the ramp to get onto 73 isn't far from the merion- so getting to some of the hotels on 73 in mt. laurel isn't bad. the wyndham, aLOFT, i think theres a marriott there...
We used The Wyndham for our block for The Merion and we had a great experience with them. A MUCH lower rate than I saw others get at other hotels in the area and we had an easy time dealing with Stacy the Sales Manager. She was super quick in responding to emails and phone calls and was very clear in everything our block included. We got an entire floor that you needed a key card to access all to ourselves and the morning after the wedding after the wedding they even set breakfast up for everyone on the floor. They also kept the bar open an extra two hours after everyone got back from the wedding for us all. We had a free shuttle to/from The Merion two hours before the wedding and two hours afterwards as well. All in all I would highly recommend them! Our coordinator at The Merion (Stephanie) used to work at The Wyndham so I think that's why they have such a good relationship with them.
I didn't love the Wyndham, and wanted something more modern. I booked the Hyatt Place Mt. Laurel, which is a little further down 73. No free shuttle, but it was less expensive per night for the guests, and free breakfast.
I am also using the Wyndham. After looking at ten different hotels in the area they had the best rate (for July 2013) and included the shuttle to venue. The bar is also open late (until 2am) unlike many nearby hotels which don't have a bar open past 10pm. They also have several rooms that you can use in the morning if you want to host a brunch for your guests for an added fee.
Re: Hotels to book guest blocks near the Merion?
the wyndham, aLOFT, i think theres a marriott there...