Top Romantic Getaways On A Budget Near Philadelphia
Are you looking for a budget-friendly way to rekindle a romance, spice up your love life or simply escape together for a quiet weekend for two? No need to jet off to exotic destinations or book an expensive cruise in order to sweep her off her feet. There are a number of top romantic getaway destinations in and around the City of Brotherly Love that are heavy on the romance, but surprisingly easy on the wallet. Pack your bags and head out for an overnight stay or long weekend retreat at one of these top romantic escapes near Philadelphia.
Cozy Cabin Retreat
French Creek State Park
843 Park Road
Elverson, PA 19520
(610) 582-9680
Just an hour outside of Philadelphia, French Creek State Park provides a number of options for an inexpensive, yet romantic weekend or mini vacation for two. After a day of hiking and exploring the 7,730 acres with miles of winding trails, you can snuggle together in a tent under the stars, or for those who prefer solid walls and a floor beneath their feet, you can reserve one of the park's economically priced camping cottages, quaint yurts or rustic wood cabins. Activities include hiking, boating, swimming, horseback riding and more in this park, which is open year-round, with sledding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing options for the winter months.
Escape To The 'Niagara of Pennsylvania'
Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls Road off Route 209
Bushkill, PA 18324
www.visitbushkillfalls.com
Escape the hustle and bustle for a romantic trip to Bushkill Falls. Known as the Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania, Bushkill Falls, open to the public during the spring, summer and fall, is one of Pennsylvania's top scenic destinations. Nestled in the lush hills of the Pocono Mountains in East Central Pennsylvania, an easy drive from Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley and NYC, the picturesque views of this unique series of cascading waterfalls and the scenic hiking trails make it a popular getaway destination. Accommodations at the nearby Fernwood Hotel and resort are reasonably priced, and packages that include a two-night stay and admission tickets to tour the waterfalls start as low as $94 a night.
Grand Canyon Getaway
Tioga State Forest's Pine Creek Gorge
2053 Route 660
Gaines, PA 16921
www.dcnr.state.pa.us
Pine Creek Gorge is best known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. While you will have to travel "out west," when visiting from Philadelphia, you'll find traveling to this popular Pennsylvania destination to be much more economical than its namesake counterpart -- a tank of gas rather than round-trip airfare for two. Sweeping views and scenic vistas await at this enchanting destination, and for those who love the outdoors, there is much to do, from hiking, picnicking and camping, to skiing and snowmobiling. With a number of reasonably priced lodging choices nearby to choose from, including lodges, hotels, motels and Bed & Breakfast establishments, you're sure to find something that fits your style and budget to round out the perfect romantic getaway.
Romantic B&B Weekend
Manayunk Terrace Bed & Breakfast
3937 Terrace St.
Philadelphia, PA 19128
(215) 483-0109
www.manayunkterrace.com
Escape to Philadelphia for a romantic staycation for two at one of the area's many cozy and affordable bed and breakfast establishments that blend comfort and value with whimsy and romance. The Manayunk Terrace B&B is nestled atop a hill overlooking the charming shops of Manayunk, a quaint neighborhood nestled next to the picturesque Schuylkill River. Hop on the train for a quick 18-minute ride into the City of Brotherly Love to explore, take in the sights and soak up the history. Rooms at the Manayunk B&B start at $130 a night for two, which is truly a bargain as the cost of a reservation also includes breakfast.
Sweet Package Deal
The Hotel Hershey
100 Hotel Road
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 533-2171
www.thehotelhershey.com
Not far from Philadelphia is Pennsylvania's Lancaster County, home to many of the nation's oldest towns and villages. With vineyards, outlet malls, quaint shops and amusement parks to explore, Lancaster County has it all: fun, shopping, dining and more, surrounded by rolling hills, villages, farms and Amish marketplaces. Hotel Hershey offers a number of economically priced two- and three-day packages that are perfect for a couples escape. These packages can be combined with discounted tickets to Hershey Park Amusement Park, or you can forgo the sweet rides and attractions to savor the time together as you take a dip in the pool, enjoy a romantic dinner or indulge in a decadent spa service or stress-melting massage.
Christy Ayala covers sports, recreation, the outdoors, and leisure activities in the Philadelphia area. She earned a masters degree in recreation administration from George Williams College and managed programs in the Midwest, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
