Valentine's Day Getaway Destinations Near Philadelphia

While candy, roses, jewelry and dinner are tried-and-true traditional tokens of love exchanged for Valentine's Day, there's nothing better for a true heart to heart than a romantic escape. Day and weekend destinations for lovers abound near Philly. Northwest lie the Catskill Mountains of New York. To the south and west are the Poconos and the Appalachian mountains. Venture out a bit to discover the best V-Day destination getaways near the City of (Brotherly) Love.

Inn at Lake Joseph
162 Saint Joseph Road
Forestbaugh, NY 12777
(845) 791-9506
www.lakejoseph.com

Rates: from $185 per night for two

Nestled on the banks of a 250-acre private lake in the Catskill Mountains of New York, the Inn at Lake Joseph opened its doors in 1984. Composed of three separate dwellings - the Lodge, an English country-inspired building, and the Adirondack-style cottage and Carriage House - guests can enjoy private entrances, working fireplaces, whirlpool baths and private sundecks. During winter, the screens of the veranda, where breakfast is served, are replaced by glass to provide a scenic view of the forested mountains. Pets are welcome. While there, visit the Eagle Institute and spot bald eagles in their natural habitat, or visit the Museum at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts that is home to a unique collection of artifacts, films and interactive displays that tell the story of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair, which took place on the grounds.

Blair Mountain Bed and Breakfast
231 W. Ridge Road
Dillsburg, PA 17019
(717) 432-9322
www.blairmtn.com

Price: from $129 for two

Spend an evening or romantic Valentine's Day weekend in a meticulously restored 1767 farmhouse located within a short drive of Ski Roundtop Mountain Resort in northwestern York County. Blair Mountain Bed and Breakfast is a hidden gem located in the woodlands of the South Mountain on the northern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it features four rooms decorated according to themes. Enjoy a quiet evening in the "Dream Suite," which includes a king-sized bed and a large bath with a two-person Jacuzzi and walk-in shower. You can also take advantage of the "Romantic Rendezvous" package, which includes a dozen roses, music, dinner at the Boiling Springs Tavern, romantic in-room music, and in the morning, a special Valentine's Day breakfast in the airy dining room. While in Boiling Springs, you can take in a show at the Allenberry Playhouse, too.

Related: Top Romantic Restaurants In Philadelphia

Hollywood Casino
777 Hollywood Blvd.
Grantville, PA 17028
(717) 469-2211
www.hollywoodpnrc.com

Price: Free

For a memorable, exciting and stylish Valentine's Day escape, head for the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course near Grantville. The casino features more than 2,450 slot and video poker machines, starting with penny slots. Table games include blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker and card games. Take a break from the games and enjoy the signature cuisine of Chef Jason Clark at the Final Cut Steakhouse, along with a wide selection of award-winning wines; or try the Skybox Sports Bar and enjoy more than 50 LCD-screen televisions featuring the top games of the day. After a great meal, listen to live musical entertainment at Hollywood on the Roof. A range of accommodations are available within minutes of the casino.

Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts
194 Lakeview Drive
Lakeville, PA 18438
(877) 822-3333
www.covepoconoresorts.com

Price: from $285 per night for two

Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts is comprised of three romantic resorts: Cove Haven, Paradise Stream and Pocono Palace. Featuring 16 suite choices, the resort offers a variety of amenities, dining and entertainment packages. All-inclusive packages include a suite (many with in-room pools and whirlpools), dining reservations, unlimited breakfast, live nightly entertainment, and free tickets to concerts and events. Entertainment options range from house bands to comedians. While you're there, enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, tubing and ice skating as well.

Hershey's Chocolate World
251 Park Blvd.
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-4900
www.hersheys.com/chocolateworld

Price: Free

There's no sweeter way to enjoy Valentine's Day than visiting a chocolate lover's paradise! Hershey's Chocolate World provides visitors with a unique, tasty experience full of sights, sounds, tastes, smells and textures. For Valentine's Day, enjoy chocolate desserts at the Hershey's Bake Shoppe, or sample cocoa-infused entrees in the food court. Learn how to make decadent chocolate desserts. Take a tour of the chocolate factory, and see how cocoa beans are transformed into delicious treats. Create a candy bar at the candy bar. Indulge in a chocolate tasting adventure and earn a "Master's Degree" in Chocolate Tasting from Hershey's University. For overnight accommodations, choose from the Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge, both located near the center of town. Enjoy shopping at the Tanger Outlets or take a tour of historic downtown Hershey.

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