10 Fun Things To Do Near Williamsport, Pennsylvania (Lycoming County)
Planning a trip to Williamsport, PA, or just passing through north-central Pennsylvania? This friendly river town in Lycoming County is best known as the home of the Little League World Series, but there’s a lot more to see and do here than most people realize.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, exploring as a couple, or road-tripping with friends, this guide walks you through 10 fun things to do in and around Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Everything here is within a reasonable drive, and many spots are right in town.
1. Feel the Magic at the Little League World Series Complex
If you grew up watching baseball on summer afternoons, visiting the Little League World Series Complex in South Williamsport feels a bit like stepping onto a TV screen.
Every August, the complex comes alive with teams from all over the world. Even if you can’t visit during the World Series, it’s still worth a stop. You can walk around the grounds, snap photos near the iconic fields, and take in the view over the valley.
- Location: South Williamsport, just across the river from downtown
- Best for: Families, sports fans, bucket-list travelers
- Tip: During the tournament, admission to games is free, but parking and crowds can be intense—arrive early.
If you’ve ever cheered for a hometown team, standing in those stands can give you goosebumps.
2. Explore Baseball History at the World of Little League Museum
Right next door is the World of Little League® Museum and Official Store, and it’s surprisingly interactive and modern.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Hands-on exhibits about how Little League started in Williamsport in the 1930s
- Historic uniforms, bats, and gear from famous players
- Fun pitching and running displays kids can try
This is one of those museums where you don’t have to be a huge sports fan to enjoy it. It’s really a story about community, kids, and small-town America.
- Plan on: 1–2 hours
- Great for: A rainy day in Williamsport
- Bonus: The gift shop is a good place for unique Williamsport souvenirs.
3. Stroll (or Bike) the Susquehanna Riverwalk
If you like easy walks with great views, the Susquehanna Riverwalk and Timber Trail is a must.
This paved path stretches for several miles along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, connecting Williamsport and South Williamsport. It’s mostly flat, making it ideal for:
- Walking or jogging
- Family bike rides
- Pushing a stroller
- Catching sunset views over the water
On a quiet evening, you’ll see locals walking their dogs, couples sitting on benches, and kids riding bikes. It’s a simple thing to do in Williamsport, but sometimes those simple moments end up being the most memorable.
- Tip: Try going around golden hour for soft light and pretty photos.
- Parking: Several access points near downtown and along the river.
4. Ride the Historic Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat
Want a relaxing way to see the river without breaking a sweat? Hop aboard the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat, a classic riverboat that cruises the West Branch of the Susquehanna.
It’s a fun, laid-back experience where you can:
- Soak up views of forested hills and riverfront scenery
- Learn a bit of local history over the sound system
- Enjoy themed cruises like family nights or music cruises (seasonal)
This is a great option if you’re looking for something low-key to do in Williamsport after a day of exploring.
- Season: Typically late spring through early fall
- Best seats: Head to the upper deck for open-air views on nice days.
5. Step Back in Time at the Peter Herdic Transportation Museum
Williamsport wasn’t always about baseball. Back in the 1800s, it was a booming lumber town and a major transportation hub. The Peter Herdic Transportation Museum tells that story in a bite-sized, easy-to-digest way.
Here, you can see:
- Vintage trains and railroad artifacts
- Old carriages and early automobiles
- Displays about the canal era and the lumber boom
It’s not a huge museum, which is actually nice—there’s no rush and no museum fatigue. You can take your time and then grab a bite to eat nearby.
- Best for: History lovers, families, and curious road-trippers
- Tip: Combine this with a walk through Williamsport’s historic Millionaires’ Row neighborhood.
6. Wander Williamsport’s Downtown & Millionaires’ Row
Downtown Williamsport is compact, walkable, and full of character. You’ll find coffee shops, restaurants, street art, and historic buildings all within a few blocks.
One of the most interesting areas is Millionaires’ Row, a stretch of West Fourth Street where lumber barons once built their mansions. A simple walk here feels like a casual outdoor museum of Victorian architecture.
- Look for ornate porches, stained glass, and detailed brickwork.
- Some homes now serve as offices, B&Bs, or cultural centers.
If you enjoy imagining what life looked like in another era, this area is for you.
- Tip: Stop by a local café before your walk and explore at your own pace.
7. Get Outdoors in the Loyalsock State Forest & Loyalsock Trail Area
One of the perks of visiting Williamsport is how fast you can go from small city streets to deep woods. Head just northeast into Loyalsock State Forest, and you’ll feel like you crossed into a different world.
This area offers:
- Dozens of miles of hiking trails, including stretches of the Loyalsock Trail
- Streamside picnic spots and quiet forest roads
- Scenic overlooks with sweeping views of north-central Pennsylvania
Some trails are long and rugged, but you can also find shorter, family-friendly options. If you like the idea of stepping into real Pennsylvania wilderness, this is one of the top things to do near Williamsport.
- Drive time: Roughly 30–45 minutes from Williamsport, depending on the trailhead
- Tip: Cell service can be spotty—download maps ahead of time.
8. Chase Views at the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania” (Pine Creek Gorge)
If you’re up for a day trip, you can reach one of Pennsylvania’s true natural highlights from Williamsport: the Pine Creek Gorge, often called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.
Located in and around Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park, this gorge offers:
- Dramatic overlooks hundreds of feet above Pine Creek
- Easy-to-moderate walking paths near the rim
- Access to the Pine Creek Rail Trail for biking or hiking along the water
On a clear day, you can see layers of forested ridges stretching out like waves. It’s about as “wow” as it gets in this part of the state.
- Drive time: Around 1–1.5 hours from Williamsport
- Best season: Fall is stunning, but summer and late spring are beautiful too.
9. Enjoy Family Fun at Knoebels Amusement Resort (Worth the Drive)
If you’re traveling with kids—or you’re just a kid at heart—consider making a side trip from Williamsport to Knoebels Amusement Resort, one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved family parks.
What makes Knoebels special?
- No admission fee – you pay by the ride or buy a wristband on certain days
- Classic wooden roller coasters and nostalgic rides
- Shady grounds, picnic areas, and plenty of food stands
It has the old-school amusement park feel you don’t see much anymore. Many families in the region make a full day of it with coolers, swimsuits, and a plan to ride until closing.
- Drive time: Around 1 hour south of Williamsport
- Tip: Check the park’s schedule before you go—hours and ride wristband days vary.
10. Taste Local Flavors at Williamsport Breweries & Eateries
After all that exploring, you’ll want good food and maybe a cold drink. The Williamsport food and drink scene has grown a lot in recent years.
In and around downtown you’ll find:
- Local breweries pouring craft beer made right in Lycoming County
- Comfort-food diners serving big breakfasts and homemade pies
- Sports bars packed during Little League World Series season
- Cafés where you can recharge with coffee and a pastry
It’s easy to plan an evening where you walk the Riverwalk, grab dinner downtown, and finish with a drink on a patio or at a local bar.
- Tip: Ask your server where they like to eat or drink on their day off—locals usually point you to the best spots.
Planning Your Williamsport, PA Trip
To quickly recap, here are 10 great things to do in and around Williamsport, Pennsylvania:
- Little League World Series Complex
- World of Little League Museum
- Susquehanna Riverwalk
- Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat
- Peter Herdic Transportation Museum
- Downtown Williamsport & Millionaires’ Row
- Loyalsock State Forest & Loyalsock Trail area
- Pine Creek Gorge (Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania)
- Knoebels Amusement Resort (day trip)
- Local breweries, cafés, and restaurants
Williamsport is one of those places that feels genuinely local and welcoming, especially if you like small-city charm mixed with easy access to nature. You can fill a weekend without rushing—or stay longer and use it as a base to explore more of north-central Pennsylvania.
Share Your Williamsport Experience
Have you visited Williamsport, PA or anywhere else in Lycoming County?
- Which spot was your favorite?
- Did you catch a Little League World Series game?
- Find a hidden gem restaurant or overlook?
Drop your stories, questions, or tips in the comments—your experience might help the next traveler planning a trip to Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend, post it on social media, or save it for your next Pennsylvania road trip. Safe travels!
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