Looking for the best things to do in Pennsylvania for couples? No matter what region you are visiting or living in, you may be surprised by all the romantic things to do within miles!
While Pennsylvania may be known for its endless (and somewhat boring) miles of farmland, there are tons of hidden gem destinations that make for the perfect couples getaway.
I grew up in Southeastern Pennsylvania and have been showing off PA to my fiancé over the course of our 6 year relationship. I’ve totally converted him into loving the historic charm this beautiful state has to offer.
Whether you’re interested in big city exploring in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia, prefer to visit historical landmarks and battlefields Gettysburg, or are looking to splurge at a luxurious spa resort in the Pocono mountains, PA has it all.
Without further ado, here are 17 unique things for couples to do in Pennsylvania by region!
17 Things to do in Pennsylvania for Couples by Region
Things to do for Couples in Southeast PA
1. Go to Charming Bucks County Pennsylvania
Just over an hour from Philadelphia is idyllic Bucks County, PA. Filled with tons of pre-Revolutionary War history, Bucks County is one of the most charming destinations in Southeastern PA. I grew up here! And I think it is one of the most romantic places in Pennsylvania.
Visit Doylestown, PA, a charming small town that happens to be my hometown. Take some time to explore Downtown Doylestown by foot, enjoying local restaurants and a movie at one of the oldest theaters in the county.
Between the historical castles and delicious date night restaurants, there are so many things to do in Doylestown for couples.
Peddler’s Village is another popular tourist destination in Bucks County. This colonial-themed outdoor shopping and dining complex is the perfect date spot. If you find yourself in the area during the fall season, you’ll want to make sure you stop and enjoy their annual Scarecrow Festival!
New Hope is another Bucks County town, located on the Delaware River. This eclectic town is home to some amazing restaurants with waterfront views and the historic Bucks County Playhouse. Grab tickets to one of their Broadway-caliber musicals for a date night to remember.
Bucks County Pennsylvania is one of the most exciting and charming areas of Pennsylvania, offering picturesque small towns to explore!
Best Date Night Restaurants in Bucks County:
- Salt House in New Hope, PA
- Black Bass Hotel Restaurant in Lumberville, PA
Top Luxury Hotel in Bucks County: The River House in New Hope, PA
Top Budget Hotel in Bucks County: The Golden Plough Inn in Peddler’s Village (starting at $99/room)
2. Explore Philadelphia for History and Romance
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If you are looking for a weekend getaway in a city, Philadelphia is the place to be. While it’s known for its important part in the foundation of the country, Philly is also one of the best places for couples to go in PA.
Its ever evolving arts, culture and food scene makes it an exciting place to visit for a weekend getaway or day trip.
If you enjoy museums and history make sure you check out:
- Independence Hall
- The Liberty Bell
- Franklin Institute Science Museum
- The Rocky Statue
- The Philadelphia Zoo (the oldest zoo in America!)
Couples that consider themselves “foodies” should:
- Have lunch at either Geno’s or Pat’s to crown the best cheesesteak in Philly
- Visit Reading Terminal Market to try all the best locally crafted food, drinks, and artisan goods
- Check out a Philadelphia Food Tour!
The art and culture scene in Philadelphia is constantly evolving! Be sure to take some time to:
- Visit the Love Sculpture in the John F Kennedy Plaza (perfect couples photo op!)
- Enjoy live Jazz music at South Jazz Kitchen
- See a live performance at one of Philadelphia’s Theaters
Best Date Night Restaurants in Philadelphia:
- Her Place Supper Club – for a unique chef’s table experience
- Giorgio on Pine – BYOB restaurant with authentic Italian cuisine
Best Luxury Hotel in Philadelphia: Four Seasons Philadelphia
Best Budget Hotel in Philadelphia: Courtyard Marriott Philadelphia City Avenue
3. Sip Your Way Through the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail
One of the most romantic things to do in Pennsylvania for couples in the Southeastern region is to visit the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail. Just an hour from Philadelphia, this region of PA stretches from Mouth Bethel to Kutztown with Allentown right in the middle.
The Lehigh Valley is home to over 20 wineries, perfect for a wine tasting weekend getaway! With the trail stretching for miles, you’ll need more than one visit to the Valley to hit each one.
The best way to explore the wine trail fully (and safely!) is to either book a wine tour car or use Uber to get around to wineries within one area.
It’s also important to pick a great place to stay the night that is centrally located to some of the best vineyards!
If you prefer secluded outdoor stays, I’d book this Delaware River Treehouse Airbnb and hit M&M Vineyards, Tolino Vineyards, Franklin Hill Vineyards, and Hardball Cidery!
Looking for a downtown urban winery experience? Stay in Easton at the Grand Eastonian Hotel and check out Easton Wine Project and Cellar 159!
Best Date Night Restaurants near the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail:
- 1741 on Terrace in the Hotel Bethlehem
- Aman’s Artisan Indian Cuisine in Easton for the best indian food!
Best Luxury Hotel near Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: Historic Hotel Bethlehem
Best Budget Hotel near Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: Holiday Inn Express Allentown
4. Explore the Lost River Caverns
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If you and your person are looking for adventurous things to do in Pennsylvania, a visit to the Lost River Caverns is one of the best day trips you can take!
Located just over an hour from Philadelphia in Hellertown PA is an incredible natural wonder that is a true hidden gem in Southeastern PA.
The Lost River Caverns are natural limestone caves with incredible rock structures and an underground river. The Caverns were first discovered in 1883 by quarry workers in the area. To this day, tours are held daily for those looking to explore the depths of the caves.
Starting at just $16 per person, this is a cheap thing to do in Pennsylvania, perfect for adventure-loving couples. The Lost River Caverns are open from 9am – 6pm in the summer and 9am – 5pm in the winter.
Check out their website to learn more about the history and how to reserve your tickets today!
Best Date Night Restaurants near Lost River Caverns
- The PA House
- Torre (great Mexican food!)
Best Luxury Hotel near Lost River Caverns: Renaissance Allentown
Best Budget Hotel near Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: Holiday Inn Express Bethlehem
5. Go to Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is a famous destination in Kennett Square Pennsylvania, just 35 miles from Philadelphia. Known as one of the most beautifully manicured and historical gardens in the state, Longwood is the perfect romantic day trip in PA for couples.
Stroll through both indoor and outdoor gardens with your person. Explore hundreds of plant varieties, beautiful landscaped gardens, fountain displays, and enchanting parks.
While there’s no doubt Longwood is breathtaking in the spring, summer, and fall, it’s also a great destination in the colder months.
Longwood Gardens is famous for their Christmas light displays, making this one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania for couples in winter. Walk through magical light shows while enjoying hot chocolate and festive music!
Best Date Night Restaurants near Longwood Gardens
Best Luxury Hotel near Longwood Gardens: The Booking House Hotel – can be booked as a package to receive discounted Longwood Gardens Tickets!
Best Budget Hotel near Longwood Gardens: Holiday Inn Express West Chester
Things to do for Couples in Northeast PA
6. Explore Outdoor Activity in the Pocono Mountains
If you like the outdoors, there’s no doubt that the Pocono Mountains is one of the best places for couples to visit. No matter what season you visit, there are tons of outdoor activities!
In the warmer months, check out Lake Wallenpaupack – one of PA largest reservoirs. Walk the Wallenpaupack Lake trail or rent a boat and spend the day on the water fishing!
From Spring to Fall, be sure to check out Camelback Resort’s incredible zipline. You’ll be flying over the incredible Pocono Mountains at 180 feet in the air!
Hiking in the Poconos is one of the best outdoor activities for couples. Be sure to check out the beautiful Resica Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the Pocono Mountains.
In the winter, skiing is one of the best outdoor adventure activities. Camelback Resort is perfect for experienced skiers looking to test their skills. Shawnee Mountain is a smaller ski lodge, perfect for beginners and those on a budget.
Treat yourself after a long day of outdoor exploration at one of these top Pocono Restaurants:
- Memento – an upscale Italian restaurant
- Rare and Rye Steak House – one of the best restaurants in East Stroudsburg PA
Best Airbnbs in the Pocono Mountains:
- Luxury Lakeside Cabin in Barnesville, PA
- Enchanting River Chalet in East Stroudsburg, PA
- Tiny A-Frame Home with Hot Tub in Tobyhanna, PA
7. Stay in a Secluded Luxury Resort in the Pocono Mountains
Even if outdoor adventure isn’t your thing, a trip to the Pocono Mountains can be luxurious at a 5 star resort!
The Poconos is one of the most romantic spots in Pennsylvania to escape the hustle and bustle and unwind in the mountains.
With top notch amenities, spa services, and chef curated restaurants, these Pocono Mountain resorts could rival any vacation destination.
Mt Airy Casino Resort
Mt Airy Casino Resort is perfect for couples looking to wine, dine, and gamble! With a state-of-the-art casino filled with high end restaurants and entertainment, it’s a fun and unique stay in the Pocono Mountains. My favorite restaurant at Mt Airy is Bistecco by Il Mulino, a white tablecloth Italian restaurant.
Skytop Lodge
Skytop Lodge is another fantastic resort in the Poconos for those looking for secluded elegance in the mountains. With both luxury amenities, restaurants, on-site hiking, axe throwing, and fishing, it’s the perfect mix!
Skytop has rooms at their deluxe lodge, inn, and cottages offering high end amenities a a variety of price ranges. With three full service restaurants, a coffee shop, and a quaint Library cocktail lounge, Skytop is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend getaway.
A must-visit restaurant at Skytop is Lake View. Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine with views of their golf courses and the lake!
The Lodge at Woodloch
For the most luxurious resort experience in the Pocono Mountains, you’ll want to splurge with a stay at The Lodge at Woodloch.
This wellness resort is all about restorative and healing experiences, spa services, and farm to table restaurants. You’ll be wowed by their five star service, rooms, and endless wellness activities offered daily.
Enjoy yoga, pilates, and massages amongst the natural beauty of the Pennsylvania Mountains.
Don’t get me started on their farm to table restaurants! Dine at the Tree Restaurant – a locally sourced restaurant with live culinary demonstrations located amongst the trees.
The Lodge at Woodloch is the ultimate couple resort for a secluded getaway in the Pennsylvania Pocono Mountains!
8. Go to Ricketts Glen State Park
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Adventurous couples in Northeast PA should look no further than Ricketts Glen State Park. Noted as one of the most popular state parks in Pennsylvania, this is the perfect destination for couples who live hiking and exploring nature!
Located in Benton, Pennsylvania, Ricketts Glen State Park is a 13,000 acre oasis for adventure seekers with over 20 waterfalls and tons of hiking trails.
Be sure to hike Lake Rose Trailhead in order to reach the largest waterfall in the park, Ganoga Falls (at 94 feet tall!)
If you’re able to plan a trip in June, the beautiful Mountain Laurel will be in bloom, making for a truly magical outdoor adventure!
A visit to Ricketts Glen is one of the best day trips in PA for adults located in Northeastern PA. Better yet, it’s one of the best free activities for couples in the area.
PRO TIP: There is no cell service at Ricketts Glen. Be sure to grab a map at the visitor center or download your GPS directions. Always be sure to pack snacks and lots of water when going hiking, especially to a State Park without reception.
Offset your outdoor adventure weekend getaway with a delicious dinner and hotel stay!
Best Date Night Restaurants Near Ricketts Glen State Park
Best Hotels Near Ricketts Glen State Park
- Ricketts Glen Hotel
- Old Tioga Inn
- The Wandell Inn (most upscale of the 3)
9. Explore Jim Thorpe, PA
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Jim Thorpe is one of the most romantic destinations in Pennsylvania. Resembling a charming European town, Jim Thorpe is a mountain town in the Poconos that is reminiscent of Switzerland.
Complete with historical Victorian homes, unique shopping, upscale dining, and tons of art and culture, it’s one of the best places for couples to spend a weekend getaway in Pennsylvania.
Explore the history of Jim Thorpe and it’s part in PA’s coal mining roots by going to one of the museums in town. Take a tour at the Asa Packer Historical Victorian Mansion or go to the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center.
One of the best ways to see and learn about the area is by enjoying the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad. Take a romantic train ride parallel to the Lehigh River into the Lehigh Gorge State Park. Go during the fall for incredible views of the changing leaves!
Jim Thorpe is also home to lots of wineries and breweries! Enjoy a wine tasting at Big Creek Vineyard or taste locally crafted beer at Jim Thorpe Brewing Company.
No matter when you choose to visit Jim Thorpe, it’s bound to be one of the best weekend getaways for couples in Northeastern PA.
Best Date Night Restaurants in Jim Thorpe PA
- Stone Row Pub and Eatery
- Cafe Arielle – has live jazz music on Saturdays!
Best Luxury Hotel in Jim Thorpe PA: Harry Packer Mansion Inn
Best Budget Hotel in Jim Thorpe PA: The Inn at Jim Thorpe
Things to do for Couples in Central PA
10. Explore Downtown Historical Harrisburg
If you’re located or traveling in Central Pennsylvania, a visit to the state’s capital is one of the most underrated destinations! This exciting city is home to not only historical landmarks but great restaurants and activities. There are so many things to do in Harrisburg PA for couples.
When visiting Harrisburg, you must visit the State Capital (or at least take a photo in front of it!). Tours can be booked online and are a great way to learn about Pennsylvania’s history and current role in lawmaking.
Another great museum to visit in Harrisburg is the State Museum of PA. There you will find the largest collection of cultural and natural history of PA, Civil War artifacts, and information on Pennsylvania icons.
After you’ve explored some of the top museums in town, be sure to try some of the best local foods at the Broad Street Farmer’s Market. Take home fresh produce and locally crafted goods!
With the Susquehanna River framing the city, one of the best ways to take in the area is by viewing it from a riverboat. The Pride, Harrisburg’s premier Riverboat, is one of the most exciting activities for couples to do in Harrisburg. Board the Riverboat for dinner cruises and special occasions.
Best Date Night Restaurants in Harrisburg
Best Luxury Hotel in Harrisburg: Hilton Harrisburg
Best Budget Hotel in Harrisburg: Fairfield Inn and Suites Harrisburg Hershey
11, Have Fun at Hershey Park
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Located only 15 miles from Harrisburg, you’ll find the sweetest theme park in the state. Hershey Park is not just a kid’s destination. Let the scent of chocolate lure you and your sweetie to their thrilling roller coasters, chocolate museums, and five star resorts!
If you’re a thrill-seeking couple, a trip to Hershey Park will do the trick. Ride some of their biggest and most thrilling roller coasters such as Candymonium and Skyrush.
Come for the rollercoasters and stay for the chocolate! Hershey Park is home to the Hershey Story Museum right on Chocolate Avenue, where the scent of chocolate literally fills the streets. Learn all about Milton Hershey and how he created his American chocolate empire.
The best part about Hershey, PA is their incredible resorts. The Hotel Hershey is a luxury destination that is definitely not just for kids! With spa services, five star restaurants, and high-end amenities, it is one of the best PA attractions for couples.
Best Date Night Restaurants Near Hershey Park
- The Circular Restaurant at Hotel Hershey
- Iron Hill Brewery
Best Luxury Hotel Near Hershey Park: Hotel Hershey
Best Budget Hotel Near Hershey Park: Comfort Inn and Suites Harrisburg Hershey West
12. Stay in a Cozy Inn in Amish Country Lancaster
Amish Country in Lancaster is one of the most unique destinations in Central Pennsylvania. Experience a different way of life alongside delicious comfort food and incredible views at one of PA’s most underrated couple’s destinations.
Amish Country in Pennsylvania is one of the oldest Amish settlements in the USA. Even just driving through the area is an adventure! With gorgeous countryside and horses with buggies in view, you’ll feel transported to a different time and place.
When in Amish Country, you must try authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Stop by the nationally known Bird in Hand Cafe for scratch-made baked goods like no other.
One of the best souvenirs you could take home while visiting Amish Country is a handmade quilt. Stop by Fischer’s Handmade Quilts for a unique gift.
If you’re looking to really immerse yourself in the Amish Culture, it might be best to book a tour! There are lots of different Amish Countryside tours – bus tours, walking tours and more.
PRO TIP: Everything is CLOSED on Sundays in Amish Country. So don’t go on a Sunday!
Best Date Night Restaurants in Lancaster Amish Country
- Shady Maple Smorgasbord – one of the most iconic buffet restaurants in Lancaster
- Katie’s Kitchen – known for it’s traditional Amish menu items
Best Luxury Hotels Near Lancaster Amish Country: Inn at Leola Village (luxury spa hotel with in-room jacuzzis)
Best Budget Hotels Near Lancaster Amish Country: Tru by Hilton Lancaster East
13. Explore Gettysburg, PA
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Gettysburg Pennsylvania is one of the best destinations in Pennsylvania. With tons of historical landmarks and unique shopping and dining spots, a visit to this city is one of the best things to do in PA for couples.
Gettysburg is located just 45 minutes south of Harrisburg and 2.5 hours from Philadelphia. Home to some of the most infamous battles in the American Civil War, Gettysburg is revered as one of the country’s most historically rich areas!
If you enjoy museums, be sure to make time to explore the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum. There you’ll learn how this area was a true turning point in the American Civil War.
If you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks on your own time, take a drive to Sach’s Covered Bridge. This bridge was used by both Union and Confederate soldiers and known as the most historic bridge in Pennsylvania.
A Ghost Tour of Gettysburg is an exciting thing for couples to do in Gettysburg. With Civil War History around every corner, this tour may just send a shiver down your spine. Check out this ghost tour of Gettysburg… if you dare!
Other attractions in Gettysburg you must try include:
- Gettysburg Olive Oil Company
- Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center
- Jennie Wade House Museum
- Horse Tours of Gettysburg
Best Restaurants in Gettysburg PA
- Dobbin House Tavern – historical 1776 building with includes hotel rooms and guided tours offers traditional American fare
- Appalachian Brewing Company – locally crafted beers and bar food
Best Luxury Hotel in Gettysburg PA: Union Hotel
Best Budget Hotel in Gettysburg PA: Country Inn and Suites Gettysburg
*Honorable Mention Luxury Hotel: Antrim 1884 Hotel – located in Maryland, 20 minutes from Gettysburg
14. Go to the Pine Creek Gorge (The Grand Canyon of PA)
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For those in Central Pennsylvania looking for outdoor adventure, Pine Creek Gorge is the perfect pick. Known as the Grand Canyon of PA, a visit to Pine Creek Gorge is one of the most romantic things to do in Central PA for couples that enjoy hiking and gorgeous views.
Located 2 hours north of Harrisburg and 25 minutes west of Williamsport, Pine Creek Gorge is a nationally recognized destination. The Gorge runs for 47 miles with it’s deepest depth reaching 1,450 feet.
Whether you are an experienced hiker or (are like me) looking to expand your outdoorsy-ness, Pine Creek Gorge offers incredible views no matter what level hiker you are.
Views of the Gorge are most easily accessed by Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park. For beginner hikers looking for the best views, be sure to hike the Barbour Rock Trail in the Potter Tioga Region.
Regardless of which trail you choose, there are lots of opportunities for canyon views, bird watching, and (in the fall) beautiful fall foliage. A trip to Pine Creek Gorge is perfect for couples looking to unplug from the world together.
Since there aren’t a ton of restaurants or hotels near Pine Creek Gorge, I’d recommend traveling to Williamsport to stay the night after hiking during the day.
Best Date Night Restaurants in Williamsport (near Pine Creek Gorge):
Best Luxury Hotel in Williamsport PA: City Hall Grand Hotel
Best Budget Hotel in Wiliamsport PA: Fairfield Inn and Suites Williamsport
Things to do for Couples in Western PA
15. Explore Pittsburgh Pennsylvania
If you’re looking for things to do in Western PA, the first recommendation I always give is a weekend getaway to Pittsburgh. Between the museums, food scene, shopping, and outdoor activities, Pittsburgh truly has it all.
For first time visitors of Steel City, you must check out the Duquesne Incline. The incline was a mode of public transportation created in the mid-1800s to aid the city and it’s growing population.
Today, the incline is a historical attraction that offers cable car rides up to the quaint neighborhood of Mount Washington for just $3.50 per round trip!
Other amazing things to do in Pittsburgh PA for couples include:
- A visit to the Carnegie Science Center
- A tour of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Walking through the Strip District, Pittsburgh’s most popular shopping and restaurant hub
- Hiking at the Three Rivers Heritage Trail
- Trying an iconic Primanti Bros sandwich
Best Date Night Restaurants in Pittsburgh
- Foundry Table and Tap – Book their Chef’s Table Dining Experience for an unforgettable date night dinner!
- Eleven
Best Luxury Hotel in Pittsburgh: Omni William Penn
Best Budget Hotel in Pittsburgh: Priory Hotel
16. Go to the Beach in Pennsylvania at Lake Erie
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Did you know there are beaches in Pennsylvania!? Lake Erie, located on the Northwestern border of Pennsylvania, is one of the most underrated destinations in Pennsylvania. Better yet, it’s one of the best FREE things to do in Pennsylvania for couples.
The best destination for beach-goers on Lake Erie is Presque Isle State Park. Complete with sandy beaches perfect for swimming, playing beach side games, fishing and boating.
Presque Isle State Park has multiple beaches, some with designated swimming areas, smoke-free zones, reservable pavilions, and even beachside volleyball courts.
Be sure to check out their website to learn about which beach is best for your visit.
A visit to Presque Isle must include a trip to the Presque Isle Lighthouse, one of the best things to do in Erie PA for couples!
Best Restaurants in Presque Isle Lake Erie
- Shoreline Bar and Grille (has lake views!)
- The Cork 1794
Best Luxury Hotel in Presque Isle Lake Erie: Spencer House B & B
Best Budget Hotel in Presque Isle Lake Erie: Baymont by Wyndham Erie
17. Enjoy a Weekend Getaway in the Laurel Highlands
Located an hour east of Pittsburgh is the Laurel Highlands area of Pennsylvania. With some of the state’s most historical landmarks, architectural wonders, and mountaintop resorts, it’s the perfect place to relax in Pennsylvania.
One of the best attractions located in the Laurel Highlands is Falling Water. Built by Frank Lloyd Write, the great American architect, this unique structure is open daily for tours.
Be sure to snag tickets ahead of time to see one of the most interesting structures in the state! It’s one of the best couples day out ideas.
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Other must-see spots in the Laurel Highlands include:
- The Barronville and Burkholder Covered Bridges
- Flight 93 National Memorial
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield and Museum – the site of George Washington’s first military engagement and the mark of French and Indian War’s beginning
- Brantview Maple Farm – for homemade maple syrup!
Best Restaurants in Laurel Highlands
- Falls City Pub and Restaurant (3 miles from Fallingwater)
- Braddocks Restaurant and Tavern (12 miles from Fallingwater)
Best Luxury Hotel in Laurel Highlands: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort (incredible 5 star wellness resort!)
Best Budget Hotel in Laurel Highlands: Hilton Garden Inn Uniontown (25 miles from Fallingwater, 15 miles from Fort Necessity)
Wrap Up: Best Things for Couples to do in Pennsylvania
There you have all the best places to go in PA for couples! From state parks to luxury resorts, there’s no doubt there are tons of romantic things to do in Pennsylvania no matter what region you are visiting. If you’ve decided to take a weekend trip to Pittsburgh, be sure to check out these 47 things to do for couples in Pittsburgh.
No matter which romantic trip you decide to take, I know the charm of Pennsylvania will only enhance your getaway!
Once you’ve planned and taken that romantic Pennsylvania trip with your sweetheart, you may be looking for a girls getaway! Check out these awesome ideas for a girlfriends trip in PA.
