport: Located about 70 miles south of Numidia, Harrisburg International Airport is the closest major airport to the area.
  • Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport: About 60 miles to the north, this airport offers direct flights to several major cities on the East Coast.

Bus Stations Near Numidia

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The nearest Greyhound station is located in Bloomsburg, just a short drive from Numidia.
  • Trailways: Trailways also operates a station in Bloomsburg.

Other Options

  • Driving: Numidia is easily accessible by car, with major highways like I-81 and I-80 passing nearby.
  • Train: While there is no Amtrak station in Numidia, the closest stations are located in Harrisburg, Scranton, and Wilkes-Barre.

How to Get Around in Numidia

While a car is the most convenient way to get around Numidia and the surrounding area, there are also options for public transportation. Local taxi services and ride-sharing apps are available, and there are also several options for bike rentals in the area.

Where to Go Next from Numidia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gettysburg: This historic town, site of the famous Civil War battle, is located about three hours to the southeast of Numidia.
  • Philadelphia: Located about two hours to the southeast, Philadelphia is a vibrant city that’s rich in history, culture, and food.
  • New York City: About three hours to the northeast, New York City offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.

Conclusion

Numidia, Pennsylvania is a hidden gem in the Alleghenies and Susquehanna Valley region, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local charm. From the stunning waterfalls of Ricketts Glen State Park to the small-town shopping and dining opportunities in Danville, there’s something for everyone in this area. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway in the mountains, Numidia is a destination that’s worth exploring.