The Strangest Road Names in Pennsylvania and How They Got Them
In the heart of Philadelphia, just a short walk from City Hall, lies the quirky neighborhood of Fishtown, where you can stumble upon streets with names that seem to tell stories all their own. One of the most famously odd is “Taco Bell Road,” which isn’t actually named for the fast-food chain but rather after a local family whose surname was Bell. Meandering through this lively district, visitors can soak up the vibrant murals and independent eateries that bring the street’s character to life. The neighborhood’s mix of old industrial warehouses turned art studios and the buzz of hip cafés give this place a charm that differs dramatically from the city’s historic center. Fishtown’s best time to explore is during spring or fall when the weather invites long walks and outdoor dining, making the experience of these intriguingly named streets all the more delightful.
Travel about an hour west of Philadelphia, near the small town of Jim Thorpe in Carbon County, and you’ll find the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Byway. This stretch of road, nestled alongside the Lehigh River, features the curiously named “Switchback Railroad Road.” The name pays homage to the historic Mauch Chunk Switchback Railway, America’s second-oldest operating railroad, now a popular rail-trail for biking and hiking. Visitors can explore the Switchback Trail itself, a 14-mile path of moderate difficulty that dips and rises through Pennsylvania’s rugged terrain. The road and trail offer a unique glimpse into early industrial transportation and the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains. Fall is prime time here when the forest canopy bursts into fiery reds and golds, creating a stunning backdrop for the rustic road and its historic roots.
In central Pennsylvania, just outside the state capital of Harrisburg, the town of Mechanicsburg holds the oddly named “Boiling Springs Road,” a curious title that refers to the nearby Boiling Springs natural spring, rather than any volcanic activity. Boiling Springs Park, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Harrisburg, invites visitors to stroll along the springs and through its well-maintained trails. The centerpiece is the clear, bubbling spring that feeds into Spring Creek, a serene spot that has drawn visitors for over a century. The town’s name and the water’s constant motion make for a fascinating juxtaposition of industrial heritage and natural wonder. Visiting in the late spring when wildflowers bloom and the water’s clarity is at its best enhances the soothing atmosphere.
Heading northwest of Pittsburgh by about two hours, the town of Punxsutawney is world-famous for another kind of oddity: “Groundhog Road.” Though the name itself is straightforward, it connects visitors to the quirky tradition of Groundhog Day, celebrated annually at Gobbler’s Knob. Here, visitors can experience the folklore firsthand on February 2nd, but the town’s charm extends all year with its Groundhog Museum and charming downtown streets. Punxsutawney’s landscape and heritage offer a unique blend of natural beauty and American folk culture. A visit in winter offers a special atmosphere, especially around Groundhog Day, but the town’s historic streets and small museums provide interest any time of year.
East of Erie, near the shores of Lake Erie itself, lies Presque Isle State Park, a sandy peninsula with a name meaning “almost island” in French. Inside the park, the whimsically named “Muddy Run Road” winds through wetlands and marshes, leading visitors to boardwalk trails such as the Muddy Run Trail. This easy loop offers birdwatchers a prime location to spot migratory species and waterfowl, especially in spring and fall. What makes Muddy Run Road unique is its immersion in a crucial ecological habitat right next to a major lake, blending the feel of a wilderness adventure with the recreational amenities of a state park. Early morning visits are best, when wildlife is most active and the waters reflect the rising sun.
About 90 minutes northeast of the bustling city of Pittsburgh, the town of Slippery Rock is home to Slippery Rock University and the nearby McConnells Mill State Park. Within the park, “Hell’s Hollow Road” snakes through dense forest and rugged terrain. The road’s name evokes a sense of mystery, tied to local legends and the wild landscape of the Slippery Rock Gorge. Visitors can hike the Hell’s Hollow Trail, a demanding 3.2-mile loop featuring waterfalls and steep cliffs, perfect for those seeking a challenge amid Pennsylvania’s natural beauty. The park’s dramatic geology and dense woodland set it apart, especially vibrant in autumn when the foliage ignites the hillsides with color.
Down in southeastern Pennsylvania, near the historic town of Lancaster, lies the village of Intercourse, a place that frequently raises eyebrows due to its unusual name. The town’s name derives from an old English term meaning a crossroads or intersection of two roads, not the modern connotation. Visitors to Intercourse can explore the Amish countryside, enjoying scenic drives along routes like Old Philadelphia Pike, sampling handmade crafts, and visiting the Amish Farm and House museum to immerse themselves in the region’s unique culture. The rural setting, dotted with horse-drawn buggies and farmland, offers a peaceful contrast to urban life. Spring and summer are ideal for this region, when the farmland is lush and green and the Amish markets are bustling with fresh produce and artisanal goods.