Staying true to the state’s slogan, Pennsylvania is where you and your new spouse can pursue happiness. A honeymoon in Pennsylvania allows you to enjoy a diverse topography, visit spots of historical importance, and admire its stunning natural scenery.
Table of Contents
Is Pennsylvania A Good Place for a Honeymoon?
This Middle Atlantic State is considered one of the most versatile honeymoon destinations. Celebrate your marriage with your significant other in this state, and you’ll have many attractions to explore and activities to do—from romantic strolls to thrilling outdoor adventures.
What Honeymoon Activities Can You Do in Pennsylvania?
- Visit state parks and forests. Philadelphia has 124 state parks where you can do many outdoor activities like picnics, hiking, and biking. The best biking area is a 2-mile level trail at Keystone State Park. If you both enjoy horseback riding, there are designated state forests to choose from, including Elk State Forest and Loyalsock State Forest.
- Stroll along the Delaware River. Flowing past Bucks, Philadelphia, and Delaware counties, the Delaware River is a top destination in Pennsylvania. Depending on your location, you can visit seasonal parks and riverside establishments such as Adventure Aquarium and Independence Seaport Museum.
- Hit the waters. While the Delaware River offers a scenic setting for kayaking and canoeing, it isn’t the only popular body of water where you can have an aquatic adventure. Many majestic waterfalls also call the state home, including Raymondskill Falls, Dingman Falls, and Shohola Falls. If you’re looking for beaches, Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is just one of the gorgeous beaches of the Keystone State.
- Go on a tour of wineries. Pennsylvania is the fifth-largest wine producer in the US. It boasts over 300 wineries and 14,000 acres of vineyards. If you plan to go to this state, stopping by famous wineries will make the journey even more worthwhile.
- Learn more about history. Pennsylvania is one of the US’ 13 original colonies, and it has an important place in history because it’s where the Declaration of Independence was signed. If you want to visit places steeped in history, visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol, Valley Forge National Historical Park, and Intercourse.
What Is the Best Month to Honeymoon in Pennsylvania?
You can best enjoy your Pennsylvania honeymoon if you visit the state in late spring (May through June) or early fall (September through October). Like New York and New Jersey, Pennsylvania experiences cool weather in winter and heat waves in summer, so it’s best to avoid traveling during those periods.
What Is the Average Price of a Honeymoon in Pennsylvania?
On average, a weeklong getaway for two in Pennsylvania costs $2,000- 4,000. This can increase or decrease depending on your activities and types of accommodation and transportation.
How to Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Pennsylvania
- Choose budget-friendly accommodations. If you really want to experience a luxurious getaway, consider booking just one night at a top-rated lodging.
- Include free and inexpensive tourist attractions in your itinerary. Or, set up a honeymoon gift registry and include Pennsylvania experiences in your list.
- Use credit card points.
- Opt for public transportation if you’re not sensitive to time and convenience.
- Travel in mid to late September, after the peak tourist season ends. During this time, flights and accommodation prices are generally lower.
5 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Pennsylvania
The Poconos
The Poconos Mountains will give you one of the most picturesque views you’ll see in the US. You will be close to nature and enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
At the northern end of Wallenpaupack, the mountain ranges nestle the small borough of Hawley. If you want to try recreational rail biking, this is the place to visit. You can also visit Lake Wallenpaupack to go swimming, boating, and walking.
Where to stay: Stroudsburg
Philadelphia
The capital of Pennsylvania is also known as the City of Brotherly Love. If you’re a couple who loves culture and history, you’re sure to love Philly.
It shelters the Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Don’t forget to take a snap at the LOVE sculpture at the John F. Kennedy Plaza.
Where to stay: Old City
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is another popular place in Pennsylvania. It’s a city brimming with nature, good food, sports, and art, including The Andy Warhol Museum. If you go to Duquesne Incline in Mount Washington, you’ll get a great view of the city—especially the area where three rivers meet.
Located 90 minutes from Pittsburgh is Cumberland Valley, where you can hike at Shawnee State Park or bathe in Omni Bedford Springs’ mineral springs.
Where to stay: Downtown Pittsburgh
Hershey
Further sweeten your post-nuptial getaway by choosing to stay at Hershey. Here, you can find chocolate virtually everywhere.
If you want a fully immersive experience, book at least a one-night stay at Hotel Hershey. Its on-site spa offers chocolate-themed treatments. Visit Hersheypark for fun and The Hershey Story Museum to learn more about the chocolate company.
Where to stay: Around Hersheypark
Lancaster
Lancaster County is also known as Amish Country because of the several Amish communities in the surrounding area.
Apart from getting the ultimate Amish experience through a cultural tour, try shopping at the Lancaster Central Market, catch a show at the American Music Theater, or take a horse-drawn buggy ride in the countryside.
Where to stay: Downtown Lancaster
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Pennsylvania?
It’s ideal to fly into Philadelphia International Airport or Pittsburgh International Airport for your honeymoon in Pennsylvania. Arrive by rail if you’re from a neighboring state.
Traveling Within Pennsylvania
Your mode of transportation heavily depends on your budget. If you’re budget-conscious, you can use the state’s transit system (bus, subway, and commuter rail). You can rent a car or book an Uber or a Lyft ride if you prefer convenience.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania offers an array of accommodations, including vacation rentals, bed and breakfast properties, and honeymoon resorts. Resorts often have a jacuzzi, whirlpool, sauna, hot tub, fire pit, fine dining restaurants, and services like couple’s massages.
If you want a more extravagant trip, luxury resorts offer all-inclusive packages, like The Lodge at Woodloch. Adults-only accommodations like Cove Haven Resort are also available if you want more privacy.
Is Pennsylvania Safe for Travelers?
A romantic getaway in Pennsylvania is generally safe. Newlyweds and casual tourists should practice common sense to avoid being victims of petty crimes—research dangerous areas, especially in big cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
What to Eat In Pennsylvania While on Your Honeymoon
Pennsylvania is home to the world-famous Hershey chocolate and is often called America’s chocolate capital. Apart from chocolates, here’s what to eat on a Pennsylvania honeymoon:
- Shoofly pie. Made by Pennslyvania Dutch colonists, this early version of the American pie is a confection that spotlights molasses. Its other ingredients include flour, brown sugar, water, spices, and egg.
- Pretzels. The state produces 80% of pretzels in the US. This type of bread is made mainly of wheat or rye flour and is known for its unique knot-like shape.
- Apple butter. Made by slowly cooking down apples, apple butter has several culinary applications. You can spread it on bread or top your waffles with it.
- Philly Cheesesteak. Philadelphia, the capital of Pennsylvania, is specifically known for these sandwiches made of ribeye steak, provolone cheese, and caramelized onion.
What to Pack for a Pennsylvanian Honeymoon
Being a neighbor to the Big Apple, Pennsylvania has a similar style: a mix of urban and trendy clothes. Bring casual and semi-formal trendy clothing to help you blend in.
Pack some warm sweaters, light jackets, and windbreakers if you spend your honeymoon in Pennsylvania in late spring or early fall. If you’ll go there in summer, don’t forget your sunscreen. In winter, winter jackets and layers are a must.