Posted: 02/22/2024

Unique Lodging Options in Lancaster, PA

When you choose one of these unique lodging options in Lancaster, you are guaranteed not to have a run-of-the-mill hotel experience.

1. Red Caboose Motel

All aboard for our first pick – the motel that Booking.com named as the Pennsylvania representative on their list of “coolest places to stay in all 50 states.” Red Caboose Motel, located in Ronks, features 38 cabooses refurbished to sleep two to six guests. Train fans, along with those who simply appreciate quirky lodging, will love the chance to climb aboard and cozy up in a train car that is outfitted with great amenities. During your stay, stop by their on-site restaurant, Casey Jones’ Restaurant— also in a train car—for a bite to eat, and grab ice cream at Janie Jones’.

There’s plenty to do while staying here:

petting zoo and viewing silo
buggy rides through the countryside
free movies in the barn

For more information on train-themed attractions. in Lancaster, check out our blog post on all things train!

2. Lancaster Arts Hotel

For an urban vibe, check out Lancaster Arts Hotel, a boutique hotel in Downtown Lancaster. The lobby, guestrooms, and suites are brimming with exquisite art and striking decor, making this hotel a far cry from your typical lodging option. Venture down to the connecting restaurant, John J. Jefferies, for superb seasonal, farm-fresh offerings and artfully crafted cocktails.

Lancaster Arts Hotel is located within walking distance of a multitude of dining options, exciting things to do, and great places to grab beer, coffee, and even mead.

To carry the art theme a step further during your Lancaster visit, check out our Arts Itinerary.

3. Verdant View Bed & Breakfast

Get a glimpse of life on the farm with a stay at Verdant View Bed & Breakfast in Paradise, where you’ll be staying on a real working farm among sweet animals and Amish homesteads. To dive deeper into the Lancaster County experience, you can roll up your sleeves and join in the morning farm duties. This is encouraged and is actually quite a bit of fun!

Before starting your day, enjoy a family-style farm breakfast complete with homemade goodies, fresh eggs, and more.

If staying among the Amish piques your interest and you would like to learn more about this fascinating region, subculture, and religion, click here.

4. Rocky Acre Farm Bed & Breakfast

Want to stay in a historic and still-in-operation farmhouse?

Located in Mount Joy, Rocky Acre Farm Bed & Breakfast offers a unique experience for its guests. This historic farm has been in operation within the same family for over 100 years, making it a "century farm". The property also has ties to the Underground Railroad. During your stay, you can expect to:

feed newborn calves
gather eggs
pet goats, cuddle the kittens, and ride a pony
the stream nearby makes the perfect fishing spot
playhouse and train rides for the kids
relax on our old-fashioned swing
modern amenities: in-room fireplaces, refrigerators, and AC.

Check out more fun farm activities in Lancaster!

5. The Cartoon Network Hotel

The Cartoon Network Hotel, located adjacent to Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park, is the world's first of its kind!

Play interactive games in the Toon Room's play area and virtual reality arcade.
See characters when they stop by for a visit.
Have a meal in the first-floor Cartoon Kitchen or a cup of Joe in the Bearista Café.
With both indoor and outdoor pools, this full-service hotel offers family fun all year!

6. Sun Retreats Lancaster County

This resort has it all! Surrounded by natural beauty and Amish country, Sun Retreats Lancaster County resort features a sparkling six-acre lake, an entertainment hall with pipe organs, indoor and outdoor pools and water play areas, and endless sports and recreation. They have options for RV spots, tent sites, lodging, and seasonal spots. They off caboose, covered wagon, and tipi lodging options. Their pet friendly too!

7. Pinetown Bridge B&B

An oasis from the ordinary, Pinetown Bridge B&B is nestled in the Lancaster County countryside along the Conestoga River and only a few hundred feet away from an active Covered Bridge! Located in Amish Country, the historic home is beautifully restored and the grounds are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

8. The Carriage House at Strasburg

A home away from home, that best describes The Carriage House at Strasburg. Situated in the charming borough of Strasburg, a historical town with a rich community. Enjoy homemade ice cream at the Strasburg Creamery, or browse through shops on Main Street. Visit Strasburg Rail Road and Sight & Sound Theatres, just minutes away.

9. Pack House Cottage

Stay at a vacation home with two mini pigs! Pack House Cottage gives you the full small-town Lancaster County experience with fresh, homemade bread and whoopie pies when you stay at this shabby chic themed cottage.

10. Klein Mansion (Stone Gables Estate)

Stay in luxury at the seven-bedroom Klein Mansion, and enjoy unique amenities such as a 19-seat Titanic-themed movie theater, teardrop jacuzzi, koi pond, and more! Klein Mansion celebrated its 100th birthday in 2024; glimpse remnants of its rich history in the antiques and art decorating this spacious home.

11. Rockin' Retro (Stone Gables Estate)

Take a trip to Lancaster—and back in time! Experience the 50’s with Rockin’ Retro’s original aqua kitchen amenities and matching appliances. Grab your poodle skirt and saddle shoes, and relax in this quaint 3-bed, 3-bath home.