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Cats, Caves and Carousels
Kids will be kids and yours will have a wonderful time immersed in the natural wonders of the Susquehanna River Valley. Did you know that right here in Central PA you can come within feet of lions and exotic wildlife from all over the world, tour America's only all-water cave, and even spend a day at the country's largest free-admission/free-parking amusement park? Below are just a few suggestions to help you get your family adventure started!
After you arrive in the Susquehanna River Valley, head for T&D’s Cats of the World (Pictured above), one of the most interesting and unique places in Pennsylvania. More than 200 rescued bobcats, lions, tigers, leopards, and other exotic wildlife live on 35 spacious acres.
Then make your way toward Shamokin Dam for some family recreation at Hooplas Xtreme Family Fun where you’ll find a trampoline park, Sky Rail Ropes Course, Toddler Zone, Arcade and miniature golf. Make a pit stop for lunch Skeeter's Pit BBQ! Skeeter's is a family-owned fast, casual dining establishment with seasonal outdoor dining, local craft beers on tap, live music every other Sunday and it’s located on a bluff overlooking the scenic Susquehanna River.
After lunch, choose your activity based on your time, interests and energy levels. We suggest driving north to Lewisburg. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Lewisburg's vibrant downtown features more than 40 specialty retail stores, friendly restaurants, museums, and the Campus Theatre, an authentic Art Deco movie palace showing movies nightly. Lewisburg is a friendly walkable downtown with a self-guided tour of historic Lewisburg.
If you feel like shopping, stop into Street of Shops, located completely indoors in a restored historic woolen mill, this indoor country village offers one of the most unique shopping experiences in the east. Open 7 days a week year-round, featuring a wide selection of merchandise including art glass, artwork, custom jewelry, baskets, primitive country, candles, tin ware, antiques, pottery, vintage furniture, Pennsylvania handcrafted items, historical collectibles and much more. Street of Shops has a sister store, Roller Mills, a 5-story restored historic flour mill located on St. Mary Street in Lewisburg which features over 400 dealers displaying a variety of furniture and collectibles. Antiques at 221 is located on Lewisburg's Market Street and offers an extensive selection of estate jewelry and vintage watches, as well as fine Victorian antiques.
Fun sweet treats can be found at Purity Candy. Founded in 1907, Purity candies are hand-dipped the old-fashioned way. The Cookie Dude specializes in artisan cookies and desserts crafted by hand in a variety of traditional and unique flavors using only fresh, local and gourmet ingredients. Sweet Frog is a premium frozen yogurt shop with 16 flavors and 70 toppings to create personalized combinations.
Among other shops in downtown Lewisburg visit:
Brushstrokes Gallery, Art Supplies, & Framing offering a full array of the best and latest art supplies and a knowledgeable staff, Brushstrokes works to help their customers create their visions. They offer custom framing to help display and preserve artwork, memorabilia and mementos. In addition, they have a wonderful selection of artsy greeting cards, journals, puzzles and gifts to appeal to the art lover in everyone.
The Open Door Gallery by Lori. The gallery showcases works of art and offers custom framing and restoration services for frames, photos and paintings. Located in the same space is Mondragon Books, a treasure house of used books.
Dwellings Boutique - Dwellings offers unique and trendy merchandise including causal wear, jewelry, handbags, accessories, drink and bar-ware, candles, home decor, seasonal decor, and more. Dwellings is the perfect place to shop for a birthday, graduation, anniversary, holiday or just for fun!
Retrah - offering high-quality clothing brands for both men and women that covers everything from formal suits to causal wear. Retrah also is the place to go for all your Bucknell and Lewisburg branded souvenirs including pottery dishes, hand towels, tote bags, keychains, postcards and more! There is a wide array of jewelry lines, seasonal decor, dishes and drink ware, and a wonderful bath, body and relaxation selection.
Art of Living Design – a beautiful assortment of furniture, rugs, lighting, window treatments and accessories.
If art is your pleasure, visit the Samek Art Museum's downtown gallery, a program of Bucknell University that creates meaningful encounters between artists, students, scholars, the public and works of art. The downtown gallery is a secondary location to the main gallery located on the campus of Bucknell university.
Or you can let off some steam outside by renting bikes from Link Cyclery LLC, to explore the 9-mile-long Buffalo Valley Rail Trail, or visit the park on St. Mary’s Street with a skateboard park, tennis courts, pool, interactive playground, volleyball pit and ducks to feed! Do you feel like a leisurely walk in the woods? Located just minutes from downtown, the The Dale’s Ridge Trail at 1471 Strawbridge Road, off Route 192 next to the historic Dale/Engle/Walker House is a two-mile trail loop trail. A trailhead kiosk contains a descriptive brochure specific to the property, which borders Buffalo Creek. Enjoy scenic ridge-top views of the Buffalo Valley, wildflowers, and birding within a variety of habitats including streamside (riparian) buffer, mature woodlots, and open fields.
We recommend dinner at one of the many favorite local restaurants located in Lewisburg's downtown: the Lewisburg Hotel, Siam Restaurant (Thai & Indian cuisine), Brendan's Towne Tavern, Bull Run Tap House, Elizabeth's An American Bistro, or Mancini's Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Restaurant.
For after dinner drinks try the Hungry Run Distillery, creators of unique spirits, flavored vodkas, whiskey, bourbon and more. Or relax at upscale Trevina
, a unique bar with 50+ self-pour taps including craft beer, cider, seltzers, prosecco, red wine and white wine.For a larger map, click on the icon in the upper right corner.
On the morning of your first day, make your way to Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park and tour by boat America’s only all–water cavern. As you glide on an underground stream, you will be surrounded by limestone corridors, stalagmites, stalactites, flowstone cascades, and ice draperies. Below you, trout swim and jump for food.
Penn’s Cave is surrounded by a 1,600 acre wildlife park. Motorized 90-minute tours take you through forests and fields that have been carefully preserved as a natural habitat for bears, wolves, elk, deer, bobcats, bison, longhorn cattle, mustangs, and mountain lions. Click here for to watch videos and a first-hand view of all the fun stuff in store at Penns Cave, including their new 2-1/2 hour jeep tour from the “cave rock to the mountain top,” negotiating obstacles, moguls, and ravines on the way to a spectacular mountain vista.
Nearby is Woodward Cave, one of the largest caves in Pennsylvania with five spacious rooms that include the 200-foot-long “Hall of Statues.” The Ballroom has actually been used for square dances and banquets. One stalagmite, called the Tower of Babel, is 14 feet high. The cathedral ceiling of the Upper Room rises 60 feet above the floor.
On your way back from the caves, grab lunch in Lewisburg or Mifflinburg before heading to Williamsport for a river excursion on the paddlewheeler Hiawatha, which is anchored near Susquehanna State Park. As you cruise, the Captain brings to life the lumbering era in Pennsylvania and its connection to the river.
After a very full day, return to Lewisburg for dinner and a good night’s sleep. Rest up! Tomorrow, you’re off to play at one of Pennsylvania’s most famous amusement resorts.
The next morning load up the car and get going to Knoebels Amusement Resort
- with free admission and free parking - this world-famous destination
has been awarded the “Best Park for Families” title by the National Amusement Park Historical Association. Knoebels also won Amusement Today's
Golden Ticket Awards for Best Amusement Park Food and Best Carousel.
The Haunted Mansion has been voted favorite traditional dark ride by the
Dark Ride and Fun House Enthusiasts 10 years in a row.
The youngest children can enjoy the Kiddie Himalaya, Flying Tigers, and the Merry-Go Round. Older children will be thrilled by the StratosFear, Black Diamond (a spooky tour through a haunted coal mine), and Downdraft. Families can enjoy Paradrop, the Roto Jets, and Balloon Race together. Swim to your hearts content in Knoebels' giant Crystal Pool complete with waterslides, diving boards, and a play area just for the little ones! Cool off in the shallow water and the enjoy fountains!
Adults will enjoy the 3 Ponds 18-hole golf course, the unique skill game of Fascination, and the Carousel Museum.
The day will surely be filled with Fun, Food, and Fantasy! Enjoy the day and take home the memories!
For a larger map, click on the icon in the upper right corner.
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Day One
Day Two Lewisburg Downtown Partnership Shops and Restaurants
Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
Day Four Susquehanna River Valley Wineries
Day Five Wine Tasting Tour- Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Susquehanna River Valley on a tour of wineries. Stroll through a vineyard surrounded by glorious views, relax on the deck while enjoying local musicians and enjoy tastings of favorite locally crafted varieties. The Susquehanna River Valley is home to eleven family-owned wineries, all of which offer unique vintage wines, fun seasonal events and beautiful picturesque settings.
River Rat Brew Trail - Treat yourself to a self-guided tour of the award-winning breweries on Central Pennsylvania’s only craft brew trail. Discover distinct and unique craft brews that will tantalize your taste buds and senses. Click here to learn more about the Breweries and Distilleries of the Susquehanna River Valley
Let a driver from one of the premier limo companies in the River Valley provide a fun and safe tour. Central PA Limousine & Car Service, LLC Susquehanna TrailwaysSusquehanna Valley Limousine Inc. |
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For help planning your trip contact the friendly staff at the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau | |
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This award-winning hotel is located minutes from Knoebels, Bloomsburg, Bucknell and Susquehanna Universities and the Little League World Series. Amenities include Indoor Heated Pool, Exercise Facility, Business Center, Conference Room, Complimentary Hot Deluxe Breakfast, Free WIFI and Pet-Friendly.
Best Western Plus Country Cupboard Inn features a fitness room, sauna, hot tub, lavish indoor and outdoor swimming pools, family-style restaurant and country store.
This award-winning hotel is a home-away-from-home. Conveniently located near Bucknell University and Interstate 80, Country Inn & Suites offers an impressive selection of cozy rooms and spacious suites with breakfast included.
The Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Shamokin Dam/Selinsgrove provides the hotel experience that simplifies your travel. Enjoy a stay at this pet-friendly hotel which is conveniently located near many of our area attractions.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Lewisburg is a new modern Marriott hotel with all of the comforts needed for an effortless stay and is walkable to Downtown Lewisburg and Bucknell University.
There is a New Marriott Hotel in Selinsgrove! The Fairfield Inn & Suites brings the latest services and amenities of the Fairfield brand and the trusted name of Marriott to the Susquehanna River Valley.
The Forest House Hotel was established in 1884, making it the oldest continually-operating business in Union County. Known for the food, Forest House also gives back to the community. Features include weekend and nightly specials like one-dollar burgers, wing night and karaoke night.
Guests choose Hampton Inn by Hilton because of the tremendous value for the dollar and because they know what they'll get with every stay, at every location [signature hot breakfast and high speed internet access, crisp, clean beds and comfy rooms]. Hampton Inn promises an unconditional, 100% Hampton Guarantee. They are a recipient of the Lighthouse Award and the Circle of Excellence Award since 2008! Hilton now offers their Hilton CleanStay with Lysol Protection Program during COVID. For more information go to Hilton CleanStay at www.hilton.com/en/corporate/cleanstay/
A wonderful hotel to enjoy the Susquehanna River and local restaurants. Breakfast bags to go, indoor pool and hot tub, free wireless high speed internet, complimentary 24-hour coffee, juice and fresh fruit in lobby.
Located in a quiet, rural setting, this superb hotel has re-established itself as the premier choice of corporate and leisure travelers. We offer a complimentary Express Start Breakfast Bar in the mornings, free High Speed Internet access throughout the hotel, an indoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi and on-site fitness center. We are proud to serve our guests and happy to provide an exceptional service experience!
This award-winning hotel provides a great night's sleep preparing guests for the next day's adventure. Free Wi-Fi, parking and full hot breakfast make a stay at Holiday Inn Express & Suites the best!
Established in 1834, this elegantly restored and remodeled hotel graces the main street of downtown Lewisburg, PA.
Victorian-style restaurant, tavern and hotel serving lunch and dinner seven days a week with fully-renovated accommodations and dining areas including a two-story bar and small banquet area.
Diverse selection of lodging choices, from recently remodeled single bedded rooms to lavish suites. Conveniently located on the Geisinger Medical Center Campus.
Quality Inn features beautifully appointed guestrooms and all rooms include a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. They offer free Wi-fi, an attached restaurant, lounge, business center, fitness center, guest laundry and seasonal outdoor pool.
Behind every great day is a great night at the Quality Inn in Selinsgrove near Susquehanna and Bucknell Universities. Make sure to soak in the charming, quaint city during a work-related or leisure getaway at the pet-friendly Quality Inn.
Rusty Rail Brewing Company creates a unique dining experience through fresh food and the finest craft beers. This commitment to quality ingredients, paired with a passion for excellent customer service, results in an unforgettable destination.
A stay at the Selinsgrove Inn allows guests to enjoy downtown Selinsgrove's restaurants and shops. With the stylish country design, impeccable service and fine furnishings, the Selinsgrove Inn is the perfect place for your stay.
In the heart of downtown Williamsport stands the 10-story historic Genetti Hotel & Suites. Boasting 205 sleeping rooms and 11,000 square feet of meeting space, the Genetti is the perfect place for weddings, conventions, annual meetings and trainings. Windows on 4th is their on-site restaurant and bar featuring comfort classics with an eclectic, modern twist.
Located in the heart of downtown Lewisburg, PA and just steps away from Bucknell University, The Tawsty Flower & Haines Suites offers the warmth and charm of a B&B with the modern amenities of a contemporary boutique hotel. All rooms feature full private baths ensuite, high speed WiFi and off-street parking.
Experience the ultimate in dining and lodging just three hours west of Manhattan at Watson Inn.
The Wayside Inn is a restaurant and sports bar with catering services and lodging available. Come for the food...stay for the game!
Family-friendly lodging located 1/4 mile from Knoebels Amusement Resort and Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Course. Includes full breakfast and admission passes to Knoebels Crystal Pool (during pool season). Perfect for large groups.
The Pineapple Inn is downtown Lewisburg's original Bed & Breakfast, having opened in 1985. The building was designed in the Federal Victorian style by prominent Philadelphia architect, Lewis Palmer, and constructed in 1857. Since its beginning, the Inn has become known for its period antiques, unparalleled hospitality and world-famous homemade country breakfast.
An Elegant Bed & Breakfast located in an 1830's public house and tavern in the beautiful central Susquehanna River Valley town of New Berlin, PA. A lovely gift shop, The Emporium, is located within the Inn.
Guests are invited into a warm country atmosphere overlooking the neighboring farmlands. Sleepy Hollow is the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. Enjoy the scenery from the front porch or stroll through the gardens by the koi pond.
