Hotels in Mount Gretna

Serenity Awaits: Discover the Enchantment of Mount Gretna's Lakeside Escape

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Mount Gretna is a charming retreat that seamlessly blends nature, culture, and relaxation. Famous for its picturesque Gretna Lake, visitors can enjoy a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The iconic Gretna Tabernacle hosts vibrant summer performances, while scenic hiking trails and lush woodlands invite exploration. With its quaint cottages and artistic community, Mount Gretna offers a serene escape for couples and families alike. Whether you're lounging by the lake or enjoying a cultural event, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors. For the best hotel rates in Mount Gretna, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Mount Gretna

Some of the best places to stay in Mount Gretna are Historic Downtown Lancaster, Downtown Harrisburg and Wormleysburg. Historic Downtown Lancaster offers charming shops, restaurants, and rich history, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Downtown Harrisburg features vibrant cultural attractions and scenic riverfront views, while Wormleysburg provides a quieter, picturesque setting along the Susquehanna River. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to modern hotels, ensuring comfort and convenience for all travelers. Whether you prefer bustling city life or serene landscapes, you’ll find suitable options near Mount Gretna and its surrounding attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Mount Gretna:

1. Historic Downtown LancasterOpens in a new window: Historic Downtown Lancaster offers a charming blend of family-friendly attractions, local culture, and vibrant city life. With points of interest like Dutch Wonderland, a delightful theme park, and Franklin & Marshall College, this area is ideal for both leisure and educational experiences. For accommodations, consider DoubleTree Resort by Hilton LancasterOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to families and business travelers alike, featuring amenities like a business center and kids' pool. Another option is The Inn At Leola Village, a Historic Hotel of AmericaOpens in a new window, a boutique hotel with a full spa and outdoor pool, perfect for relaxation. For a cozy experience, The Barn at Strasburg B&BOpens in a new window offers a delightful bed and breakfast atmosphere with complimentary breakfast options, making it a great choice for a homey stay.
2. Downtown HarrisburgOpens in a new window: Downtown Harrisburg is a vibrant hub for family fun and cultural experiences. Attractions like Hersheypark and the historic Pennsylvania State Capitol make it a perfect destination for family outings. For a comfortable stay, The Marshall HouseOpens in a new window is a charming bed and breakfast offering a complimentary full breakfast, ideal for starting your day. Alternatively, The Inn at Westwynd Farm B&BOpens in a new window provides business amenities alongside a welcoming atmosphere, while The Suites at Hershey No Resort Fee 2 BdrOpens in a new window features 24-hour fitness facilities for those looking to stay active during their trip.
3. WormleysburgOpens in a new window: Wormleysburg is a picturesque location that combines family-friendly entertainment with cultural heritage. With nearby attractions such as the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Hersheypark, it’s a great spot for family adventures. For lodging, The Smith SteinerOpens in a new window offers a delightful bed and breakfast experience with complimentary breakfasts, perfect for a cozy stay. For more business-focused travelers, Thornwald MansionOpens in a new window provides essential amenities like a business center, while Allenberry ResortOpens in a new window ensures relaxation with its full spa services and outdoor seasonal pool.

Things to do in Mount Gretna for first time

Mount Gretna offers a perfect three-day getaway for nature lovers, featuring serene lakes, sandy beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy activities like canoeing, fishing, swimming, and hiking, all set against a backdrop of stunning mountainous scenery, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Mount Gretna:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim or relax on the sandy shores while soaking up the sun. Afterward, head to the Lebanon Valley Exposition Center & Fairgrounds, where you might catch a local event or fair showcasing the community's vibrant spirit. Wrap up your day with a peaceful stroll through Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick, where you can explore the scenic trails and take in the stunning views from the observation tower.
• Day 2: Begin your day at The Hershey Story Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating history of Milton Hershey and the chocolate empire he built. Next, visit Founder's Hall at the Milton Hershey School, a remarkable building that highlights the founder's commitment to education and philanthropy. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through Hershey Gardens, where you'll be surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Lititz Springs Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere alongside the charming spring. Then, venture to Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area for some outdoor exploration, whether it's bird watching or a scenic hike. Finish your trip with a visit to The Amish Village, where you can immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Amish community, perhaps even picking up a handcrafted souvenir to remember your visit.

5 tips to find a great Mount Gretna hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Mount Gretna is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. To truly appreciate the main attractions, which include the lake and beach, it's best to plan for at least 2-3 days. This way, you can experience everything this charming destination has to offer while getting great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to Mount Gretna can be an excellent way to save on your getaway. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you're more likely to find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities for savings. Remember, prices may vary, so check frequently for the best options available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Mount Gretna.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are less central. This way, you can strike a balance between cost and easy access to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Mount Gretna and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Mount Gretna

Mount Gretna experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 29.1°F (-1.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.5°F (23.6°C). September is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Mount Gretna, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.