Welcome to the Stories of the Susquehanna River Valley!


Looking for travel inspiration, hidden gems and can’t-miss experiences in Central Pennsylvania? You’ve come to the right place! Our stories are your guide to discover all the charm, adventure and flavors the Susquehanna River Valley has to offer!

Explore by category or scroll through the latest blogs to uncover scenic hikes, farm-fresh finds, historic treasures, local events and insider tips that will help you plan your next unforgettable visit.

Let the journey begin! Your next adventure starts here!

Lisa Leighton Blog
Author
Lisa Z. Leighton

Lisa is a full-time marketing director and prolific freelance writer. She writes regularly for The Daily Item, Inside PA magazine and Lancaster Farming, focusing on lifestyle and business features in the Central PA region. Lisa grew up in the Susquehanna River Valley, moved away to attend college and begin her professional career, then moved back to the region to be closer to her family and start a family of her own. Her roots are deep in this region and she takes great pride in her family's coal mining and farming heritage. She is a busy mom, wife, daughter, sister, and aunt and is a passionate volunteer for the arts, early childhood education, and the environment. 

Indoor Activities to Enjoy this Winter in the SRV

As I’m writing this, the Susquehanna River Valley is being drenched with a soaking rain, after a few weeks of blustery snowy and icy weather. Winter has settled in, but inclement weather doesn’t need to be a downer, in fact it can be a spark to embark on a day of indoor fun with family or friends…

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Winter Comfort Foods & Cozy Dining in the SRV

Winter has settled into the mountains and valleys of the Susquehanna River Valley, which is a clear sign to shift our energies to nesting and resting indoors. For me, that means comfort food in the form of robust pasta dishes, hearty soups and stews, and comforting desserts that remind me of my…

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Antique, Vintage and Retro Shopping in the SRV

We’re in the thick of the holiday season. How are you faring? Do you need a peppermint tea…or maybe a hot toddy? If your list includes someone who “seems to have everything” you might be feeling a bit flustered. Here’s a suggestion: consider shopping at one of the Susquehanna River Valley’s…

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Holiday Kickoff: Winter Festivities

The holiday countdown is on: it’s time to fa-la-la-la-la the heck out of the Susquehanna River Valley. Fortunately, the region has festive activities overflowing with feel-good holiday vibes: tree lightings, drive through holiday light displays, holiday-themed shops, late night shopping events (with…

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Holiday Gift Guide: Shop Local in the SRV

It’s early November, which means the holiday season is officially top of mind – do your “to do” lists seem to form overnight like mine do?! Now that the Halloween decorations have been put away, it’s time to refocus on the holiday season. What brings you joy and gratitude during this special time…

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Union County Historical Highlight

Union County Historical Highlight: 18 th Century Dissenters Were Key to America’s Early Pursuit of Liberty Dotted with scenic farmscapes and historic downtowns, Union County was established in March 1813 from a portion of Northumberland County. The name “Union” was intentional – it was a clear nod…

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Snyder County Historical Highlight

Snyder County Historical Highlight: A Hidden Gem – The Historical Society’s On-Site Museum Did you know that Snyder County is named for Simon Snyder, a resident of Selinsgrove who served as Pennsylvania’s third governor from 1808 to 1817? Snyder rose to political prominence despite having little…

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Northumberland County Historical Highlight

Northumberland County Historical Highlight: Notable Residents included Chief Shikellamy, Joseph Priestley and Thomas Edison While Northumberland County covers a lot of ground today, several hundred years ago it was so expansive that six counties were formed out of it, according to Northumberland…

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