There’s something magical about fall in Pennsylvania—crisp air, golden leaves, and the unmistakable flavors of the season. Pumpkin ales, Oktoberfest lagers, and spiced ciders take center stage, and some of the best places to experience them are along the Pennsylvania Ale Trail.
Whether you’re road-tripping in an RV or just looking for your next long weekend getaway, we’ve mapped out a delicious fall itinerary with stops in Lancaster, Erie, Pittsburgh, and Scranton—along with nearby RV campgrounds that make it easy to stay, sip, and relax.
Lancaster County: Where Amish Country Meets Craft Beer
You might know Lancaster for its rolling farmland and buggies, but it’s also home to a growing craft beer scene—especially come fall.
Must-Try Breweries:
Best Pairings:
Try the beer-braised brisket sandwich at Lancaster Brewing or the soft pretzel board with house-made beer cheese at Spring House.
- Location: Just off Route 30 in Gordonville, between Lancaster and Intercourse—perfect for exploring both the brewery scene and the heart of Amish Country.
- Amenities: Full hook-up sites (including big rig-friendly pull-thrus), Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, laundry, fire pits, picnic tables, and a playground.
- Bonus: Walking distance to Kitchen Kettle Village and a short drive to all of Lancaster’s top breweries and attractions.
- Vibe: Peaceful country setting with scenic views, well-kept grounds, and friendly staff—ideal for a relaxing fall escape.
Lake Erie Region: Brews with a View in Erie, PA
Pennsylvania’s northwest corner is a hidden gem in the fall, with cool lake breezes, changing leaves, and a solid craft beer scene. Erie offers that laid-back, waterfront charm with plenty of flavor.
Must-Try Breweries:
- Erie Brewing Company – Their Oktoberfest Lager and Johnny Rails Pumpkin Ale are seasonal staples.
- Lavery Brewing Co. – Known for creative brews like their spiced Dúlachán Pumpkin Ale and limited barrel-aged releases.
- Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing (just south in Westfield, NY) – A fun combo spot offering beer, wine, and spirits—perfect for groups with mixed tastes.
Best Pairings:
Enjoy a beer flight with soft pretzels and beer cheese at Lavery or pair your pint with Lake Erie perch tacos at local restaurants nearby.
- Location: Right on the edge of Presque Isle State Park, with options to camp on the beach or in shaded inland sites.
- Amenities: Full hook-ups, on-site restaurant (with ice cream!), laundry, camp store, bike rentals, and a trolley stop for easy exploring.
- Vibe: Breezy, fun, and right at the water’s edge—sunsets and campfires included.
Pittsburgh: Industrial Cool Meets Cozy Brews
Western PA knows how to do fall right, with a mix of steel-town grit and vibrant neighborhoods full of good food and great beer.
Must-Try Breweries:
Best Pairings:
Grab a wood-fired flatbread at Church Brew Works or street-style tacos from rotating food trucks at Grist House.
- Location: 30 minutes north of the city, offering peaceful views away from the downtown bustle.
- Amenities: Full hook-up pull-thru sites, fire rings, laundry, and panoramic overlooks.
- Bonus: Close to Route 28 for easy access to Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and attractions.
Scranton & Wilkes-Barre: Coal Country with a Craft Beer Twist
Northeastern PA has come a long way from its coal-mining days. Today, it’s home to cozy towns, colorful fall drives through the mountains, and some surprisingly great craft breweries.
Must-Try Breweries:
- Breaker Brewing Company (Wilkes-Barre) – Located in a repurposed school building with a mining theme, their Pumpkin Brown Ale and Oktoberfest Märzen are seasonal highlights.
- Backyard Ale House (Scranton) – More of a gastropub, but with a killer local tap list and fall pub fare.
- Susquehanna Brewing Company (near Pittston) – Their Pumpkin Ale and crisp Oktoberfest Lager are perfect for leaf-peeping season.
Best Pairings:
Pair beer-battered pierogies or a hearty bison burger with a local fall brew for a true northeast Pennsylvania flavor experience.
- Location: About 35 minutes from Wilkes-Barre and nestled in the Pocono foothills—great for combining brewery visits with nature hikes.
- Amenities: Full hook-up sites, seasonal pool, laundry, fire rings, and a recreation hall.
- Vibe: Peaceful mountain setting with easy access to local attractions, quaint towns, and the Pocono Wine & Ale Trail.
Final Sip
Fall is short—so why not hit the road, park the RV, and sip your way through Pennsylvania’s seasonal brews and bites? With these RV-friendly areas, you don’t have to choose between cozy campfires and brewery flights. You can have both.
Whether you’re pairing pumpkin ales with campfire chili or chasing Oktoberfest lagers with local pretzels, fall is the perfect time to explore Pennsylvania’s Ale Trail—one pint at a time.
- About the Author
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Jennifer is the Founder of Adventures in the US, where she shares hidden gems, road trip itineraries, and must-see destinations across the country. A lifelong explorer with a love for RV travel and quirky local finds, Jennifer believes the best adventures happen when you mix small-town charm with unforgettable experiences. Through her personalized itineraries, and travel tips, she helps families, couples, and fellow wanderers discover unique places they might otherwise miss.
Jennifer works by day as the Executive Director of a non-profit and in her downtime can be found enjoying community events near her home in Pennsylvania or sipping coffee while dreaming up new adventures.
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