They settled in America in the 17th and 18th centuries, and they still have a substantial population in the Lancaster area. Its been ranked as one of the scariest tourist attractions in Pennsylvania by outlets like USA Today and the Travel Channel, and its right there in Lancaster County when youre traveling to southeast PA. A dark corn maze will make you question every step. Bird in Hand, PA 17505. It isnt a stuffy, boring place filled with glass displays that they arent allowed to touch. 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. Historians say that its one of the first Lancaster attractions to ever exist. or 717-399-7671. Refreshing Mountain is a year-round destination with adrenaline-pumping experiences in store. Longs Park is one of the liveliest places in Lancaster, PA. Address:909 Strasburg Pike, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA, Refreshing Mountain Retreat & Adventure Center. Advance purchase is recommended. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster as an astronomy geek, this museum will be your shooting star. 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. Featuring: Amish-made items, apparel, baked goods, books, One of south-central Pennsylvanias few professional Mt Gretna Playhouse, 451 State Route 117 If you want to experience Lancaster, PA, without paying exorbitant prices for hotels, consider the Old Mill Stream Campground. 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. Read More, Fallingwater stands as one of the greatest architectural triumphs of the 20th Century. Farm Tour: Parents and children can both enjoy them. 176. Lancaster Playground isnt an ordinary playground. Senior-friendly activities in Pennsylvania, Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option, Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket, Go City: Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions, Philadelphia to New York City Private Day Trip. All things considered, however, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater makes for a great date night. (Brian Evans/Courtesy of DiscoverLancaster.com). Copyright 1995-2023 Action Video, Inc. All rights reserved. Search tours and activities with increased health and safety practices. Take a buggy ride down dirt roads; explore the barn, stable and one-room schoolhouse. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. The horizon will be filled with hot air balloons of every color; its a sight that has to be seen to be believed. The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is the perfect place for an outing with the family. Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without eating some of the famous ice cream that's made on-site. 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." Pennsylvania The Lancaster County Park Environmental Center offers year-round events and activities for adults and children to learn about the wildlife around them. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. 2022 2. FALLINGWATER - America's UNESCO World Heritage Masterpiece! Campgrounds are available if youd like to turn it into a full weekend adventure. Previous visitors say it's a beautiful, heartwarming place to visit. Visitors of all ages can find something to do at the retreat. Theres a live animal room with toads and tarantulas; theres a fossil collection of dinosaur skulls. This is convenient if youre looking for Lancaster attractions to fit into a busy schedule. Lovers of live entertainment should check out the many local theaters in the Lancaster area, each of which rolls out its own selection of rotating shows. (Getty Images). While many visitors to Philadelphia have specific The choice is yours. The Interactive Adventure for Young Historians Our Bird-in-Hand Stage offers exceptional entertainment, 2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, #A The most famous is probably the Horse-Shoe Trail thats used by local horseback riders, but there are other paths and summits as well. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. 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 Tickets for both are available online. Experience one of America's largest, most engaging custom 226 Gap Rd, Route 741 East It doesnt get more vintage than a genuine relic of the past, and it can offer a romantic date or fun family outing for travelers in Lancaster. For assistance with any senior fitness or recreation program, contact Elaine at ecampbell@LancasterRec.org. If youre looking for points of interest in PA, try the only place in the entire state where you can find this sort of vintage wonder. If you love the theater, however, you wont want to miss the Fulton Opera House. Ronks, PA 17572. Join Thomas the Tank Engine, Percy, Mavis, and Rusty during Day Out With Thomas, visiting multiple times a year. 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! The beautiful countryside can be explored on scenic bicycle tours or take an authentic Amish buggy ride. Built on a remote, beautiful stretch of Pennsylvania woodlands, it manages to be both relaxing and exciting. Smorgabords and buffets reign supreme in Lancaster, with many of them featuring authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. 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. Amish At Home Meals - Hosted By Samuel and Ruth Lapp at Amish Meals at Home with Samuel and Ruth Lapp. If youre looking for the most romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take out your beau for a night on the town. Try ziplining, the elevated obstacle course, giant swing and more! Address: 1120 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. Another fun thing about the Strasburg Rail Road is that it offers train robbery reenactments, so if you want to huddle extra close to that special someone, take a ride on the robbery train and let Bonnie and Clyde shake you down. Play laser tag or miniature golf. Budget-friendly Good for a Rainy Day Good for Kids Free Entry 23 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. 3050 Industry Drive Lancaster, PA 17603 717-290-1303, 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. 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. 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. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 246 N. Decatur Street, Strasburg, PA 17579, 717-344-2488 Visit Website Learn More Coupon Map Reviews Video A is For Amish Buggy Rides The perfect stop for all ages! You'll find lots of country charm among its rolling farmlands and quaint, old-fashioned villages. Enjoy 45 minutes aboard a real steam train. If you dont mind a few beady eyes, however, its a quirky attraction that can give you a great vacation story! Lancaster, PA 17602. At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. Start time 09:00 AM Arriving in Amish Country allows you to step back in time to enjoy a slower, more peaceful pace. There are two ways to get soaring with this particular company: a shared or private tour. 42. Arts & Cultural in Historic Lancaster CityThe city is Columbia Crossing River Trails Center is located in Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, Susquehanna NHA. The focus of the museum is Pennsylvania Germans. Prefer to fly here? 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. Address: 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA 17572. 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. Learn More. 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). Read More, How did the Battle of Gettysburg affect the small bustling town, &the people who called it home? Enjoy over 35 rides, attractions, and shows at Dutch 2249 Lincoln Highway East Hailed as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is one of the best amusement parks in Lancaster. Most popular is Shady Maple Smorgasbord, a 200-foot, all-you-can-eat buffet. Address: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Ronks, Bird in Hand, PA 17505, USA. Theres a lot to see and do, and its all sugar-sweet. Take in a play or a movie in the park. Between its fun architecture and bustling shops, the Park City Center is worth a visit if youre looking for retail therapy in Lancaster. It can be a relaxing excursion; it can be a romantic date. Recommended for You Sight & Sound Theatres Where stories from the Bible come to life on stage. Before there were televisions and movie theaters, people entertained themselves with magic lantern shows. You can create an amazing itinerary with nothing more than these suggestions! Here are just a few of the top things to do in Lancaster, PA. Take in the scenic beauty of rural Lancaster County. San Juan Bautista Catholic Church. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Address: 1 Hartman Bridge Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. Find the best things to do in Lancaster County, PA! If you want a free treat during your Lancaster vacation, you know where to go. Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! 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 youre looking for romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take a ride on an old-fashioned locomotive train. [Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania.]. Lancaster Neighborhood Senior Center 33 E. Farnum Street Lancaster, PA 17603 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Columbia Senior Center Columbia United Methodist Church 510 Walnut St. Columbia, PA 17512 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This charming region offers experiences that harken a bygone era, including horse-and-buggy rides, antique shopping and scenic train excursions. Experience dynamic theatre, one-of-a-kind art exhibitions, and captivating live performances. 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. Previous patrons note that the market can get crowded, but is still worth a visit to enjoy the delicious foods. The Lancaster County Winery Trail impresses visitors with its wine tastings and events, although some travelers complain about high prices and limited business hours. The Fulton Opera House is the oldest working theater in the United States. Cherry Crest offers up delicious hot dogs, grilled chicken, freshly made cider donuts and roasted sweet corn. Youll have your choice of activities once you arrive at the community. 32. You dont even have to be a birdwatcher to appreciate the majesty of this many birds in flight! Theres nothing like dinner and a show, and the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater will give you a New York-style theater experience right in the heart of Pennsylvania. This museum offers truly amazing details on Amish life that you can't find elsewhere. 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. There are lots of cool things to do near Holtwood Dam, so if youre traveling to Lancaster, PA, consider a side trip to these stunning falls. Visitors can also nosh on delicious. After all, how often do you get the chance to question 17th century farmers about their own ways of life? For example, they can learn how to code or how to mix different chemical solutions. Guided tours are available with limited capacity, and Wheatland hosts a variety of educational program offerings, academic symposiums and public events throughout the year. 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. If you enjoy the history and architecture of covered bridges, you'll love Lancaster County. When youre done with the geese, you can hike one of the many nature trails that will lead you around the Lancaster area. See how beer is This new experience combines history and craft beer so participants can plunge into a cool learning experience. If youre wondering what to see in Lancaster, PA, the Lancaster Science Factory can be considered one of the top destinations in the area. 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. Request Information Read More. Unearthed Beauty. 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. Lancaster, PA is within a few hours drive from multiple international airports (and we also have a regional airport): Or maybe you'd rather take the train to Lancaster. When you visit Lancaster, you'll experience a countryside steeped in history, art, creativity, fun and most importantly, that Pennsylvania Dutch Country goodness. This area appeals to all ages and interests. 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. 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! 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. The Old Mill Stream Campground is owned by Dutch Wonderland, the amusement park that weve already revealed as one of the best Lancaster attractions. An overhead projection dome functions as a planetarium for cosmic shows. Lancaster History and Craft Beer Walk 18 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. Its the biggest Turkey Hill building in the state, so its worth a visit while you have the chance! Located at the Mennonite Life Visitors Center, the Indoor, air-conditioned Farmers Market in Lancaster, PA 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike Check out our list of the best non-touristy things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Youll be just in time for the Lancaster Balloon Festival! This market features more than 60 vendors who sell their goods from home decor and crafts to meats and cheeses three days a week, on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. (717) 208-7244. Bonfires are lit for marshmallows and hot dogs, and live entertainment is available on special occasions. You can have all kinds of fun at Longs Park. 63. Search for seasonal festivals, wine and food events, local music A guide to the best places to stay in Lancaster, PA. Lancaster County dining scene has all the Pennsylvania Dutch dishes you know and love, as well as fine dining options. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. Church is located in a bad section of Lancaster but we have never had a problem. See, smell, taste, experienceFarm to Table products. Why You Should Go Pick-up and Drop-off locations are the groups choice. Mom and dad will appreciate the chance to get off their feet and relax on the benches. Experience the history of this landmark with a themed tour or train ride. You probably stopped listening at the word pie.. Address:301 Linden St, Columbia, PA 17512, USA. Previous patrons say they appreciate the hilarious and interesting productions, including shows from a bygone era. There are nearly a dozen wineries to explore, each one specializing in different varieties of wine. Address:2395 Covered Bridge Dr, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. 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. Are you traveling to Lancaster in the fall? Here's some ideas of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster, PA. Get lost in a cornfield maze or tour a fascinating museum. 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. Admire the pyramids of colorful fruits and vegetables. Address:510 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Visit Website 312 Paradise Lane Ronks (near Strasburg), PA 17572 It'll give you a great sense of culture that you're probably not used to. Read More, Short and highly selective information in the audio commentary for top 16 tourist attractions in around Philadelphia. Its a funky, old-fashioned bakery that has been in operation since the 1940s, and not much has changed about its menu or decor. The Science Factory is also great for a rainy day, as it has a number of indoor activities. 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. Lancaster County also has a self-guided winery trail, which lets you traverse the countryside while stopping to sip local wines. Address: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579. The nicest thing about the Old Mill Stream Campground is its location. Longs Park has a petting zoo where visitors of all ages can make furry friends. It dedicates more than 1,700 square feet to hundreds of displays of trains, trams, locomotives and other hallmarks of Lancaster, PA. Highlights of this Self-Guided Audio Tour It allows Address: 301 Linden St., Columbia, PA 17512. Have you ever seen a pure white snow goose? Previous visitors have been impressed by the display of birds as well as the reptile room. If youre wondering what to do when youre in Lancaster, PA, hop on a buggy and hit up the Kitchen Kettle Village. Lancaster, PA 17601. Read More, A private tour to the Philadelphia Countryside is 8 hours. Daily tours - please call ahead for reservation. Explore the arts Wine & Dine Come hungry! 2FL P.O. This extraordinary park isthe site of the 1777-78 winter Enjoy a Lancaster history and craft beer walk (from USD 79.0) Show all photos. See the current mud sale schedule for this year as well as images and videos. The Fulton is Lancaster County's professional regional 12 North Prince Street Hungry guests with a sweet tooth will also enjoy the chocolate-covered pretzels on offer. 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. Intercourse, PA 17534. They can learn how steam engines work; they can watch steam mills and textile processes in action. 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. A water fountain is surrounded by benches if you ever need to set down your shopping bags for a minute. Address: 54 New Holland Ave., Lancaster, PA 17602. If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, PA, consider the Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center. It is open as a museum that includes a gift shop and a cafe. If youre looking for cool places for your six-year-old dinosaur lover, this museum will make him roar. This Museum visitors are Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. 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. Founded in 1832, Strasburg Rail Road isthe oldest continuously operating railroad in both America and the Western Hemisphere. 2004-2023 Cool Destinations. You dont have to spend a lot of money or hire an expensive travel guide. It will put you in touch with nature while still giving you access to modern conveniences. Stay up to date on upcoming events. The Lancaster Science Factory is a hands-on science center for kids from kindergarten to the eighth grade. Marvel at elaborate model train displays or climb aboard a train pulled by a full-sized, steam-powered locomotive. For example, chowchow pickles vegetables in mustard, and scrapple is made with cornmeal and pork scraps. Theres simply no end to the entertainment once you purchase your ticket. Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim is especially popular with a brewery, seasonal festivals and more available on its expansive property. One of the top botanical gardens in the country, Longwood Gardens is the place for anyone who enjoys flowers or unusual plants. Previous visitors say the pretzels are delicious, the tour guides are great and that this is a must-visit in Lititz. At Abe's, enjoy a private tour - just you and yours - in a 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike Beer lovers can try an array of local favorites on the Lancaster Ale Trail, a self-guided brewery crawl with stops throughout Lancaster County. 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? Despite the name, the Fulton Opera House doesnt see a lot of opera concerts anymore. James Buchanan's Wheatland is made up of a Federal-style mansion and several outbuildings on more than 150 acres of land. It offers everything from roller coasters to water slides, so children of all ages will be able to shriek, splash and scamper to their hearts content. 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. And if you're a local Lancastrian looking for some staycation ideas, check out the list above. You can take a self-guided driving tour of Lancaster's covered bridges with five different routes outlined by Discover Lancaster. Hand dipped ice cream, outdoor seating, play area. 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). If youre looking for the best places to go in Lancaster, consider the Choo Choo Barn. Once you gaze into the eyes of a wild wolf hybrid, however, youll realize that it was worth the extra gas. So Many Things to Do in Lancaster Pennsylvania. 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. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. The North Museum of Nature and Science is a place where science comes to life. Groups. 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. Mountain bike rentals The Choo Choo Barn was started by a WWII vet in 1945. Another thing that will take your breath away is the series of hiking trails around the dam. 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.
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