His show combines music, lights, shadows and narration. Looking things to do when the grandkids visit your Lancaster County home? It offers all kinds of rides, games and activities for people who dont mind getting a little muddy in Lancaster. 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. Search tours and activities with increased health and safety practices. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. The Lancaster Science Factory is the perfect family-friendly activity. You dont have to drop big bucks to enjoy some quality time with your family! Results 1 Hollinger Lane, Star Barn Way Elizabethtown, PA 17022 717-902-9791 Learn More Map Video Strasburg Rail Road Steam through Amish country. Lititz itself offers many small shops, fantastic restaurants, museums, art galleries , hiking trails, and more. Visit the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area if youre looking for charming, romantic destinations with lots of things to see. Pennsylvania Its one of the premiere destinations of Pennsylvania. Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Erie, PAand things to do in Pittsburgh! Previous guests say they were impressed with the hotel's unique room types and family-friendly atmosphere. 246 N. Decatur Street, Strasburg, PA 17579, 717-344-2488 Visit Website Learn More Coupon Map Reviews Video A is For Amish Buggy Rides Lancaster is a treasure trove for those who love vintage furniture, decor and other wares from a time gone by. Join Thomas the Tank Engine, Percy, Mavis, and Rusty during Day Out With Thomas, visiting multiple times a year. You can plan a trip thats both educational and entertaining at the same time. Make sure you bring your appetite if you visit. For example, chowchow pickles vegetables in mustard, and scrapple is made with cornmeal and pork scraps. And if you're a local Lancastrian looking for some staycation ideas, check out the list above. 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. Gettysburg, PA 17325. 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. 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. Choose between a 1, 2, 3, The good news is that the Kitchen Kettle Village makes it easy! With over 1 million objects When you visit Lancaster, you'll experience a countryside steeped in history, art, creativity, fun and most importantly, that Pennsylvania Dutch Country goodness. Black Rock Retreat, a Christian Retreat Center and Summer Family fun and entertainment. Youll get a true, authentic look at Amish country when you visit their shops, tour their villages and take a bus ride through their farmlands. Address:126 N Water St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. German Do you enjoy TV detective shows such as CSI or Sherlock 18 E McGovern Ave, Station Square Center Making homemade pretzels, visiting a clock museum and staying in a hotel that resembles a steamboat are just a few of the many unique things to do in Lancaster. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster as an astronomy geek, this museum will be your shooting star. Located at the Mennonite Life Visitors Center, the Indoor, air-conditioned Farmers Market in Lancaster, PA 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike A haunted house will keep your heart racing as you stumble through demons, zombies, monsters and other terrors. That said, the campground comes with plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable. So Many Things to Do in Lancaster Pennsylvania. Based conveniently on the Susquehanna River in Lancaster 41 Walnut St./1028 River Rd. At Americas oldest short-line railroad, enjoy a 45-minute ride, aboard an authentic steam train. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Campgrounds are available if youd like to turn it into a full weekend adventure. Amish At Home Meals - Hosted By Samuel and Ruth Lapp at Amish Meals at Home with Samuel and Ruth Lapp. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Who are the Amish and why do they live like that? Amish attractions in Lancaster, PA Romantic things to do Outdoor activities Farm attractions Entertainment Live theatres Amish buggy rides Amish country tours Group attractions Petting zoos Escape rooms Free things to do Events Mud sales Things to do by town Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. Seller of Travel Ref. Ronks, PA 17572. 2004-2023 Cool Destinations. Try ziplining, the elevated obstacle course, giant swing and more! Here are just a few of the top things to do in Lancaster, PA. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Originally founded in 1730, Lancaster Central Market is the oldest continually running farmers market in the U.S. While you'll find antique dealers throughout the entire region, the best shops line the streets of Adamstown, known as the Antiques Capital of the U.S. Some things are just plain cool, and magic lantern shows are a great example. Hailed as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is one of the best amusement parks in Lancaster. 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. It wont take a lot of time, but itll leave a big impact. Another thing that will take your breath away is the series of hiking trails around the dam. 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. 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. Previous patrons note that the market can get crowded, but is still worth a visit to enjoy the delicious foods. You'll see and learn about Amish schools, Amish farms and culture, covered bridges, and even visit an Amish store or roadside stand. 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. Enjoy 45 minutes aboard a real steam train. This tour focuses on both the iconic and locally known dishes that A botany exhibit houses rare and beautiful plants. Pick-up and Drop-off locations are the groups choice. The Wolf Sanctuary of PA is a nonprofit wolf refuge and education facility in Lititz, housing and caring for both wolves and wolf hybrids. Photographs and listings of businesses in this website include paid advertisements. In fact, its a little outside of the city limits; its near Lancaster but not technically a part of it. Visitors can also nosh on delicious local favorites like hot soft pretzels, fresh-cut fries and Turkey Hill ice cream. Ducks weave around frogs, birds and squirrels. The best time to visit Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is in the spring or fall. Address: 301 Linden St., Columbia, PA 17512. 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! This region of the U.S. is home to 25 covered bridges from different periods of history, with many of the best-preserved bridges dating back to the 1800s. They settled in America in the 17th and 18th centuries, and they still have a substantial population in the Lancaster area. You'll be getting access to several farms and properties Free cancellation Recommended by 100% of travelers from $79.00 per adult Reserve LIKELY TO SELL OUT* 4. You can download a map of the Ale Trail on the Discover Lancaster website. Address: 1849 Hans Herr Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584. A hot air balloon ride is one of the most incredible ways to view the Pennsylvania countryside. At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. Be sure to check out the pipe organ while you're there-- it has 10,010 pipes. You'll find lots of country charm among its rolling farmlands and quaint, old-fashioned villages. It dedicates more than 1,700 square feet to hundreds of displays of trains, trams, locomotives and other hallmarks of Lancaster, PA. Theres simply no end to the entertainment once you purchase your ticket. Amish Farm and House Tour was one of the first Amish tourist attractions in Lancaster, PA, and its still among the most popular today. Mom and dad will appreciate the chance to get off their feet and relax on the benches. Get out and enjoy the many fun things to see and do throughout Lancaster County for all ages: Mud sales are a Lancaster County tradition - social events and auctions that raise funds for local volunteer fire departments. Mountain bike rentals There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. 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. Before there were televisions and movie theaters, people entertained themselves with magic lantern shows. The museum's full-scale replica of a longhouse provides a glimpse into the history and cultures of Indigenous tribes that lived in south-central Pennsylvania in the early 1700s. ComForcare Home Care Senior Citizens Services & Organizations Alzheimer's Care & Services Eldercare-Home Health Services Website 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. 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. Mom and dad can enjoy the cafes, game booths, fun houses, dinosaur exhibits and virtual reality simulations. Youll find lots of country charm among its rolling farmlands and quaint, old-fashioned villages. Decades is a six-lane boutique bowling alley and arcade A master watercolorist and pioneer of the Precisionist 120 East King Street The most famous is probably the Horse-Shoe Trail thats used by local horseback riders, but there are other paths and summits as well. You can have all kinds of fun at Longs Park. 32. Planning to travel to other parts of Pennsylvania? 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. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. With exhibits on physics, chemistry, biology, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique science center. Once you gaze into the eyes of a wild wolf hybrid, however, youll realize that it was worth the extra gas. State License Fla. 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. All things considered, however, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater makes for a great date night. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. The Old Mill Stream Campground is owned by Dutch Wonderland, the amusement park that weve already revealed as one of the best Lancaster attractions. Take back roads to avoid traffic on Route 30. From sampling award-winning ice cream at the Turkey Hill Experience to sipping craft brews along the Lancaster Ale Trail or staying in the one-of-a-kind Cartoon Network Hotel, this county offers an endless number of unique activities to partake in some family-friendly and some just for the adults. Address:2857 Lincoln Hwy A, Ronks, PA 17572, USA. Its activities can get a little messy, but its all in the name of STEM education! This award-winning, 2,000-seat theater also has a sister venue in Branson, Missouri, with shows traveling between both locations. Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Philadelphia& the fun things to do in Scranton, PA! Box 578 Read More, BLAQK House Collections is the only African American Gallery in the Downtown Pittsburgh and that it Showcases local and Unknown Artists. Stay up to date on upcoming events. Highlights of this Self-Guided Audio Tour It allows At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. Address: 219 E. Main St., Lititz, PA 17543. 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. Enjoy over 35 rides, attractions, and shows at Dutch 2249 Lincoln Highway East Address: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579. The showmen who ran them would even travel in troupes from city to city. After your ride, check out the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (directly across the street) and the Choo Choo Barn with hand-built animated figures and trains. Its completely free. If you're looking for a unique place to stay in Lancaster, consider booking a few nights at the one-of-a-kind Cartoon Network Hotel. 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. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. The Lancaster Science Factory is a hands-on science center for kids from kindergarten to the eighth grade. There's no shortage of unique and exciting things to do in Lancaster, no matter why you choose to travel. The Fulton Opera House is the oldest working theater in the United States. Theres also lists for attractions that are: Lancaster is more than just the Amish. Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square 4 /5 (160 reviews) It's also within steps of Dutch Wonderland amusement park. Address:191 College Ave, Mountville, PA 17554, USA. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster, PA, these are just a few attractions that will ensure an unforgettable vacation. Top Attractions in Lancaster See all 2022 1. For a small fee, you can create your own ice cream flavor from scratch. Imagine visiting three Amish properties where our longstanding relationships allow you to become Address: 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534, USA. 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. This Join us in our sandwich shop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 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 Address:510 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. 42. Its a point of pride in Pennsylvania, and itll give you a great story to tell your friends when you get back home. 176. Self-guided and guided tours are available, and reservations are required. Lancaster has an artistic flair, with an array of art galleries and exhibits on Gallery Row in the downtown Arts District. Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! 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. The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continually-operating railway in Pennsylvania, so its definitely one of the top places to visit in Lancaster. Each town has a slightly different atmosphere and culture to it. Theres plenty of things to do in downtown Lancaster, including: The Fulton Steamboat Inn Sleep on a Steamboat, The Old Country Store Quilts and Fabrics in Intercourse, PA, Inn at Leola Village Fine Lodging, Gracious Hospitality. 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. Read More, Explore Valley Forge National Historic Park on this private, 4- or 6-hour driving tour from Philadelphia. If it rains for more than an hour while youre there, you can get a free return pass. Its the biggest Turkey Hill building in the state, so its worth a visit while you have the chance! Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. This charming region offers experiences that harken a bygone era, including horse-and-buggy rides, antique shopping and scenic train excursions. Go sightseeing by train. Prefer to fly here? 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. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster PA on a hot summer day, consider the Turkey Hill Experience. The Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum is a living history museum in Lancaster, PA. If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, PA, consider the Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center. 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. The amusement park is designed to be a family-friendly destination for people visiting the Lancaster and Philadelphia area. FALLINGWATER - America's UNESCO World Heritage Masterpiece! Get lost in the corn maze; take a wagon ride around the property; make some new friends at the petting zoo. If you live in any of these areas, you're easily within driving distance! From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. Experience dynamic theatre, one-of-a-kind art exhibitions, and captivating live performances. It will put you in touch with nature while still giving you access to modern conveniences. Dutch Wonderland is a "Kingdom for Kids" and one of the best things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim is especially popular with a brewery, seasonal festivals and more available on its expansive property. Pennsylvania hasnt had wild wolves in more than 100 years, but you can still observe them at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Its a non-profit organization that houses, treats, tracks and rehabilitates wolves and wolf hybrids in the greater northeastern area. The Choo Choo Barn was started by a WWII vet in 1945. Offerings include a large array of theaters, historical sites, and local Amish culture. Address: 465 Speedwell Forge Road, Lititz, PA 17543, Tags: Travel, Pennsylvania Vacations, US Vacations. This town has plenty of hidden gems-spots that should not be missed. Visitors will also find a giant hay chute slide and a farm animal center filled with goats, chicks in the spring and more. Today, this has been largely abandoned, but the mall still retains its snowflake-like architecture with corridors branching out from a centrally located plaza. For kids, it can be tasty, messy fun; for couples, it can be a romantic date with heart eyes and spoon-feeding. Not only will you have your choice of fresh, organic produce, but youll also get to sample quintessential Pennsylvania dishes that you cant find anywhere else in the country. 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. 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. The horizon will be filled with hot air balloons of every color; its a sight that has to be seen to be believed. The nicest thing about the Old Mill Stream Campground is its location. For assistance with any senior fitness or recreation program, contact Elaine at ecampbell@LancasterRec.org. Guests who book the experience can learn about dairy farming through interactive exhibits, and they can also create their own virtual ice cream flavor or real ice cream in the Turkey Hill Taste Lab. Columbia, PA 17512. Theres a restroom, laundromat and country store for the essentials, and a game room with free WiFi will provide entertainment for the kids when youre busy. Itll be a fun, unique experience that gives you a greater appreciation for the lost art of marionette making. Experience one of America's largest, most engaging custom 226 Gap Rd, Route 741 East Read on to learn about the best ways to fill your days when you visit Lancaster. A dark forest filled with jump scares will necessitate a new pair of pants. Churches & Cathedrals. Columbia is one of the most popular destinations in Lancaster County since it offers everything from outdoor adventures to museums and shopping. Lancaster, PA 17602. The Fulton Theatre, considered the nation's oldest continuously operating theater and a National Historic Landmark, puts on musical productions that have included "The Little Mermaid" and "Man of La Mancha." Its hearty, down-home fare that really reflects the spirit of Lancaster. Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572, (Courtesy of The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant). Its a popular PA attraction because theres a little something for everyone, so gather the family and get your wristbands. 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. 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. Its tents, cabins and vacation homes are open to the public. Regardless of its history, Dutch Haven is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Lancaster. Read More, A huge part of Philadelphia is the food and places associated with it.