10 Best Holiday Spots in Pennsylvania for Couples

Hershey lies just 15 miles from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s state capital. Here, you can enjoy a chocolatey holiday, exploring Hershey’s Chocolate World and sampling the delicious, sweet treats. Hershey park is just next door if you love the thrills of rollercoasters and splashing around in a water park.

For a more laidback stay, why not indulge in an overnight spa package for couples at The Hotel Hershey? You can choose from relaxing cocoa massages and facials, then relax in the whirlpool jacuzzi or by the pool. Just opposite the hotel, you’ll also find Hershey Gardens and its 23 acres of botanical gardens. Take a romantic stroll and admire over 3,000 roses in bloom at this enchanting site.

Bedford has long been known for its mineral springs found just outside the town. Located exactly halfway between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, this spa town is a popular holiday spot for couples interested in wellness and relaxation. Here, you can indulge in a hot springs experience, dine on fresh, seasonal produce and enjoy spa treatments and bath rituals.

For history lovers, Old Bedford Village is also a great place to see here. This living history museum comprises over 40 buildings and you can stroll back in time while visiting the apothecary, and candle-making and woodworking shops. For an original date night, you could also try the Murder Mystery Evenings or the Candlelit Christmas events here.

Lancaster County lies in southern Pennsylvania and is a fantastic holiday spot for couples. If you like scenic drives, romantic scenery, and quaint B&Bs, head west of Lancaster and follow the Susquehanna River south. The rolling farmlands and fields of sunflowers make the scenery here picture-postcard perfect and you’ll find lots of hiking, biking, and walking trails in this area.

This county is also renowned for its Amish markets. The Green Dragon Farmers’ Market is extremely popular with both locals who come to Ephrata, north of Lancaster every Friday morning. You’ll find over 100 local vendors here and amazing artisanal goods, such as woven baskets and pumpkin butter.

The Pocono Mountains, known locally as the Poconos, lie about 90 miles north of Philadelphia. The area is mostly known for its winter sports. When the snow arrives, you can spend a day snowboarding or skiing on the immaculately groomed slopes, before heading back to your cosy cabin or lodge for a romantic meal for two. Several resorts here also have all-inclusive romantic getaway packages which include ski passes, fine dining on-site, and nightly entertainment.

The Poconos aren’t just a winter retreat though. Tourists come here year-round for the picturesque hikes against a backdrop of cloud-covered peaks and stunning waterfalls. Adventure activities, such as river rafting, are also popular with thrill-seeking couples too.

Laurel Highlands is a spectacular mountainous region that begins just 50 miles east of Pittsburgh. It’s a popular holiday spot for couples who love the outdoors. Here, you can hike on trails of all levels, go whitewater rafting down rushing rapids and try your hand at rock climbing to take in some breathtaking views.

The region is also known for its cultural activities and it’s home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Fallingwater. Frank Lloyd Wright designed this stunning house in 1935, built partly over a magnificent waterfall. You can visit other magnificent houses by Frank Lloyd Wright in the area and even stay overnight in some of his architectural masterpieces.

Gettysburg is a fascinating place for history-loving couples to visit. The Battle of Gettysburg took place here in 1863 and there are numerous museums where you can reflect on the battlefield events. You can take a guided tour of this historic town by bike, horseback, or even on a Segway! You’ll learn how the events here shaped the Civil War, as well as enjoy the magnificent buildings and scenery in this charming town.

Gettysburg also has a thriving arts scene and you can enjoy highly-rated performances at the Majestic and Gettysburg Community Theatres. If you want a unique date night, why not try a candlelight walking tour of the town where you’ll learn about the ghosts of Gettysburg?

Montrose is a charming, small town in northern Pennsylvania. Tourists come here for the old-fashioned feel, and the quaint B&Bs and inns dotted around the area. If you like celebrating community events and attending festivals, this is a lovely spot. Annual celebrations in this town include the Wine and Chocolate Festival, Blueberry Festival, and festive celebrations which last the entire month of December.

The countryside is spectacular in this region and just 7 miles north of Montrose, you’ll find Salt Springs State Park. Hiking is popular here and there are 15 miles of trails, for beginners as well as experienced hikers. There are stunning vistas and three magnificent waterfalls, and the park is free to enter too.

Erie is located north of Pittsburgh on the shores of Lake Erie. This bustling town is a popular holiday spot in Pennsylvania for couples thanks to its eclectic mix of water activities and beaches, wonderful museums, and fine restaurants. Here, you can visit Bicentennial Tower and take in amazing views of Lake Erie and the town itself from two observation decks.

For spectacular beaches, fascinating boat tours, and an interesting tour of a 19th-century lighthouse, head just a few miles from Erie to Presque Isle State Park. This beautiful peninsula is home to 3,200 acres of tranquility and stunning scenery. Why not bring a picnic basket here and settle in for a romantic afternoon by the water here?

Pine Creek Gorge lies in approximately 160,000 acres of Tioga State Forest. Locals call it the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania and this is a fantastic holiday spot for couples who want to escape to nature and relax in peaceful surroundings. You can rent a secluded cabin here and enjoy the rich wildlife and amazing scenery.

Pine Creek Gorge Trail is a great choice for those who want to visit the area by bike. If you prefer to hike, a good option is the short trail to Barbour Rock. Here, you have great views looking down on the gorge and some beautiful photo opportunities. You can also go horse riding or even take a guided tour in a covered wagon.

Bucks County is just north of Philadelphia and home to quaint towns and rich countryside. There are lots of museums and art galleries to visit here, as well as the unique Peddler’s Village – an 18th-century style shopping village.

If you like original tours, why not download the directions from the county’s website and take a self-guided tour of the covered bridges here? There are 12 in total and most are located on beautiful back roads in the countryside. An ideal choice for a scenic drive and a delicious picnic. For wine lovers, the Bucks County Wine Trail is a wonderful option. You can visit 7 wineries here, all with their own speciality wines, and set amongst stunning backdrops.