40 Best Things to do in Lancaster!

Lancaster in Pennsylvania, often referred to as Amish Country, is a charming destination known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. The city beautifully blends old-world traditions with modern attractions, making it a perfect getaway for anyone seeking a relaxing and enriching experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Lancaster during your visit to Pennsylvania.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Lancaster County Historical Society

The Lancaster County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Lancaster County. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that tell the story of the county’s past. The collection includes artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived here over the years. One of the highlights of the museum is the genealogical research library. Here, you can dive into the history of your own family or learn about the early settlers. The library is a valuable resource for anyone interested in genealogy or local history.

President James Buchanan’s Wheatland

The President James Buchanan’s Wheatland is a historical site that offers a glimpse into the life of the 15th President of the United States. Built in 1828, this elegant Federal-style mansion is preserved and showcases the period’s architecture and furnishings. As you tour the house, you’ll find original artifacts and pieces that belonged to Buchanan, giving you a sense of his life and times. Guided tours provide interesting stories about Buchanan’s career and personal life, making the visit engaging. The surrounding grounds are impressive, with well-kept gardens and a peaceful atmosphere.

Zimmerman Center for Heritage

The Zimmerman Center for Heritage is located along the Susquehanna River, offers exhibits about the Susquehannock Indians, early settlers, and the river’s role in the region’s development. One of the highlights is the River Art Collection, which features beautiful paintings and photographs of the Susquehanna River. The center also offers guided tours and educational programs, making it a great destination for families and school groups. Outside, you can enjoy a hike to Native Lands County Park, where you can learn about the Susquehannock people’s last community.

Lancaster Brewing Company

The Lancaster Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beers, each brewed with care and attention to detail. When you visit, you can enjoy a tour of the brewery to see how the beers are made. The tours are both fun and educational, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. The brewery also has a taproom where you can sample their different beers. In addition to their beers, you can enjoy a meal while you sample the beers, with options ranging from hearty burgers to fresh salads. The food is made with local ingredients, adding to the quality and taste.

Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market

The Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market is known for its variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. As you walk through the market, you’ll find friendly vendors offering a wide range of products. The market features fresh fruits and vegetables, often sourced from local farms, ensuring high quality and freshness. The baked goods are a must-try, with a selection of pies, breads, and cookies that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. In addition to food, the market offers handmade crafts, including quilts, wooden toys, and other unique items.

Amish Country Theater

The Amish Country Theater offers a variety of live performances that showcase the humor and culture of the Amish community. The shows are filled with comedy, music, and storytelling, providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors. The performers bring the characters to life with their comedies and musical skills. The audience can also participate, making the experience interactive and memorable. The theater also features impressive stage sets and costumes for performers. In addition to the regular shows, the theater hosts seasonal performances throughout the year.

Fulton Theatre

The Fulton Theatre was built in 1852, offers a variety of shows, including musicals, plays, and concerts. The theatre is known for its high-quality productions and talented performers. Each season, the theater presents shows, that suits to different tastes and interests. In addition to the main stage productions, it also hosts educational programs and workshops. These programs provide opportunities for people to learn more about the performing arts and develop their skills. The theater’s commitment to education and engagement, makes it a great spot for Lancaster’s cultural scene.

The Mill At Manor Falls

The Mill at Manor Falls was built in the 1800s, has been beautifully restored and became a venue for weddings and other gatherings. As you walk around, you’ll see the stonework and elegant windows that make the mill so picturesque. The mill’s rustic yet polished look, along with beautiful waterfall and stream, provides a perfect backdrop for photos. The staff offer a range of services to make your day special, from setting up chairs and tables to coordinating with vendors. The venue also has a private bridal suite and groomsmen lounge for the wedding party to get ready.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Biking on the Lancaster County Rail Trail

The Lancaster County Rail Trail stretches for miles, offering scenic views and a smooth ride. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cyclists. As you bike along the trail, you’ll pass through small towns and countryside. The trail is lined with trees, open fields, lush forests and often runs alongside streams, so there’s always something new to see. One of the highlights of the trail is the variety of scenery you’ll encounter. This trail is also popular with walkers and joggers, so you’ll likely meet others enjoying the trail.

Strasburg Rail Road

The Strasburg Rail Road offers scenic rides through the beautiful Amish countryside. The vintage steam trains provide a unique and nostalgic journey, taking you back to a simpler time. As you travel along the tracks, you can enjoy picturesque views of farms, fields, and small towns. In addition to the train rides, Strasburg Rail Road offers a variety of activities and attractions. You can visit the railroad museum to learn more about the history of the trains and the people who worked on them. There are also interactive exhibits and displays that make the place engaging for all ages.

Kayaking on the Susquehanna River

Near Lancaster, the Susquehanna River stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for different boating activities. Whether you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or simply floating along, the river provides a peaceful and scenic setting. Several marinas like Long Level Marina or The Sandbar offer guided boat tours and rentals, that are perfect for beginners, and there are plenty of spots along the river to take a break and enjoy the view. As you paddle, you’ll see beautiful landscapes, including forests, fields, and wildlife. It’s a great way to escape the everyday city life and connect with nature.

Golfing Courses

Lancaster is home to many golf courses that suits to players of all skill levels. One popular course is the Lancaster Country Club, known for its beautiful layout and challenging holes. Another great option is the Overlook Golf Course, which offers stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. For a more casual experience, you can try the Conestoga Country Club, where the friendly staff and well-kept greens make for an enjoyable day on the course. Each of these courses provides a unique golfing experience, with well-designed fairways, bunkers, and scenic surroundings.

Lancaster County Central Park

As you explore the Lancaster County Central Park, you’ll find walking trails, playgrounds for children and a picnic spot for families. One of the highlights is the swimming pool, which is a popular spot during the summer months. If you enjoy fishing, you’ll be happy to know that the park has a pond where you can cast a line. For those who like to learn about nature, the Environmental Center offers educational programs and events. The park is also home to the Garden of Five Senses, a unique area designed to engage all your senses with its beautiful plants and interactive displays.

D.F. Buchmiller County Park

The D.F. Buchmiller County Park has a variety of amenities that make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. As you walk through the park, you’ll find well-marked walking trails, perfect for a leisure walk or a brisk hike. The large picnic areas provide plenty of space for gatherings and are equipped with tables and grills. For those who enjoy sports, the park has tennis courts, basketball courts, and a disc golf course. The children playgrounds offers a safe and fun equipment for them to enjoy. One of the highlight is the scenic pond, which is a popular spot for fishing and relaxing by the water.

3. Iconic Landmarks

National Watch and Clock Museum

The National Watch and Clock Museum has a vast collection of clocks and watches from different eras and parts of the world. As you explore, you’ll see a variety of timepieces, from ancient sundials to modern wristwatches. Each display tells the story of how timekeeping has evolved over the centuries. The museum offers hands-on exhibits, allowing visitors to learn how clocks and watches work. One of the highlights is the collection of grandfather clocks, which showcase beautiful craftsmanship. The museum also hosts special exhibits and events, make the experience engaging.

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum

The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum showcases the daily life of Pennsylvania German communities from 1740 to 1940. As you walk through, you’ll see historic buildings, gardens, and farm animals. It offers hands-on activities and demonstrations, allowing visitors to experience traditional crafts and skills. The staff, dressed in period clothing, provide engaging stories and insights into the lives of the people who lived in this area. They demonstrate everything from blacksmithing to cooking, and also hosts special events and festivals, to celebrate Pennsylvania German culture.

North Museum of Nature and Science

The North Museum of Nature and Science is a small museum, that offers a range of exhibits and displays on dinosaurs, outer space, and local wildlife. The dinosaur gallery features life-sized models and interactive exhibits that bring ancient creatures to life. One of the highlights is the planetarium, where you can enjoy shows about the stars and planets. The museum also has hands-on exhibits, allowing visitors to touch and explore various specimens. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts events often include guest speakers, workshops, and themed activities.

Sight & Sound Theatres

The Sight & Sound Theatres is famous for its spectacular productions that bring Bible stories to life. The shows feature decorated sets, costumes, and talented actors who deliver great performances. The large stage and modern technology create an immersive experience that captivates audiences. Each production is carefully crafted to provide an unforgettable experience. The sound effects, lighting, and special effects all work together to make the stories come alive. The theater also offers behind-the-scenes tours, giving visitors a chance to see how these shows are put together.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania houses a historic locomotives and railroad cars, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of rail transportation. Inside, you’ll see beautifully restored engines and cars that tell the story of the railroad’s impact on the nation. The informative exhibits provide detailed information about the development of the rail industry and its role in shaping the country. It also features interactive displays and hands-on activities for kids to make their learning fun. Kids will love the model train layout and the opportunity to climb aboard some of the historic trains.

Lancaster Science Factory

The Lancaster Science Factory offers many interactive exhibits that make learning fun. Inside, you’ll find activities that cover various topics like physics, engineering, and chemistry. The exhibits encourage visitors to experiment and explore, making it a great place for curious minds. One of the highlights is the “Maker Space,” where visitors can create their own projects using tools and materials provided by the center. This space is perfect for sparking creativity and innovation. The Science Factory offers live workshops giving visitors the chance to dive deeper into specific topics.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Dutch Wonderland

The Dutch Wonderland offers a variety of rides and attractions that are perfect for little ones. As you walk through, you’ll see colorful rides, live shows, water attractions and even magic tricks. One of the highlights is the Wonderland Special, a train ride that takes you around the park and offers beautiful views. There are also classic rides like the carousel and bumper cars, which are always a hit with kids. In addition to the rides, Dutch Wonderland has a water play area called Duke’s Lagoon. This area is perfect for cooling off on a hot day, with slides and splash zones that are fun for all ages.

Hands-on House Children’s Museum

The Hands-on House Children’s Museum offers many fun and educational activities designed to spark curiosity and learning. As you explore, you’ll find various exhibits that let children play, experiment, and discover new things. The museum is divided into different sections, each focused on a unique theme, like science, art, or nature. One of the popular exhibits is the “Little Valley Farm,” where kids can learn about farming and agriculture through hands-on activities. Another favorite is the “Right In Your Own Backyard” exhibit, which teaches kids about local wildlife and ecosystems.

Kunkel Aquatic Center

The Kunkel Aquatic Center is located at Franklin & Marshall College, it has a well-maintained spacious pool suitable for both recreational and competitive swimming. If you’re looking to improve your swimming skills, the center offers swim lessons for various age groups and skill levels. The lessons are conducted by experienced instructors who provide personalized guidance. The center also hosts swim meets and other events, which can be exciting to watch. For those who prefer a more casual visit, open swim times are available, allowing you to enjoy the pool at your own pace.

Field of Screams

The Field of Screams is a perfect spot for anyone who loves Halloween attractions. This popular haunted attraction offers a variety of spooky experiences that are sure to thrill and scare. The Scream Park features several haunted houses and trails, each with its own unique theme and terrifying scenes. As you walk through, you’ll encounter scary characters and detailed sets that create an immersive and frightening atmosphere. The actors are skilled at delivering scares, making each visit a memorable experience. The park also offers games, food, and entertainment, adding to the fun.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

As you step inside Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, you’ll find trampolines stretching across large areas, perfect for bouncing. The park also features a range of adventure activities, including climbing walls, ropes courses, and obstacle courses. These challenges are designed to test your agility and strength while providing a fun and safe environment. If you need a break, the park has a café where you can grab a snack or a drink. It’s a great place to celebrate birthdays or other special occasions. They offer party packages with all the activities and a private party room.

Go N Bananas Family Fun Center

Go N Bananas Family Fun Center is an indoor entertainment center, that offers a wide range of activities that suits to kids and adults. Inside, the center features a large arcade with plenty of games, from classic favorites to the latest high-tech options. Kids will love the multi-level play area, which includes slides, tunnels, and climbing structures. One of the highlights is the laser tag arena, where you can challenge your friends and family to an exciting game. The bumper cars are another favorite, providing a fun and safe way to bump around and enjoy some friendly competition.

Lititz Springs Park

The Lititz Springs Park offers a peaceful and relaxing setting with its landscape and natural springs. As you walk through the park, you’ll come across charming walking paths and open spaces for picnics. The park has a variety of amenities, including playgrounds for children and picnic tables for families. One of the highlights of Lititz Springs Park is the large spring-fed pond, where you can watch ducks and fish. The park also features a historic bandstand that hosts concerts and events every year. The friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for families, couples, and solo visitors.

Lancaster Central Market

The Lancaster Central Market was established in 1730, offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. As you walk through, you’ll find many local vendors selling unique items, from homemade jams to handcrafted cheeses. The market is open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, making it a perfect spot for a midweek or weekend visit. The market building itself is a piece of history, with its charming red brick exterior and beautiful architecture. One of the highlights is the diverse foods options, including local specialties like Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels and scrapple.

5. Natural Attractions

Amish Farm and House

The Amish Farm and House allows you to explore a real Amish farm and house, giving you a sense of how the Amish live and work. As you walk through, you’ll see traditional Amish furniture, tools, and household items that showcase their simple and practical lifestyle. The guided tours talk about Amish culture and provide interesting insights into their daily routines and beliefs. The farm area includes a variety of animals, such as horses, chickens, and cows, which are a big hit with kids. There are also demonstrations of traditional Amish crafts and skills, like quilting and woodworking.

Amish Village

As you wander through the Amish Village, you will see traditional Amish homes, schoolhouses, and workshops. The guides provide interesting insights into Amish culture, explaining their customs, dress, and daily routines. One of the highlights is the guided tour of an Amish house, where you can see simple yet practical furniture and household items. The village also has a farm area with animals like horses, chickens, and goats, which are always a hit with kids. There are workshops of traditional Amish crafts, such as quilting and woodworking, giving visitors a hands-on experience.

Long’s Park

As you walk through Long’s Park, you’ll find paved walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children. The beautiful lake is a popular spot for fishing and paddle boating. The park also features a large amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year, drawing in crowds for some lively entertainment. There are plenty of benches and shaded areas to sit and enjoy the scenery. Long’s Park also hosts several annual events, including an art festival and a Fourth of July celebration, which bring the community together and offer a fun experience for everyone.

Climbers Run Nature Preserve

The Climbers Run Nature Preserve offers a variety of trails that goes through forests, fields, and along streams. As you explore, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, from birds to deer. One of the highlights of Climbers Run is the peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to escape the daily city life. The preserve also has educational programs and events for all ages, teaching visitors about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts. The combination of scenic beauty, well-maintained trails, and educational opportunities makes Climbers Run a standout destination.

Historic Rock Ford Plantation

The Historic Rock Ford Plantation is a preserved mansion, built in 1794, offers a glimpse into the life of General Edward Hand, an adjutant general to George Washington during the Revolutionary War. Inside the house, you’ll see original furnishings and artifacts that provide a sense of 18th century living. The guides share interesting stories about the Hand family and the period in which they lived. The plantation grounds with lovely gardens and scenic views of the Conestoga River. The site also hosts reenactments, which bring history to life and offer an engaging experience for visitors.

6. Nearby Attractions

Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is a vibrant event that take visitors back to the 16th century. Held on the grounds of the Mount Hope Estate and Winery, this annual festival is a fun-filled experience. As you wander, you’ll encounter costumed performers, artisans, and vendors selling a variety of goods. The fair offers jousting tournaments, musical performances, and theatrical shows. One of the highlights is the jousting tournament, featuring knights in armor competing in displays of skill and bravery. The fair also has many stages where musicians, dancers, and actors perform every day.

Choo Choo Barn

The Choo Choo Barn is a model train display, spanning 1,700 square feet, is a miniature wonderland that brings the charm of Lancaster County to life. You’ll see over 150 hand-built animated figures and scenes, each meticulously crafted to capture everyday life in the area. The display features local landmarks and even a circus, all brought to life with moving parts and lights. The attention to detail is impressive, with tiny figures working on a construction site, a fire truck racing to a scene, and even an Amish barn raising. The trains goes through these scenes, creating an engaging experience.

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

As you explore the Cherry Crest Adventure Farm , you’ll find a corn maze, which is a big hit with visitors. The maze is well-designed and provides a challenge for those looking to test their navigation skills. In addition to the corn maze, there are hayrides, petting zoos, and play areas for children. The farm also features a pumpkin patch, where you can pick your own pumpkins during the fall season. There are food stands offering tasty treats, making it easy to grab a snack while enjoying the activities. The farm hosts special events, including seasonal festivals and live entertainment.

Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve

The Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve offers many trails that goes through forests and meadows. As you walk, you’ll come across beautiful views, including scenic overlooks and rock formations. The preserve is home to a variety of plants and animals, making it a great spot for nature lovers and photographers. One of the highlights of hiking at Welsh Mountain is the well-marked trails and several spots along the way to stop and rest or have a picnic. The preserve also has educational signs that provide information about the local flora and fauna, adding to the experience.

7. Day Trips & Excursions

Longwood Gardens

Located just a short drive away from Lancaster, Longwood Gardens offers a variety of attractions to explore. Stretching over 1,000 acres, the gardens feature a wide range of plants, from colorful flowers to towering trees, creating a lush and vibrant atmosphere. One of the highlights is the Conservatory, a large greenhouse filled with exotic plants and flowers. The gardens also have several fountains and water features, including the impressive Main Fountain Garden, which offers daily shows that combine water, music, and light. Every year, it hosts various events and exhibitions, adding to the experience.

York

From Lancaster, take a short drive to York for a memorable day of visit. Start your day by exploring the Colonial Complex, where you can learn about York’s role in American history. The guides provide interesting insights into the lives of the early settlers. After that, head to the York Central Market, a vibrant spot with local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious treats. It’s a perfect place to grab a snack and enjoy the local flavors. Next, visit the Agricultural and Industrial Museum, where you’ll discover the rich heritage of York’s farming and manufacturing industries.

Reading

Planning a day trip from Lancaster to Reading is just an hour drive full of interesting stops. Start your day at the Reading Public Museum, where you can explore exhibits on art, science, and history. The museum also has beautiful gardens and a planetarium. Next, head to the Pagoda, a unique landmark that offers panoramic views of the city. After lunch, take a walk along the Schuylkill River Trail, a scenic path perfect for walking or biking. Another interesting stop is the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, where you can see various art exhibits and even take a hands-on class.

Wilmington, DE

Wilmington in Delaware is about 2 hours drive from Lancaster, that offers plenty of attractions to enjoy. Start your day at the Delaware Art Museum, where you can admire a variety of artworks and enjoy the beautiful grounds. Next, head to the Riverfront area, which has scenic views, restaurants, and shops. After lunch, visit the Hagley Museum and Library, where you can learn about the history of the DuPont family and their contributions to industry and science. If you have kids, the Delaware Children’s Museum is a fun stop with hands-on activities and exhibits, and a lot more to do.

How to Reach Lancaster

If you’re coming from Philadelphia, you can drive along the scenic PA-283, which takes about 1.5 hours. Another option is to take the Amtrak train from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station to Lancaster. This train ride is comfortable and gives you a chance to relax and enjoy the countryside views. If you’re traveling from New York City, driving takes around 3 hours via I-76 West and US-222 South. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from Penn Station to Lancaster, with a transfer in Philadelphia.

For those flying, the nearest major airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located about 45 minutes from Lancaster. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Lancaster. If you prefer to take the bus, Greyhound and Megabus offer routes to Lancaster from various cities. Once in Lancaster, you’ll find it easy to navigate the charming streets, whether you’re driving, biking, or walking. With various travel options, reaching Lancaster is convenient and allows you to enjoy a pleasant journey to this beautiful destination.

Local Transportation

In Lancaster, one of the primary modes of transportation is the Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA) bus service. The RRTA operates numerous routes throughout Lancaster and nearby areas, making it a convenient choice for both residents and visitors. The buses operate with frequent stops at key locations such as shopping centers, schools, and tourist attractions. For those who prefer a more flexible option, taxis and rideshare services are available anytime. These services provide a convenient way to travel around the city.

If you enjoy biking, Lancaster has several bike-friendly paths and lanes, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Bike rentals are available at various locations, allowing you to enjoy the scenic routes and beautiful landscapes at your own pace. Walking is also a pleasant way to get around Lancaster, particularly in the downtown area, where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short distance of each other. For longer trips or to visit nearby towns, car rental agencies in Lancaster, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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