Find special events and one-of-a-kind things to do in Lancaster County all-year long. It might be Annie; it might be Saturday Night Fever. We offer quality opportunities to learn, improve health and most importantly, to have lots of laughs. Columbia is one of the most popular destinations in Lancaster County since it offers everything from outdoor adventures to museums and shopping. If you want to experience Lancaster, PA, without paying exorbitant prices for hotels, consider the Old Mill Stream Campground. 54 of In fact, its a little outside of the city limits; its near Lancaster but not technically a part of it. Before there were televisions and movie theaters, people entertained themselves with magic lantern shows. Hailed as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is one of the best amusement parks in Lancaster. Lancaster, PA 17603. With its padded seats and white tablecloths, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater looks a bit like a fine dining establishment at first glance. Have more time to explore? Mom and dad can enjoy the cafes, game booths, fun houses, dinosaur exhibits and virtual reality simulations. Its completely free. Another thing that will take your breath away is the series of hiking trails around the dam. After all, how often do you get the chance to question 17th century farmers about their own ways of life? Tickets for both are available online. Visitors can also nosh on delicious. Teenagers can ram into each other with bumper cars. Address: 1849 Hans Herr Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584. Another notable attraction in Columbia is the Turkey Hill Experience, which combines the craft of ice cream making with the joy of eating it. Mount Joy, PA 17552. Featured breweries include Lancaster Brewing Company, Black Forest Brewery, Artifice Ales and Mead and, a bit farther afield, Tregs Independent Brewing, one of the top things to do in nearby Hershey. There are over 30 rides that will entertain all ages. To help you plan, we've compiled lists ofplaces to stay(including hotels in Lancaster, PA) and where you can eat while you're here (we're known for our PA Dutch smorgasbords, which are buffets of Amish-style food). 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. (Brian Evans/Courtesy of DiscoverLancaster.com). Lititz itself offers many small shops, fantastic restaurants, museums, art galleries , hiking trails, and more. Intercourse, PA 17534. German Do you enjoy TV detective shows such as CSI or Sherlock 18 E McGovern Ave, Station Square Center Originally founded in 1730, Lancaster Central Market is the oldest continually running farmers market in the U.S. Renningers Antique Market is especially popular, with more than 500 vendors alone. For kids, it can be tasty, messy fun; for couples, it can be a romantic date with heart eyes and spoon-feeding. Read More, By visiting both locations, not only will you appreciate Wright's genius even moreyou will be stimulated to see possibilities of design that you could never This area appeals to all ages and interests. Results Have you ever seen 100,000 of them at the same time? 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. Enjoy 45 minutes aboard a real steam train. Theres a lot to see and do, and its all sugar-sweet. All of the fancy tables face a stage, and when the curtain rises, youll be treated to a live theater performance to enjoy along with your appetizers. Brick canals lead to a large water fountain, and grassy fields give way to shaded, tree-lined pavilions and picnic tables. It offers all kinds of rides, games and activities for people who dont mind getting a little muddy in Lancaster. Visitors can also nosh on delicious local favorites like hot soft pretzels, fresh-cut fries and Turkey Hill ice cream. This establishment offers such a fun and immersive experience that your children wont even believe that its a museum. A hot air balloon ride is one of the most incredible ways to view the Pennsylvania countryside. Intercourse, PA 17534. Address: 9 New Village Road, Holtwood, PA 17532. The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is the perfect place for an outing with the family. You can find just about everything at Park City Center. Summers can get hot in Pennsylvania, and since there arent a lot of indoor attractions at the farm, youll be under the sun for most of the day. Looking things to do when the grandkids visit your Lancaster County home? Seasonal exhibits and events including First Fridays and artwalks are also offered throughout the year, featuring historic and contemporary art from local and regional artists. Active travelers can stay busy on 39 miles of hiking trails in the area or explore the Lock 12 Historic Area or the Indian Steps Museum of Native American artifacts. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. 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. 246 N. Decatur Street, Strasburg, PA 17579, 717-344-2488 Visit Website Learn More Coupon Map Reviews Video A is For Amish Buggy Rides Its activities can get a little messy, but its all in the name of STEM education! Address: 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster, PA 17601. These impressive displays combined hand-drawn images with old-fashioned light machines to captive audiences around the world. Read More, Climb aboard the oldest floating steel warship in the world, Cruiser OLYMPIA, and explore award-winning exhibits in the Museum's building, as well as the Seaport As you travel through the Heritage Center, discover If youre looking for unique places to visit in Lancaster, consider the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. If you want a free treat during your Lancaster vacation, you know where to go. It wont take a lot of time, but itll leave a big impact. Activities offered at the hotel include swimming at the indoor pool, gaming in the on-site Omnicade and interactive play in the Toon Room kid's play area. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Its such a legendary dish that Dutch Haven offers free samples to get you hooked because they know that youll want more after youve tried it. Visitors of all ages can find something to do at the retreat. Visit Website 312 Paradise Lane Ronks (near Strasburg), PA 17572 Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim is especially popular with a brewery, seasonal festivals and more available on its expansive property. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. This award-winning, 2,000-seat theater also has a sister venue in Branson, Missouri, with shows traveling between both locations. Where stories from the Bible come to life on stage. The Holtwood Dam is one of the top points of interest in Lancaster, PA. Take a horse-drawn buggy ride to explore the Amish countryside, a place where tightknit families live without modern conveniences and follow the same traditions their ancestors have for hundreds of years. Its a state of farms and cornfields, and theyre put to good use in places like the Field of Screams. Only minutes away from rolling farmlands and the clip-clop sound of horses and buggies, youll find the bustling city of Lancaster (population 59,000). Recommended for You Sight & Sound Theatres Where stories from the Bible come to life on stage. Lititz Fire & Ice Festival 2023s Annual Celebration in Lititz, PA, Halloween & Oktoberfest Activities in Lancaster County, About Columbia, Marietta, and the River Towns, Eastern Lancaster County (including New Holland, East Earl, and Churchtown), Shopping in Lititz Small Town Charm & Many Unique Shops, Paradise, PA Hotels, B&Bs, and Campgrounds, attractions and things to do in Lancaster, Things to do in Eastern Lancaster County, PA, Things to do in Southern Lancaster County, PA, Traveling to Lancaster County, PA for Activities. Your kids will be charmed by the magic of the puppets just as much as you are. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. Address: 1120 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. As you plan your vacation to Amish County in Pennsylvania, you should know that you can't do all of Lancaster County in one day! Hungry guests with a sweet tooth will also enjoy the chocolate-covered pretzels on offer. As of 2023, you can renew your passport online. One of the top botanical gardens in the country, Longwood Gardens is the place for anyone who enjoys flowers or unusual plants. Start time 09:00 AM Why do 2395 Covered Bridge Drive This factory-museum hosts a variety of rotating STEM-related educational programs and workshops, and interactive exhibits include "Mechanics and Motion," "Acoustics and Sound" and "Structural Engineering." This Address: 2249 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. Address: 301 Linden St., Columbia, PA 17512. Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572, (Courtesy of The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant). Lititz Springs Park is a gorgeous place to escape the hustle and bustle of Lancaster. Advance purchase is recommended. Visitors to the museum can explore things like blacksmith shops and leatherworking shops. Bird in Hand, PA 17505. You'll see and learn about Amish schools, Amish farms and culture, covered bridges, and even visit an Amish store or roadside stand. Run by a single puppeteer with a passion for his craft, the Lancaster Marionette Theatre puts on shows that are a delight to watch. Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, Lancaster, 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. Photographs and listings of businesses in this website include paid advertisements. Dutch Wonderland is a "Kingdom for Kids" and one of the best things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, check out the Lancaster Central Market. So Many Things to Do in Lancaster Pennsylvania. Lancaster is also known for its small towns (with many unique names) sprinkled throughout the county. 3. Lancaster, PA 17602. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster, PA, these are just a few attractions that will ensure an unforgettable vacation. Most popular is Shady Maple Smorgasbord, a 200-foot, all-you-can-eat buffet. Address:126 N Water St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. It was created by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the days of the pioneers, and it uses molasses and brown sugar to create a sweet, crumbly and finger-licking cake. The Fulton Steamboat Inn isn't located on an actual steamboat, but it certainly resembles one. As a sprawling complex with dozens of shops, stores, activities and tours, the Kitchen Kettle Village is one of the best places in Lancaster to learn about the Pennsylvania Dutch. There are nearly a dozen wineries to explore, each one specializing in different varieties of wine. Itll teach your kids something new, and they wont even realize the sneaky lessons that are taking place in the midst of their messy fun. Previous guests say it's one of the most unique hotels they've ever stayed at, with some saying it very much feels like you're staying on a steamboat or even the Titanic. Conestoga Greenway Trail. Kids are always laughing on the playground. Past guests say the buggy rides with Aaron and Jessica's family in particular felt truly authentic, and that they had a lot of fun. The showmen who ran them would even travel in troupes from city to city. Shop til you drop at the Park City Center. 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. Bowl, drink, and dine at Decades. Philadelphia to Valley Forge Park, Private 4 or 6 Hour Tour. 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. Visitors to this science museum say it's fun for all ages, including adults. 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. Everything is age-appropriate for growing minds, but its also a lot more dynamic than just sitting in a classroom and reading a textbook. Youll find lots of country charm among its rolling farmlands and quaint, old-fashioned villages. As one of the leaders in agri-tainment, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm combines real-world farming lessons with family-friendly fun. Address: 2215 Millstream Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. FALLINGWATER - America's UNESCO World Heritage Masterpiece! Run by Turkey Hill, a dairy company in Pennsylvania, the Turkey Hill Experience is basically a self-guided tour through their headquarters. Previous guests say they were impressed with the hotel's unique room types and family-friendly atmosphere. Luxurious jewelers share the floor with quiet bookstores and colorful toy shops; the food court is equally balanced between fine dining and indulgent fast food. Book your seat and get up in the clouds as early as this weekend! Youll be able to appreciate the natural beauty of Pennsylvania without any city noises ruining it. 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 Experience dynamic theatre, one-of-a-kind art exhibitions, and captivating live performances. Read More, A huge part of Philadelphia is the food and places associated with it. Itll work off some of the calories that youve been consuming at the farmers market! Take back roads to avoid traffic on Route 30. If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, PA, consider the Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center. Its housed in a big, Victorian-style building in downtown Lancaster, and its registered as a National Historic Landmark because of its heritage, culture and contributions to the PA arts community. Lancaster is one of the most fascinating cities in Pennsylvania. You can also explore a pumpkin patch, shoot a paintball gun or zip down a water slide. Address: 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534, USA. Church is located in a bad section of Lancaster but we have never had a problem. 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. [Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania.]. Sleep in a caboose, eat in a train car, shop and play and watch the Strasburg Rail Road's steam engines go right by our front porch. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. If you dont mind a few beady eyes, however, its a quirky attraction that can give you a great vacation story! Its mostly morphed into a theater where you can enjoy live performances of things like Titanic, Newsies and The Night Before Christmas. Imagine visiting three Amish properties where our longstanding relationships allow you to become Visitors to Wheatland praise the guided tours and the beautiful decor and furnishings found in the mansion on the property. 2022 2. 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. Refreshing Mountain is a year-round destination with adrenaline-pumping experiences in store. Locals claim that it was the business to put shoo-fly pie on the map. Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Hershey, PA& some of the things to do in Gettysburg, PA? San Juan Bautista Catholic Church. In 2 hours I will be teaching you how to make 3 different FUN luxury products, that you get to take home with you. Its natural scenery includes woods, hills and lakes, and the wildlife is both rare and diverse. 1 - At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. Lancaster, PA 17602-2832. Take in a play or a movie in the park. Regardless of its history, Dutch Haven is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Lancaster. Custom itineraries are created and personalized for Mount Joy, PA 17552, 35 S. Willowdale Drive Ice cream lovers, especially families, say they had a great time here. Longs Park is one of the liveliest places in Lancaster, PA. Select from a 6-, 8-, or 10-hour You dont even have to be a birdwatcher to appreciate the majesty of this many birds in flight! The North Museum of Nature and Science is a place where science comes to life. It can be a relaxing excursion; it can be a romantic date. Lancaster City is home to a renowned creative community of studio artists, artisans, gallery spaces, and performing arts venues. Address: 400 College Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. Featuring: Amish-made items, apparel, baked goods, books, One of south-central Pennsylvanias few professional Mt Gretna Playhouse, 451 State Route 117 Make sure you bring your appetite if you visit. 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. Address: 23 N. Market St., Lancaster, PA 17603. Today, this has been largely abandoned, but the mall still retains its snowflake-like architecture with corridors branching out from a centrally located plaza. If you love the theater, however, you wont want to miss the Fulton Opera House. Past visitors have commented on the delicious goods at the Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop and the excellent shopping at the on-site stores and boutiques. Running along the Conestoga River, this 1.3-mile trail is a great way to explore Lancaster's natural beauty even if you are a bit short on time. Read on to learn about the best ways to fill your days when you visit Lancaster. Address:2857 Lincoln Hwy A, Ronks, PA 17572, USA. Have you ever seen a pure white snow goose? Dutch Wonderland is a popular Pennsylvania theme park with more than 35 rides, attractions and shows as well as Duke's Lagoon water play area. By Kathryn921. With exhibits on physics, chemistry, biology, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique science center. Previous visitors say the rides are both scenic and informative. Now owned by LancasterHistory, Wheatland is open to the public for the purpose of providing a glimpse into President James Buchanan's life in the 1800s. The historic hotel features nautical- and Victorian-inspired guestrooms, an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, a fish feeding pond and the adorable Jr. First Mate's Happy Harbour Landing Playground. Address: 1 Hartman Bridge Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. The horizon will be filled with hot air balloons of every color; its a sight that has to be seen to be believed. Explore Valley Forge National Historic Park on this private, 4- or 6-hour driving tour from Philadelphia. Its free to explore the Kitchen Kettle Village, but if something catches your eye, your money will be supporting local businesses. Maximum 4 people per class, children 10 years and over are welcomed. Address:12 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. Here's some ideas of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster, PA. Get lost in a cornfield maze or tour a fascinating museum. The Lancaster Science Factory is a hands-on science center for kids from kindergarten to the eighth grade. Visitors can browse artwork by renowned and unknown artists at local landmarks such as the Demuth Museum, the Lancaster Museum of Art, and the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design. Lancaster History and Craft Beer Walk 18 Lancaster Virtual Reality Lounge offers a one-of-a-kind experience where your clan can enter a new dimension of gaming. State License Fla. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. The Amish Farm and House 2,161 Historic Sites Farms Temporarily closed By PattyLongIsland The Amish House and Farm is over 300 years old and became the first Amish tourist attraction in the USA since 1955. If any part of your childhood was spent building model trains, the Choo Choo Barn will take you right back to the days of poring over whistles and wheels. Take in the scenic beauty of rural Lancaster County. Check out this list of the best things to do in Lancaster, PA. 1. (Of course, these travel times are estimates and don't account for traffic.). Description Classic Watercolor Thursday Evening w/Alice Meyer Wallace A five (5) session course This class with instruction by Alice Meyer Wallace will focus on classic watercolor techniques-Sargeant, Homer, Rodin, Nolde, and particularly Charles Demuth, from Lancaster, PA. Come enjoy this fun and relaxed class! But lets be honest. It is open as a museum that includes a gift shop and a cafe. Why You Should Go As the oldest farmers market in Pennsylvania, Lancaster Central Market is a feast for the senses, and its definitely one of the coolest things to do in the city. If youre looking for the most romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take out your beau for a night on the town. Address:2395 Covered Bridge Dr, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. Bonfires are lit for marshmallows and hot dogs, and live entertainment is available on special occasions. See how beer is A fun fact about the Park City Center is that it used to be called the Mall of Four Seasons because each of its four corridors had a seasonal theme. Itll be a lot of fun, especially for kids, and itll teach you meaningful lessons about the past. Listen to the tinkle of wooden wind chimes. You 2089 Risser Mill Road Its one of the most fun things to do in Lancaster, PA, especially when you need to beat the heat on a hot summer day. It has a rich history that traces its roots back to Dutch, German and English influences, and its also popular among the Amish and Mennonite communities. Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. No. 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. Its a funky, old-fashioned bakery that has been in operation since the 1940s, and not much has changed about its menu or decor. People from all over come to Lancaster for this unique Pennsylvania experience. Take a buggy ride down dirt roads; explore the barn, stable and one-room schoolhouse. Address:24 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA. Attractions and fun things to do abound throughout Lancaster County. His ancient light machine has been painstakingly restored to full function. When youre done with the geese, you can hike one of the many nature trails that will lead you around the Lancaster area. 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. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster PA on a hot summer day, consider the Turkey Hill Experience. The absolute best thing about the Turkey Hill Experience is the taste lab.. The "Adamstown Antique Mile" runs along state Route 272 in northeastern Lancaster County and features roughly 5,000 antique dealers, with even more offered during Antiques Extravaganza Weekends. 32. You can find joy and fulfillment at any one of Explore Retirement Living's independent living facilities right here in Lancaster County, PA. Previous visitors say it's a beautiful, heartwarming place to visit. If youre looking for romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take a ride on an old-fashioned locomotive train. Lancaster Central Market 1,026 Flea & Street Markets By Z9982YKdavidg Golf course , mini golf, a Public Pool, Skate Park, Playgrounds, Massive Frisbee Golf Course, Baseball Fields, Soccer. By circlestar246. An overhead projection dome functions as a planetarium for cosmic shows. It is heavily used during the summer months and is the perfect place for a relaxing morning or evening stroll. Their force is something that you wont soon forget. You won't lack for fun things to do. They can learn how steam engines work; they can watch steam mills and textile processes in action. Guided tour of the Herr's Snack Food Factory. Youll love the teas and ice creams of the Turkey Hill Experience. Check out The Wright's Ferry Mansion, which was built to increase access to new areas along the Susquehanna River, and make a stop at the National Watch & Clock Museum, home to the largest known collection of 19th-century American clocks and watches in the world.