A throwback to the glory days of heart-shaped bathtubs and gaudy theme decor, the mid-range Cove Haven Resort is a couples-only property stuck in the summer of love in the Poconos. A honeymoon destination since the 1960s, this Poconos getaway has become an American institution whose founder invented the heart-shaped Sweetheart Tub. Nostalgic couples can immerse themselves in a fantasy of giant Champagne glass-shaped whirlpools and choose all-inclusive packages, though many find food mostly uninspired. Most guests will also find cleanliness lacking even if they appreciate the aging decor. There's plenty to do indoors and outdoors year-round -- including boating on Lake Wallenpaupack and snow tubing -- but the hotel is definitely pricey for what it is and in need of renovations. Couples seeking something less themed may want to compare rates at the Mohegan Sun Pocono.

For families (and business travelers) looking for a mega-resort in the Poconos, the mid-range Kalahari is a strong contender thanks to its whopping 1,027 guest rooms, sprawling indoor and outdoor water parks, and tons of restaurants and activities. From glow-in-the-dark mini-golf to virtual reality adventures to forest zip-lining, there is no shortage of family fun on offer -- plus a modern gym and full-service spa are available for adults. Five restaurants include a steakhouse, buffet, and burger joint, plus casual takeout spots. There are a range of rooms and suites here, all with microwaves, coffeemakers, and toiletries. African safari is the Kalahari theme, though it can feel more like a theme park than a resort, echoed in its downsides -- long lines, overcrowding, and hordes of overstimulated kids. As a lakeside alternative with a pool and water sports, consider the all-inclusive Woodloch Pines Resort.

The Skytop Lodge is one of the high points of the Pocono region, with a stunning main building and serene rural property offering miles of mountain trails. Families are the main clientele here, thanks to seemingly endless outdoor activities centered around a small lake, plus an 18-hole golf course, and vast outdoor spaces filled with lawn games. There's a fee for some activities and many aspects of the resort are seasonal only, however. Many of the standard rooms are small and basic, keeping this property at three-and-a-half pearls, but decor was updated in 2015 with nature-inspired themes and vintage flair. Opulent Suites and larger Cottages are also available with amenities such as fireplaces and soaking tubs. Dining includes two restaurants, a bar serving rare cognacs, and a throwback Tea Room with egg creams. There isn't anything quite like it nearby; the Mount Airy Casino Resort offers a more modern feel, but lacks the extensive outdoor activities and kid-friendly vibe found here.

Paradise Stream Resort is the most conveniently located of three couples-only resorts owned by Cove Haven in the Poconos region, though it has fewer amenities than its sister properties. It's otherwise similar in terms of the 144 love-nest-style Suites, designed to ignite passion with wood-burning fireplaces and iconic heart-shaped or Champagne tower whirlpool baths -- though aging decor and stained carpets may be a turnoff. All-inclusive packages are on offer, though the fare at both Spooner’s Cafe and the Paradise Stream Restaurant won’t impress foodies and there's a daily resort fee. Lovebirds can pick from numerous outdoor activities on the private lake. Indoors, there’s a year-round pool, gym, and full-service spa. As a less retro alternative with modern facilities and a casino, try the nearby Mount Airy Casino Resort.

While many resorts in the Poconos cater only to couples, the mid-range Woodloch Pines is a family-focused property to which many guests return year after year, for the all-familiar, all-American camp traditions that began here in 1958. The dizzying (and ever-evolving) array of seasonal activities -- hiking, sledding, ice skating, go karts, bumper boats, fishing, sailing, and group contests -- ensure fun and games for everyone. The 160 guest rooms are comfortable and clean, ranging from simple motel-style outbuildings to stylish modern townhouses, and huge private houses on the lake. The all-inclusive rates cover generous home-style meals and most non-alcoholic drinks, served in a massive dining room with rotating daily menus. As a family-friendly alternative, with a famously big indoor waterpark kids love, try the Great Wolf Lodge.

Deep in the Poconos, The Lodge at Woodloch is an upscale adult-only retreat whose spa aesthetic feels miles away from the area's infamous gaudy honeymoon suites and heart-shaped hot tubs. This all-inclusive comes with acres of woodland, a private lake, an adjacent golf club, a state-of-the art spa (renovated in 2017) and extraordinary fitness facilities. Tree restaurant is a grown up farm-to-table affair. Guests can spring for chef-curated dinners, with cocktails and a wine list worth exploring. The 58 rooms and suites are spacious yet cozy, complete with private balconies and divine nature views. Note that alcohol and some spa treatments cost extra. Those who can skip the craniosacral body therapy could check out the Lodge's more casual sister property, Woodloch Pines Resort.

The upper-middle-range DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City is a contemporary, big-city hotel that stays busy with business travelers and tourists, including locals attending performances at the adjacent theaters. Its 434 rooms are spacious but a bit bland and dated, and mini-fridges and coffeemakers come standard. Highlights include a heated rooftop pool, a great fitness center, a sauna, a restaurant/bar, and an attached garage with parking available for a fee. Its large inventory of event space means that the hotel is often booked with meetings and social affairs, adding to the property's bustle. Convention-goers may also want to consider the mid-range Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City, which has comparable rates and amenities and is located right by the convention center.

SpringHill Suites North Shore is a mid-range Marriott property that offers easy walking access to Pittsburg's three main sports venues and downtown area. This hotel has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and a number of free amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a shuttle that takes guests within three miles of the hotel. There’s also a small indoor pool, restaurant, fitness center, and a business center. Its 198 rooms are spacious and include microwaves, mini-fridges, pullout sofas, and Keurig coffeemakers. Some complaints have been made about cleanliness issues. While there is a pricey fee for parking, it’s common for most hotels in this part of the city. But it could be worth comparing rates with the Hyatt Place Pittsburgh-North Shore, another nearby option with similar amenities and prices.

Le Meridien is one of the most stylish hotels in Center City, with a striking combination of historical and modern design. Only the Hotel Palomar offers the same level of luxury boutique experience. But it's not quite perfect: Some rooms face an interior atrium and lack privacy.

The 230-room Palomar near Rittenhouse Square Park is one of the city's chicest boutiques, with bold, sleek style, excellent service, and contemporary rooms with plush, comfortable beds. The Palomar delivers the Kimpton chain's typical thoughtful extras -- an open-arms pet policy, a hopping nightly wine hour, free morning coffee and tea -- and the location on South 17th street is near some of the city's best restaurants, bars, and shopping. In Philadelphia, only Le Meridien offers a comparable boutique experience.