Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Lycoming County, PA

  • Published 2022/11/08

Did you know that some of the most fascinating and highly regarded tourist destinations in Pennsylvania are in Lycoming County?

With its attractive little villages and vibrant cities, Lycoming County is an excellent destination and is worth considering if you’re looking for unique spots!

Williamsport, known as the cradle of Little League Baseball, is the seat of Lycoming County.

The city also has numerous other historical and cultural landmarks.

Another fantastic choice for tourists is the village of Montoursville, home to iconic eateries, stores, and a lovely park ideal for a stroll.

It’s also worth visiting Muncy, the location of numerous fascinating historical sites.

In this picturesque region of Pennsylvania, there are activities for everyone, from outdoor leisure to arts and culture.

Here are the best things to do in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania.

Go Outdoors at Loyalsock State Forest

A beautiful waterfall at Loyalsock State Forest

Kenneth Keifer / Shutterstock.com

The 114,552-acre Loyalsock State Forest gets its name from Loyalsock Creek, a beautiful freestone stream that runs through its center.

The forest encompasses Sullivan, Lycoming, and Bradford Counties, as well as the “Endless Mountains” region of the northern tier.

The Loyalsock State Forest is a fantastic location for hiking, camping, and outdoor exploration.

There are numerous gorgeous vantage sites and various routes in the park.

Wildflowers along Loyalsock State Forest

JD Hiker / Shutterstock.com

Explore this natural forest oasis and take in all the stunning sights this area has to offer!

Bring your cameras, for there will undoubtedly be numerous views you would want to take pictures of.

You will also be amazed by this forest’s varying plant species and wildlife.

Lace up your shoes and get ready to explore the great outdoors in this forest!

Upper rock gorge at Loyalsock State Forest

Nicholas A. Tonelli from Northeast Pennsylvania, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Wander the Little League Museum

If you are a big baseball or softball fan, the Little League Museum is perfect for your interest and a spot you cannot miss!

Rather than only retelling Little League’s history, the museum now provides a more engaging portrayal of how Little League has influenced and even shaped American and global sports history.

The exhibit explains how Little League rose to the top of the world rankings for participation rates and sports safety.

Using the framework of a six-inning Little League game, the Little League story unfolds via a self-guided experience at this museum.

Here, you can explore a diverse collection of natural Little League history, relics and photos, modern interactives, and immersive media.

All of this emphasizes Little League’s fundamental mission, which is its faith in the ability of youth baseball and softball to impart life skills that strengthen both individuals and communities.

The incredible Global Connections Touch Table is one of the museum’s most popular attractions.

This is the only location on Earth where the general public can access information about every regional Little League program.

There’s also a League of Excellence Hall where you can see the names of the league’s members who are bestowed with the highest distinction for the final inning in the museum tour.

Stop by their Official Little League Store before leaving the Little League Museum in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Dive into Regional History at the Thomas T. Taber Museum

The Thomas T. Taber Museum, also known as the Lycoming County Historical Society, was established in 1907.

You can find it on Millionaires’ Row in Williamsport.

The Society possesses the biggest collection of records and artifacts about north-central Pennsylvania’s prehistory, history, and culture.

The Ashcan School of American Art member John Sloan, Severin Roesen, a 19th century still life painter, and Frances Tipton Hunter, a magazine illustrator, all have their works displayed in the fine arts gallery.

If you take some time to view the Greek Revival Parlor or the recreated frontier cabin, you will feel you’ve been transported back in time.

The Logging and Lumbering Gallery has also recently been renovated but still stands as a great place to discover and appreciate historical events.

Viewing the LaRue Shempp Toy Train Collection is a must-do during a museum visit!

LaRue Shempp, a native of Williamsport, started collecting model trains as a young boy.

When he died, he had gathered over 300 of them, many of which were exceptionally rare or one-of-a-kind.

You won’t regret visiting the Thomas T. Taber Museum, which holds many artifacts with historical tales about Lycoming County.

Take a Stroll through Riverfront Park

The waters of Riverfront Park

Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The historic Native American village of Ostonwakin is now known as Riverfront Park, located in Williamsport.

Here, you can enjoy exploring a recreational facility while witnessing the remnants of significant historical events in the landscape.

A boat dock, a multipurpose field, and cycling and walking trails are all present at this park.

Self-guided tours of Canfield Island are available.

This Park has a picnic pavilion, a lovely location for an outdoor meal with your loved ones.

You can also take a stroll looking at the scenic views of the Susquehanna River while taking in the area’s peacefulness and tranquility.

Moreover, Riverfront Park also caters to various birds and other wildlife, a perfect place to go animal watching!

Taste the Local Cuisine at Moon & Raven Public House

Locals love the great meals and welcoming ambiance at Moon & Raven Public House, in Williamsport.

Along with a variety of traditional American cuisine, the bar serves regional beers that will surely hit the spot after a long, hard day.

They painstakingly recreate an Irish, English, and Scottish pub atmosphere in their beer, spirits, and menu options.

You’ll also love their delectable cuisine, which would pair perfectly with your drink of choice!

If you’re lucky, you might join the events regularly held at this classic tavern.

Unwind and raise a glass with your friends or colleagues as you kick back and drink at the Moon & Raven Public House.

Catch a Rousing Show at the Community Theatre League

The Community Theatre League (CTL) was established in 1976 as a community-driven organization dedicated to producing, promoting, and aiding the performing arts.

The theater determined not to charge membership fees, hold yearly meetings, or open auditions to everyone, regardless of prior performing experience.

Today, the group mainly comprises volunteers who assist with planning, directing, performing, marketing and selling several annual plays.

CTL now consistently stages 10 to 12 plays or musicals annually and organizes up to 10 unique concert events you can enjoy.

It also sponsors the annual Ray of Light Awards for high school musical theatre and acting programs and a range of summer camps for kids of all ages.

Prepare to ride an emotional rollercoaster when you watch the live shows at the Community Theater League in Williamsport!

Hike the Pine Creek Rail Trail

Boardwalk along Pine Creek Rail Trail

Steve Cwik / Shutterstock.com

The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a historic canyon perfect for anyone who loves hiking and seeing picturesque views.

The Pine Creek Trail in Pine Creek Gorge stretches 62 miles and is one of the best trails in the Northeast.

This breathtaking journey will take you through what is sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.

The spot, flat at times and hilly at others, passes through the forests and covers a 62-mile trail that covers Lycoming and Tioga Counties.

Steel bridge along Pine Creek Rail Trail

Steve Cwik / Shutterstock.com

Some of the trails are open to horseback riding as well.

The run is picturesque, with natural landmarks like mountains and trees dotting the route and animals like deer, bears, and otters.

The air is fresh, and there are fantastic views of waterways and massive rock outcrops from the trailside terraces.

Your hike along the Pine Creek Trail features scenic views and luscious greenery.

Mountain view from Pine Creek Rail Trail

Jakec at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tour the Muncy Historical Society Museum

The Muncy Historical Society and Museum is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization founded in 1936.

It focuses on preserving and conserving Muncy’s rich history and heritage.

The museum also emphasizes the surrounding communities, including its people, businesses, education, arts, traditions, and folklore.

To this day, the society sponsors educational programs and activities, conducts historical research and publication, and interprets the museum’s collection for the local community, including schools.

This is their heartfelt way of preserving the past significant events and ensuring that these historical moments are not forgotten.

Roam the Muncy Historical Society Museum and view galleries and exhibits filled with breathtaking artworks created by talented artists in the state.

You can also join exciting and engaging events held on the museum premises.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at Le Chocolat

For over 22 years, Le Chocolat, an old-fashioned candy shop, has satisfied the sweet tooth of anyone visiting the establishment in downtown Williamsport.

Here, you can choose all the chocolate flavors in each box you order!

If you want to find a delicious and unique treat for your loved ones, this is also a great place to go!

You can pick the chocolates to please your friends or family and get their gift-wrapping services to make your orders more attractive.

For your presents or treats of the day, they offer a wide range of delectable flavored peanuts, cookies, and many more.

If you want to pair your sweet treats from the shop with a drink, you can order coffee and teas at Le Chocolat.

Sail on the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat

View of a docked Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat

Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and the Citizens of Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, collaborated on the community initiative known as the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat.

Since the summer of 1982, the Hiawatha, a vintage paddlewheel excursion boat, has cruised along the Susquehanna River.

The Hiawatha has captivated the hearts of many Lycoming County residents because of the wholesome appeal and the allure of a riverboat journey.

A sailing Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat

User:Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

To “HELP LAUNCH THE HIAWATHA!” hundreds of people from all walks of life have called the county Chamber of Commerce and offered their services, financial support, and contagious enthusiasm.

Cruise along the river and unwind with drinks and snacks while sailing.

Enjoy riding the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat in Williamsport with your friends and family.

Drink a Pint of Beer at Therapy Brewing Company

Spend time with your friends and engage in meaningful conversations over a couple of drinks at Therapy Brewing Company.

This place is perfect for hanging out with friends or catching up with your loved ones after a long week!

Therapy Brewing Company takes its time to make flavorful ales and unique lagers that customers love.

As its name suggests, you will feel more relaxed as you unwind through deep conversations with your friends, like a therapy session.

Visit this location, bring a picnic lunch, and sample some novel beers.

Their seasonal pour list offers a wide range of selections perfect for dedicated beer enthusiasts.

You can also try their wine and cider if you dislike beer.

There is something for everyone here at Therapy Brewing Company, located in Montoursville.

Throw Axe at the Hatchet House

The Hatchet House is the top axe-throwing venue in Lycoming County and is in downtown Williamsport.

They also operate as a Bring Your Bottle establishment, so you can engage in a fun and unique activity while having drinks with your friends!

The Hatchet House’s axe throwing is excellent for date nights, celebrations, family outings, and team-building exercises.

Additionally, they have numerous mobile axe-throwing teams that come to you to provide entertainment.

They have attended birthday picnics, baby showers, wedding receptions, graduation parties, and more.

They also provide wood, axe experts ready to assist you, and hatchets.

Experience a fun new activity by visiting this facility!

See the Houses of Wealthy Families at Millionaires’ Row

Row Hermance House at Millionaires’ Row

Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Williamsport, once known as the Lumber Capital of the World, has more billionaires per capita than any other American city.

Take a stroll past the Victorian residences of these lumber barons at a national historic district called Millionaire’s Row.

The district in a Williamsport residential area consists of 263 contributing properties and one contributing site.

Ullman House at Millionaires’ Row

Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Many of these historic buildings have been conserved and are currently used as private residences, businesses, dining establishments, or bed and breakfasts.

The Peter Herdic House, named after one of the most well-known lumber barons of the late 1800s, has become one of the best dining establishments in the region.

Walk around this neighborhood and marvel at the grand properties of some of the city’s wealthiest people.

Peter Herdic House at Millionaires’ Row

Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Enjoy Fun Adventures at Kaos Fun Zone

The best family entertainment facility in Williamsport is Kaos Fun Zone.

This is a terrific spot to enjoy yourself and have fun with your loved ones!

There is something for everyone at Kaos, including 12 lanes of bowling, cutting-edge laser tag, a sizable trampoline park, and a full arcade.

This is a place where whole families can have fun and feel welcome.

From exciting attractions to delectable food, this facility provides something for everyone.

They also offer special events and parties for birthdays, family gatherings, or even corporate events.

At Kaos Fun Zone, kids can be kids.

Feel free to unleash your inner child here at Kaos Fun Zone.

Feast Your Eyes on Gorgeous Art at Lycoming College Art Gallery

The Lycoming College Art Gallery is in the heart of Williamsport.

The gallery enhances the city’s artistic scene and allows the College to engage with the locals in its neighborhood.

Students at Lycoming College of Art can talk with visiting artists and view their artwork while also getting a firsthand look at how a gallery operates.

Lycoming teachers, students, and guest artists alternate often, and all exhibitions are free and open to the public.

The Lycoming College Art Gallery is a must-visit place if you are interested in arts and painting.

Final Thoughts

Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, offers a wide variety of activities.

The area provides various activities, attractions, historical monuments, and picturesque landscapes.

The county has plenty to offer everyone, whether searching for a day of family fun or a quiet stroll.

Try these best things to do in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, on your next holiday.

© All rights reserved.