So Many Things to Do in Lancaster Pennsylvania. Note that the Wolf Sanctuary of PA is located in Lititz, a city near Lancaster but not quite within it, so youll need to drive about a half-hour to get there. If youre looking for romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take a ride on an old-fashioned locomotive train. Visitors of all ages can find something to do at the retreat. Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), Dulles International Airport (just west of Washington, D.C.), Ronald Reagan International Airport (Washington, D.C.), Atlantic City International Airport (in New Jersey), Lehigh Valley International Airport (in PA), Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (in PA), John F. KennedyInternational Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (in NJ, right across from NYC), Train rides (on real steam-powered trains), Theatres with kid-friendly plays and magic shows, Live entertainment (including multiple theatres). You dont even have to be a birdwatcher to appreciate the majesty of this many birds in flight! Theres a reason why its one of the top points of interest in Lancaster, so make sure to put it on your list of attractions to visit while youre in Pennsylvania. Read More, Many visitors to Lancaster seek out meaningful personal contact with the Amish community. A haunted house will keep your heart racing as you stumble through demons, zombies, monsters and other terrors. Visit Website Amish Farm and House The Old Mill Stream Campground is owned by Dutch Wonderland, the amusement park that weve already revealed as one of the best Lancaster attractions. If you arent hungry, there are other things to buy at Lancaster Central Market as well. This means that youll enjoy a totally immersive experience with the staff greeting you in old-fashioned costumes as they walk you through the various displays and exhibits. Read More, Experience a bit of the Amish life on this private driving tour from Philadelphia to Lancaster County in Pennsylvania. Located in the heart of Lancaster's Amish Country, theSuper Saver includes the 90-minute guided Amish It's typically best to stay for a few days so that you can experience everything our area has to offer and yet, be able to take some time to rest while enjoying the beautiful views of Amish farmland, rolling hills, and peaceful woodlands. By the time that the son needed money for college, their collection was big enough that they decided to charge admission for people to see it, and the Choo Choo Barn was born. 3. The Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center lives up to its name. Its activities can get a little messy, but its all in the name of STEM education! One of the best things about Lititz Springs Park is that it often plays host to special events, so if you visit at the right time, you can join everything from wine festivals to ice sculpture competitions. Intercourse, PA 17534. The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. The Holtwood Dam is one of the top points of interest in Lancaster, PA. The names are legendary. Read More. Lancaster's Sight & Sound Theatres brings the stories of the Bible to life in spectacular performances that include professional actors in elaborate period costumes, trained animals, world-renowned orchestras and special effects that leave patrons in absolute awe. Go on a museum date Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Smallbones used under CC BY-SA 3.0 Nothing says romantic date night in Lancaster, PA than an engaging museum date at the Landis Valley Museum. Address: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579. While many of the caboose rooms sleep two, three or four people, the Large Family Caboose and Baggage Car sleep six guests, plus there is a refrigerator and microwave. Everything is age-appropriate for growing minds, but its also a lot more dynamic than just sitting in a classroom and reading a textbook. Theres also lists for attractions that are: Lancaster is more than just the Amish. The Green Dragon Farmer's Market 548 Flea & Street Markets By Sdm0627 The museum in particular gets high marks for its beautiful natural setting. Watch cheese making via large observation windows. They can learn how steam engines work; they can watch steam mills and textile processes in action. Enjoy some blood-curdling fun at the Field of Screams. Whether youre looking for a thrilling adventure in the skies or a romantic honeymoon excursion, Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Rides can take you on an unforgettable journey. You can also participate in different activities depending on the size of your family or group. For kids, it can be tasty, messy fun; for couples, it can be a romantic date with heart eyes and spoon-feeding. or 717-399-7671. Depending on your strength and stamina, you can attempt everything from beginner-level treks to expert-level summits. You can wander through everything from jam stores to pottery barns while getting a firsthand look at the art, heritage and culture that make up the community. Previous visitors say it's a beautiful, heartwarming place to visit. The choice is yours. You can plan a trip thats both educational and entertaining at the same time. Have you ever seen a pure white snow goose? It can be beautiful and tranquil; it can be exciting and unpredictable. Mount Joy, PA 17552, 35 S. Willowdale Drive Youll find lots of country charm among its rolling farmlands and quaint, old-fashioned villages. This resort offers an array of fun rooms, from Cartoon Network-decorated rooms that sleep up to four guests to Dream Suites that sleep up to eight but still have living space for up to 10 "alien heroes." If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster, PA, these are just a few attractions that will ensure an unforgettable vacation. There are both weekday and weekend tours, and theres even a special full moon tour where you can walk the sanctuary at night. If youre looking for fun, free things to do in Lancaster, PA, put Lititz Springs Park on your shortlist. There's no shortage of unique and exciting things to do in Lancaster, no matter why you choose to travel. There are nearly a dozen wineries to explore, each one specializing in different varieties of wine. And if you're a local Lancastrian looking for some staycation ideas, check out the list above. Visitors can shop at a farmers market, enjoy horse-and-buggy rides, book a hot air balloon ride over the Amish countryside or sit down to enjoy some authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking including shoofly pie, a local favorite. Previous visitors have been impressed by the display of birds as well as the reptile room. Amish Farm and House Tour was one of the first Amish tourist attractions in Lancaster, PA, and its still among the most popular today. Visiting other areas of Pennsylvania? It'll give you a great sense of culture that you're probably not used to. Eastland Alpacas offers tours by donation. The Fulton Steamboat Inn isn't located on an actual steamboat, but it certainly resembles one. Youll be able to appreciate the natural beauty of Pennsylvania without any city noises ruining it. A lot of it depends on what you want to do. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster as an astronomy geek, this museum will be your shooting star. As a bonus, if you decide that youre in the mood for tilt-a-whirls after all, youll get a discount ticket price to the best amusement park in Pennsylvania! During the summertime. It sends literal tons of water crashing down to the rocks below, and the sights and sounds of such a powerful scene will take your breath away. Take in the scenic beauty of rural Lancaster County. Youll have your choice of activities once you arrive at the community. BJ's Restaurants, Inc. Lancaster, PA 2 months ago Be among the first 25 applicants See who BJ's Restaurants, Inc. has hired for this role But you dont have to ride any tilt-a-whirls to take advantage of the campsite! After all, how often is a traffic jam in your town due to an Amish horse-and-buggy? Located in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern, Pennsylvania, just 70 miles east of Pittsburgh, it was designed in 1935 as a residence and summer home. If you're looking for a unique place to stay that's both nostalgic and fun, consider the Red Caboose Motel in Ronks, Pennsylvania. Itll work off some of the calories that youve been consuming at the farmers market! Brick canals lead to a large water fountain, and grassy fields give way to shaded, tree-lined pavilions and picnic tables. Journey back 451 Baltimore Street Dutch Wonderland is a "Kingdom for Kids" and one of the best things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It wont take a lot of time, but itll leave a big impact. Stay up to date on upcoming events. If youre afraid of dolls, puppets or mannequins, the Lancaster Marionette Theatre might sound like something out of your worst nightmare. So the next time you're looking to take a road trip to the Northeastern United States (or the Mid-Atlantic region), add Lancaster County as a stop along the way. Youll find everything from hot air balloon rides and biking tours, to zip-lining and much more in this list of outdoor things to do in Lancaster. People from all over come to Lancaster for this unique Pennsylvania experience. Amish At Home Meals - Hosted By Samuel and Ruth Lapp at Amish Meals at Home with Samuel and Ruth Lapp. Once you gaze into the eyes of a wild wolf hybrid, however, youll realize that it was worth the extra gas. Address: 54 New Holland Ave., Lancaster, PA 17602. His show combines music, lights, shadows and narration. Address:226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA. Lancaster's 1719 Museum helps visitors learn about what life was like for earlyMennonite settlers and Native Americans in the area hundreds of years ago. This living history museum is home to a Pennsylvania German Village with historic buildings, which feature a collection of more than 100,000 artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the Choo Choo Barn is one of those unique tourist attractions that you just cant pass up when you see it advertised on a billboard. The North Museum of Nature and Science is a place where science comes to life. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. This establishment offers such a fun and immersive experience that your children wont even believe that its a museum. Willow Street, PA 17584. Do you want to experience something exciting during your trip to Lancaster? You dont have to drop big bucks to enjoy some quality time with your family! Check out our list of the best non-touristy things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. 176. You can sample ice creams, bag your own tea leaves, milk a mechanical cow, play with interactive exhibits or sit inside of a dairy truck. learn more Amish Farm Experience Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! Address:454 New Holland Ave, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. Are you traveling to Lancaster in the fall? If you dont mind a few beady eyes, however, its a quirky attraction that can give you a great vacation story! Enjoy 45 minutes aboard a real steam train. It is open as a museum that includes a gift shop and a cafe. Founded in 1832, Strasburg Rail Road isthe oldest continuously operating railroad in both America and the Western Hemisphere. Address: 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534, USA. Despite the name, the Fulton Opera House doesnt see a lot of opera concerts anymore. Nestled in a quiet corner of Lancaster, it has scenic views of a babbling brook and shaded tree grove. Check out the North Museum of Nature and Science if you want to add some education to your trip through PA. Rather than dragging their feet, your kids will never want to leave! 17601. 2004-2023 Cool Destinations. Lancaster has an artistic flair, with an array of art galleries and exhibits on Gallery Row in the downtown Arts District. Parks Hiking Trails. In addition to its everyday exhibits, the Lancaster Science Factory also hosts a number of classes, clubs and workshops. Featuring: Amish-made items, apparel, baked goods, books, One of south-central Pennsylvanias few professional Mt Gretna Playhouse, 451 State Route 117 Here you can enjoy a thriving cultural scene, a variety of special events, great food, diverse shopping opportunities, and a variety of attractions for families and things to do for kids. Visitors to the museum can explore things like blacksmith shops and leatherworking shops. Classes are booked in advance. It isnt a stuffy, boring place filled with glass displays that they arent allowed to touch. Address: 400 College Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. ComForcare Home Care Senior Citizens Services & Organizations Alzheimer's Care & Services Eldercare-Home Health Services Website With Aaron and Jessica's Buggy Rides, for example, you can book a private tour and see how the Amish live with stops at one-room Amish schoolhouses, butcher shops, bakeries, quilt shops and more. Its natural scenery includes woods, hills and lakes, and the wildlife is both rare and diverse. Read More, This tour offers a great assortment of trails tailored to meet the ability of the riders. Address:2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. Take a guided tour of an authentic 1840's Amish farmhouse At Artifice Ales & Mead, we specialize in Food and Beer Take a trip down memory lane with Barry's collection of 3504 Old Philadelphia Pike Pennsylvania Address: 2425 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602-1423 Website: American Music Theatre Opening hours: 9am - 6pm Price: 59 USD 9. If youre wondering what to do when youre in Lancaster, PA, hop on a buggy and hit up the Kitchen Kettle Village. Looking for directions to Lancaster County or wondering how far away Lancaster County is from some of the major cities in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic region? Its free to explore the Kitchen Kettle Village, but if something catches your eye, your money will be supporting local businesses. (Brian Evans/Courtesy of DiscoverLancaster.com). Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. Results 3. Major attractions include a planetarium with an XD projection system; a live animal room with frogs, turtles, snakes and other living creatures; and a Lego Lab that lets kids use the popular blocks to build their own creations. Try our amazing breakfast sandwiches, famous toasted cheese sandwiches, and fried cheese curds. This tour focuses on both the iconic and locally known dishes that Its also known for the fact that it attracts 100,000 migratory snow geese every year. Custom itineraries are created and personalized for You dont have to wait for Halloween to enjoy spooky adventures in Pennsylvania. Hailed as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is one of the best amusement parks in Lancaster. Original Philly Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner, Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob - Two Visions of Frank Lloyd Wright, Philadelphia to Valley Forge Park, Private 4 or 6 Hour Tour, Private Driving Tour of Lancaster and Amish Country, Brandywine Valley Tour with Private Driver, Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections, The Best Pennsylvania Activities for Seniors and Over 50s. For assistance with any senior fitness or recreation program, contact Elaine at ecampbell@LancasterRec.org. It winds through Amish country, so youll get to snuggle with your sweetheart while watching the countryside pass by your window, and you can also stop for picnics or farm tours when a particular location catches your eye. San Juan Bautista Catholic Church. Read More, A private tour to the Philadelphia Countryside is 8 hours. What can you do in Lancaster for free? Copyright 1995-2023 Action Video, Inc. All rights reserved. Its a funky, old-fashioned bakery that has been in operation since the 1940s, and not much has changed about its menu or decor. There are other things to do near and around the shop, including shopping for Amish souvenirs. By circlestar246. In the shared tour, youll make some new friends while hundreds of feet in the air. All things considered, Dutch Wonderland is one of the most amazing places to visit in Lancaster when youre traveling with kids. Address: 2249 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. (Of course, these travel times are estimates and don't account for traffic.). Visitors can also nosh on delicious. Read More, Pennsylvania is home to a fascinating culture found in the rural farmlands outside of Philadelphia. But the food is just the first feature of the evening. Mt Gretna, PA 17064-0578. If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, check out the Lancaster Central Market. Today, theres only one theater where you can find authentic magic lantern shows, and its located in Lancaster, PA. Its run by a single showman as part of the local Amish Experience. Visitors to this science museum say it's fun for all ages, including adults. Lancaster Central Market 23 N Market Street Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 735-6890 The Lancaster Central Market is a historic public marketplace in downtown Lancaster. In 2 hours I will be teaching you how to make 3 different FUN luxury products, that you get to take home with you. Address:510 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Previous guests say they enjoyed the activities at the farm, especially the corn maze and the slides. learn more amish Experience Amish Address:23 N Market St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. Built on a remote, beautiful stretch of Pennsylvania woodlands, it manages to be both relaxing and exciting. 340) Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505 717-392-1794, 4606 Marietta Avenue Columbia, PA 17512 717-669-2042, 211 South Donerville Road Lancaster, PA 17603 717-872-1554, 312 Primrose Lane Mountville, PA 17554 717-285-7007, 900 Lancaster Pike Quarryville, PA 17566 717-859-4244, 800-344-7855, 2089 Risser Mill Road Mount Joy, PA 17552 717-653-2757, 632 W. Main Street Ephrata, PA 17522 717-733-6600, 63 Bridle Path Road Kirkwood, PA 17536 717-786-4928, 368 Middletown Road Hummelstown, PA 17036 717-566-8131, 219 E. Main Street Lititz, PA 17543 717-626-4354, 2521 Lincoln Hwy (Route 30) Ronks, PA 17572 717-391-8234, Kitchen Kettle Village 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. Nature lovers should visit the Holtwood Environmental Preserve, home to the Shenk's Ferry Wildflower Preserve of spring woodland flowers as well as endless opportunities for camping, boating, swimming, hunting and more. Read More, A huge part of Philadelphia is the food and places associated with it. Ephrata Cloister 366 Speciality Museums Historic Sites By RingoPisco12 My wife and I really enjoyed our guided tour of the buildings and grounds. Highlights of this Self-Guided Audio Tour It allows Theres lots of things to do in Lancaster County, PA. Heres a list of 101+ popular things to do. Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim is especially popular with a brewery, seasonal festivals and more available on its expansive property. This was a great place to take the family for a a bit of fun we will surely be back to this place real soon. Have more time to explore? Columbia Historic Preservation Society Columbia, With over 50 activities on our farm, you and your children Cornwall Furnace, in blast from 1742 to 1883, is one of the 1525 Oregon Pike, Suite 1402 All tours can be made private. At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. State License Fla. Read More, Save money on some of Philadelphia's best-known attractions compared to buying individual tickets with Go City's Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602 Independence Hall: Philadelphia (J. Fusco/Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia) At Independence Hall in Philadelphia, you can take a free. It might seem like a regular public park from the outside, but once you venture onto its green grass, an entire world of possibilities will open to you. Campgrounds are available if youd like to turn it into a full weekend adventure. After the show, the puppeteer will give you a backstage tour of his theater, and youll get to see everything that actually goes into the show. Its an important site for Pennsylvania Germans and a fun attraction for Lancaster tourists. You can create an amazing itinerary with nothing more than these suggestions! Lancaster, PA 17602-2832. See the current mud sale schedule for this year as well as images and videos. This area appeals to all ages and interests. Locals claim that it was the business to put shoo-fly pie on the map. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Who are the Amish and why do they live like that? Travel through 2,500 acres of breathtaking farmland in. (Getty Images). Self-guided and guided tours are available, and reservations are required. If you're looking for activities in these towns, check out our lists of activities you can do in each one: There really is something for everyone here! Most popular is Shady Maple Smorgasbord, a 200-foot, all-you-can-eat buffet. Pick-up and Drop-off locations are the groups choice. Explore historical landmarks, museums, and even local dessert parlors What's Included Snacks Meeting And Pickup Meeting point East King Street Garage 150 E King St, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA Open in Google Maps Please park in the East King Street Parking Garage. Its a very versatile vacation spot, which is why we consider it one of our top 10 attractions near the city of Lancaster. Lancaster, PA 17602. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Lititz Springs Park is a gorgeous place to escape the hustle and bustle of Lancaster. Address:909 Strasburg Pike, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA, Refreshing Mountain Retreat & Adventure Center. Both options display Everything you need to plan your Lancaster, PA getaway. If you love the theater, however, you wont want to miss the Fulton Opera House. His first train set was a modest thing that he built with his two-year-old son, but the pair made a lifelong hobby out of it, and their trains wound up taking over the family basement. Bowl, drink, and dine at Decades. Read More, Short and highly selective information in the audio commentary for top 16 tourist attractions in around Philadelphia. You dont have to spend a lot of money or hire an expensive travel guide. The chief attraction of Lancaster Central Market is the food. Visit the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area if youre looking for charming, romantic destinations with lots of things to see. Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square 4 /5 (160 reviews) Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has something for you. Previous visitors say the pretzels are delicious, the tour guides are great and that this is a must-visit in Lititz. When youre done with the geese, you can hike one of the many nature trails that will lead you around the Lancaster area. Build it Your Way! Activities Come experience all of the wonderful things for every age in Lancaster County. If this sounds like an idyllic spot, youre absolutely right. Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! Lancaster, PA 17602. Groups. Popular options include traditional sourdough pretzels and flavored pretzels like honey mustard and onion or ranch. If you enjoy the history and architecture of covered bridges, you'll love Lancaster County. The best time to visit Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is in the spring or fall. Join our tour to understand the complex history and lifestyle Offerings include a large array of theaters, historical sites, and local Amish culture. Lancaster's rock, fossil and mineral Bible History Exhibits is located at 2827 Lincoln Highway 2827 Lincoln Highway East, PO Box 98 Mom and dad can enjoy the cafes, game booths, fun houses, dinosaur exhibits and virtual reality simulations. Join us in our sandwich shop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The most famous is probably the Horse-Shoe Trail thats used by local horseback riders, but there are other paths and summits as well. [Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania.]. Its one of the premiere destinations of Pennsylvania. Address:126 N Water St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. Its especially breathtaking when you fly over the picturesque farmlands of Amish country, and thats exactly what youll get when you book a tour with Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Rides. Address: 2215 Millstream Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. Listen to the tinkle of wooden wind chimes. Address:301 Linden St, Columbia, PA 17512, USA. By Kathryn921. Situated in a 2,500-square-foot space, the lounge is also open for birthday parties, corporate events, as well as team building activities with a virtual reality twist. By now, you've hopefully found some activities to do and points of interest to check out during your trip to Lancaster County. If youre looking for the most romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take out your beau for a night on the town. Read More, Explore Valley Forge National Historic Park on this private, 4- or 6-hour driving tour from Philadelphia. Lancaster Playground isnt an ordinary playground. A botany exhibit houses rare and beautiful plants. Explore Valley Forge National Historic Park on this private, 4- or 6-hour driving tour from Philadelphia. Address:191 College Ave, Mountville, PA 17554, USA. The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continually-operating railway in Pennsylvania, so its definitely one of the top places to visit in Lancaster. A hot air balloon ride is one of the most incredible ways to view the Pennsylvania countryside. The museum seeks to preserve their culture through art, music, clothes, tools and other materials. Theyre short and sweet, so you wont need a bathroom break, and theyre appropriate for all ages. The Fulton Opera House is the oldest working theater in the United States. In addition to being beautiful, its also free to enter, so its at the top of our list of free things to do in Lancaster, PA. They organize food, drinks, games and even petting zoos for families who want to unplug from their electronics and go outside. Discover Lancaster's living heritage on Lancaster's original 90-minute bus tour. You probably stopped listening at the word pie.. While Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is home to the oldest Amish communities in the U.S., there's a lot more to Amish Country than meets the eye. There are several places to mini-golf in Lancaster - Leisure Bowling and Golfing Center, Lost Treasure Golf and Maze, Boulder's Miniature Golf, The Shack Restaurant & Mini Golf, and Village Greens Miniature Golf and Snack Shoppe to name a few! The Mennonite Life Visitors Center (formerly the Mennonite Information Center) provides even more perspective about the region with free resources and a Biblical Tabernacle Experience, which includes an educational lecture and a full-sized reproduction of the original tabernacle Moses constructed for the nation Israel.