The Quirkiest Town In Pennsylvania That You’ll Absolutely Love
By Beth Price-Williams|Published May 08, 2017
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Pennsylvania’s dotted with small towns, each with its own distinct personality. One of those charming small towns, however, stands out from the rest. The picturesque town has certainly maintained its friendliness and old-fashioned charm over the decades. But, drive just a half an hour outside of Pittsburgh to the quirkiest town in Pennsylvania and you just might feel as though you’re in another world.
A simple sign will welcome you when you arrive in Mars and will provide you with the first clues of the charming quirkiness that awaits during your visit.
Spot the little green aliens as you stroll through the town with an otherworldly name. How Mars got its name, however, remains in doubt. Originally known as Marshall, PA, some believe that Martians simply shortened the moniker while others...
Assert that Marshall, the man the town was named after, changed the town's name to Mars because he was simply enthralled with astronomy and the Red Planet, in particular.
However Mars got its name, visitors will quickly discover the quirky side of this friendly town that features a silver spaceship, a spot that naturally attracts selfie takers and tourists.
Mars leaps alive every other year when locals, visitors, and NASA come together for one of the town's biggest celebrations: Mars New Year. This year honors Mars' 34th year.
The celebration features a full schedule of activities, including a costume contest, NASA talks, science and technology vendors, train rides, children's activities, and hands-on activities and displays.
But, Mars warrants a visit any time of the year with its many quaint shops and restaurants, including Mars Brew House, Mars Pizza, and Mamma's Place Family Diner.
Tour the Mars Train Station, which dates back to 1897, then buy a postcard and mail it from the post office (so it's postmarked "Mars") to commemorate your visit.
Carve time out of your day to visit perhaps the most emotional spot in Mars: The 9/11 Peace Pole. A simple white pole that remembers those lost on September 11, 2001 reads "May Peace Prevail on Earth" in different languages.
Make unforgettable memories when you visit the quirkiest town in Pennsylvania. But, Mars isn’t the only charming small town in Pennsylvania. Click here to read more about 10 of the cutest small towns in rural Pennsylvania.
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