12 Romantic Getaways from Philadelphia to Take in 2024

Looking for romantic getaways from Philadelphia to take this year? Read on!

The East Coast is full of romantic destinations! From relaxing beach getaways, to wine trails and adventures in the mountains, there is something for every couple to do.

With the help of my fellow bloggers, I have compiled a list of the most romantic getaways near Philadelphia for you to take with your partner this up coming year!

So without further ado, let’s get into it!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.

Map of Romantic Destinations near Philadelphia

Top Romantic Getaways from Philadelphia

1. Easton, Maryland

Recommended by Annick from The Common Traveler

If you’re looking for a romantic trip from Philadelphia that is just a few hours’ drive, add Easton, Maryland, to your destination list!

This charming town along Maryland’s Eastern Shore is the perfect romantic getaway. Whether you enjoy learning about history, boutique shopping, strolling through beautiful gardens, or watching artists work on and display plein air art, you’ll find something perfect. I was lucky enough to enjoy a tour hosted by the historical society, held on the third Saturday from April through December.

Stay at the most romantic place in town—the Tidewater Inn! There’s a reason couples all along the East Coast celebrate their weddings at this beautiful historic inn. The renovated rooms ooze luxury and comfort. Enjoy this luxury hotel’s pampering by scheduling a couples massage and other services. It’s ideally situated in the heart of the historic downtown, making exploring the town on foot easy. Don’t miss a moonlit stroll!

Reserve a table at Out of the Fire, a farm-to-table restaurant featuring fresh local products. Always ask about the day’s specials for the freshest and most amazing options! During my visit, a sweet corn appetizer was incredible, and we jockeyed each other for bigger servings.

While I only spent a short time in Easton, it made me want to return with someone special! Check out everything to see and do in charming Easton, Maryland!

2. Ocean City, Maryland

Recommended by Denise from Chef Denise

For couples who appreciate fun in the sun, Ocean City, MD offers lots of activities and plenty of romance. This barrier island has the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the bay on the other. In the summer, it is like one big wet playground with every kind of water sport from swimming and surfing to kayaking and fishing. But the most popular thing to do during the daytime is to relax and enjoy the views.

The three mile Ocean City Boardwalk bustles with an amusement park, souvenir shops, boutiques, and snack shops. Consider skipping lunch one day and grazing on some of the locals’ favorites like Thrashers French Fries, Fisher’s Popcorn, and Dumser’s Ice Cream. For dinner, hit one of Ocean City’s famous crab restaurants like Hooper’s Crab House for an incredible seafood feast. 

Nature lovers will enjoy the trails at the nearby Assateague Island National Seashore where the wild ponies roam freely. They can be spotted literally anywhere on the island—the marshes, dunes, trails, even on the roads. Take your binoculars for some of the best bird watching in the state. Heron, egrets, and even bald eagles can be found. 

What could be more romantic than ending your days watching the sunset. For the best vistas try at Sunset Park, Inlet Park, or the Bayfront Boardwalk. 

3. Cape May, New Jersey

Recommended by Amber from Amber Everywhere

One of the cons of living in Philadelphia is the lack of direct beach access, despite being so close to the Atlantic Ocean. So, to get in a few romantic walks on the beach, you’ll probably need to drive to New Jersey. If you’re going to drive to the Jersey Shore, one of the most charming places you can visit is the adorable coastal town of Cape May. Set on the very southern tip of the Jersey Shore, Cape May boasts quaint and quirky shops, stately lighthouses, and stunning sandy beaches. 

For the quietest stretch of beach, head to Two Mile Beach. This little expanse feels a little more romantic and private than the busier stretches close to the town of Cape May. For adorable souvenirs, get lost exploring the stalls inside the West End Garage on Perry Street. Then, you can stroll along Washington Street for even more local shopping.

When you’re ready for a romantic dinner during your visit to Cape May, you won’t do much better than Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant. The menu features classic dishes like grilled venison, local oysters, and New York strip steak. With consistently flawless service, dinner at Peter Shields is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to Cape May.

4. The Finger Lakes, New York

Recommended by Lauren from Wild Kids Wander

The Finger Lakes in New York is a perfect romantic weekend getaway from Philadelphia! With waterfalls, wineries, boating, and beautiful hiking trails, it’s the ideal destination for you and your partner to connect.

The Finger Lakes region is vast and diverse, offering many experiences. In Watkins Glen alone, you can indulge in the beauty of Seneca Lake, savor the flavors of several wineries and breweries, enjoy a leisurely shopping spree in the small town, and enjoy the natural wonder of the famous Watkins Glen State Park. 

For a romantic stay in town, try the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel with lakeside views and dining. You can’t beat the views and the food at the Blue Pointe Grille! You can even have champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries waiting for you upon your arrival.

The Finger Lakes and Watkins Glen are just over four hours from Philadelphia and relatively easy to reach using major highways. They’re a beautiful destination and an excellent romantic getaway.

5. New York City, New York

Recommended by Diana from Travels in Poland

New York City has an endless array of activities and things to do.  One of the first stops should be Central Park, just a stone’s throw from The Plaza. You can rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse, and row on the lake which offers serene views of the city from the lake. Head to the Empire State Building as the view from the top, particularly at dusk, is beautiful when the city lights start to twinkle.

One of the best experiences is walking the Brooklyn Bridge straight into Brooklyn.  Brooklyn, which has sister cities such as Gdynia, Poland and Konak, Turkey, is a great borough to find an array of jazz clubs.  Coney Island is also located in Brooklyn, and a fun place for couples to enjoy themselves.

For dinner, there are thousands of restaurants all over the city, and you can find international food around every street corner, so you can’t really go wrong. One cozy spot in Greenwich Village called ‘One If By Land, Two If By Sea’ is known as one of the  most romantic restaurants in NYC.  A candlelit dinner with soft piano music in the background is the perfect way to end your day. A travel tip for couples planning a similar trip: book your dinner reservations and any specific activities ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get the most out of your NYC experience.

6. Bellefonte, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Anna of Stuck On The Go

Bellefonte is the cutest little town in central Pennsylvania with many great places to eat, beautiful Victorian architecture, and it’s surrounded by state parks and state forests. I loved walking through Talleyrand Park each night before dinner as Spring Creek flows directly through it.

Make a stop on the Central PA Tasting Trail at Big Spring Spirits, Axemann Brewing, or Titan Hollow where you can try local spirits, beer, or ciders. I loved the cute cocktails at Big Spring Spirits and the beers at Axemann are great.

Rothrock State Forest and Black Moshannon State Park are gorgeous places to hike. My favorite hikes are on the Mid State Trail in Rothrock and the Bog Trail in Black Moshannon.

If you prefer getting out on the water, then go kayaking at Bullit Run in Bald Eagle State Park or Black Moshannon. A few other things to do in Bellefonte include checking out the art museum downtown, going fly-fishing, or visiting Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park nearby.

The Creekside at Gamble Mill is a romantic place to eat but if you want something more laid-back, I loved the food at Robinhood Brewing and Governor’s Pub.

I can’t recommend staying at Bellefonte Bed & Breakfast enough. The owners are incredibly kind and the included 3-course breakfast is beyond delicious.

7. Bucks County, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Rachel from Feelinfancy.com

Bucks County, Pennsylvania is one of the most romantic destinations outside of Philadelphia. Just a short drive will transport you to unique small towns with cobblestone walkways and rich colonial history. 

One of the best towns to visit in Bucks County is New Hope, an artistic community nestled on the Delaware River. The best way to enjoy downtown New Hope is by foot. You can even take a scenic walk across a bridge to New Jersey!

The Bucks County Playhouse is the focal point of New Hope. It has been offering Broadway-caliber live theater on the Delaware River since the 1930s and is one of the best date night spots in town. One of the best restaurants in New Hope is the locally loved Salt House. Enjoy a candlelit dinner in an old stone building dating back to pre-Revolutionary War times, within walking distance of the theater!

Just 10 minutes from New Hope is Peddler’s Village, another couple’s destination in Bucks County. Stroll through this colonial-themed outdoor village and enjoy unique shops, breweries, and delicious food. Be sure to visit Peddler’s Village in the fall to catch their annual Scarecrow Festival!

Bucks County is the perfect place for couples in Philadelphia to escape from the city to enjoy quaint and historic small towns. 

8. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Ada of Beyond the Yellow Brick Road: A Travel Blog 

If you and your partner like American history, Gettysburg, PA makes a perfect long weekend destination from Pennsylvania.

Obviously, the main draw to this small town of 10,000 is the historic Civil War battlefield that dominates the town’s landscape. You’ll want to budget at least half a day to tour the battlefield and take in the exhibits at the National Park Service visitor center. If you’re relatively unfamiliar with the nuances of the battle of Gettysburg, consider taking the narrated driving tour of the battlefield. 

However, don’t forget to explore the town of Gettysburg itself. You’ll find a wide variety of house museums, great independent coffee shops, shopping opportunities, wineries and tasting rooms, as well as theatre and other entertainment options at the Gettysburg’s Majestic Theatre.

For dinner, plan to eat at Dobbin House Tavern. This historic tavern dates back to 1776. You can make a reservation for a candlelight meal in the Alexander Dobbin’s dining room. Another fun historic place to grab a drink is Garryowen Irish Pub right in downtown Gettysburg.  

For the very best experience, consider a winter visit to Gettysburg to avoid the summer crowds so you can really soak up Gettysburg’s small-town charm. 

9. Juniata River Valley, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Michele from AdventuresAbound

What could be more romantic than staying in a cozy bed and breakfast at a vineyard in Central Pennsylvania’s beautiful countryside? That is what awaits you in the Juniata River Valley.

This area encompasses Mifflin and Juniata counties and there are endless things to do for couples here. In Big Valley, enjoy a glimpse into Amish culture on a carriage ride with Dayz Gone By, or pick your own flower bouquet at Daisy Lane Flower Farm. Be sure to bring cash!

I loved floating down the Juniata River with Appalachian Kayaks on a beautiful sunny day. The Central Pennsylvania Valley is beautiful, peaceful, and also affordable to visit. There are plenty of state parks close by for stretching your legs and enjoying peaceful nature. Reeds Gap State Park has easy, flat trails, while Stone Mountain Hawk Watch leads to an incredible view!

Explore the nearby towns of Reedsville and Lewistown with many shops and restaurants. Grab brunch at Seven Mountains Wine Cellar’s Stonefly Cafe or Hungry Run Wine Bar & Bistro before going wine tasting. Make sure you pick up a Juniata Valley Wine Tasting Passport and visit all 5 wineries in the valley on your romantic getaway.

10. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Karissa from In Old Cities

Lancaster is a unique destination within Pennsylvania — there’s a charming, walkable city full of world-class restaurants and incredible history, a county with famously cool small towns (like Lititz!), and plenty of tourist attractions involving Lancaster’s huge Amish population.

For a romantic getaway from Philadelphia, base yourself in Lancaster City. As a local, I recommend starting at Central Market, where you’ll find food from all over the world, plus flowers, coffee, souvenirs, and so much more. 

From there, walk to some of the city’s excellent shops, such as Foxduck (right beside Central Market!), BUiLDiNG CHARACTER, or Space. Or go for a lovely stroll through the city’s prettiest neighborhood, the historic Old Town. Lancaster City is also full of wonderful coffee shops where you can snuggle up, including Chestnut Hill Coffee Co., Passenger Coffee, and Square One.

In the evening, have an early dinner at The Belvedere before catching a show at Fulton Theatre, then grab post-show drinks at the gorgeous Conway Social Club — a cozy cocktail bar with speakeasy vibes. 

If you’re interested in exploring the Amish farmland outside of the city, I recommend cozying up in a scoot coupe and touring the county with Strasburg Scooters. Or, book tickets for a wine and cheese tasting on the Strasburg Rail Road!

11. Alexandria, Virginia

Recommended by Sierra from Your Guide to Wandering

Start your day in Alexandria with a leisurely breakfast at one of its charming cafes, soaking in the local atmosphere. Then, make your way to King Street, a bustling hub lined with shops, boutiques, and historic houses. Wander through the cobblestone streets, taking in the colonial-era architecture and vibrant street life.

A must-visit spot is The Torpedo Factory, an art studio space located on the waterfront. Explore the galleries, watch artists at work, and perhaps even purchase a unique piece of art to commemorate your trip.

For lunch or dinner, indulge in delicious seafood at a waterfront restaurant like Blackwall Hitch or Chart House, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Potomac River while savoring fresh and flavorful dishes.

After your meal, continue your exploration of Alexandria’s historic charm by strolling along Captain’s Row, a picturesque cobblestone street lined with beautifully preserved homes from the 18th century. Alexandria’s historical society offers ghost tours as well as history tours to full immerse yourself in Alexandria’s colonial history. 

12. Culpeper, Virginia

Recommended by Karen from Family Travels on a Budget

The charming town of Culpeper is one of the most romantic destinations I have ever visited. Located in central Virginia, it’s an easy weekend drive from Philadelphia. East Davis Street is the heart of town, lined with boutique shops, independent restaurants with indoor and outdoor dining, and strings of Edison bulbs to light the way at night. But, this is not a sleepy little town. There’s lots to do, day and night, to make your romantic getaway exactly what you want it to be.

When my husband and I went, the weather was a bit chilly, though that didn’t stop us from having loads of fun. We tried our hand at the rock wall at The State Climb (he did much better than I did), and we gave axe throwing a try (we are unskilled). There are lots of great local wineries, distilleries and breweries. Enjoy a flight of your favorite drink as you take in mountain views. There are lots more things to do in Culpeper, VA making it a perfect weekend escape!

One of our favorite things about Culpeper is its walkability. After checking into the hotel, we rarely used the car, instead walking most everywhere. We spent one afternoon shopping along East Davis Street. We enjoyed the local restaurants and coffee shops, especially a romantic dinner at Piedmont Steakhouse, voted the best steakhouse in Virginia. They offer steaks, seafood and cocktails in a building built back in the 1890s where the brick walls and old elevator works create a neat atmosphere for a romantic evening. For a truly relaxed, romantic getaway, Culpeper’s mountain views, walkable downtown and friendly locals make it the perfect choice.

Wrap Up

While this list is not all encompassing, these are some of the most romantic destinations near Philadelphia to make for a perfect weekend getaway! I recommend checking them out!

Philadelphia, too, is a great destination to spend time with your partner. With plenty of free things to do in Philadelphia, you can easily enjoy a romantic day with your partner without breaking the bank!

in it for later