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Where to Stay in Pennsylvania: 15 Best Family-Friendly Hotels

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Where to Stay in Pennsylvania: 15 Best Family-Friendly Hotels

Find the best family-friendly hotels in Pennsylvania. Compare pools, locations & amenities to book the right stay for your family trip.

Where to Stay in Pennsylvania: 15 Best Family-Friendly Hotels

Pennsylvania is one of the most diverse family travel destinations in the eastern United States, spanning Amish Country in Lancaster, the thrill rides of Hersheypark, the history of Valley Forge, and the mountain lakes of the Poconos. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, the right family-friendly hotel makes a measurable difference - from in-room kitchens that reduce dining costs to on-site pools that keep kids occupied after a long day of sightseeing. This guide covers 15 hand-picked family hotels across Pennsylvania, organized by value and experience level, so you can match the right property to your trip.

What It's Like Staying in Pennsylvania with a Family

Pennsylvania rewards families who plan by region rather than by state. The distances between major attractions are real - Philadelphia to Pittsburgh is around 300 miles, and the Poconos sit in a completely different driving corridor than Lancaster County. Most family travelers anchor in one region per trip rather than attempting cross-state itineraries. Traffic around Philadelphia's western suburbs (King of Prussia, Frazer) and the I-78/I-76 corridors can add significant time during summer weekends, so mid-week arrivals typically run smoother. The Poconos, Lancaster, and the Laurel Highlands each serve a distinct travel style - water parks and skiing up north, cultural immersion in the center, and resort wilderness in the southwest.

Pros:

  • Enormous variety of family attractions spread across distinct, bookable regions - Hersheypark, Knoebels, Dutch Wonderland, and Ohiopyle all within the same state
  • Strong highway infrastructure (I-76, I-78, I-81) makes regional road trips manageable with kids
  • Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer lighter crowds and lower hotel rates without sacrificing weather

Cons:

  • Pennsylvania's geography means most family trips require a car - public transit does not connect rural and resort areas
  • Summer weekends at Poconos and Lancaster-area hotels book out weeks in advance, limiting last-minute flexibility
  • Hotel quality varies sharply by sub-region; budget options in rural areas often lack pools or kid-focused amenities

Why Choose Family-Friendly Hotels in Pennsylvania

Family-friendly hotels in Pennsylvania range from full-scale lakeside resorts to extended-stay suites with in-room kitchens - a meaningful distinction when traveling with children. Extended-stay properties with kitchenettes can reduce a family's daily food budget by around 40% compared to relying entirely on restaurants. Larger resort properties in the Poconos or Laurel Highlands bundle pools, recreation centers, and dining under one roof, which reduces daily logistics significantly. Mid-range chain hotels near Philadelphia's western suburbs offer the best access-to-price ratio for families visiting Valley Forge, King of Prussia Mall, or Philadelphia Zoo without paying city-center rates. Indoor pools are a decisive amenity for Pennsylvania family travel given the state's unpredictable spring and fall weather, and many of the hotels in this guide include them year-round.

Pros:

  • Several hotels offer in-room kitchens or kitchenettes, directly cutting food costs for multi-night family stays
  • Resort-style properties in the Poconos and Laurel Highlands deliver pools, recreation, and dining without requiring a car for every activity
  • Chain family hotels near King of Prussia and Monroeville provide easy highway access to both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh attractions

Cons:

  • True resort properties (Nemacolin, Skytop Lodge) carry premium nightly rates that represent a significant investment for longer stays
  • Some family hotels in rural Pennsylvania are isolated from walkable dining or entertainment, requiring a car for every outing
  • Peak summer rates at Poconos resorts can spike significantly compared to off-season pricing

Practical Booking & Area Strategy for Pennsylvania Family Trips

For families targeting Philadelphia-area attractions - Valley Forge National Historical Park, Philadelphia Zoo, or the Mann Center - hotels in King of Prussia and Frazer sit along the I-76 corridor and keep driving times under 45 minutes to central Philadelphia while avoiding city parking costs. Families visiting Lancaster's Amish Country and Dutch Wonderland should prioritize properties along Route 30, where the Fulton Steamboat Inn sits just minutes from the park. The Poconos corridor (East Stroudsburg, Hawley, Lake Wallenpaupack) is best booked at least 6 weeks ahead for summer weekends, as lake and waterpark demand drives occupancy to near capacity. For families combining Pittsburgh access with outdoor recreation, the Monroeville and Belle Vernon properties along the I-376/I-70 corridor keep the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium within 20 minutes while avoiding downtown hotel pricing. Families visiting Hersheypark should note that Cameron Estate Inn in Mount Joy places them within 28 km of the park, offering a quieter, more character-rich base than chain hotels on the Hershey strip.

Best Value Family Stays

These properties deliver strong family practicality - indoor pools, kitchenettes or breakfast included, and easy highway access - at mid-range price points across Pennsylvania's most visited family corridors.

  • 8.0 Very Good
    148 reviews
    Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville is a practical anchor for families visiting the Philadelphia suburbs, sitting 17 miles from Valley Forge National Historical Park and close to multiple corporate campuses along Route 202. Every room includes a kitchenette, which directly reduces multi-night dining costs - a key factor for families on longer stays. The indoor swimming pool and fitness center mean kids have structured activity regardless of weather. A 24-hour shop on-site covers snacks and drinks without requiring a car trip, and the Elmwood Park Zoo is reachable within 10 miles.

    • Kitchenette in every room
    • Indoor swimming pool
    • Free WiFi throughout

    Just a few rooms left at the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 129

  • 2. Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam

    7.7 Good
    117 reviews
    Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

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    Hampton Inn Selinsgrove/Shamokin Dam is the most practical family base for visiting Knoebels Amusement Resort, one of Pennsylvania's most beloved free-admission parks, located within 31 km. The indoor pool, hot tub, and spa facilities give families meaningful on-site downtime after full days at the park. Free American breakfast is included, eliminating the morning meal logistics that slow down family travel days. Free private parking and a business center round out the practical amenities for families driving through central Pennsylvania.

    • Indoor pool and hot tub
    • Free American breakfast included
    • Spa and wellness centre

    Rooms filling fast – secure the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 144

  • 3. Hampton Inn Belle Vernon

    8.5 Fabulous
    107 reviews
    Hampton Inn Belle Vernon Hampton Inn Belle Vernon Hampton Inn Belle Vernon Hampton Inn Belle Vernon Hampton Inn Belle Vernon

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

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    Hampton Inn Belle Vernon serves families positioned along the I-70 corridor in southwestern Pennsylvania, with Pittsburgh International Airport within 51 km and easy access to the Laurel Highlands recreation zone. The indoor swimming pool and fitness center are the core family amenities, with free WiFi and complimentary breakfast making multi-night stays more economical. Family rooms and facilities for disabled guests reflect solid accessibility planning. This property works well as a cost-conscious overnight for families combining Pittsburgh attractions with Ohiopyle State Park day trips.

    • Indoor swimming pool
    • Free breakfast included
    • Family rooms available
    from

    US$ 100

  • 4. SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia

    8.6 Fabulous
    258 reviews
    SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

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    SpringHill Suites by Marriott Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia delivers suite-style rooms with seating areas, flat-screen TVs with cable, and in-room fridges - all standard in every unit, which genuinely benefits families needing more space than a standard double. Located in King of Prussia, the hotel sits within 32 km of Philadelphia Zoo and 33 km from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, making it a logical base for families day-tripping into the city. Buffet and continental breakfast options are available, and the property features family rooms throughout. Free parking eliminates a common pain point for families driving into the Philadelphia metro.

    • Suite-style rooms with seating area and fridge
    • Free parking on site
    • Buffet breakfast available
    from

    US$ 129

  • 5. Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing

    8.5 Fabulous
    161 reviews
    Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Homewood Suites by Hilton Reading-Wyomissing offers select rooms with full kitchens - including fridge, dishwasher, and microwave - making it one of the strongest self-catering options for families in central-eastern Pennsylvania. Located in Wyomissing near Reading, the property includes a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and barbecue facilities, the latter being particularly useful for families preferring informal outdoor meals. Lancaster Airport is 45 km away, keeping it accessible for fly-drive itineraries. Breakfast is included, and the 24-hour front desk staff speak multiple languages, a practical note for international families.

    • Full kitchen in select rooms
    • Barbecue facilities on site
    • Seasonal outdoor pool

    Rooms filling fast – secure the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 101

  • 6. Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville

    8.7 Fabulous
    103 reviews
    Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville positions families 18 km from Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and 20 km from the University of Pittsburgh, making it a strong base for families combining city exploration with eastern Pittsburgh suburbs. The on-site restaurant serves à la carte, American, and vegetarian breakfast options, with dairy-free and vegan menus available on request - unusually accommodating for a mid-range property. Free parking, a fitness center, and a bar complete the family-functional amenities. Pittsburgh International Airport is 44 km from the property, keeping transfers manageable.

    • On-site restaurant with dietary options
    • Free private parking
    • Fitness centre
    from

    US$ 139

  • Sheraton Great Valley Hotel Sheraton Great Valley Hotel Sheraton Great Valley Hotel Sheraton Great Valley Hotel Sheraton Great Valley Hotel

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Sheraton Great Valley Hotel in Frazer offers one of the better activity mixes for a mid-range property in the Philadelphia suburbs - free bikes, an indoor pool, fitness center, and a concierge service all in one building. Philadelphia International Airport is 43 km away, and the Mann Center for Performing Arts is within 42 km, making this a viable option for families attending outdoor performances or visiting the airport corridor. À la carte, continental, and American breakfast options are available, and the on-site bar works for parents after kids are settled. The free parking and family-inclusive setup make this a well-rounded suburban Philadelphia pick.

    • Indoor swimming pool
    • Free bikes available
    • À la carte breakfast with multiple options
    from

    US$ 109

  • 8. Altoona Grand Hotel

    7.6 Good
    572 reviews
    Altoona Grand Hotel Altoona Grand Hotel Altoona Grand Hotel Altoona Grand Hotel Altoona Grand Hotel

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

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    Altoona Grand Hotel is positioned 6 km from Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark, one of central Pennsylvania's most distinctive engineering and railroad heritage sites - a genuine draw for families with history-curious kids. The indoor pool, spa facilities, on-site restaurant, and bar cover the full spectrum of family needs under one roof, while free WiFi and free parking eliminate common per-day costs. Family rooms and facilities for disabled guests are available. University Park Airport is 64 km away, making it accessible for fly-drive trips into central Pennsylvania's mountain region.

    • Indoor swimming pool and spa
    • On-site restaurant and bar
    • Family rooms available

    Hurry – almost gone at this price! 

    from

    US$ 140

Best Premium Family Stays

These resort and character properties offer immersive, high-amenity experiences - from 2,000-acre wilderness resorts to lakeside condos and historic inns - suited for families who want the destination to be as much about the property as the surrounding attractions.

  • 4.0
    1354 reviews
    Skytop Lodge Skytop Lodge Skytop Lodge Skytop Lodge Skytop Lodge

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Skytop Lodge is one of Pennsylvania's most iconic mountain resorts, set in the Poconos with a multi-generational legacy and a comprehensive activity program spanning hiking, fly fishing, archery, golf, and winter sports - all within the property's grounds. The resort model eliminates the daily logistics of planning external excursions, which is a significant practical benefit for families with mixed-age children. The lodge's architecture and setting provide an atmosphere distinct from chain hotel environments, making it suitable for families seeking a genuine retreat experience rather than a standard hotel stay.

    • Full on-site activity program (hiking, fishing, golf, winter sports)
    • Iconic Poconos mountain setting
    • Multi-generational resort infrastructure

    Just a few rooms left at the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 475

  • 9.8 Exceptional
    31 reviews
    Nemacolin Nemacolin Nemacolin Nemacolin Nemacolin

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Nemacolin sits on 2,000 acres in the Laurel Highlands and delivers the broadest activity offering of any property in this guide - 4 pools, 2 golf courses, a full spa, tennis courts, zip-lining at The Peak, and 6 dining venues including the fine-dining Lautrec and the casual Tavern Restaurant. Fort Necessity National Battlefield is 4.1 km away and Ohiopyle State Park is 7.5 km from the resort, adding significant day-trip value to the on-site experience. Select rooms include 24-hour butler service or spa baths, positioning this as Pennsylvania's most premium family resort option. White water rafting from the Ohiopyle Trading Post is reachable within 12 km.

    • 4 swimming pools including indoor and outdoor
    • Zip-lining, tennis, golf, and spa on-site
    • 6 dining options including fine dining and pub fare

    Hurry – almost gone at this price! 

    from

    US$ 733

  • 8.4 Very Good
    153 reviews
    Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa is a 4-star historic resort in Bedford built around natural hot springs, with both indoor and outdoor pools, a full spa, tennis courts, hiking trails, and skiing access in winter - making it a strong four-season family destination. The hot spring bath experience is genuinely unique in Pennsylvania and adds memorable value beyond standard resort amenities. With 6 restaurants on-site, families avoid the logistical burden of sourcing meals away from the property. Altoona-Blair County Airport is 48 km away, and the resort's mountain setting provides a genuine separation from urban routines.

    • Hot spring bath - unique wellness experience
    • Indoor and outdoor pools
    • 6 on-site restaurants

    Rooms filling fast – secure the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 146

  • 4. Fulton Steamboat Inn

    9.2 Superb
    687 reviews
    Fulton Steamboat Inn Fulton Steamboat Inn Fulton Steamboat Inn Fulton Steamboat Inn Fulton Steamboat Inn

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

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    Fulton Steamboat Inn is a full-scale Victorian steamboat-themed hotel in Lancaster that operates as one of Pennsylvania's most visually distinctive family properties - complete with a ship-shaped children's playground and a duck-and-fish feeding pond on the grounds. Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park is a 5-minute drive away, and Amish Country Tours are within a 10-minute drive, making this property the single strongest base for Lancaster-area family itineraries. Every room includes a microwave and refrigerator, and Huckleberry's Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a full bar. The Rockvale Outlet Shopping Center is 3 km away for post-park family shopping.

    • 5-minute drive to Dutch Wonderland
    • Ship-shaped children's playground on-site
    • In-room microwave and refrigerator in every room

    Just a few rooms left at the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 110

  • 8.7 Fabulous
    58 reviews
    Tanglwood Resort Tanglwood Resort Tanglwood Resort Tanglwood Resort Tanglwood Resort

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Tanglwood Resort sits directly on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Poconos, stretching over 7.5 km of lakefront with seasonal boat hire available on-site - a rare amenity that makes this property genuinely distinct for water-focused family vacations. Each condo unit features a fully equipped kitchen, a private patio, and a furnished seating area with sofa bed, providing family-sized living space well beyond standard hotel rooms. The recreation center offers an arcade room, a movie screening room, and crafts for all ages - keeping kids engaged on rainy Poconos days. Ski Big Bear Centre is 27 km away, and Promise Land State Park is within a 25-minute drive.

    • Fully equipped kitchen in every condo
    • Seasonal boat hire on Lake Wallenpaupack
    • Recreation center with arcade and movie room

    Hurry – almost gone at this price! 

    from

    US$ 149

  • 6. Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta

    8.7 Fabulous
    849 reviews
    Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Pocono Mountain Villas MOD Collection by Sonesta in East Stroudsburg delivers both an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and balconies in select rooms - making it a well-rounded Poconos resort for families prioritizing pool access across weather conditions. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is 19 km away, offering kayaking, hiking, and swimming in a natural setting that extends the resort experience into the surrounding landscape. Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains is 35 km away for families wanting to combine both properties across a longer Poconos stay. All rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and coffee machines as standard.

    • Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
    • Balconies available in select rooms
    • 19 km from Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Just a few rooms left at the best rate! 

    from

    US$ 125

  • 8.3 Very Good
    61 reviews
    Cameron Estate Inn Cameron Estate Inn Cameron Estate Inn Cameron Estate Inn Cameron Estate Inn

    That was just a preview — check out all hotel photos.

    1/1

    Cameron Estate Inn is a 5-star bed and breakfast in Mount Joy offering a genuinely different Pennsylvania family experience - riverfront views, a hot tub, garden access, and à la carte American breakfast served daily. Hersheypark is 28 km away and Hershey's Chocolate World is 27 km from the property, making this the most characterful accommodation option within day-trip range of the Hershey attractions. Some units are allergy-free and soundproof - an uncommon feature that directly benefits families with young children or specific health needs. The traditional on-site restaurant serves American cuisine for dinner and cocktails, providing an in-house evening option without leaving the grounds.

    • 5-star B&B with hot tub and garden
    • Allergy-free and soundproof rooms available
    • 28 km from Hersheypark
    from

    US$ 166

Smart Timing & Booking Advice for Pennsylvania Family Hotels

Pennsylvania's family hotel market follows a predictable but steep seasonal curve. Summer (late June through August) represents peak demand across all sub-regions - Poconos lake resorts, Lancaster theme park corridors, and Hershey-area hotels all reach near-full occupancy on weekends, with rates rising significantly versus spring pricing. Families who can travel in May or September gain meaningfully lower rates without losing access to outdoor attractions, most of which operate through early October. The Laurel Highlands resorts - Nemacolin and Omni Bedford Springs - have genuine four-season appeal due to skiing and hot spring access, meaning winter rates can surprise travelers expecting off-season discounts. Book Poconos-area resorts at least 6 weeks in advance for any summer weekend stay; last-minute availability is rare and typically reflects premium pricing on remaining inventory. For extended-stay properties like Staybridge Suites and Homewood Suites, mid-week rates are often substantially lower than weekend rates, making a Tuesday-Thursday arrival strategy worth considering for families with scheduling flexibility. A stay of 3 nights is generally the minimum to justify the drive to southwestern Pennsylvania resorts like Nemacolin, given the 53 km distance from Uniontown and limited nearby dining alternatives.

  • What It's Like Staying in Pennsylvania with a Family
  • Why Choose Family-Friendly Hotels in Pennsylvania
  • Practical Booking & Area Strategy for Pennsylvania Family Trips
  • Best Value Family Stays

    • 1. Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg
    • 2. Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam
    • 3. Hampton Inn Belle Vernon
    • 4. SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia
    • 5. Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing
    • 6. Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville
    • 7. Sheraton Great Valley Hotel
    • 8. Altoona Grand Hotel
  • Best Premium Family Stays

    • 9. Skytop Lodge
    • 10. Nemacolin
    • 11. Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
    • 12. Fulton Steamboat Inn
    • 13. Tanglwood Resort
    • 14. Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta
    • 15. Cameron Estate Inn
  • Smart Timing & Booking Advice for Pennsylvania Family Hotels
Hotels featured in this article
1. Staybridge Suites Montgomeryville By Ihg
2. Hampton Inn Selinsgrove / Shamokin Dam
3. Hampton Inn Belle Vernon
4. SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Valley Forge/King of Prussia
5. Homewood Suites By Hilton Reading-Wyomissing
6. Courtyard Pittsburgh Monroeville
7. Sheraton Great Valley Hotel
8. Altoona Grand Hotel
9. Skytop Lodge
10. Nemacolin
11. Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
12. Fulton Steamboat Inn
13. Tanglwood Resort
14. Pocono Mountain Villas Mod Collection By Sonesta
15. Cameron Estate Inn
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