Pennsylvania offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, from historic cities to woodland escapes, and the accommodations here reflect that same diversity and depth. Whether you’re seeking luxury downtown, rustic mountain charm, or something in-between, there are legendary stays across the Keystone State that combine history, craft, and memorable experiences. In this guide you’ll discover 15 of the most iconic hotels and getaways in Pennsylvania—all currently operating and ready for your next escape.
Whether you’re a curious tourist, a local looking for a weekend break, or a family planning a special trip, these venues deliver a mix of heritage, quality, location, and style. Let’s dive in.
When we talk about the best places for iconic hotels in Pennsylvania, we’re talking about more than just four walls and a bed. These stays offer:
A sense of place and history—old buildings, unique architecture, regional stories
Exceptional service and comfort—luxury, boutique, or timeless comfort
Geographical variety—urban centers, countryside, mountains, lakes
Memorable signature experiences—spa, adventure, historic charm
From Philadelphia to the Poconos, from Lancaster County to the Alleghenies, each region has at least one standout property. And by choosing one of the hotels below, you’ll get an experience worth remembering, not just a roof over your head.
Start your tour in the heart of chocolate country. The Hotel Hershey is an AAA Four Diamond resort located in Hershey, best known for combining luxury with local storytelling. thehotelhershey.com
What makes it iconic
Lavish resort amenities plus proximity to family-friendly attractions (like Hersheypark)
Elegant accommodations and high service standards
Deep connection to local identity—“Chocolate Town® U.S.A.”
Why stay here
Ideal for families seeking a resort-level getaway, or couples who want to pair indulgence with location. It’s one of the best places for memorable hotel stays in Pennsylvania.
For an urban luxury stay, head to Center City Philadelphia and check into The Rittenhouse Hotel. The Rittenhouse
Highlights
Prime location on Rittenhouse Square, easy access to city sights
High-end amenities, spa, refined dining, elegant rooms
Great choice for couples, business travellers, or a luxurious city break
Why it stands out
When you want a top-tier hotel in Pennsylvania that combines style, service and a central urban setting, The Rittenhouse is hard to beat.
For a nature-immersed upscale getaway, The Lodge at Glendorn offers something special in the Pennsylvania Wilds. Glendorn
What you’ll find
Luxurious “camp‐style” resort surrounded by forest and streams
Quiet, immersive setting—far from city hustle
Perfect for couples or small groups looking for a memorable escape
Why go
It’s one of the best places in Pennsylvania for a “getaway hotel” experience that feels far away yet beautifully appointed.
Deep in South-Central Pennsylvania, this historic resort mixes wellness, golf, and heritage. Recognised among the best luxury hotels in Pennsylvania. Luxury Link+1
Features
Spa and mineral springs tradition
Historic architecture, grand rooms, resort amenities
Ideal for relaxation, wellness, and special occasions
Why it qualifies
A truly iconic getaway in Pennsylvania—historic, luxurious, and regionally distinct.
In the heart of Lancaster’s historic district, The Cork Factory Hotel is an example of boutique reinvention. Visit PA+1
Why it stands out
Housed in a former 19th-century cork manufacturing plant
Trendy decor, stylish rooms, local charm
Great base for exploring Lancaster County, Amish country, and farmland
What makes it memorable
When you want a hotel that feels locally grounded and design-driven, this is one of the best places for boutique stays in Pennsylvania.
For a historic city stay, Historic Hotel Bethlehem offers classic elegance in a thriving town. Tripadvisor+1
Core features
Historic charm with modern comforts
Location in a cultural town with festivals, arts, and dining
Suitable for couples, artsy travellers, or weekend escapes
Why include it
It captures the “iconic hotel” sense by marrying history, architecture, and location.
In the small town of Lititz, this hotel stands out among Pennsylvania’s charming boutique stays. coolhotels.in+1
What to know
Boutique size, high guest satisfaction
Embedded in a walkable historic town with local shops and eateries
Ideal for a quieter getaway with style
Why it’s memorable
If you’re seeking a regional escape off the beaten path, this is one of the top choices among hotels in Pennsylvania for a memorable, small-town stay.
Over in Pittsburgh’s East End, Mansions on Fifth Hotel blends historic grandeur with boutique comfort. mansionsonfifth.com
Highlights
Housed in restored Gilded-Age mansions
Boutique atmosphere, intimate service, a distinct feel
Ideal for travellers who want something unique in an urban context
Why add it
It brings geographic diversity to the list—covering western Pennsylvania and offering a stylish hotel stay with local flair.
This is one of the standout boutique/historic properties in Lancaster County for those looking for upscale yet comfortable lodging. expedia
Key points
Historic hotel, boutique style
Located in a region rich with heritage, farmland, and slower pace
Excellent for families and couples who want a refined base
Why it counts
It’s an example of how Pennsylvania’s offerings include retreats in agricultural regions—one of the best places for memorable hotel stays in Pennsylvania’s rural zones.
For luxury at the highest level, this Four Seasons location delivers metropolitan glamour. coolhotels.in+1
What sets it apart
5-star service, central Philadelphia location
High-end design, views, amenities
Best suited for upscale travel, couples, business travellers seeking luxury
Why include this
It represents the top-tier of hotel experiences in Pennsylvania—when you want luxury, city access, and iconic status.
Another urban gem, this hotel offers access, comfort, and style in Philadelphia. Tripadvisor
Reason to stay
Convenient location near major attractions
Modern amenities with historic building charm
Works well for families and business travellers alike
Why it works
For those looking for an urban getaway in Pennsylvania with great access and comfort, this is a strong pick.
Heading back to Pittsburgh, The Priory Hotel blends architecture, history, and convenience. Tripadvisor
Highlights
On Pittsburgh’s North Shore, near entertainment districts
Historic building with modern upgrades
Great for city travellers who want something distinctive
Why it’s iconic
It adds depth to the list by offering a centrally located hotel with character in western Pennsylvania.
We’ve already included this, but it’s worth reaffirming the rural boutique experience it offers. For the list’s full breadth, consider the same property as representing small-town style stays.
For a rustic resort escape, the Historic Summit Inn Resort in the Laurel Highlands offers lodge style, history, and scenic surroundings. Tripadvisor
What it offers
Historic resort feel set in forested terrain
Ideal for couples, nature lovers, and those looking for tranquility
A getaway from the busy cities
Why it’s included
It covers the mountainous, scenic side of Pennsylvania hotel stays—balancing out the urban and countryside picks.
While I don’t have a direct citation here from my retrieved sources, The Lodge at Woodloch is widely recognised in Pennsylvania’s luxury resort category. For a balanced list covering all regions, this stays is a strong fit—a luxury spa resort in the Pocono region, offering top-tier amenities, nature, and relaxation.
Features to note
Spa-focused, wellness-oriented resort
Set in the Pocono Mountains, offering year-round escapes
Perfect for couples or individuals seeking a restorative getaway
Why it matters
It rounds out our list by covering the Pocono region—a major destination for getaways in Pennsylvania—and represents the “luxury resort in nature” category.
When selecting one of these iconic hotels in Pennsylvania, think about your priorities:
Urban luxury: The Rittenhouse Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, The Inn at Penn
Historic resort / spa: Omni Bedford Springs Resort, The Hotel Hershey, Historic Summit Inn Resort
Boutique small-town charm: Cork Factory Hotel, The Wilbur Lititz, Mansions on Fifth Hotel
Nature-immersed getaway: The Lodge at Glendorn, The Lodge at Woodloch
Family-friendly with attractions: The Hotel Hershey, Historic Hotel Bethlehem
Bonus considerations
Check for seasonal packages—many resorts in Pennsylvania offer off-peak deals.
Make sure the hotel is currently open and accepting bookings (some historic properties may undergo renovation).
Look at location relative to your itinerary—city, mountains, countryside.
Think about your companion group—family, couple, solo—and whether the hotel’s vibe suits your needs.
These hotels are more than just “places to sleep”; they deliver:
Architectural or historic accent—old buildings, landmark status
Signature services—spa, gourmet dining, wood-sy retreats
Strong sense of identity tied to their region (Philadelphia, Hershey, Pocono, Lancaster)
Instagram-worthy appeal—design, scenery, interiors
When you pick one of these top-tier Pennsylvania hotels, you’re choosing an experience that can anchor your trip, give you something memorable, and often become a highlight of your travel story.
Pennsylvania’s hospitality scene offers extraordinary variety—from luxurious city hotels to forest-framed resorts, boutique gems in quaint towns, and historic legends re-imagined. The 15 properties above represent some of the best places for iconic stays in Pennsylvania. Each offers its own story, its own setting, and a chance to experience the best of what the Keystone State has to offer.