Will you accept this rose? Pennsylvania’s Bachelor love story
Pennsylvania is an emerging star in Bachelor Nation, offering backdrops from luxury resorts to small towns that bring authenticity to reality TV romance.
Move over exotic international destinations and California beaches—Pennsylvania is stealing the spotlight as Bachelor Nation’s most captivating new backdrop. From rolling hills and historic towns to luxury resorts nestled in the Laurel Highlands, the Keystone State has become more than just a setting for ABC’s wildly popular dating franchise; it has become a character in its own right.
A state for all seasons
Its remarkable versatility makes Pennsylvania particularly appealing to “The Bachelor” producers. Unlike tropical destinations that offer a one-note visual, Pennsylvania delivers four distinct seasons, each painting the landscape in dramatically different hues.
Pennsylvania isn’t just a location—it’s a mood-setter. When filming during winter, productions capture that cozy, romantic snow-globe feel that’s perfect for intimate moments. In spring, flowering hillsides create an ideal backdrop for new beginnings. The state’s diverse geography creates natural storytelling opportunities that few other locations can match.
Fall and winter at Nemacolin Resort
This visual diversity played out beautifully during Matt James’ 2021 season, filmed entirely at Nemacolin Resort in Farmington. Winter scenes featured the resort’s 2,200 acres blanketed in snow, creating intimate settings for fireside conversations and outdoor adventures like Jeep off-roading through pristine white landscapes.
While the franchise typically creates a fantasy bubble isolated from real communities, Pennsylvania locations have integrated local culture and residents. At Nemacolin, this meant showcasing the $45 million Hardy family art collection and unique amenities like dog-sledding teams.
Nemacolin’s grand Chateau—inspired by The Ritz in Paris, according to property representatives—served as the dramatic backdrop for limo entrances and rose ceremonies. Meanwhile, the resort’s luxury accommodations showcased Pennsylvania’s ability to deliver both rustic charm and world-class opulence. Matt James stayed at the contemporary Mystic Falls estate, while contestants lived at Falling Rock, whose architecture was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and designed by Wright-apprentice David Merritt. Major Bachelor fans can even plan a trip to stay at the Chateux, Falling Rock, or the Grand Lodge by booking through Nemacolin’s website.
From Farmington to Collegeville
More recently, the spotlight shifted to Collegeville, a quintessential Montgomery County borough that represents the state’s small-town appeal. When PA native Joey Graziadei brought then-Bachelorette Charity Lawson home in July 2023, viewers glimpsed the community’s tight-knit character during their tennis date and family visits.
Later, when Graziadei became the Bachelor lead himself, producers returned to Collegeville, filming at the beloved Collegeville Italian Bakery on Ridge Pike. The September 2023 shoot transformed this local institution into a television set, with community members invited to participate.
“This national spotlight is going to be on Collegeville, which is fantastic,” Steve Carcarey, co-owner of the bakery, told PhillyVoice before filming. His enthusiasm reflects how Pennsylvania locations aren’t just passive backdrops but active participants in the storytelling. Plus, fans can relive Joey’s hometown date by visiting the Collegeville Italian Bakery and grabbing a delicious bite!
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