January 21, 2022
With a interesting mix of traditional Amish country life and a trendy downtown core, Lancaster, PA is a great place to spend a few days or a weekend getaway. While Lancaster City offers art galleries, theatres, and historic buildings for city lovers, the sprawling rural farmland of Lancaster County provides a serene country escape. No matter what type of trip you're planning, these unique places to stay in Lancaster, PA offer a perfect home away from home.
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Unique Lancaster Hotels
With a variety of unique hotels in Lancaster from which to choose, you're sure to find accommodations that are perfect for you. In this list, you'll find trendy boutique hotels, country estates, plus a couple of quirky places that will make your stay memorable.
Location: Downtown Lancaster, PA
Hotel Class: 3-star
Pet-friendly:No
Parking:On-site parking available ($20 per day); electric charge stations available.
Special Features: Fitness center, spa, rooftop bar
Located in the heart of downtown Lancaster, the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square is an elegant hotel which is conveniently within walking distance of numerous art galleries, Lancaster Central Market, the Fulton Theatre, plus many amazing restaurants.
Although newly built in 2009, they retained the historical 110-year old Watt and Shand façade, as well as a preserved section of the Underground Railroad. Meanwhile, modern guestrooms in the tallest building in Lancaster offer spectacular views of the city and upscale amenities.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
Integrated with the Lancaster Convention Center, the Lancaster Marriott is not only perfect for holiday travel, but is a favorite for business travelers.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, Business travel
Location: Downtown Lancaster, PA
Hotel Class:3-star
Pet-friendly:No
Parking: Free self-parking available
Special Features: 24-hour fitness center, free continental breakfast
A former tobacco warehouse converted into a boutique hotel, the Lancaster Arts Hotel offers a unique, arts-inspired décor with exposed brick walls, exposed wooden beams, and locally-made furniture.
Situated in downtown Lancaster, it's close to Franklin & Marshall College and within walking distance to Lancaster city attractions, such as art galleries, museums, and the shops of the Arts District.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family
Location: Downtown Lancaster, PA
Hotel Class: 3-star
Pet-friendly: No
Parking:Free on-siteparking available
Special Features: Fitness center, meeting & event facilities
Transformed from a 19th century cork factory into a boutique hotel, the Cork Factory Hotel is conveniently located in downtown Lancaster City. Its rooms and suites are spacious and comfortable with exposed wood ceilings and the factory's original brick interior walls.
Although just around the corner from the Lancaster Brewing Company and the Lancaster Science Factory (a great spot for the kids), this hotel is also walking distance to many Lancaster City attractions. During your stay, enjoy delicious co*cktails and dinner at Cork & Capfor an upscale American dining experience.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
The historic Cork Factory Hotel is also a great wedding venue in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, Wedding
Location: Lancaster, PA
Hotel Class: 2-star
Pet-friendly: No
Parking: Free parking
Special Features:American & vegetarian breakfast options, shared lounge, garden.
The Lancaster Bed & Breakfast is a cozy and charming getaway roughly 1.5-miles from downtown Lancaster. The owners, Brad and Keith, warmly welcome guests to the cottage and give them a tour when they arrive. Guest reviews rave over the delicious breakfasts and how friendly and helpful the hosts are.
Rooms at the Lancaster Bed & Breakfast are decorated in a cozy, country style with local touches, such as beautiful Amish quilts. Each room has its own private bathroom. Outside, guests can enjoy the shared covered porch area and the garden.
Photo courtesy of Booking
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, or Friend trip
Location: Ronks, PA
Hotel Class: 2-star
Pet-friendly: No
Parking: Free parking & free electric car charging available
Special Features: Playground, microwave, refrigerator, BBQ grill, picnic area, buggy rides, petting zoo, games
If you love trains, as well as truly unique accommodations, then the Red Caboose Motel could be your dream place to stay, right in the heart of Amish Country! First established in 1970, the Red Caboose consisted of 19 cabooses, all painted red. Now, the motel has expanded to 38 cabooses, including a mail car and baggage car, in a variety of colors.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
In addition to the a unique place to stay, the Red Caboose Motel property has fun activities like Amish buggy rides, games, a petting zoo, plus a restaurant and ice cream parlor. Railroad enthusiasts will also appreciate that the motel is less than a mile from the Pennsylvania Train Museum and the Strasburg Railroad. How convenient, right?
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, or Friend trip
Location: Lancaster, PA
Hotel Class: 3-star
Pet-friendly: No
Parking: Free parking
Special Features: Indoor heated pool and hot tub, fitness center, outdoor fire pit, playground, duck & koi pond
The Fulton Steamboat Inn is another wonderfully unique place to stay in Lancaster County. This full-service steamboat hotel offers Nautical and Victorian themed rooms, plus a restaurant and bar on board. Despite not actually sailing on any rivers, you'll be treated to the comfort and dining that you would on one of the legendary riverboats.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
In addition to the steamboat experience, you'll be able to enjoy beautiful views of Pennsylvania Dutch Country farmland from your room. Plus, local attractions, such as the Sight & Sound Theatre, Amish Farm & House, and the Tanger and Rockvale Outlets, are just minutes away.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family
Location: Strasburg, PA
Hotel Class: 3-star
Pet-friendly: No
Parking: Free on-site parking
Special Features: Free breakfast at Speckled Hen, in-room coffee makers & coffee, refrigerator
Located in the charming, historic town of Strasburg, the Carriage House at Strasburg is an upscale motel with a cozy, inviting vibe. Each room and suite is unique and designed with stylish touches, such as signs crafted by local artisans and cozy throw pillows. During your stay, enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Specked Hen, a local favorite for craft coffee and artisan food.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
While in Strasburg, walk along Main Street to enjoy the historic architecture and grab some ice cream at the Strasburg Creamery. If you enjoy mini-golf, I highly recommend playing a round at Village Greens, which is consistently voted the #1 miniature golf course in Lancaster County.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family
Location: Lancaster, PA
Hotel Class: 4-star
Pet-friendly: Yes (with fee)
Parking: Free on-site self parking
Special Features: Indoor pool, fitness center, business center, meeting rooms, putting green, golf course
Despite being a hotel chain, the DoubleTree Resort is worth mentioning in this list of unique hotels. Located on the Willow Valley Golf Course, this sprawling resort has wonderful amenities and a luxurious resort vibe in the heart of Lancaster's Amish Country.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
Despite its country setting, the DoubleTree Resort is still only a few minutes' drive to downtown Lancaster and its attractions. Additionally, due to the resort's size and elegant atrium, the DoubleTree Resort is another excellent wedding venue in Lancaster County.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, Golf enthusiasts, Wedding
Location: Mount Joy, PA
Hotel Class: 3.5-star
Pet-friendly: Yes (2 pet-friendly rooms available, fee may be applied)
Parking: Free self-parking
Special Features: Free full breakfast, restaurant/bar on-site, conference and meeting space, garden, picnic area, terrace
For a romantic escape in an idyllic setting in western Lancaster County, the historic Cameron Estate Inn is an charming place to stay whether you're visiting Lancaster, Hershey, or Harrisburg.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
Luxurious rooms, beautiful event spaces, and fine dining restaurant offer a wonderful experience for guests. As each room has its own unique design and attributes, you could visit this Inn many times and have a different experience.
With its historic manor house and picturesque countryside setting, the Cameron Estate Inn also makes a lovely spot for a fairy tale wedding.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, Wedding
Location: Leola, PA
Hotel Class: 4-star
Pet-friendly: No
Parking: Free self-parking
Special Features: Adults-only, outdoor pool (seasonal), fitness center, spa, garden
Once an Amish tobacco farm, The Inn at Leola Village is a luxurious, historic inn located in rural Lancaster County. This adults-only inn is a tranquil place to relax and treat yourself to a spa experience after exploring Amish country.
Photo courtesy of Expedia
Designated as a Historic Hotel of America, it offers a unique variety of rooms and suites in restored antique farmhouses, a converted tobacco barn, and restored antique homes. The Inn would also be an elegant venue for a conference or a wedding.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, Wedding
Unique Lancaster Vacation Homes
While traditional hotels and bed & breakfasts are perfect for short-term trips, if you're staying longer in Lancaster county or are traveling with a large group, you might enjoy a vacation home rental instead.
Lancaster County is home to some beautiful historic farmhouses, some of which you can rent through VRBO. Below are a few of these unique Lancaster vacation homes to consider for your home away from home.
Location: Lancaster, PA
Guests: 6 guests
Beds/Baths: 3 bedrooms · 3 beds · 1.5 baths
Pet-friendly: No
Special Features: Modern kitchen, front porch, covered garage parking (1 vehicle), driveway parking (2 vehicles)
This Whimsical Lancaster House is a charming and relaxing Pennsylvania getaway in the heart of Amish Country. Beautifully decorated living spaces and a modern kitchen will make you feel right at home.
Photo courtesy of VRBO
Conveniently located near the outlets, Dutch Wonderland, and the Amish Farm & House, it's the perfect place to stay for your trip to Lancaster County.
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, or Friend trip
Location: Lancaster, PA
Guests: 11 guests
Beds/Baths: 4 bedrooms · 7 beds · 3 baths
Pet-friendly: No
Special Features: Private in-ground outdoor pool (summer-only), hot tub, screened-in porch, modern kitchen, washer/dryer, outdoor furniture, games, foosball.
The Carpenter House is a lovely 1750s restored farmhouse located in the quiet village of Lampeter in southern Lancaster County, PA. Spacious, yet cozy interiors offer a great space in which a larger family or group could hang out.
Photo courtesy of VRBO
In the summer, the outdoor pool is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the views of the surrounding farmland.
Perfect stay for: Family or Friend trip
Location: Fertility, PA
Guests: 14 guests
Beds/Baths: 4 bedrooms · 4 beds · 2 baths
Pet-friendly: Yes
Special Features: Fireplace, wood stove, Kayak, canoe, outdoor fire pit, parking for 4 vehicles, 2-unit layout with 2 kitchens.
If you're traveling with your pups to Lancaster, then this Dog-friendly Farmhouse might be the perfect home away from home in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Located in the historic town of Fertility along Mill Creek, this farmhouse sits on a lovely one-acre lot with a waterfall view and access to Flory Park.
Due to the unique 2-unit layout of this duplex property, it's an ideal space for a group of friends or multiple families to share.
Photo courtesy of VRBO
Perfect stay for: Family, Friend trip, Multiple Families
Location: Lancaster, PA
Guests: 6 guests
Beds/Baths: 3 bedrooms · 4 beds · 1.5 baths
Pet-friendly: No
Special Features: Washer/dryer, full kitchen, parking
This newly renovated Cozy Hilltop Farmhouse is a charming retreat on a peaceful farm in Lancaster County. With its hilltop location, this house offers stunning views of the surrounding farmland, as well as breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. The home has a modern country vibe which is comfortable and welcoming.
Photo courtesy of VRBO
Perfect stay for: Couple, Family, or Friend trip
More Lancaster, PA Accommodations
If you'd like to see more accommodations that Lancaster County has to offer, use the map below to continue your search for hotels and VRBO rentals.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, Lancaster, PA has a variety of charming and unique places to stay whether you're looking for a country escape or a small town getaway. Hopefully this list of unique accommodations in Lancaster has helped you start to plan your trip.
Other Articles You Might Enjoy
If you're planning a trip to Pennsylvania or an East Coast road trip, you might also find these articles helpful:
- 15 Amazing Things to Do in Lancaster County, PA
- Beautiful Drive to Historic Covered Bridges in Lancaster County, PA
- 12 Fun Things to Do in Harrisburg, PA
- Touring the Beautiful Pennsylvania State Capitol Building
- 15 Wonderful Weekend Road Trips from DC
Happy travels!
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Wonderful & very informative article. I think these tips and advice are much helpful. Great Sharing, Thank you for such detailed description of the destination.
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Wonderful & very informative article. Thanks for sharing the Useful and Informative Blog. Excellent Explanation.
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Your blog on Unique Places to Stay in Lancaster is a true gem! Your insightful recommendations have made my trip planning process effortless and exciting. Your passion for Lancaster shines through in every word, and I’m grateful for the valuable information you’ve shared. Thanks to your detailed insights, I’m eagerly looking forward to exploring this charming destination. Keep up the fantastic work, and I can’t wait to read more of your captivating content!
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Your blog showcasing 14 unique places to stay in Lancaster, PA, is a gem for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. From charming bed and breakfasts to cozy countryside cottages, each accommodation option offers a distinct charm and character. Your detailed descriptions and stunning photographs transport readers to these enchanting locales, igniting a sense of wanderlust and curiosity. Whether it’s spending a night in a historic farmhouse or indulging in luxury at a boutique hotel, your curated selection ensures that visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and beauty of Lancaster. Thank you for providing such valuable insights and inspiration for those planning their next getaway to this picturesque region!
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There seems to be a good variety of places to choose from, Becky. Ellie & I have stayed at a few DoubleTrees and enjoyed the experience. We’d probably go for the Marriott, even though the Fulton Steamboat Inn looks like quite something..!
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Lancaster does have a great variety of accommodations, Stefan. Although I didn’t mention it in the article, my parents have stayed at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and enjoyed their stay. They had a great view from their room!
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What an interesting collection of Lancaster hotels to consider if we head south for a visit. I do find local spots like the Cork Factory Hotel with some interesting history to be great options. I must admit the B&B options were a little less appealing during Covid. I could see us visiting the Cameron Estate Inn many different times to try out different rooms!
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Thanks for reading, Linda. I can certainly understand how staying in a B&B during COVID and having breakfast with other guests may not have been as appealing. Personally I book hotels or vacation rentals when I travel, but it’s great that Lancaster has so many options from which to choose.
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Very informative article! Thank you for sharing.
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Thank you for stopping by! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
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This is a fantastic post- really helpful & informative Becky! Definitely looking at Cameron & Caboose accommodations especially after winter! This is perfect mix of family friendly & romantic long weekend!
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Thanks so much, Cindi! I’m glad you found a few new places to try since Lancaster is on your weekend-getaway list! 🙂
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