17 Inexpensive PA Weekend Getaways for Couples and Families

Posted on March 9, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on May 7, 2024

Looking for weekend getaway destinations that won’t break the bank? Pennsylvania is filled with great places to visit on a budget, from historic sites to state parks to quaint towns. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway with your partner or a family trip, you’re sure to find the best affordable weekend destination for you and your group.

Discover below the best inexpensive weekend getaways in Pennsylvania for couples and families on a budget. These cheap PA weekend getaways feature affordable lodging options and plenty of free things to do nearby.

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Victorian Charm Inn, Towanda

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

Located in the northern part of Pennsylvania. The Victorian Charm Inn is a beautiful place to stay for the weekend and, best of all, without breaking the bank. This affordable inn features a nice garden, a shared lounge, and comfy rooms with en-suite bathrooms. A tasty homemade breakfast is included.

Towanda is a small town, yet, you’ll find many things to keep you busy for a few days. Right in town, visit the Bradford County Historical Society, showcasing the history of the region with exhibits on local industries, the Civil War, Native Americans, and more.

Then, take a walk on the Towanda Riverfront, a scenic area with a walking trail that follows the Susquehanna River. There are picnic tables and benches to enjoy the views and watch the boats go by. You can also rent kayaks or canoes in town.

Nearby, visit the French Azilum Historic Site, which was once a refuge for French aristocrats fleeing the French Revolution. For a scenic drive, you can keep driving down the river, cross over in Wyalusing, and go back up. Make sure to stop by the Wyalusing Rocks Scenic Overlook. In Wyalusing, there’s a museum you can check out and wine-lover can drop by the Grovedale Winery.

West of town, make sure to check out Knapp’s Covered Bridge where you’ll also find many hiking trails (use the AllTrails App to find them).

Make sure to check out what’s happening when you’re there as Towanda hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the River Fest in August, which features live music, arts and crafts, and food.

Das Gasthaus, The Inn of Claysburg

Average rate: $90 a night – Book here

A perfect inexpensive weekend getaway in Pennsylvania for couples and families alike, the Inn of Claysburg is well-rated, well-priced, and well-located. The inn features comfy rooms for up to 6 people (with private bathrooms), a kitchen you can use, and free bike rentals. Breakfast is included and guests can enjoy the barbecue area, the garden, and the lounge.

Claysburg and the surrounding area offer plenty of outdoor activities, historical sites, and family-friendly attractions for a fun and memorable weekend getaway.

If you like the outdoors, visit Blue Knob State Park where you’ll find several hiking and mountain biking trails and swimming areas. The park is home to the second-highest peak in Pennsylvania and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. In winter, you can cross-country and downhill ski as well or go snowmobiling or snow tubing.

You can also check out Canoe Creek State Park where you can go hiking or enjoy the lake and the many water activities offered.

A 20-minute drive will take you to the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site where visitors can tour the historic engine house and visitor center, hike the trail along the railroad, and learn about the technology used to transport goods over the Allegheny Mountains. Right next to it, you can tour the spooky Cresson Sanatorium and Prison.

If you like trains, you can visit the Railroaders Memorial Museum and check out the Horseshoe Curve (closed in winter).

In nearby Altoona, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the hands-on activities at A Quaint Corner Children’s Museum & Discovery Center. For something exciting. ride aboard a historic train with The Everett Railroad Company or have fun at the DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash Water Park

Brownstone Colonial Inn, Reinholds

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Located at the heart of Amish and Mennonite farmland, this 18th-century, beautifully restored sandstone farmhouse will make a perfect destination for an inexpensive weekend getaway in Pennsylvania.

Each room at the Brownstone Colonial Inn is uniquely decorated with antique furnishings and a private bathroom. A tasty breakfast made up of fruits grown on the premise, homemade pastries and jams, and a hot dish is included. Guests can enjoy the open-hearth fireplace, shared lounge, and garden.

It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway or for families with older kids.

Reinholds and the surrounding area offer plenty of outdoor activities, historical sites, and cultural attractions for visitors to enjoy.

If you like hiking, start by visiting the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area known for its hiking trails and birding opportunities, especially during the annual migration of snow geese and tundra swans.

Other fun places to visit in the area include the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site offering a glimpse into the history of the iron industry in Pennsylvania, the historic Ephrata Cloister, and the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania.

You can also take a buggy ride through Amish country to see the farms, fields, and picturesque landscapes, stop by the Green Dragon Farmers Market to shop for food, crafts, and other goods from local vendors, and visit nearby Reading where you’ll find several museums.

Four Creeks Bed & Breakfast, Gerard

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

The Four Creeks Bed & Breakfast is one of the most inexpensive weekend getaway destinations on the shores of Lake Erie, even during peak seasons, rates stay affordable. The B&B features everything needed for a romantic stay as this is an adult-only property. Breakfast is included and the rooms are comfy and clean.

Nearby, you can explore the hiking trails and the beaches at Presque Isle State Park, don’t miss the historic lighthouse and the stunning viewpoints of Lake Erie. Erie Bluffs State Park also offers trails and shorelines as well as 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie. In winter, you can cross-country ski in both parks.

For something more cultural, tour the Erie Maritime Museum and its exhibits on the history of the U.S. Navy in Erie and the Great Lakes region.

If you like wine, you can visit vineyards and go wine tasting at the wineries that are part of Lake Erie Wine Country.

The Emig Mansion, Emigsville

Average rate: $120 a night – Book here

A great destination for a cheap PA weekend getaway, Emigsville is located right next to the historic city of York featuring a variety of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and historic sites for visitors to enjoy. The Emig Mansion is a beautiful place to stay for people on a budget with its lush garden and luxurious interior.

In York, stroll around town and visit the York County History Center, a museum and research center that showcases the history of York County through exhibits on local history, genealogy research, and a gift shop.

The Agricultural and Industrial Museum is also worth checking out with exhibits on farm life, transportation, and manufacturing. You can also tour the Harley-Davidson Factory and see how the famous bikes are made.

There are plenty of places nearby to go hike or bike. A popular option is Rocky Ridge Park and a bit further out the Susquehanna Riverlands State Park (check out the Codorus Furnace on your there).

Another fun outdoor activity is to walk or bike all or part of the 21-mile York County Heritage Rail Trail that stretches from York to the Maryland border, following a former railroad route with scenic views of the countryside.

Check out what’s happening at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts too, a historic theater that hosts a variety of shows, concerts, and performances throughout the year.

Waynebrook Inn, Honey Brook

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

Honey Brook is surrounded by natural areas and historic sights that will be more than enough to keep you busy for the weekend. The Waynebrook Inn is a great place to stay if you’re on a budget. Inexpensive, clean, and comfortable, the inn features romantic suites with a spa bath and spacious family rooms. Breakfast is included and there’s an on-site restaurant for lunch and dinner.

Nearby, stop by the Wyebrook Farm, a sustainable farm that offers tours, farm-to-table dining, and live music – shop for antiques, collectibles, crafts, and baked goods at the Morgantown Market – stroll around the historic St. Peter’s Village – and take a guided tour at the Amish Village.

Outdoorsy people will enjoy exploring French Creek State Park where you’ll find hiking trails, swimming areas, and historic sites such as the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. In winter, you can go sledding, cross-country skiing, and ice skating.

If you have extra time, stop by Historic Poole Forge to see the covered bridge and explore the grounds,

Vaast Bed & Breakfast, Adamstown

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Adamstown, also known as the “Antiques Capital of the USA“, is a small town located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Set in a historic house, Vaast Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place to stay over the weekend if you are on a budget.

There’s a seasonal outdoor pool, spacious rooms with an attached bathroom, and common rooms with books, board games, and a pool table. Breakfast is included.

Adamstown is home to hundreds of antique shops, making it a great destination for antique enthusiasts. The shops offer a wide variety of antiques, including furniture, pottery, glassware, and collectibles. Don’t miss Stoudt’s Antique Mall and Shupps Grove Antique Market, among many others.

If you like shopping, don’t miss the nearby Green Dragon Farmer’s Market and Vanity Fair Outlet Village as well.

Nature lovers can head to the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area where you can hike one of the trails and go bird watching. Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve and Money Rocks County Park are also great options.

Nearby, tour the Ephrata Cloister, a historic site founded in 1732 by a group of religious separatists, visit the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania, and take a buggy ride with The Amish Experience to discover the Amish culture and traditions while enjoying a leisurely ride through the countryside.

Eagle Village Resort & Chalet, Bushkill

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

A great place for an inexpensive romantic weekend getaway or a cheap family weekend trip in Pennsylvania, Eagle Village Resort & Chalet features chalets for up to 6 people with a full kitchen, barbecue facilities, a playground, an indoor swimming pool, and access to the nearby lake.

The location is perfect, especially if you like the outdoors. Located in the Pocono Mountains, there are plenty of things to do in the area such as hiking, chasing waterfalls, or visiting historic sites and museums.

Nearby, you can visit the Bushkill Falls, a series of eight waterfalls, explore the trails and historic sites at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and in winter, go skiing, tubing, or snowshoeing at the Shawnee Mountain Ski Area.

Crown Resorts at Wolf Run, DuBois

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Offering spectacular views and comfortable rooms, the Crown Resorts at Wolf Run is one of the best destinations for a weekend getaway on a budget. The resort features 3 swimming pools, an on-site restaurant, and rooms with a kitchenette. They also have apartments that can accommodate up to 6 people.

Nearby, you can visit the Dubois Area Historical Society to learn about the region’s Native American heritage, the lumber and coal industries, and more. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Doolittle’s Dinosaurs Museum.

In summer, you can enjoy the water and beach areas on Binimi Lake and Treasure Lake. For hiking, head to Parker Dam State Park where you’ll find several trails and a lake – in winter, you can go skiing, sledding, ice skating, and snowmobiling there.

Ottaway Inn, Corry

Average rate: $90 a night – Book here

Located in northwest Pennsylvania, the Ottaway Inn is a haven of peace where you could spend the weekend relaxing in the garden while enjoying quiet surroundings. The rooms are comfy and clean, and you can arrange for breakfast.

In town, stop by the Corry Area Historical Society Museum where you can learn about the region’s Native American heritage, the oil industry, and more. In nearby Union City, you can tour the Union City Museum & Historical Society as well.

If you like the outdoors, head to the Erie National Wildlife Refuge where you’ll find several hiking trails winding through the beautiful Pennsylvania wilderness. Closer to town, you can also hike or bike the Corry Junction Greenway Trail running along the banks of French Creek, offering beautiful scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.

You’ll also be within an hour’s drive of Lake Erie and all the activities it offers.

Colonial Brick Inn & Suites, Great Bend

Average rate: $70 a night – Book here

Colonial Brick Inn & Suites, Susquehanna

One of the most affordable weekend getaways in Pennsylvania, the Colonial Brick Inn & Suites features basic rooms with everything needed for a comfortable stay. All rooms have a kitchenette, a private bathroom, and an outdoor sitting area.

The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.

If you like the outdoors, head to Salt Springs State Park where you’ll find several hiking trails and a couple of historic buildings. On your way there, you can make a detour to tour Old Mill Village. You can also rent a boat or kayaks in town and explore the Susquehanna River and its beautiful surroundings.

In nearby Susquehanna, you can stroll around town and stop by the Susquehanna County Historical Society, before heading to the Starrucca Viaduct, a historic railroad bridge and the oldest stone arch bridge in the United States.

A 20-minute drive will take you to the small town of Binghamton where you can tour the Phelps Mansion Museum, the Bundy Museum of History and Art, and the Cutler Botanic Garden.

Hopwood Motel, Uniontown

Average rate: $70 a night – Book here

One of the most inexpensive getaways in Pennsylvania, Hopwood Motel caters to couples, families, and groups alike with clean rooms and basic amenities for a great stay. All rooms have an attached bathroom, an outdoor sitting area, and a kitchenette.

In town, stroll around the downtown area and stop by the Fayette County Courthouse for a guided tour of the courthouse, then by the State Theatre Center for the Arts where you catch a show or take a tour of the theater.

Just outside of town, you can tour the Fort Necessity National Battlefield where the first battle of the French and Indian War took place. A bit further out, you can explore underground caves at the Laurel Caverns Geological Park.

A 20-minute drive will take you to Ohiopyle State Park where you can hike or bike, slide along the natural water slides, go rock climbing and white water rafting – and in winter, go sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling.

Closer to town, you can enjoy spending some time at the scenic Dunlap Creek Lake, plan a picnic on the shores or launch a boat.

Hotel Crittenden, Coudersport

Average rate: $140 a night – Book here

A great destination for a cheap PA weekend getaway, Coudersport offers the perfect blend of outdoor attractions and cultural attractions. The Hotel Crittenden is a nice and convenient place to stay for couples and families alike. The hotel has managed perfectly to mix the charm of the historic building with the comfort of modernity.

Each room features a comfy bed, an en-suite bathroom, and a kitchenette. There’s an on-site restaurant where you can get brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Start your weekend by visiting Coudersport and its historic district. Stop by the Potter County Historical Society and the Eliot Ness Museum. Then head out to explore the area.

A 20-minute drive will take you to Cherry Springs State Park, known for its incredibly dark skies, making it a popular spot for stargazing. There are 4 more state parks nearby. If you’re visiting during summer, you can enjoy the beach and swim at the lake in Lyman Run State Park.

You’ll find plenty of hiking trails as well in the Susquehannock State Forest, use the AllTrails app to find them. And if you want something more relaxed, you can plan a little road trip in the area, stopping at scenic overlooks to enjoy the views.

Another must-see is the Coudersport Ice Mine where ice forms inside the cave during summer and melts in winter.

Lake Inn, Ebensburg

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

Recently renovated, the Lake Inn offers clean and comfortable rooms, each with an attached bathroom, TV, and kitchenette. The inn is well-located, and best of all, rates are quite affordable. It’s a perfect destination in Pennsylvania for a weekend getaway on a budget.

There’s an on-site restaurant and you’ll be within walking distance of more options and shops. From the inn, you can walk to Lake Rowena, to the start of the Ebensburg Reservoir trail, and reach the 36-mile Ghost Town Trail, open to hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing and offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

For something fun, rent tubes and enjoy a relaxing float down the Stonycreek River. You can also enjoy the trails and water activities at Yellow Creek State Park.

There are plenty of historic sites and museums within a short drive, including the Johnstown Flood Museum, the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, the Cresson Sanatorium and Prison, and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, among many others.

Homestead Lodging, Smoketown

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Smoketown is a small community located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and will make a great relaxing weekend getaway destination. Book a room at the inexpensive Homestead Lodging, enjoy a free homemade breakfast while taking in the views of their beautiful garden, before heading out for the day to explore the area.

Located just a short drive from Smoketown, the Amish Farm and House is a popular attraction where you can take a guided tour of a real Amish farmhouse, learn about the history and culture of the Amish, and even take a buggy ride.

Next to it, you’ll find Dutch Wonderland, a family-friendly amusement park with rides, games, and attractions for all ages. The park is themed around Dutch culture and history and offers a fun and educational experience for visitors.

In nearby Lancaster, you can visit The Lancaster Science Factory, an interactive science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and activities for children and adults, stroll around town, and stop by the historic Lancaster Central Market to grab a bite to eat.

For something more outdoorsy, head to Samuel S Lewis State Park or Susquehanna Riverlands State Park where you can hike and enjoy beautiful views of the surroundings.

The Inn at Ragged Edge, Chambersburg

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

Chambersburg is a historic town with many interesting things to do and see nearby, offering plenty of opportunities for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxing weekend getaway. The Inn at Ragged Edge is a perfect place to stay if you’re on a budget.

Rates are affordable, the rooms are clean, and the owners are friendly. Couples will particularly love staying there as it’s one of the best cheap romantic getaways that have a hot tub in the room in PA. They also have spacious family rooms.

Situated on an extensive property, the inn is surrounded by nature and rooms have views of the garden or creek. You can go hiking directly from there. A full breakfast and afternoon refreshments are included.

The inn is minutes away from two major Civil War battlefields – Gettysburg and Antietam, both worth a visit. For something more outdoorsy, head to Caledonia State Park or the Michaux State Forest where you’ll find many hiking trails and swimming areas.

Closer to town, you can take a short hike to Falling Spring Falls, tour the historic Old Jail, and explore the replica of the original Chambers Fort, which was built during the French and Indian War.

Mount Laurel Motel, Hazleton

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

One of the most inexpensive weekend getaway destinations in PA, Mount Laurel Motel is affordable and is conveniently located near many interesting sites. The motel offers basic and clean rooms and is pretty well-rated. Each room has its own bathroom and a kitchenette.

In town, stop by the Greater Hazleton Historical Society and Museum before heading out to the Eckley Miners’ Village, a historic village that was once a coal mining town. Visitors can take guided tours of the village and learn about the lives of coal miners in the 19th century.

If you’d like to spend some time outdoors, you can go hiking at Nescopeck State Park or Hickory Run State Park and enjoy the beach at Mauch Chunk Lake Park.

Hazleton is located near two popular ski resorts as well, Jack Frost and Big Boulder Mountains. These mountains offer skiing, snowboarding, and tubing during the winter months.

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