15 Best Resorts in Pennsylvania
Imagine a landscape where rolling hills meet serene lakes, where historic charm blends seamlessly with modern luxury, and where every season offers a new reason to escape. Welcome to Pennsylvania, a state often overlooked for its resort potential but brimming with hidden gems that promise unforgettable getaways. From the majestic Pocono Mountains to the historic heartland, Pennsylvania’s resorts are not just places to stay; they are destinations in themselves, offering world-class amenities, thrilling adventures, and tranquil retreats.
Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, a fun-filled family vacation, a solo adventure, or a rejuvenating spa weekend, you will discover a resort perfectly tailored to your desires. The best time to visit truly depends on your preference: fall paints the landscape in fiery hues, winter offers snowy slopes, spring brings lush greenery, and summer provides endless outdoor activities. Planning your visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall, excluding peak foliage weekends) can often lead to better rates and fewer crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the unique charm of each destination. Get ready to uncover the ultimate guide to Pennsylvania’s finest resorts, packed with practical insights and all the cost information you need to plan your perfect escape.
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $100-150 (motels, budget inns near resorts) | $180-300 (standard resort rooms, mid-tier hotels) | $350-800+ (premium resort suites, luxury lodges) |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $30-50 (fast food, casual diners) | $60-100 (mid-range restaurants, resort casual dining) | $120-250+ (fine dining, multiple resort meals) |
| Transportation (per day) | $20-40 (public transport if available, minimal taxi/rideshare) | $50-80 (car rental, average fuel, some parking) | $90-150+ (premium car rental, valet parking, frequent rideshare) |
| Activities & Attractions (average entry fees, tours) | $20-50 (some free resort activities, basic entry fees) | $60-120 (mid-range resort activities, some spa treatments) | $150-300+ (premium resort activities, extensive spa, golf, guided tours) |
| Total Daily Budget (Low) | $170 | $350 | $710 |
| Total Daily Budget (Medium) | $270 | $480 | $1000 |
| Total Daily Budget (High) | $370 | $600 | $1400+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates | $1190-2590 | $2450-4200 | $4970-9800+ |
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
Nestled in the Laurel Highlands, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort is an extraordinary destination that defies simple categorization. What makes it truly unique is its vast array of experiences, from a world-class art collection adorning its halls to a wildlife academy featuring lions and bears. You can expect to indulge in championship golf on two Pete Dye-designed courses, find serenity at the Forbes Five-Star Woodlands Spa, or seek thrills at the Adventure Center with zip-lining, off-road driving, and a climbing wall.
It’s a place where luxury meets wilderness, offering diverse accommodation options from the grand Chateau Lafayette to charming private homes. Best times to visit are during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, though winter offers skiing and summer boasts extensive outdoor activities. This resort caters to everyone: families will adore the kids’ programs and wildlife, couples will cherish the fine dining and spa, and solo travelers can immerse themselves in art and nature. Its history as a private retreat for the Hardy family before becoming a public resort adds to its exclusive, curated feel, making every visit a discovery.
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Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Omni Bedford Springs Resort is a National Historic Landmark, captivating visitors with its grandeur and a rich history dating back to 1796. What truly sets it apart are its natural mineral springs, which have drawn visitors seeking wellness and rejuvenation for centuries. You can expect to immerse yourself in the healing waters at the luxurious Springs Eternal Spa, which incorporates the mineral waters into its treatments.
The resort also boasts an immaculately restored 18-hole golf course, one of the oldest in the country, offering a challenging play amidst stunning scenery. Beyond relaxation, you can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, or simply unwind on the grand veranda. This resort is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a wellness retreat. Its architectural elegance and the enduring legacy of its natural springs provide a unique blend of historical significance and modern comfort, transporting you to a bygone era of sophisticated leisure.
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The Lodge at Glendorn
The Lodge at Glendorn offers an unparalleled intimate luxury experience, truly distinguishing itself as an exclusive, all-inclusive retreat. What makes it unique is its focus on bespoke service and a deep connection to nature, set within 1,500 acres of pristine wilderness. You can expect to stay in exquisitely appointed cabins or suites, each with its own character and charm, and enjoy gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients.
Activities are abundant and included, ranging from fly-fishing in stocked ponds and clay shooting to hiking, cross-country skiing, and even private cooking classes. It’s an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups desiring privacy, or solo travelers looking for a luxurious nature immersion. Glendorn’s history as a private family estate for decades before opening its doors to guests imbues it with a sense of cherished heritage and personal touch, making you feel like a privileged guest rather than just a visitor.
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Kalahari Resort Pocono Mountains
Kalahari Resort Pocono Mountains transports you to an African-themed oasis, boasting America’s largest indoor waterpark. Its sheer scale and tropical ambiance, even in the depths of winter, are what make it truly unique. You can expect thrilling water slides, a massive wave pool, a lazy river, and dedicated areas for younger children, ensuring endless fun for all ages.
Beyond the waterpark, Kalahari offers an expansive indoor theme park with arcade games, a ropes course, and mini-golf. There are also numerous dining options, a spa, and shopping. This resort is an absolute paradise for families with children of all ages, offering a convenient, all-under-one-roof vacation experience. Its relatively recent opening as a flagship property in the Poconos has quickly established it as a premier family destination, providing a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that guarantees excitement and creates lasting memories.
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The Lodge at Woodloch
The Lodge at Woodloch stands out as an award-winning, all-inclusive luxury destination spa, focusing entirely on holistic wellness and personal rejuvenation. What makes it unique is its philosophy centered around nurturing the mind, body, and spirit amidst a tranquil, natural setting. You can expect to participate in a wide array of complimentary fitness classes, creative workshops, and educational lectures, all led by expert instructors.
Indulge in world-class spa treatments, enjoy gourmet, health-conscious cuisine, and unwind in the hydro-massage waterfalls and indoor/outdoor pools. This resort is perfect for solo travelers seeking introspection, couples desiring a peaceful retreat, or anyone looking for a digital detox and a focus on self-care. Its commitment to wellness and its serene, adult-only environment create an atmosphere of profound relaxation and personal growth, making it a true sanctuary away from the demands of daily life.
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Skytop Lodge
Skytop Lodge, a grand historic resort in the Pocono Mountains, is celebrated for its classic elegance and extensive outdoor activities set within a sprawling 5,500-acre estate. What makes it unique is its timeless appeal, offering a blend of traditional hospitality and modern amenities, all against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. You can expect to enjoy championship golf, an adventure center with zip-lining and rock climbing, a private lake for boating and swimming, and miles of hiking trails.
In winter, there’s skiing and ice skating. The lodge provides a variety of dining options from casual to fine dining. This resort is perfect for families seeking a multi-generational vacation, couples looking for a romantic escape with activities, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its rich history, dating back to 1928, and its enduring commitment to preserving its natural environment make it a beloved destination where traditions are cherished and new memories are made.
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Silver Birches Resort
Silver Birches Resort offers a charming lakeside escape, distinguishing itself with its intimate atmosphere and prime location on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack. What makes it unique is its blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and water-based activities. You can expect to stay in cozy cottages or lodge rooms, many with lake views, and enjoy direct access to the lake for boating, kayaking, and swimming.
The resort features an acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant, The Dock, offering stunning views and delicious cuisine. It’s an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking for a tranquil lake vacation, or solo travelers desiring peace and quiet. Its history as a beloved lakeside retreat for decades has cultivated a welcoming, laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature, creating a timeless vacation experience.
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Liberty Mountain Resort
Liberty Mountain Resort is a premier four-season destination, uniquely positioned to offer exceptional skiing and snowboarding in winter and vibrant outdoor recreation in warmer months. What makes it stand out is its comprehensive offering for active travelers, providing easy access to slopes and trails. You can expect to hit the slopes on 16 trails, from beginner to expert, or enjoy tubing and ice skating in winter.
In spring, summer, and fall, the resort transforms into a hub for golf, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides, with a focus on family-friendly activities. The resort also offers dining options and a spa. This resort is perfect for families with young skiers, couples seeking active getaways, and anyone looking for a convenient mountain escape. Its ongoing development from a local ski hill to a full-service resort underscores its commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities throughout the year, making it a reliable choice for outdoor adventure.
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Mount Airy Casino Resort
Mount Airy Casino Resort is a sophisticated retreat that uniquely combines a full-service casino experience with luxurious resort amenities, all nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains. What makes it special is its focus on adult entertainment and relaxation, offering a vibrant atmosphere for gaming alongside tranquil spaces for rejuvenation. You can expect to try your luck at a wide variety of slot machines and table games, enjoy live entertainment, or unwind at the luxurious spa and indoor/outdoor pool.
The resort also boasts an 18-hole golf course designed by Hal Purdy and multiple dining options ranging from casual buffets to upscale steakhouses. This resort is ideal for couples seeking a lively escape, groups of friends looking for entertainment, or solo travelers who enjoy gaming and pampering. Its commitment to providing a comprehensive leisure experience, from thrilling casino action to serene spa treatments, ensures a multifaceted getaway.
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The Hotel Hershey
The Hotel Hershey is an iconic luxury resort, famous for its unique chocolate-themed experiences and opulent Mediterranean-inspired architecture. What makes it truly special is its deep connection to Milton Hershey’s legacy, offering an indulgent escape that celebrates the joy of chocolate in every detail. You can expect to relax at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, renowned for its chocolate-inspired treatments, or enjoy a round of golf on two championship courses.
The hotel also features beautiful gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, and exquisite dining options. This resort is perfect for families, especially those with young children who will love Hersheypark nearby, couples seeking a romantic and pampering getaway, and anyone with a sweet tooth. Its rich history, built during the Great Depression as part of Milton Hershey’s vision, imbues it with a sense of grandeur and purpose, making every stay a memorable journey into the world of chocolate.
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Bear Creek Mountain Resort
Bear Creek Mountain Resort is a versatile four-season resort that truly shines in its ability to offer diverse outdoor activities year-round, making it a hub for adventure and relaxation. What makes it unique is its accessible mountain setting coupled with a comprehensive range of amenities. You can expect to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter, with 23 trails and multiple terrain parks.
In warmer months, the resort transforms for mountain biking, hiking, and disc golf. It also features a beautiful outdoor pool, a spa, and various dining options. This resort is perfect for active families, groups of friends, and couples looking for an adventure-filled escape without traveling too far from urban centers. Its development over the years has solidified its reputation as a go-to destination for convenient and exciting mountain recreation, offering something for every season and interest.
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The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort
The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort, a historic landmark nestled along the scenic Delaware River, offers a unique blend of heritage, natural beauty, and recreation. What makes it truly special is its deep-rooted history, dating back to 1911, and its renowned island golf course designed by A.W. Tillinghast.
You can expect to play a round of golf on this iconic course, enjoy guided river trips (kayaking, canoeing, rafting), or relax at the spa. The resort also offers indoor and outdoor pools, hiking trails, and various dining options. This resort is ideal for golf enthusiasts, families seeking outdoor adventures, and history buffs. Its enduring legacy as a premier destination for leisure and its commitment to preserving its natural surroundings make it a place where tradition meets tranquility, inviting you to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts.
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Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Seven Springs Mountain Resort is Pennsylvania’s largest ski and four-season resort, standing out for its vast array of activities and impressive scale. What makes it unique is its ability to transform from a premier winter sports destination into a vibrant summer playground, offering something for every type of adventurer. You can expect to ski or snowboard on over 33 slopes and trails, enjoy snow tubing, or explore the expansive terrain parks in winter.
In warmer months, you can discover championship golf, mountain biking, ziplining, sporting clays, and a beautiful outdoor pool. The resort also features a variety of dining options, a spa, and a bowling alley. This resort is perfect for families with diverse interests, groups of friends seeking adventure, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for year-round fun. Its continuous expansion and development have cemented its status as a top-tier destination for comprehensive mountain recreation.
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Fernwood Resort
Fernwood Resort is a classic Pocono Mountains family resort, distinguished by its wide range of activities and diverse accommodation options designed to cater to families and groups. What makes it unique is its commitment to providing a comprehensive, budget-friendly vacation experience with something for everyone. You can expect to enjoy an indoor waterpark (Split Rock Resort’s H2Oooohh! Indoor Waterpark is often included or nearby), a 27-hole golf course, mini-golf, horseback riding, and a variety of seasonal outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
The resort also offers multiple dining venues and live entertainment. This resort is ideal for families with children of all ages, large groups, and anyone looking for an active, value-oriented getaway in the Poconos. Its long-standing presence in the region has made it a familiar and reliable choice for generations of vacationers, offering a traditional resort experience.
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Cove Haven Pocono Palace Resort
Cove Haven Pocono Palace Resort is one of the iconic “Couples Resorts” in the Pocono Mountains, uniquely designed for romantic getaways, offering an all-inclusive experience focused on intimacy and fun. What makes it truly special are its famous themed suites, most notably the Champagne Tower Whirlpool suites, designed for an unforgettable romantic escape. You can expect to enjoy a variety of activities included in your stay, such as indoor and outdoor pools, mini-golf, paddle boating, tennis, and nightly entertainment.
All meals are also included, served in a lively dining room. This resort is exclusively for couples, particularly those celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply seeking a passionate and playful retreat. Its long history as a Poconos institution for romantic getaways has cemented its reputation as a place where love is celebrated and unique memories are made.
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Plan Your Visit
Pennsylvania’s resorts truly offer a kaleidoscope of experiences, proving that luxury, adventure, and relaxation are closer than you think. From the opulent grandeur of Nemacolin and Omni Bedford Springs to the family-friendly excitement of Kalahari and Seven Springs, and the intimate romance of Cove Haven, you will discover a perfect escape tailored to your every desire. Each resort, with its unique charm and extensive amenities, promises not just a place to stay, but a destination in itself, brimming with activities, world-class dining, and opportunities for unforgettable memories.
Whether your budget leans towards a luxurious indulgence or a more value-conscious adventure, planning your visit during off-peak times or looking for package deals can significantly enhance your experience without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, choose your adventure, and let Pennsylvania’s finest resorts inspire your next extraordinary journey. The Keystone State awaits, ready to enchant you with its diverse beauty and unparalleled hospitality.
