In today’s tough economic times the annual summer vacation is one of the first things to go, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Let the large Lancaster Pa Hotels be the cornerstone of your new tradition – a “staycation.” A ataycation is a vacation without the huge travel costs because you stay closer to home. Instead of flying to Florida, Mexico or Europe have a staycation in Lancaster, and take advantage of the wide choice of hotels and the many different attractions in the area.

Lancaster, PA is in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country and is traditionally known for its large Amish community. It also is a central spot for learning about the Civil War and the African American contribution to the American Revolution. It is this diverse set of options that makes Lancaster so attractive and this diversity is reflected in the range of hotels Lancaster has to offer.

The many different types of hotels guarantee that there is something for every style and taste. For those that are looking to explore the historic and quiet side of the Lancaster area there are hotels that were built in the late 1800s plus hotels out in the country where you can awake to the birds and enjoy beautiful sunset views. Spa hotels will appeal to those looking for some pampering. A unique experience can be had staying in a hotel featuring a train caboose or by sleeping near a water park.

To help you choose which hotel is perfect for your staycation, consider the many things there are to do, and choose a hotel that is central to your attractions. To help keep the costs of your staycation within your budget, plan to take in the many free things there are to do in the Lancaster area. From your hotel you can be minutes away from 28 covered bridges, Amish country, one-room school houses, museums and factory tours with free sampling! If you are looking for a little bit more excitement there are water parks, haunted theme parks, paintballing and family amusement parks.

Combine a historical Lancaster hotel with tours of nearby Gettysburg and Harrisburg, historical walking tours, an Underground Railway reenactment experience and the National Civil War Museum for a staycation that is sure to please any American Revolution and Civil War history buff. If trains are more your thing, then you can’t get any better than a stay in the Lancaster area hotel that is near railroad museums and tours and rides on local historic trains.

While the history or railroad buff is off exploring, other family members can spend their time at the more than 100 factory direct stores that can be found close to any Lancaster hotel, at the Rockvale or Tanger Outlet Malls. Or they can take the short trip to Hershey, PA for everything chocolate related.

So, just because money is tight, you don’t have stay at home in the backyard this summer. Plan your Lancaster, PA staycation, starting with the hotel that will set the entire mood. The hotels in Lancaster not only are a place to sleep, they can be the cornerstone for the entire trip.