From cozy diners and vintage cafés to nostalgic drive-ins, shops, and arcades, these PA spots will transport you back in time—offering a taste of history and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that brings back the good ol’ days.
Drive-In Movie Theaters
CIRCLE DRIVE-IN
Dickson City
Grab your snacks and settle in for a timeless retro experience at the Circle Drive-In. Since 1949, this beloved Lackawanna County gem has been delighting moviegoers as one of the nation’s longest-running drive-ins. On Friday and Saturdays nights from spring to fall, enjoy the perfect blend of classic charm and modern movies under the stars at one of the largest drive in movie theaters in the state.
SHANKWEILER'S DRIVE-IN THEATRE
Orefield
Take part in a classic American past time at the oldest drive-in movie theatre in the country at Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre. In operation since 1934, this Lehigh Valley landmark offers nostalgic moviegoing under the stars. Catch nightly screenings seven days a week throughout the summer and into the fall season. Bring your blankets, snacks, and a sense of adventure for a timeless evening the whole family will love.
MIDWAY DRIVE-IN THEATRE
Mifflintown
Step into more than 70 years of movie magic at the Midway Drive-In Theatre, which shows a wide range of movie genres – from family and old-time favorites to thrillers and comedy. On Fridays and Saturdays experience two back to back features and be sure to stop by the snack bar for some traditional movie theatre treats to complete the retro experience.
STARLIGHT DRIVE-IN
Butler
Experience classic family fun at the Starlight Drive-In, a favorite Butler tradition since 1958. Once known as the Pioneer, this iconic drive-in has stood the test of time, delighting generations with affordable, outdoor movie magic. Cozy up in your car and enjoy crystal-clear HD visuals paired with Dolby Surround Sound streamed right through your own FM stereo — bringing the big screen right to you under the stars. Enjoy a double feature, or their single feature, on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer.
For more old-school movie inspiration, read more about other iconic drive-in theaters across the state.
Diners and Old School Eateries
SARA'S RESTAURANT
Erie
Step back in time at Sara’s Restaurant, where vibrant neon signs, vintage cola décor, and beloved cartoon characters create a nostalgic atmosphere that’s perfect for the whole family. Just minutes from the shores of Lake Erie, sip on one of their signature shakes or indulge in a hot dog with toppings of your choosing while soaking in a playful, retro vibe that’s sure to bring back childhood memories.
THE 80'S BAR
Lansford
The 80’s Bar is an ‘80s themed bar featuring a full-service restaurant. The menu includes home-style vintage meals - steaks, chops, stuffed peppers, cheesesteaks egg rolls, and pepperoni bites. Stop in, grab a bite, enjoy the atmosphere and live music, or sing along to your favorite '80s song during one of their karaoke nights.
FRANKLIN FOUNTAIN
Philadelphia
Scoop some time out of your getaway to get a taste of this iconic Philadelphia destination. Franklin Fountain in Old City serves up old-time ice cream flavors like Franklin mint chip, Teaberry Gum, and Green Tea in a restored soda fountain shop setting. You’ll also find other soda fountain classics at this beloved gem like 25 different flavors of soda, ice cream sodas, egg creams, and milkshakes.
THE INSIDE SCOOP
Coopersburg
You won’t miss this retro ice cream parlor as you spot Giant Chip from down the road! At The Inside Scoop, admire 1950s inspired decor while you enjoy the creamiest ice cream selections from pineapple cheesecake to mocha chip, grab a cup of their classic coffee, or take a shot at trying the largest sundae in PA – The Volcano – made with 14 scoops of ice cream. See for yourself why this retro hotspot has been named one of the best ice cream shops in the Lehigh Valley for five years in a row.
LOU’S SANDWICH SHOP
Norristown
Stop and experience the home of another classic PA sandwich – The Zep. Lou’s Sandwich Shop near Philadelphia has been serving up sandwiches, milkshakes, salads, soups, and more since the 1940s. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, they are most known for their sandwich “The Zep” which includes a custom-made roll, provolone cheese, cooked salami, tomatoes, onions, oil, and oregano.
THE VILLAGE DINER
Milford
If you’re looking for the ultimate nostalgic dining experience, The Village Diner along the Delaware River will transport you back to 1956 – when the establishment was first built. They are known for their all-day breakfast, hand-made burgers, and marinated grilled chicken for a lighter option. It’ll feel like stepping into your mom or grandma’s kitchen!
Unique Shopping Destinations
DUPPSTADT'S COUNTRY STORE
Stoystown
Step back in time at Duppstadt’s Country Store in Stoystown. Nestled along the historic Lincoln Highway, this charming country store has been a hotspot for locals and travelers alike for more than a century. Inside, you’ll find a nostalgic mix of classic country goods—from locally sourced maple syrup and cozy western wear to handmade candles and timeless toys.
SPACE
Lancaster City
Space is Lancaster City’s go-to destination for mid-century modern and vintage lovers. Discover an eclectic, carefully curated collection of furniture, décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures that celebrate the timeless style and flair of past decades. Whether you’re redecorating or simply hunting for unique finds, Space offers retro shopping you won’t want to miss.
SWEEET! THE CANDY STORE
Gettysburg
A sugar-coated time machine awaits at Sweeet! The Candy Store in historic Gettysburg, where nostalgia is served seven days a week. With more than 3,000 treats on the shelves, including candies, vintage glass-bottled sodas, treats dating back to the 1850s, and quirky tin toys, this shop offers a playful, flavorful blast from the past that delights visitors of all ages.
JOLLY TROLLEY VARIETY
Dushore
See what its like to dine during The Golden Age at Jolly Trolley Variety, a charming '50s-style luncheonette and variety store that delights kids and adults. A beloved local gem, this nostalgic shop features toys, country décor, and unique souvenirs. Enjoy a hearty breakfast or classic lunch at the old-fashioned soda fountain, where vintage charm and small-town hospitality come standard.
OLD & BREW
Peckville
Old & Brew is where you'll find vintage charm and cozy comfort. This unique blend of a vintage store and coffee shop specializes in treasures from the mid-century through the 1990s. Explore a curated collection of retro furniture, records, and décor while savoring a freshly brewed cup of coffee in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hunting for nostalgic finds or simply looking to relax, Old & Brew offers the perfect blend of past and present.
For more vintage shopping experiences throughout PA, read more about thrift and vintage experiences here.
Other Family-Friendly Retro Activities
AMERICAN TREASURE TOUR MUSEUM
Oaks
Experience a vibrant celebration of nostalgia at the American Treasure Tour Museum. This one-of-a-kind attraction features an eclectic collection of Americana—vintage cars, music machines, classic pop culture items, and more—all housed in a sprawling former factory. Hop aboard one of the museum’s frequent tram rides for a guided journey through the golden age of American life, with sights and sounds that will delight visitors of all ages.
EAST BROAD TOP RAILROAD
Rockhill Furnace
Hop aboard the East Broad Top Railroad for a retro rail experience like no other! Travel back to the age of steam at the railroad, a National Historic Landmark and a true gem of America’s industrial past. Built in 1872, it’s the only surviving three-foot narrow gauge common carrier railroad east of the Rocky Mountains. Climb aboard an authentic steam locomotive, explore the original roundhouse and machine shop, and step into a bygone era where history comes to life on the rails.
LINCOLN HIGHWAY EXPERIENCE
Latrobe
Take a nostalgic journey at the Lincoln Highway Experience, where Americana comes alive with a slice of complimentary pie and a warm cup of coffee. As the nation’s largest museum dedicated to America’s first coast-to-coast highway, this unique destination showcases fascinating artifacts from Pennsylvania’s portion of the historic Lincoln Highway. Cap off your visit with a meal at the beautifully restored 1938 Serro’s Diner.
MOUNT GRETNA ROLLER RINK
Lebanon
The charming Mount Gretna Roller Rink offers nostalgic roller-skating with a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for family fun and special events. Enjoy a memorable outing at one of the area's most treasured attractions.
SWIGART MUSEUM
Huntingdon
Cruise through history at the Swigart Antique Automobile Museum, one of the oldest automobile museums in the United States. Located in scenic Huntingdon, this notable museum showcases a remarkable collection of vintage vehicles and automotive memorabilia. Highlights include two rare Tucker automobiles, a classic Stanley Steamer, a Model T, and the beloved Herbie the Love Bug.
TIMELINE ARCADE
York
Step into nostalgia at Timeline Arcade, home to more than 300 classic arcade games and pinball machines spanning the 80s, 90s, and beyond. As the largest retro arcade in south-central Pennsylvania, it’s a must-visit for gamers and families alike. Open daily and located just steps from the town’s historic sites, the Heritage Rail Trail, plus fantastic dining and shopping—Timeline Arcade is the perfect hub for a competitive, yet fun getaway.
ALLEN THEATRE AND SALAMANDER BOOKSTORE CAFÉ
Annville
Peruse the on-site bookstore before or after you tune into an art or foreign film at Allen Theatre and Salamander Bookstore Café. Located on Main Street in Annville, the retro sign will capture your attention while you spend hours at this multifaceted destination. View a film on the historic single-screen theatre then purchase new and used books, vinyls, and CDs at the store, and finally grab a refreshment at the café part of this one-stop shop.
KNOEBEL’S AMUSEMENT RESORT
Elysburg
Nostalgia takes a wild ride when you visit one of PA’s iconic amusement parks. Knoebel’s Amusement Resort is best known for its affordable family fun with free admission, more than 60 rides and attractions, more than 800 campsites, and 36 in-park dining destinations. Since 2018, the park has been home to the #1 wooden roller coaster in the world – The Phoenix. What could be more timeless than strapping into this ride?
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