7 Best Pennsylvania Staycation Spots

Pennsylvania Staycation Spots:  Unforgettable Getaways Close to Home

Here's your guide to the best staycation spots in Pennsylvania—perfect for a weekend reset or a midweek escape.

1. Philadelphia: Urban Adventure Meets Historic Charm

• Why Go: Philly isn't just for tourists—it's a staycation goldmine. Dive into history, food, and art without leaving the state's biggest city.
• What to Do:
  • Wander Independence National Historical Park—see the Liberty Bell and tour Independence Hall (free, though tickets are needed for the hall).
  • You can visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art ($25/adult) or run the Rocky Steps for free.
  • Feast at Reading Terminal Market—DiNic's roast pork ($12) is a must.
  • Bonus: Explore over 4,000 murals with a Mural Arts tour ($25-$40).
• Where to Stay:
  • The Kimpton Monaco (433 Chestnut St, $200-$350/night) puts you in Old City's heart with boutique flair.
  • For luxe, the Four Seasons Philadelphia (1 N 19th St, $600-$800/night) offers a rooftop infinity pool and skyline views.
• Staycation Vibe: City energy with a historical twist—perfect for culture hounds and foodies.

2. The Poconos: Mountain Magic for All Seasons

• Why Go: This northeastern gem is an outdoor lover's haven, with resorts and nature just two hours from Philly or NYC.
• What to Do:
  • Hike Bushkill Falls ($18/adult).
  • Kayak on Lake Wallenpaupack (rentals ~$20/hour).
  • Hit the slopes at Camelback Mountain (lift tickets $60-$80/day).
  • Summer brings waterparks like Kalahari ($40+/day); fall stuns with foliage.
• Where to Stay:
  • Woodloch Pines Resort (731 Welcome Lake Rd, $300-$500/night) is all-inclusive and offers family-friendly activities, such as go-karts and bonfires.
  • For romance, Cove Haven Resort (194 Lakeview Dr, $250-$400/night) offers couples-only suites with heart-shaped tubs.
• Staycation Vibe: Nature-packed escape—great for families or lovebirds.

3. Hershey: The Sweetest Place on Earth

• Why Go: Chocolate dreams come true in this central PA town, blending family fun with indulgent relaxation.
• What to Do:
• Tour Hershey's Chocolate World (free, with extras like candy-making for $20-$30).
• Thrill out at Hersheypark ($50-$80/day).
• Stroll Hershey Gardens ($16/adult) for blooms and butterflies.
• Where to Stay:
  • The Hotel Hershey (100 Hotel Rd, $300-$500/night) ups the ante with a chocolate spa—try the cocoa massage ($150).
  • Budget-friendly? Hershey Lodge (325 University Dr, $200-$350/night) has cozy vibes and park perks.
• Staycation Vibe: Sweet and playful—ideal for kids or anyone with a sugar crush.

4. Pittsburgh: Steel City with Soul

• Why Go: Western PA's urban star mixes industrial grit with artsy charm and riverfront appeal.
• What to Do:
  • Ride the Duquesne Incline ($5/round-trip) for skyline views.
  • Explore the Andy Warhol Museum ($20/adult).
  • Sip brews at Church Brew Works ($6-$8/pint).
  • Phipps Conservatory ($20/adult) dazzles with indoor gardens.
• Where to Stay: * The Industrialist Hotel (530 William Penn Pl, $200-$350/night) nods to Pittsburgh's past with sleek style.
  • Mansions on Fifth (5105 Fifth Ave, $180-$300/night) offers butler service for quirky luxury.
• Staycation Vibe: Hip and historic—suits art lovers and beer fans.

5. Lancaster: Amish Country Serenity

• Why Go: Step back in time in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, where simplicity meets scenic beauty.
• What to Do: * Tour an Amish farm at The Amish Village ($12/adult). * Shop Lancaster Central Market (free entry, bring cash for whoopie pies). * Catch a show at Sight & Sound Theatres ($50-$70/ticket).
• Where to Stay:
  • The Inn at Leola Village (38 Deborah Dr, $150-$300/night) blends rustic charm with modern perks, such as a spa.
  • Eden Resort & Suites (222 Eden Rd, $120-$250/night) has pools and family suites.
• Staycation Vibe: Peaceful and pastoral—perfect for a slow-paced unwind.

6. Gettysburg: History with a Side of Hauntings

• Why Go: This Civil War town offers a deep dive into the past, plus eerie thrills.
• What to Do:
  • Explore Gettysburg National Military Park (free entry, $15 guided tours).
  • Join a ghost tour ($20-$30)—locals swear the spirits linger.
  • Cycle the battlefield trails (rentals ~$30/day).
• Where to Stay:
• The Gettysburg Hotel (1 Lincoln Square, $150-$250/night) is downtown and has classic vibes.
• For cozy, Baladerry Inn (40 Hospital Rd, $130-$200/night) is a charming B&B near the fields.
• Staycation Vibe: Historic and spooky—great for history buffs and thrill-seekers.

7. Allegheny National Forest: Wilderness Retreat

• Why Go: Northern PA's 513,000-acre forest is a nature lover's playground, far from city noise.
• What to Do:
  • Hike the 96-mile North Country Trail (free).
  • Fish in the Allegheny Reservoir (bring your gear).
  • Stargaze at Kinzua Skywalk (free). The fall foliage here is unreal.
• Where to Stay:
  • Rent a cabin via Allegheny Site Management ($100-$200/night) for rustic charm.
  • Glamp at Kane View Motel (7262 Rt 321, $80-$150/night) with forest views.
• Staycation Vibe: Off-grid bliss—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Why Pennsylvania Shines for Staycations

Pennsylvania's range is 46,000 square miles. From Philly's urban buzz to the Poconos' peaks, you're never far from a vibe shift. Most spots are a 1-3 hour drive from significant hubs (Philly, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg), and costs flex with your budget—$100-$200/day for modest fun, or $400+ if you splurge. SEPTA ($2.50/ride) or Amtrak (e.g., $30 Philly to Lancaster) make car-free trips easy, too. Hotels often drop rates midweek—check VisitPA.com for deals.

Pick your poison: city lights, mountain trails, or chocolate-dipped downtime. Pennsylvania's staycation game is strong because it's personal—every spot's a story, a flavor, or a view that hits differently. So, ditch the travel stress, grab a cheesesteak or a craft brew, and rediscover your state. Where's your next PA staycation taking you?