Not quite coastal, almost mid-western. It may seem Pennsylvania is still searching for its identity. Confusion is not the operative word here, however; diversity is. And when it comes to selecting the perfect bed and breakfast for a weekend getaway in Pennsylvania, there is no shortage of first-rate options from which to choose.
Annville Inn is an elegant Bed and Breakfast located in Central Pennsylvania, just minutes from Hershey, Pennsylvania, home of Hershey's Chocolate World, Hersheypark, and so much more. Adjacent to Lancaster County (Amish/PA Dutch country), Harrisburg, Gettysburg. Our five luxurious guest rooms have private baths. individual climate control, fireplaces, flat screen televisions and luxurious amenities (detailed in the amenities section). You will love Annville Inn's amazing movie theater with 75" high-definition screen and Dolby surround sound, a spacious game room, and don't forget our wonderful spa featuring expert masseuse, Annette. A candlelit gourmet breakfast, served each morning, features fresh ingredients from Pennsylvania's famous Lebanon Valley farms and is rewarded by our guests with rave reviews. Guests enjoy our outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, three acres of lush botanical gardens with walking trails, ponds, bridges, and a wonderful maze to explore as well as hammocks, pergolas and koi. Rosalie, your Innkeeper, has many acclaimed chef friends who frequently provide the Acclaimed Chef Cooking Class for guests who make reservations for the experience. Your Annville Inn B&B experience will go beyond expectations...Annville Inn is a destination, named one of the most Romantic Inns on the East Coast.
Welcome to Pheasant Field Bed & Breakfast Inn in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where you will enjoy casual, country elegance in our historic brick farmhouse, conveniently located an easy drive away from downtown Carlisle, Gettysburg, Hershey, Harrisburg, and Mechanicsburg. Carlisle is famous for collector car shows held at the Carlisle Fairgrounds. Dickinson College, Messiah College, and Penn State’s Law School – Dickinson School of Law – are also located nearby. The US Army War College – home of the Carlisle Indian School, Jim Thorpe’s alma mater – is just 3 miles from our bed and breakfast. You can relax by hiking on The Appalachian Trail or fly fishing in the Yellow Breeches or The LeTort Spring Run. During your visit, you can stable your horse in our historic stone barn. Pastures and run-in sheds are also available. Named “Simply the Best B&B” by readers of Harrisburg Magazine.
Discover a new level of hospitality and luxury at our Carlisle, PA bed and breakfast. Newly renovated and opened in 2018, our boutique property is ideally located in the heart of downtown Carlisle. Choose from one of four stylish guest rooms featuring private en-suite bathrooms and modern touches including illy coffee makers, bath amenities from Aromatherapy Associates, and luxurious Yves Delorme linens. We offer a variety of bed types and option for adjoining rooms to accommodate different types of travelers. Come experience the gracious hospitality and modern comforts in our beautiful historic inn. Awake to a delectable homemade breakfast served each morning in the breakfast room, and enjoy a complimentary manager’s reception every afternoon. This stately Mediterranean property offers guests inviting common areas including the expansive front porch, breezy 2nd floor balcony, grand parlor, guest pantry, and dining room. Historic downtown Carlisle, Pennsylvania is steps from the property and brimming with unique shops and excellent dining opportunities. The Smith Steiner is the ultimate luxurious respite for visitors to Dickinson College, Penn State’s Dickinson Law, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, and the U.S. Army War College.
Once an Amish tobacco farm is today Lancaster County’s most acclaimed luxury, boutique hotel, The Inn at Leola Village 1867. Rise above the ordinary and experience the best of Lancaster. Whether you’re seeking to relax at our Forbes Rated 4 Star Spa, dine outdoors or indoors at our rustic Italian inspired restaurant or wander through our stunning gardens, you’re sure to love staying with us. STAY MORE & SAVE MORE Stay with us for 2 consecutive nights and SAVE 30% OFF your 2nd night or stay for 3 consecutive nights and SAVE 50% OFF your 3rd night, when you book with us directly online. Now is the perfect time to explore our country back roads, enjoy the fresh Fall harvest from our neighboring Amish farms, apple orchards & friendly markets. Wander through eclectic shops and maybe, just get lost and unwind in one of Lancaster’s vast corn mazes. Our Inn offers a true taste of Lancaster County with lodging available in restored antique homes, tobacco barns, a wine cellar along with whirlpool suites, parlor suites and traditional rooms. Whether you’re seeking a restful escape, a relaxing night away from the chaos at home or a much-needed romantic escapade, join us at The Inn at Leola Village. Plus, you can enjoy Special rates on our Forbes 4 Star Rated rooms, spacious Parlor Suites and luxury whirlpool suites, now through the end of October! WELCOME
Welcome to The Bridgeton House on the Delaware – a riverfront luxury New Hope bed and breakfast inn set on the banks of the Delaware River – a nationally renowned & award winning boutique hotel. This historic inn is decorated in sophisticated artistic style, with luxury rooms featuring sumptuous feather beds, luxury linens, private baths, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, French doors leading to private balconies, and river views. Perfect for an unforgettable Pennsylvania romantic vacation! Guests enjoy a complimentary multi-course made to order breakfast each morning that can be enjoyed in our dining room, on the riverside terrace, or in the privacy of their room or balcony. Guests may also choose to enhance their stay with one of our special packages including picnic baskets, massage services, or a private romantic dinner. You’ll find our New Hope bed and breakfast on River Road, in the quaint village of Upper Black Eddy. River Road was voted one of the top ten scenic drives in the nation, and the river has received a Federal Wildlife Designation that will protect it for years to come. Bucks County, Pennsylvania is one of America’s prettiest and most historic areas, offering a multitude of activities tailored to a wide variety of tastes, with vibrant culture, seasonal color, eclectic shopping, and easy access to Philadelphia or New York City. The rolling countryside, dotted with covered bridges, old barns, and period stone houses, makes Bucks County a wonderful place to visit. In addition to romantic getaways, we host intimate weddings/elopements, team retreats, and corporate events. Visit our website for more details on our rooms and suites, special offers, or hosting your next event! “Our favorite Bucks County Inn!” – PHILADELPHIA MAGAZINE
A ROMANTIC LANCASTER BOUTIQUE HOTEL Imagine the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing, romantic couples' getaway or the ideal location for a shopping adventure with friends. Our Amish Country Boutique Hotel offers the opportunity to stay in a spacious Country Homestead suite, with King or Queen bed; a Grand suite boasting a whirlpool tub for two; or a cozy Main House room. Once you've settled in, allow us to tempt you with a relaxing spa service. Our memorable part of the world will enchant you with its quaint shops, beautiful scenery, and rich history. We are just a short drive from downtown Lancaster, where you will find a vast variety of dining choices, theaters, galleries and nightlife. Upon your return, rest on the front porch of our beautifully restored 1909 home and watch the buggies clip-clop down Main Street. Or, enjoy a glass of wine in the Gazebo, located in the rear of the property; you will forget you are on Main Street!
$180.00 - $280.00
Steps away from Dickinson College, Penn State Dickinson Law, the Central PA Youth Ballet (CPYB), and Historic Downtown Carlisle, the Mooreland Garden Inn is the perfect place to stay close when taking a school tour or visiting for an event. The Mooreland Garden Inn is a short drive to the US Army War College, and Carlisle Events Car Shows, too. The bed and breakfast is in a 100 year old Georgian Revival Manor Home that has been elegantly restored and updated to accommodate our guests. Innkeepers, Dawn Flower-Webb and Bruce Webb, look forward to welcoming you. Each guest room has a private bath with a rainwater shower, soft Turkish Towels, and our signature line of organic soaps and lotions. Our rooms feature bed linens by Comphy sheets, free WIFI, a smart tv with cable, and areas for you to relax, read, or work. All guests are welcome to the “Tea and Coffee Bar” with 24 hour access to cold soft drinks, bottled water, snacks (packaged and MGI made), tea and coffee. A hot breakfast is prepared each morning and is available from 7-9 AM. Guests are welcome to eat in the dining room, at the kitchen bar, or on the "purple porch". We invite you to enjoy the garden and the variety of birds who frequent our feeders.
Galvanized America Inn and Art Gallery offers guests a truly unique experience in Bucks County near New Hope. Our 1754 farmhouse sits on 6.4 acres with an inground pool, firepit, shaded patio, and grand vistas (including picturesque sunrise and sunset views). We're in the middle of nowhere...yet close to everything Bucks County has to offer: Historic Doylestown, the bustling river towns of New Hope/Lambertville, NJ/Frenchtown, NJ, Lake Nockamixon State Park, Ralph Stover State Park, Delaware River tubing, boat/canoe/kayak/paddle board rentals, Bucks County Wine Trail, Bucks County Ale Trail, Covered Bridges Tour, antiquing, boutique shopping, cafes, fabulous restaurants and so much more!
The 1740 House is an historic property located along the banks of the Delaware River. The Inn is conveniently located to nearby restaurants, shops, art galleries, parks, and museums for which Bucks County, Pennsylvania is noted. The property was formerly a working farm, and the atmosphere retains the antique charm of centuries past. The original architecture has been preserved and restored. Colonial styles and pastoral seclusion allow for a quiet, refreshing experience, which is perfect for an evening out, a romantic getaway, or a temporary sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Only three miles from Stockton, New Jersey, and six miles from the commercial centers of Lambertville, NJ and New Hope, PA.
Spencer House Bed & Breakfast, located on historic Millionaires Row in Erie Pennsylvania, invites you to step back in time for a restful stay in a restored Victorian home. Located near Downtown, the Bayfront, Presque Isle State Park and Lake Erie Wine Country, guests can enjoy the convenience of being close to many area activities and restaurants or take advantage of the privacy and have a romantic getaway with that special someone. Whatever brings you to Erie, Spencer House is the perfect destination for relaxation and being close to it all. Accommodations include rooms that have king, queen and full beds, and all rooms have their own private bath. Each guest room is uniquely appointed with luxurious linens and offer upscale amenities. A full hot homecooked breakfast is included with the room.
Welcome to the Blue Rock bed & breakfast located in Lancaster County, PA. Family friendly lodging and breakfast await you in historic Amish Country, Well located, spacious, and affordable home comforts. We offer spacious and affordable accommodations for individual or family travel. Enjoy a large back yard in a peaceful neighborhood with a community park across the street, golf course within a mile, hiking trails, farm land, a public swimming pool, Amish country attractions and much more in the nearby area. Within walking distance are the following: a grocery store, several restaurants, two convenience stores, a post office, a Lancaster County RRTA bus stop, and the MU campus. Indoors offers spacious quarters with three separate rooms each with a private bath and unique features such as DVD, free wifi, AC, refrigerator, small kitchen appliances, queen bed, iron, soaps, linens, parking, delicious home-cooked breakfast, and much more… A virtual tour is available to preview on our website.
Beautiful Bed and Breakfast located in Beaver County PA, just 25 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. This 1907 foursquare bed and breakfast is in the Bridgewater Historic District right on the Beaver River. We are 20 minutes from the Pittsburgh International Airport. Our riverfront property is within walking distance of several restaurants and bars. We have renovated the entire home with great attention to detail while preserving the original woodwork. All rooms have their own bathroom. Breakfast is served in our large dining room with a working fireplace and fine art. Free Wi-Fi and free parking is available for all guests.
The French Manor Inn and Spa is an enchanting chateau, Poconos bed & breakfast that sits atop Huckleberry Mountain in Newfoundland, Pennsylvania. As a guest of The French Manor, you will enjoy views of the beautiful crests and ridges of the Northern Pocono Mountains. Our elegant Poconos bed and breakfast is unlike other Poconos hotels with its secluded and private lookout that is separate from the populace. Spacious, uncompromising accommodations, together with fine service, make The French Manor Inn and Spa perfect for your romantic Poconos getaway.
The 1825 Inn Bed & Breakfast of Hershey, PA often serves as a home base to hunt for antiques in nearby Reading, Lancaster, Carlisle, Hummelstown and Adamstown. Our convenient location is just minutes away from the treasures of Hershey, Pennsylvania, including the Hershey Gardens, Hershey Park, Chocolate World, and the beautiful Founders Hall at the M.S. Hershey School, and the Wilbur Chocolate Museum. Our guests find our rooms to be a wonderful place to spend their time away from home – a perfect place for that special romantic get-away or a place to relax and find calm and harmony. All of our air-conditioned guest rooms have their own uniqueness in elegant country decor, each with their own private bath. For the convenience of our guests, high-speed wireless Internet is available. We also have a computer for those traveling without one. Our full breakfast provides you with wonderful homemade breads, fresh fruits, and a special entree each morning. During the summer, enjoy breakfast on our screened in porch!
A Beautiful, restored 1826 Registered Civil War house just half a mile from I-81 & 3 miles from I-76, in Carlisle, PA. Carlisle House and Carlisle Events is one of NBC Washington's Top Ten Weekend Getaways! Chosen one of USA Today's Top 10 Harrisburg Hotels! Just voted in 2022 the #4 Best Historic Small Town in the Country. Come see for yourself! Gourmet Breakfasts and up to date amenities await you just steps from restaurants and quaint little shops. Dickinson College, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and the Army War College are all very accessible from our door.
Romantic and tastefully decorated, After Eight Bed & Breakfast is a colonial brick home dating back to 1809. Conveniently located just east of downtown Lancaster, PA, the inn is central to all the Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch attractions. See the working Amish farm right at our backyard fence. We are only minutes to outlet shopping, theaters, farmers markets, and the towns of Bird-In-Hand, Intercourse, and Strasburg. Complimentary snacks, home-baked goodies, and cold beverages are available for our guests’ enjoyment. Relax in our gardens and gazebo – spend summer evenings watching the evening primrose come into full bloom. After Eight Bed & Breakfast is your home away from home in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Please call 888-314-3664 for details!
Welcome to Faunbrook Bed and Breakfast, an 1860's Victorian mansion, in West Chester, PA. Faunbrook boasts seven warmly decorated guest rooms, including two suites with fireplaces, one with a large soaking tub, and wireless internet access through the inn. The inn is conveniently located in the town of West Chester, PA, just three blocks from West Chester University, in a suburb of Philadelphia. West Chestier is a charming university town filled with antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, cafes and fine restaurants. Outside of West Chester, the Brandywine Valley offers a treasure trove of historic attractions and recreational activities to excite many different tastes including Longwood Gardens, Winterthur Museum and Gardens, the Brandywine River Museum and Valley Forge, and Brandywine Battlefield Parks. Faunbrook is also close to King of Prussia and the Philadelphia Premium Outlets, and close to many orchards and farms, offering a wide variety of shopping experiences. As an Intimate venue, Faunbrook also hosts weddings, showers, corporate meetings, and any special event for 2 to 100 guests.
The Historic Smithton Inn, in Lancaster County, PA, is a charming bed and breakfast with an on-site Wine Bar! This fully updated historic building is a wonderful choice for guests who appreciate impeccable customer service and attention to detail. The property has lovely grounds including a courtyard and sunken fire pit, for guests who want to relax and unwind on-site. For those who want to explore the MANY attractions and sights PA Dutch Country has to offer, the Inn is within 20 minutes of most anything guests want to see or do. Guest rooms are all spacious and have private bathrooms, working fireplaces, robust WiFi, flatscreen smart TVs and in-room controlled air conditioning. A full, delicious, home cooked breakfast is included with your stay. The Weathered Vineyards Wine Ephrata Wine Bar is open to guests daily by request, to the public Friday - Sunday. A a Mediterranean Bistro menu is served.
Celebrating 110 Years, The Inn at Starlight Lake provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located in beautiful northeast Pennsylvania, The Inn at Starlight Lake is your oasis from the world. Accommodations are inviting and decorated with warmth – no air conditioning, TV’s or phones in the rooms and limited mobile phone service to interfere with the peaceful surroundings.We do have Wireless Broadband in the public areas on the first floor. The restaurant at the Inn at Starlight Lake features delectable meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our taste tempting menus includes selections sure to please everyone.
This New Castle, PA bed and breakfast offers luxurious rooms and accommodations in Pennsylvania. Enjoy a breakfast breakfast, and To ensure that your room is always clean, comfortable, and welcoming, we will enter guest rooms to freshen bathrooms, empty the trash cans, and make the bed if the Maid Service Required tag is hung on the door, or by request. Book your stay today! Click our link above to Book Direct for your next escape in New Castle, Pennsylvania.
Consistently earning the highest reviews for overnight accommodations in the Princeton area, Inn at Glencairn features the modern amenities of a boutique hotel in a meticulously renovated 1736 Georgian manor. Guests are pampered with pristine en-suite baths, comfortable new mattresses and featherbeds featuring silky soft linens and down duvets, flat screen televisions as well as complimentary and reliable WIFI. Relax in our common areas and guest rooms which are graced with original art, eclectic antiques, and Oriental carpets. Grab a glass of complimentary wine to enjoy in our 19th century barn, or enjoy some peace and solitude wandering our nearly three acres of grounds. Indulge in our complimentary farm-to-table breakfast featuring locally sourced and organic ingredients. Arguably the “best breakfast in town,” your feast may include our made-from-scratch fresh strawberry and raspberry preserves, nutty granola or buttermilk biscuits and berry scones. Showcasing farm fresh produce, our seasonal healthy breakfasts are so plentiful, you may decide to skip lunch altogether!
Chimney Hill Estate Inn Bed & Breakfast located in Lambertville, invites you to experience an exceptional lodging experience in a beautiful location. Come Experience the Magic" on the hillside located above Lambertville and New Hope.
The Bridgestreet House Bed and Breakfast is a pre-Victorian federal style row home situated in the heart of historic Lambertville, NJ.
Enter the tranquil world of Woolverton Inn, an elegant Bed and Breakfast located just 5 minutes from New Hope, Pennsylvania and Lambertville, New Jersey. The Woolverton Inn, ideally situated between Bucks County and Hunterdon County, offers the ultimate experience in privacy and luxury. Nestled on ten park-like acres, the bucolic Inn is surrounded by 300 additional acres of preserved farmland and forest. This acclaimed Bed and Breakfast and Wedding Venue is perched high above the scenic Delaware River and provides a romantic and cozy base from which to explore the countless fine restaurants, shops and attractions of New Hope, Stockton, Lambertville, and all of Bucks County. Our 14 luxurious cottages and guest rooms are styled with relaxation and spoiling you in mind. Enjoy a delicious 3-course breakfast each morning in the dining room, or delivered to your room, as well as all the amenities expected by today’s savvy traveler. Free parking, Wi-Fi, daily afternoon tea and fresh-baked cookies, and acres of gardens and lawns to explore await. Woolverton Inn is the perfect setting for those seeking an outstanding, elegant country wedding. Our beautiful grounds and experienced event staff provide a sophisticated ambiance with a relaxed atmosphere, for your wedding weekend of up to 200 guests. We also host many lovely and intimate elopement ceremonies, for just the two of you, or up to 20 attendees. Consider the Woolverton Inn for your next off-site retreat, training session, planning meeting or workshop. For small groups in a casual setting, you can rent out part or all of the inn space and make it your own for a few days. Be inspired by the natural peaceful surroundings and add some fun activities to your agenda. Our experienced planners will help optimize your agenda to ensure success. Explore the pampered luxury of Woolverton Inn, ranked #1 by TripAdvisor in Stockton, New Jersey for B&B’s and named in the Top 10 B&B’s in the U.S.
This Burlington, NJ bed and breakfast offers luxurious rooms and accommodations in New Jersey. Enjoy a full breakfast included in the rates.Our bnb in Burlington provides free Wi-Fi and the Parking is free, either street parking directly in front of the Inn or two public lots across the street without sacrificing quality or service. Book your stay today! Click our link above to Book Direct for your next memorable escape in Burlington, New Jersey.
On the banks of the Delaware River this AAA Four Diamond National Register of Historic Places historic Inn offers 26 guestrooms and suites, each with fine amenities including fireplaces, jetted tubs and private courtyard balconies.
Come experience intimate, elegance at the Haddonfield Inn, a small hotel in historic Haddonfield, NJ. This Bed and Breakfast is just minutes from Philadelphia, the Cooper and Delaware River. We combine the comforts of a gracious home with the amenities of a full-service luxury hotel.
This South Harrison Township bed and breakfast offers luxurious rooms and accommodations in New Jersey. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, and free wifi, and free parking.Our bnb in South Harrison Township located in the emerging Wine Country of southern New Jersey, 25 minutes from Philadelphia, an hour from the Jersey Shore, The Candle House Inn is a 34-acre estate decorated in the American tradition. The Inn walls are adorned with prints that capture some of the greatest moments of U.S. history.
Our Country Estate Tucked away on ten wooded acres amid the rolling hills of rural Sussex County, The Wooden Duck Bed & Breakfast is your great escape in Northern NJ. From the moment you turn onto the quiet lane leading to the Inn, you are transported into a world of natural beauty where wildlife abounds. Guests escape their busy lives in New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. or as far away as Australia, to find gracious hospitality and relaxation in private, comfortable surroundings. The Estate House contains 7 spacious rooms, each with a private bath, sitting areas, business workspaces, free wi-fi, flat screen satellite TVs, DVD players and fireplaces. Deluxe and Semi-Deluxe rooms include 2 person soaking tubs. Our Living Room features a gas fireplace, bay window and big cozy couches to relax and unplug. The Den has comfy leather furniture with a big screen TV, perfect to watch a game or movie. There is a snack station open 24 hours with coffee, tea, soft drinks and home baked goodies. DVDs and Games are also available for free use. The Carriage House contains 3 more comfortable rooms, including a handicap appointed room, all with private bathrooms, flat screen satellite TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy gorgeous views any time of year, filled with wooded acres, rolling hills and wildlife throughout. Watch families of deer feeding at dusk while on your evening stroll or catch the dance of the hummingbirds as you sip your coffee from the patio or dining room. Start your morning by indulging in the scrumptious 3 course breakfast served in the dining room overlooking the in-ground pool and grounds. Relax and unwind by the pool and gardens, take a swim when the weather is right, or enjoy your time by the fireplaces whatever the season.
The Whistling Swan Inn is nestled in the Skylands of Stanhope, New Jersey. Our graceful 1905 Victorian home has been restored to its original splendor and warmth. While visiting, guests are encouraged to explore our area whether through a peaceful stroll around the garden, sipping a glass of wine in our gazebo or enjoying breakfast on the veranda. Whatever the season, a plethora of activities are available for visitors. Take advantage of hiking, biking, shopping or antiquing activities that await you. Enjoy the flavors of Stanhope at one of the nearby gourmet restaurants, some within walking distance. At day’s end, sink into your feather bed and fall asleep to our warbling waterfall. We can also make your wedding a special and memorable event through our caring service, fine dining and top quality decorations. We specialize in offering elegance and style that allows family and friends to gather in a relaxed atmosphere for your wedding weekend. We look forward to your visit…
Berry Preserve Bed & Breakfast is a tranquil ten-acre woodland retreat between Clinton, NJ and Easton. Our attractions include antiquing, water sports, fishing, golfing, and the arts.
Welcome to The Neighbour House Bed and Breakfast, in Long Valley, NJ. Experience a unique farmhouse featuring original heart-pine floors, pocket doors, folding shutters, eight fireplaces and a sweeping staircase with mahogany banister.
Located in the heart of Upstate New York; 20 minutes to Cooperstown and 10 minutes from the Oneonta Municipal Airport.
Main Street Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn is your quintessential B&B in the peaceful village of Flemington, New Jersey, just 9 miles from New Hope and Bucks County, PA. We provide intimate Victorian elegance and a very romantic setting. We offer 5 guestrooms lovingly decorated with period furnishings, all with private baths. A bountiful farm-to-table breakfast is served each morning, and afternoon tea with a complimentary glass of local wine is served weekends at 4 PM.
Only 90 miles from New York City, ECCE is an award-winning bed & breakfast perched on a bluff 300 feet above the upper Delaware River in beautiful Barryville, New York.
With the exception of the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia metropolitan areas and a few other moderate-sized cities such as Harrisburg (the state capital) and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre scattered across its interior portion, Pennsylvania is predominantly a rural state. This is good news for the B&B enthusiast who is looking for quiet, rural settings to take a break from life and relax in the lap of luxury.
Many of these excellent inns are conveniently located within a few hour's drive of the large cities. From small-town sanctuaries in the peaceful regions of Lancaster County to the secluded inns of Amish Country, one can explore state and national history while taking a step back in time. Learn more about life as it was lived over two hundred years ago and how the Pennsylvania Dutch still cling to many of their traditions today. You may even be treated to a horse and buggy drive-by! But fear not, the B&B pampering is decidedly up to date.
Perhaps best known as America's birthplace, Philadelphia is where the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. With the requisite signatures, a new nation was born, and world history changed forever.
Pennsylvania is well-known by its nickname, the “Keystone State,” a keystone being the all-important piece of an arch that holds the other components together. A most necessary element in the strength and integrity of the structure.
What is not as clear is the source of the moniker. Two interesting theories have been debated since about 1800. One tells of the state’s vital geographical location in the central part of the original thirteen colonies. With eight delegates evenly divided on remaining loyal to England’s Crown or choosing independence, another theory references the deciding, or “keystone” vote cast by the last delegate in favor of independence.
While Philadelphia was the seat of the young nation’s capital and the central location for much of the day’s politics, great natural resources were waiting to be discovered that would drive much of the nation’s early commerce.
Timber from unending stretches of forests, plentiful rivers coursing across the state, and vast farmland regions with rich soil and abundant wildlife to harvest led the way as our nation rapidly grew. The raw materials of oil, coal, and steel lay patiently underground waiting to be unearthed and refined. As rough and tumble speculators with grand visions of growth built these industries in fits and starts, products that would soon shape and supply global markets were being created.
With so much of Pennsylvania’s early history located in the state's southeastern region, it’s rather easy to find just the right location for your visit. There are a seemingly unlimited number of B&Bs within a short drive of Amish Country and the Pennsylvania Dutch culture. For history buffs, Bucks County, just north of Philadelphia, is where General George Washington crossed the Delaware River to engage the British in a pivotal Revolutionary War battle.
Carlisle is another area with great appeal for auto and motorcycle enthusiasts. Considered the “auto capital” of the state, there are no less than ten major shows each year with everything on two, three, and four wheels on display.
Not many people associate Pennsylvania with mountains, but the Poconos are a wonderful location for a respite. North of Philadelphia and west of New York City, the Poconos draw skiers and snowboarders to their beautiful slopes. Walkers, joggers, and bikers can take advantage of the hiking trails during the summer months.
Further west, Pittsburgh dominates the landscape as the center for big-city attractions. A few hours north, Lake Erie provides all the summer sports one could want as well as ice-fishing and snowmobiling in the winter.
Another element of Pennsylvania’s diversity is its natural features. Did you know there is a “Grand Canyon” in Pennsylvania? Sure is. Located in the north-central region, it may not compare to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, but it has plenty of sightseeing chops with its many vistas and two state parks nearby.
On the shores of Lake Erie, Presque Isle is the state’s most visited state park and has some unique geological features. It also possesses seven ecological zones and is home to more endangered species than any comparable region in the state. Perhaps owing to its conservation policies, it is also one of the most popular bird-watching sites in the area.
Caves and caverns are also popular attractions across the state. Stretching 16,000 feet in length and up to forty-six stories deep, Laurel Cavern in southwestern Pennsylvania is the state’s largest. Guided tours are an excellent way to learn more about the unique geology of the area. Self-guided tours are also available, as is repelling and other spelunking activities.
Waterfalls are always enchanting and Glens Natural Area at Ricketts Glen State Park is full of them. Varying heights from twelve to ninety-four feet high, visitors are held in rapt admiration as they try to decide whether to watch or take pictures. But for the outbreak of World War II resulting in reduced funding, this beautiful region would have been designated a national park.
As noted earlier, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are major urban centers that provide all the big-city attractions a visitor could want. In between these cities that bookend the state there is a whole lot of playground waiting for the outdoor enthusiast.
Though modest by comparison to the Appalachians and Rockies, the Pocono Mountains provide plenty of action in the form of mountain biking and hiking trails, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Lake Erie is the center for summer and winter activities for the whole family with swimming, fishing, boating, at Presque Isle State Park. Snowmobiling, skating, and ice-fishing keep visitors busy until spring.
Harrisburg is the state capital and a short drive away from all the chocolate you can imagine in Hershey. Famous for its slow and peaceful Amish culture, Lancaster County is home to sprawling farmland, country fairs, and some of the best home cooking imaginable. The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is home to a world-class collection of vintage trains. A bit farther north, sports fans will want to check out Jim Thorpe, PA. Yes, the town named after the famous Native American Olympic star and football hero.
The natural beauty and endless forests, the mountains, caverns, waterfalls, and historical attractions scattered across a landscape with small towns and foreign cultures combine to form a fascinating menagerie worthy of an extended stay.
Pennsylvania’s weather is a well-balanced mix of the four seasons. Without too much in the way of extremes, summer highs will approach the 90s with significant humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winter temperatures will dip into the twenties or occasional teens, and significant snow accumulations can roll in from the Great Lakes region.
For the western part of the state, Lake Eire generates most of this phenomenon known as “lake-effect” snow. Strong winter winds sweeping down from Canada pick up moisture from the lakes and deposit it in massive storms that can impact the Pittsburgh area as well as points farther east.
Spring is lovely with vibrant colors bursting from the frozen landscape as it thaws. Late winter chill can last into early April, but May is wonderful. Autumn is brilliant with the forested landscapes unveiling a statewide magic carpet of color that can make the drive to see them very worthwhile. Many count the scenery in the Poconos as rivaling anything in New England, but without the crowds.
Contemporary cuisine is a hallmark of the big, bright cities. But being a largely rural, agricultural state, Pennsylvania offers a more basic American fare. Think meat and potatoes. With such a large contingent of German stock in the Pennsylvania Dutch country, old habits die hard. Of course, this is a good thing because a great deal of the meal preparation originates on the farm. Fresh produce, eggs, meat, and dairy products are readily available at B&Bs, or the local restaurant in many small towns that dot the state. If the old favorite cheesesteak is required in Philly, then in Pittsburgh, you gotta try a Pierogi. It’s a sort of Polish dumpling and they’re savoy in all sorts of flavors, from sweet to spicy.
As one might guess with a significant German/Dutch/Polish/Irish heritage across the state, there’s going to be a lot of beer served up with all this great food. Indeed, there seems to be a brewery or winery in every small town, so you’re bound to find something tasty to wash down that hardy plate. There are over 200 wineries (and growing) prevalent throughout the state with a greater concentration in the southeast.
Pennsylvania is a down-home kind of place. Of course, there are the contemporary boutique hotels and B&Bs in the big cities. But much of what the state has to offer in terms of natural attractions is rustic in nature. The bed and breakfasts are comparable in the way they welcome and serve their guests. And you won’t find any more conscientious innkeepers anywhere when it comes to cleanliness and Covid-19 precautions.
The charm of many of the state’s best bed and breakfast inns are prime examples. When people visit Pennsylvania, they count on host-friendliness to be a big part of their experience, starting right at check-in. Innkeepers take great pride in ushering their guests into a world of comfort and delight.
Couples from Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New York City, and the Mid-Atlantic region come to Pennsylvania for the ultimate romantic getaway. Upscale amenities such as spacious guest rooms and a Jacuzzi by a fireplace, perhaps even on a veranda overlooking the rolling landscape enhance the experience.
An exciting aspect of staying at any down-home B&B is discovering the unforeseen surprises. Innkeepers love to show off their amenities such as private baths and rain-style showers. Perhaps even a whirlpool bath or private hot tub snugged up by the outdoor fireplace. A private entrance to a guest house or carriage house further enhances the sense of privacy and specialized treatment. Air conditioning is a must to sponge up that summertime humidity. Many of these extras may be listed on the inn website but ask for the ones not listed; you might be surprised by the secrets the innkeeper has in store for you.
Offering a gourmet breakfast is, by definition, almost a necessity for a B&B. Often a source of innkeeper pride, specialty-trained chefs are highly sought after as a drawing card for guests with a distinguished palette. Other amenities such as free wifi, high-quality linens, towels, and bathrobes, as well as organic and hypo-allergenic bath supplies, are considered standard across this friendly state.
Major air carriers provided service through Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Regional air service is available to Harrisburg, Wilkes-Barre, and other smaller markets. From there, most destinations are within a few hour’s drive.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike is a high-speed tollway with exits spaced twenty or more miles apart. So make sure you don’t miss your exit! The scenery in the Fall is astounding as the highway makes its way through the Laurel Highlands. Flight times between Pittsburgh and Philly are not much more than an hour, and driving this stretch can take up to six hours with stops. Many of the regional carriers now offer reasonable one-way fares, too, further enhancing your travel options. Rental cars, Uber, Lyft, shuttles, and ride-shares are additional methods of getting around this great state effectively.
Consider treating yourself to a relaxing stay at a Pennsylvania bed and breakfast getaway. Scenery that’s easy on the eye, down-home food prepared fresh from the farm, and a leisurely drive to one of the state’s many natural attractions is an excellent way to unwind from the grind.
Save time by searching for your perfect getaway under the bnbfinder.com banner. This Diamond Collection of exclusive luxury inns are located nationwide. Professionally-inspected and highly-rated retreats are the first choice of those discerning travelers looking for that exceptional B&B experience.
Fabulous inns such as Pheasant Field Bed & Breakfast in Carlisle is central to a host of attractions and universities as well as major car collector shows. It has been rated as a “best bed and breakfast in Pennsylvania” by Harrisburg Magazine. The Smith Steiner, a newly renovated boutique property, re-opened in 2018, will leave you refreshed and restored.
Lititz is home to two exceptional Pennsylvania bed and breakfasts. Speedwell Forge B&B is a two-fer, with the Wolf Sanctuary of PA nearby. Located on a private parcel of 120 acres, it is quintessential solitude. Ask your innkeeper about daytime tours of the Sanctuary as well as the inn's private cottages.
Swiss Woods Bed and Breakfast is remote, leafy, and perfect for that romantic retreat. With more than a hint of European grace coursing through its halls, revel in the culture and slower pace the Pennsylvania Dutch have made famous.
Much attention has been paid to the rural aspect of the B&B industry across the state, and with good reason. However, being the sixth-largest city in the US, searching for a top-class bed and breakfast in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a short exercise.
The Gables Bed & Breakfast Inn is located in the heart of a vibrant academic center and close to the Institute of Contemporary Arts and provides a classic inner-city upscale lodging experience. Another retreat in the University City area is Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast, a beautiful Victorian sanctuary within walking distance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, the Philadelphia Zoo, and 30th Street Station. Prefer something outside the city but close enough to be convenient? Consider Hamanassett Bed & Breakfast in nearby Brandywine Valley, PA for your romantic getaway. A member of the bnbfinder Diamond Collection of Inns, this will be the crown jewel of your trip.
American History enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to this peaceful enclave that was the location of one of the fiercest and most important battles of the Civil War. Although the distant past is never far away in a place like this, the peaceful rolling hills provide lovely settings for romantic bed and breakfasts in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Still a small town (pop. 7800), it is also home to Gettysburg College.
The Inn at White Oak is just north of town and can handle larger parties of up to 18 guests. The Swope Manor Bed & Breakfast is located in Gettysburg's heart and boasts thirteen guest rooms and four large common areas. Battlefield Bed & Breakfast Inn was built in 1809 and is located on 30 quiet acres with walking trails. History meets hospitality at The Inn at Herr Ridge, another early 19th-century beauty that was the first Confederate hospital during the battle. Peace, quiet, luxury. Small town, unforgettable experience.
A short drive east of the state capital of Harrisburg lies the sweetest little town in America. With a slightly larger population of 12,000, much of Hershey’s commerce is centered around chocolate, confection, and tourism.
Inn at Westwynd Farm is just three miles from town and set on a beautiful 32-acre parcel home to horses, goats, and alpacas. Hershey is just a short drive to historical sites in Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Gettysburg. 1825 Inn is almost two hundred years old with beautiful grounds and walking paths. It also has 5-Star ratings all over it. For those looking for on-site massage services at their Hershey bed and breakfast in Pennsylvania, Berry Patch Bed & Breakfast provides Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, craniosacral fascial therapy, and infrared sauna therapy. After all that healing, you’ll need some pampering!
Where does one start? From big city contemporary inns to the rural settings with rich history, choosing a romantic bed and breakfast in Pennsylvania will have more to do with your preference for the setting. Up for the city action right from your flight? Pittsburgh and Philly will certainly deliver within minutes of getting off your plane. Feel like a scenic drive to a more remote location to unwind, well, there’s a whole lot of Pennsylvania out there from which to choose. Take your time, enjoy “Penn’s Woods,” and treat yourself to some first-rate Keystone State luxury.