Centers of community attention
Central Pennsylvania is a region steeped in history and tradition. Much of that charm is concentrated in the area’s many enterprising and lively downtowns. Browsing the descriptions below will give you a taste of what awaits. Then, plan a visit because there is no better way to immerse yourself in the experience than to walk the streets yourself.
Our Downtown Communities
Bloomsburg
True to its calling as the only town in Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg has a charming downtown showcasing economic vitality, architectural heritage, and cultural vibrancy. Arts and culture thrive in Bloomsburg, with a professional theatre company, the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, a Renaissance Jamboree, and ArtFest. Residents and visitors of all ages are drawn here to the Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania Bloomsburg campus and for many annual events and traditions like the Bloomsburg Fair.
Learn about upcoming events, downtown projects, or individual businesses with Downtown Bloomsburg, Inc.
Danville
Downtown Danville offers an energetic environment amid historic homes and architecture along the Susquehanna River. Canal Park is a family-friendly entertainment venue at the center of the activity. A diverse culinary scene expertly showcases the local vitality through the Ferry Street Growers Market and an endearing selection of restaurants. A thriving atmosphere exists as a result of Danville’s unique small businesses and shops, live music, and public murals.
Find details on a Downtown Danville Walking Tour and all the events, culture, and architecture from the Danville Business Alliance.
Lewisburg
Nestled amid the incredible forested and rugged beauty of the Susquehanna River Valley, Lewisburg is a thriving center of economic and cultural activity. Its vibrant, diverse downtown is highlighted by incredible architecture, energetic people, and compelling events. It is home to Bucknell University, which has been intertwined with Lewisburg’s history since 1846.
The cultural focus is featured through the Lewisburg Arts Festival, a springtime spotlight on various arts and crafts, and the Heart of Lewisburg Ice Festival, a winter gala of ice carving, polar plunging, family fun, and more. A prominent draw of the Lewisburg Historic District is the Campus Theatre, one of the few single-screen Art Deco movie theaters operating in the country.
Seek your perfect adventure from the businesses, hiking trails, parks, and more at the heart of central Pennsylvania's beautiful Susquehanna River Valley today with the Lewisburg Downtown Partnership.
Mifflinburg
Founded in 1792, Mifflinburg was once known as Pennsylvania’s “buggy capital” due to a thriving carriage manufacturing industry. Many large mansions and other architecture can be viewed in the downtown area. The Mifflinburg Buggy Museum reflects the resultant prosperity of the late 19th-century heritage. Visitors can step back in time with a Walking Tour through the historical architecture that illustrates the cultural origins that still define the borough today, such as the Elias Center for the Performing Arts, constructed in 1806 as a church but now holds numerous performances and events.
Possibilities for current economic endeavors are driven by Mifflinburg Innovation Works, a for-profit real estate developer dedicated to community economic development in downtown Mifflinburg. Gain insight into Mifflinburg’s rich heritage, downtown businesses, festivals, events, and more from the Mifflinburg Heritage & Revitalization Association.
Milton
Dating back to 1791, Milton grew and thrived via industry and lifestyles afforded by its location alongside the Susquehanna River. Chef Boyardee’s first factory was founded in Milton in 1928 by Ettore Boiardi. The internationally known canned pasta products continue to be produced there today. Beyond its production, the company quickly became known for its community commitment, earning the Army-Navy E award for its efforts to produce rations for the armed forces during World War II.
Milton’s rich history is visible today via the Milton Mural Tour, a walking tour along Milton’s downtown to view the vibrant representations of the borough’s past through the fascinating architecture. The Milton Model Train Museum is a reminder of Milton’s status as a transportation hub for the Pennsylvania and Reading Railroads.
Plan your visit to Miton with the resources provided by The Improved Milton Experience.
Selinsgrove
Developed through years as a vital canal town of the Pennsylvania Canal system in the 1800s, Selinsgrove is a lively town possessing the characteristics people of all ages and backgrounds seek to embrace in their hometown. Susquehanna’s downtown is a hub for activity and community gathering spots. Seated between Susquehanna University and the Susquehanna River, it is the ideal destination to stroll through cozy boutique shops and delectable restaurants or as a perfect gathering spot after a refreshing day on the river.
Downtown Selinsgrove is a cultural hub, with activities like Canvas the Grove, an annual Plein Air Competition, where artists are invited to capture an iconic vista “in the open air” within a two-hour time limit. Selinsgrove Commons is a highlight of downtown, hosting musical performances and the Selinsgrove Farmers Market on Saturdays from May through November. Discerning shoppers select from locally-grown, sustainable meats and cheeses, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and more while being treated to local performances at the Music at the Market Series.
Numerous businesses are housed in historic buildings, many dating back to the early 1800s. The home of Simon Snyder, Pennsylvania’s third and only three-term governor, serves as the current location of Selin’s Grove Brewing Company.
Learn more about Selinsgrove here to quickly discover why it has everything a person could want for their hometown!
Sunbury
Sunbury is a thriving community built on dynamic innovation, exemplified by the presence of the Edison Hotel. Originally named the City Hotel when built in 1870, it was the first building in the world with incandescent electric lights when installed by Thomas A. Edison on July 4, 1883. Powered by a nearby coal power plant, lighting the City Hotel set the Edison Electric Company's Direct Current three-wire system with overhead wiring on a path toward illuminating communities and companies across the nation.
With architecture dating back to 1772, the Sunbury Historic District is a source of local pride and an incredible draw for visitors of all ages. Experience the downtown area by visiting more than 40 historic buildings with a Sunbury Self-Guided Walking Tour. Highlights include Sunbury Station, the former Penn Central Railroad Station that is now an antique mall and coffee shop, and Zion Lutheran Church, the site of a local memorial service for George Washington on February 22, 1800.
Today, downtown Sunbury is a hub for a community with a flavor of life through activities like the Sunbury River Festival, Lake Augusta Wine & Brew Festival, and the Albright Center for the Arts. Discover all the year-round enjoyment Sunbury has to offer to families and friends today!