There are so many people with Germany ancestry in Pennsylvania, that they have their own term: Pennsylvania Dutch. Kutztown is also home to the Old Order Mennonite community. Between these two groups of people, there is a rich culture around the area, and this can be seen in local museums and restaurants. Among natural wonders, Kutztown is home to a deep industrial history, housing both auto and railroad museums. Kutztown, PA is a 1 hour 20 minute day trip from Philadelphia.
Crystal Cave
Limestone miners discovered Crystal Cave in November of 1871. Today’s guests can descend the 125 feet into the cave to discover some of nature’s wonders. Because of the enclosed conditions and flowing waters, this cave remains 54 degrees, but walking shoes and a jacket are suggested. The tour begins with a movie that about the cave’s history. Those who complete the tour can then enter the gift store to purchase apparel and bags of dirt. These bags are taken outside and used in the running sluice to pan for gemstones. Afterward, guests can get a treat at the ice cream parlor or restaurant, and do some golfing at the miniature golf course.
Address: 963 Crystal Cave Rad, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-6765
Stay Overnight at the Rodale Institute Farm
Originally named the Soil and Health Foundation, the Rodale Institute is the birthplace of the organic food movement. Back in the 1930s, J.I. Rodale and his wife purchased a rundown farm in Kutztown with the hope of growing farm without pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Since its conception, the Rodale Institute has published several works advocating the organic agricultural movement. Now made up of several campuses and farms, visitors to the Rodale Institute Founders Farm can stay overnight on the farm and visit the apiary and original farm grounds. Those who visit the institute can take part in one of the many classes and workshops to learn more about organic farming.
Address: 611 Siegfriedale Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-1400
Setter Ridge Vineyards
Family owned by the Blair family, Setter Ridge Vineyards has been making wine since 2004. The Blairs believe the cool mountains of Pennsylvania are the most similar to Northern European wine country, so Setter wines are closest to French wines.
Allentown and Auburn Railroad
Pennsylvania has a proud railroad heritage. The Allentown and Auburn Railroad wants to showcase some of the deep history found in areas like Kutztown. The living museum has roots way back in 1853, when it was an active railroad line.
Address: 232 Railroad Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 570-778-7531
Kutztown Fairgrounds
No visit to a city would be complete without a trek to the fairgrounds, which showcases the best the city has to offer. The Kutztown Fairgrounds has undergone many changes and owners since its original founding in 1831 as a military fair. Since then, there are a number of additions added, including a folk festival that celebrates the German heritage in the area. Along with a grandstand, stages, a beer garden, and a restaurant, the Kutztown Fairgrounds is home to Action Track USA. This dirt track is home to many motorsports and even tractor pulls.
Address: 450 Wentz Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-7696
Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center
Visitors to Kutztown will find many German influences in the food, activities, and traditions of the locals. One place you may want to visit is the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at the University of Pennsylvania. This open-air, living museum is a place where guests can learn about the Pennsylvania Dutch folklore and culture.
Address: 22 Luckenbill Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-1589
Kutztown Area Historical Society
A trip to Kutztown should include a look at some of the area’s history. Held in an 1892 school building, the Kutztown Area Historical Society is a museum and library in one.
Address: Normal Avenue, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-7697
Saucony Creek Craft Brewery & Gastropub
Founded by former professional X Games snowboarder, Matt Lindenmuth, Saucony Creek Craft Brewery & Gastropub utilizes German and Belgium beer traditions.
Address: 15032 Kutztown Road, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-3128
Basin Street Hotel, Restaurant, & Pub
What would eventually become the foundation of the Basin Street Hotel, Restaurant, & Pub began in 1876. After fires, rebuilds, renovation, and owner changes, what now stands as the Basin Street Hotel, Restaurant, & Pub is a great place to stop for an entertaining story and some great food.
Address: 42 East Main Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-7900
Have Lunch at Bagel Bar Cafe
Bagel Bar Cafe got its start as Bagel Bar in the Bicycle Den. Yes, it began as a counter in a local bike shop. After some growing, the restaurant moved locations and expanded its menu significantly.
Address: 214 W. Main Street, Kutztown, PA 19530, Phone: 610-683-5440
Folino Estate Vineyard
Established by the Folino family, Marco and Andrea Folino, opened the estate on some family owned property. Today, the Folino Estate Vineyard is host to the tasting room, where guests can browse through inventory, select some wines to sample, or purchase unique accessories and gourmet meats and cheeses.
Address: 340 Old Route 22, Kutztown, PA, 19530, Phone: 484-452-3633
