Things To Do
in Bloomsburg

Bloomsburg sits beside the Susquehanna River as a quaint, college-town in northeastern Pennsylvania. It blends historic downtown charm with greenery and riverfront scenery, making it easy to explore on foot. The town hosts lively events like the Bloomsburg Fair and seasonal markets that reflect its small-town hospitality.

With Bloomsburg University nearby, the area has a youthful energy balanced by peaceful neighborhoods and scenic trails.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Scenic Explorations
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike at the Bloomsburg Town Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. As the sun rises, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty around you. Bring along a picnic breakfast to savor as you breathe in the fresh morning air.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon visiting the Bloomsburg University, taking a self-guided tour to explore its beautiful campus. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the local art exhibits and the impressive library. Grab lunch at a nearby café where you can sample some local delights.

evening
:

As evening falls, head over to the Historic Bloomsburg Theatre for an engaging performance. Experience the vibrancy of local arts while mingling with fellow attendees. After the show, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a downtown restaurant to cap off your day.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your morning by visiting the Columbia County Historical and Genealogical Society, where you can delve into the rich history of the area. Engage with knowledgeable staff to uncover fascinating stories from the past. The quaint atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts.

afternoon
:

After immersing yourself in history, take a leisurely walk along the Susquehanna River, where you can enjoy scenic views and perhaps even spot some wildlife. Lunch at a riverfront café will not only nourish you but also provide a picturesque backdrop. Consider renting a kayak for some afternoon fun on the water.

evening
:

As night approaches, unwind with a craft beer at one of Bloomsburg's local breweries. Chat with locals, learn about the brewing process, and taste a variety of styles. End your evening with a casual stroll through the town center, taking in the vibrant nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🏨One night in mid-range hotel$75-150
🚎Public transit or rideshare fare$1-3
Coffee or tea$2-5
🧺Groceries for a week$40-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact, walkable downtown with river views
  • Active community events and markets year-round
  • Relatively affordable compared with larger cities
  • Limited nightlife compared to big cities
  • Smaller selection of high-end dining
  • Weather can be variable in shoulder seasons

Places to Visit in Bloomsburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Market Street Bridge

A classic vantage over the Susquehanna River, ideal at sunrise or sunset.

Bloomsburg Town Clock

Historic clock tower with charming streetside views and seasonal backdrops.

Bloomsburg University Campus Archway

Shot-worthy campus entrance with fall foliage and pathways.

Riverfront Park

Open greenspace along the river with reflective water and sky views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bloomsburg

Bloomsburg’s cuisine leans on Pennsylvania Dutch influences, farm-to-table produce from nearby farms, and casual American dining with river views. Expect fresh bakery treats, hearty sandwiches, and seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients.

Bloomsburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shoofly Pie

A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch molasses pie, often found in local bakeries and diners.

Must-Try!

Soft Pretzels

Classic twisted pretzels, a popular street snack in downtown Bloomsburg.

Pierogi

Savory dumplings found in Eastern European-influenced eateries and festivals.

Apple Dumplings

Locally made dessert featuring baked apples in pastry.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bloomsburg Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods on select days.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bloomsburg experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers, cold winters, and transitional springs and autumns. Summer highs typically reach the 80s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snow.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality and greetings

Greet locals with a friendly 'hello' or nod; small-town courtesy is common.

Quiet in residential areas

Respect quiet hours and avoid loud behavior late at night near homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bloomsburg is generally safe, with pedestrian-friendly streets and a community-focused atmosphere. Exercise standard travel precautions: lock vehicles, secure valuables, and be aware of weather advisories in winter and summer storms.

Tipping in Bloomsburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

15-20% at sit-down restaurants; round up for casual service; small tips for bar staff when appropriate.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; ATMs available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with humidity and occasional thunderstorms; perfect for river trips and outdoor concerts.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and brilliant foliage; a peak time for festivals and photo opportunities.

Winter

Cold, with possible snow; many outdoor trails may be icy; indoor attractions are cozy and accessible.

Spring

Milder weather with blooming trees; early for birds and outdoor markets to reopen.

Nightlife Guide

Bloomsburg at Night

Bloomsburg offers a modest nightlife scene centered on downtown pubs, casual bars, and seasonal live music events; expect venues with a friendly vibe rather than large clubs, and occasional outdoor concerts in warmer months.

Hiking in Bloomsburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ridge Trail at Knob Mountain

Moderate hike with valley viewpoints and forest scenery.

Mineral Springs Trail

Easy, scenic route along nearby springs and parks.

Airports

How to reach Bloomsburg by plane.

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP)

Main regional airport offering domestic flights; about 1.5–2 hours by car.

Williamsport Regional Airport (IPT)

Smaller airport closer to the area for occasional flights.

Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)

Another option with more routes; longer drive from Bloomsburg.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bloomsburg’s compact downtown is highly walkable, with most shops, eateries, parks, and the riverfront within easy reach on foot or by bike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families connected through schools, campus life, and community events.

Students

Bloomsburg University contributes a student population with seasonal energy and events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Popular in schools and community leagues; big game-day atmosphere.

Baseball/Softball

Active local leagues and school teams during spring and summer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually light in residential areas but can increase near the downtown on market days and during university events; public transit and biking are viable options around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bloomsburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many eateries offer veggie burgers, salads, and veggie wraps; ask for seasonal specials; some places label vegetarian options clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital provides essential emergency and outpatient services; for specialized care, residents typically travel to Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, or Scranton.

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