So Many Things to Do in Lancaster Pennsylvania. 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. 25+ Top Things to Do on Weekends in Lancaster, PA - LancasterPA.com Dutch Wonderland is a "Kingdom for Kids" and one of the best things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. All things considered, however, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater makes for a great date night. There are two ways to get soaring with this particular company: a shared or private tour. Toddlers and children of all ages will have a blast exploring: You can find an extensive list of things to do on weekends in Lancaster, PA here. 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. This museum offers truly amazing details on Amish life that you can't find elsewhere. In addition to all of the tourist attractions, Amish farmland in PA Dutch Country makes for a beautiful drive. Classic Watercolor Thursday Evening with Alice Meyer Wallace Top 13 Romantic Things To Do In Lancaster, PA - Trip101 Address:226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579, 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. There simply is no other building like it on Planet Earth. After all, how often do you get the chance to question 17th century farmers about their own ways of life? Recommended for You Sight & Sound Theatres Where stories from the Bible come to life on stage. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. Listen to the tinkle of wooden wind chimes. Theres a lot to see and do, and its all sugar-sweet. For a small fee, you can create your own ice cream flavor from scratch. Located near Lebanon and Lancaster, the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is a gorgeous photo op. Senior Programs and Fitness - Lancaster Rec 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. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lancaster - Tripadvisor Are you ready to experience the duality of one of Americas oldest cities? This charming region offers experiences that harken a bygone era, including horse-and-buggy rides, antique shopping and scenic train excursions. In the shared tour, youll make some new friends while hundreds of feet in the air. Address:100 Museum Rd, Stevens, PA 17578, USA, Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue / flickr. 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. 28, 2023, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. 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. Lancaster, PA 17602. Hungry guests with a sweet tooth will also enjoy the chocolate-covered pretzels on offer. Read More, Short and highly selective information in the audio commentary for top 16 tourist attractions in around Philadelphia. There are other things to do near and around the shop, including shopping for Amish souvenirs. 3050 Industry Drive Lancaster, PA 17603 717-290-1303, 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. 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. The perfect stop for all ages! Despite the name, the Fulton Opera House doesnt see a lot of opera concerts anymore. If you arent hungry, there are other things to buy at Lancaster Central Market as well. Don't just stay where the tourists are get out there and explore! Farm Tour: At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. Visit. 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. Learn More Places to Stay Intercourse, PA 17534. Demuth Museum. for tickets. Columbia Historic Preservation Society Columbia, With over 50 activities on our farm, you and your children Cornwall Furnace, in blast from 1742 to 1883, is one of the 1525 Oregon Pike, Suite 1402 17 Best Things to Do in Lancaster, PA - Family Destinations Guide (Courtesy of Cherry Crest Adventure Farm). Cherry Crest offers up delicious hot dogs, grilled chicken, freshly made cider donuts and roasted sweet corn. You wont find anything else like it in the state! Day Trips to Lancaster County, PA - LancasterPA.com His ancient light machine has been painstakingly restored to full function. And if you're a local Lancastrian looking for some staycation ideas, check out the list above. Address: 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA 17572. By FamilyTime23. Nestled in a quiet corner of Lancaster, it has scenic views of a babbling brook and shaded tree grove. 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). (Brian Evans/Courtesy of DiscoverLancaster.com). If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, PA, consider the Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center. Owned and operated by King Swings, a local equipment supplier, it offers everything from swing sets to trampolines for kids with energy to burn. Vendors sell all kinds of arts, crafts, flowers and household goods, so its a great place to pick up some souvenirs from your vacation. While Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is home to the oldest Amish communities in the U.S., there's a lot more to Amish Country than meets the eye. Youll have your choice of activities once you arrive at the community. If youre afraid of dolls, puppets or mannequins, the Lancaster Marionette Theatre might sound like something out of your worst nightmare. The beautiful countryside can be explored on scenic bicycle tours or take an authentic Amish buggy ride. Restaurants & Food in Lancaster, PA 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). Museum visitors are 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. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 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 5 BEST Lancaster Historical & Heritage Tours - Tripadvisor If you dont mind working up a sweat, however, or if youre fine with jumping on the water slide to cool off, consider a trip to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm when youre visiting Lancaster, PA. 18 hole miniature golf course Bube's Brewery is a 19th century brewery complex; a series 102 North Market Street It might seem like a regular public park from the outside, but once you venture onto its green grass, an entire world of possibilities will open to you. There are several places to mini-golf in Lancaster - Leisure Bowling and Golfing Center, Lost Treasure Golf and Maze, Boulder's Miniature Golf, The Shack Restaurant & Mini Golf, and Village Greens Miniature Golf and Snack Shoppe to name a few! Build it Your Way! 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. BJ's Restaurants, Inc. hiring Senior Kitchen Manager in Lancaster You dont have to wait for Halloween to enjoy spooky adventures in Pennsylvania. You dont have to spend a lot of money or hire an expensive travel guide. You can also explore a pumpkin patch, shoot a paintball gun or zip down a water slide. If you dont mind getting wet, theres also a Holtwood Dam Whitewater Play Park where you can go paddling or kayaking. 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. The Fulton Steamboat Inn isn't located on an actual steamboat, but it certainly resembles one. Itll be a fun, unique experience that gives you a greater appreciation for the lost art of marionette making. Play laser tag or miniature golf. Columbia, PA 17512. It is open as a museum that includes a gift shop and a cafe. Address:142 Park City Center, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Originally founded in 1730, Lancaster Central Market is the oldest continually running farmers market in the U.S. Join Thomas the Tank Engine, Percy, Mavis, and Rusty during Day Out With Thomas, visiting multiple times a year. Address: 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster, PA 17601. 25+ Top Tours of Lancaster PA & Amish Country (Guided Tours) Amish Tours Since 1997, AMT has welcomed Grammy, CMA, Dove, Tony, Emmy, 2425 Lincoln Highway East Groups. Call 717-844-1444 or email me at. If youre looking for the best places to go in Lancaster, consider the Choo Choo Barn. Unique Amish Immersion in Lancaster 66 By loKal Experiences Bus Tours 3 hours This is a unique and comprehensive look into the Amish way of life. If you love the theater, however, you wont want to miss the Fulton Opera House. Bird in Hand, PA 17505. Lancaster City is home to a renowned creative community of studio artists, artisans, gallery spaces, and performing arts venues. Enjoy a Lancaster history and craft beer walk (from USD 79.0) Show all photos. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. Speciality Museums. State License Fla. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. There are over 30 rides that will entertain all ages. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lancaster - Tripadvisor ComForcare Home Care Senior Citizens Services & Organizations Alzheimer's Care & Services Eldercare-Home Health Services Website The most famous is probably the Horse-Shoe Trail thats used by local horseback riders, but there are other paths and summits as well. Be sure to check out the pipe organ while you're there-- it has 10,010 pipes. Its free to explore the Kitchen Kettle Village, but if something catches your eye, your money will be supporting local businesses. 2022 2. learn more Amish Farm Experience Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! This extraordinary park is the site of the 1777-78 winter. 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. 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. Today, this has been largely abandoned, but the mall still retains its snowflake-like architecture with corridors branching out from a centrally located plaza. Visitors agree this hotel mostly lives up to its expectations, and that the property is clean and ideal for families with small kids. 3. Longs Park has a petting zoo where visitors of all ages can make furry friends. Beer lovers can try an array of local favorites on the Lancaster Ale Trail, a self-guided brewery crawl with stops throughout Lancaster County. It will put you in touch with nature while still giving you access to modern conveniences. You can also donate to various charitable causes that are championed by the staff. Another notable attraction in Columbia is the Turkey Hill Experience, which combines the craft of ice cream making with the joy of eating it. 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. Most visitors agree the amusement park is best for young kids, but that the whole family will enjoy it. Read More, Many visitors to Lancaster seek out meaningful personal contact with the Amish community. Its hearty, down-home fare that really reflects the spirit of Lancaster. Their force is something that you wont soon forget. 2004-2023 Cool Destinations. Lancaster is one of the most fascinating cities in Pennsylvania. Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, Lancaster, Everything is age-appropriate for growing minds, but its also a lot more dynamic than just sitting in a classroom and reading a textbook. If you dont have time for the full experience at the Field of Screams, you can sign up for bite-sized frights like a haunted hayride or horror-themed escape room. You 2089 Risser Mill Road See how beer is A botany exhibit houses rare and beautiful plants. 36 Top Things to Do in Pennsylvania - US News & World Report Some things are just plain cool, and magic lantern shows are a great example. Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without eating some of the famous ice cream that's made on-site. Prefer to fly here? Nature lovers should visit the Holtwood Environmental Preserve, home to the Shenk's Ferry Wildflower Preserve of spring woodland flowers as well as endless opportunities for camping, boating, swimming, hunting and more. Address: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579. You can even pick up some handcrafted clothes and blankets at the gift shop. Why do 2395 Covered Bridge Drive Dont miss out on one of the biggest malls in Pennsylvania! For assistance with any senior fitness or recreation program, contact Elaine at ecampbell@LancasterRec.org. Check out this list of the best things to do in Lancaster, PA. 1. Address:455 Camp Rd, Stevens, PA 17578, USA. Many local families offer buggy rides, and you can even add on a personalized tour of a local Amish farm. 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." Previous visitors say the rides are both scenic and informative. If you live in any of these areas, you're easily within driving distance! 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. Our work allows seniors and 10. It dedicates more than 1,700 square feet to hundreds of displays of trains, trams, locomotives and other hallmarks of Lancaster, PA. Our friendly Senior Center staff will be glad to introduce you to our programs. San Juan Bautista Catholic Church. This award-winning, 2,000-seat theater also has a sister venue in Branson, Missouri, with shows traveling between both locations. 1 - Address:400 College Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. When youre done with the geese, you can hike one of the many nature trails that will lead you around the Lancaster area. Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. The Fulton is Lancaster County's professional regional 12 North Prince Street Its activities can get a little messy, but its all in the name of STEM education! You dont even have to be a birdwatcher to appreciate the majesty of this many birds in flight! The Pennsylvania Dutch have a long, fascinating history, and they played such a crucial role in the founding of Lancaster that it would be a shame to visit the city without learning more about them. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Who are the Amish and why do they live like that? If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, check out the Lancaster Central Market. One of the top botanical gardens in the country, Longwood Gardens is the place for anyone who enjoys flowers or unusual plants. The showmen who ran them would even travel in troupes from city to city. 32. (717) 208-7244. Address: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Ronks, Bird in Hand, PA 17505, USA. In addition to its everyday exhibits, the Lancaster Science Factory also hosts a number of classes, clubs and workshops. Itll be a lot of fun, especially for kids, and itll teach you meaningful lessons about the past. If this sounds like an idyllic spot, youre absolutely right. Things to Do - Visit Lancaster City If your child gets distressed by the loud noises and you have to leave, you can get a full refund. Bird-in-Hand is a quaint village that transports visitors to simpler times. Lancaster Virtual Reality Lounge offers a one-of-a-kind experience where your clan can enter a new dimension of gaming. Use caution when passing them on the road. Run by a single puppeteer with a passion for his craft, the Lancaster Marionette Theatre puts on shows that are a delight to watch. You'll see and learn about Amish schools, Amish farms and culture, covered bridges, and even visit an Amish store or roadside stand. Its especially breathtaking when you fly over the picturesque farmlands of Amish country, and thats exactly what youll get when you book a tour with Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Rides. Lititz Springs Park is a gorgeous place to escape the hustle and bustle of Lancaster. Address: 2425 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602-1423 Website: American Music Theatre Opening hours: 9am - 6pm Price: 59 USD 9. 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. If youre interested in broadening your horizons and maybe overcoming a few stereotypes, call and reserve your bus. Mom and dad can enjoy the cafes, game booths, fun houses, dinosaur exhibits and virtual reality simulations. Senior Centers and Programs in Lancaster County PA These Florida Keys resorts are ideal for family getaways and romantic retreats. It offers all kinds of rides, games and activities for people who dont mind getting a little muddy in Lancaster. Box 578 Try our amazing breakfast sandwiches, famous toasted cheese sandwiches, and fried cheese curds. 246 N. Decatur Street, Strasburg, PA 17579, 717-344-2488 Visit Website Learn More Coupon Map Reviews Video A is For Amish Buggy Rides Book an overnight stay in a one-room Amish schoolhouse or 18th-century inn, and enjoy special experiences that include an Amish farmland tour, ice cream socials, cornfield picnics and wine tastings. If you want a free treat during your Lancaster vacation, you know where to go. 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. Youll love the teas and ice creams of the Turkey Hill Experience. A water fountain is surrounded by benches if you ever need to set down your shopping bags for a minute. Theyre short and sweet, so you wont need a bathroom break, and theyre appropriate for all ages. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. As of 2023, you can renew your passport online. If you're looking for a unique place to stay that's both nostalgic and fun, consider the Red Caboose Motel in Ronks, Pennsylvania. 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. This new experience combines history and craft beer so participants can plunge into a cool learning experience. 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 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. Ephrata Cloister 366 Speciality Museums Historic Sites By RingoPisco12 My wife and I really enjoyed our guided tour of the buildings and grounds. Here are just a few of the top things to do in Lancaster, PA. Popular places to visit Dutch Wonderland 4.5 /5 (236 reviews) With plenty of thrill rides, attractions, shows and water activities, this award-winning amusement park is one of the best in the state. Address: 1 Hartman Bridge Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. Check out our list of the best non-touristy things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Lancaster has an artistic flair, with an array of art galleries and exhibits on Gallery Row in the downtown Arts District. If you plan your trip at the right time, you might even catch a special event like the Lancaster Playground Extravaganza. Address:2857 Lincoln Hwy A, Ronks, PA 17572, USA. Lancaster is a treasure trove for those who love vintage furniture, decor and other wares from a time gone by. Read More, A proud affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, AACA Museum, Inc. at Hershey allows visitors of all ages enjoy vehicle displays of cars, motorcycles, buses, and The North Museum of Nature and Science is a place where science comes to life. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm offers family activities galore, from wagon rides and hay jumps to singing chicken puppet shows and logic mazes. We will be meeting out front at the Entrance of the building. Guided tour of the Herr's Snack Food Factory. Visiting other areas of Pennsylvania? 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. In the private tour, you can take your lover on a dreamy date or your parents on an amazing anniversary celebration. Mt Gretna, PA 17064-0578. Theres a live animal room with toads and tarantulas; theres a fossil collection of dinosaur skulls. 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. Eastland Alpacas offers tours by donation. There are nearly a dozen wineries to explore, each one specializing in different varieties of wine. Its a funky, old-fashioned bakery that has been in operation since the 1940s, and not much has changed about its menu or decor. Read More, A private tour to the Philadelphia Countryside is 8 hours. 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. Explore the arts Wine & Dine Come hungry! Take a buggy ride down dirt roads; explore the barn, stable and one-room schoolhouse. Maximum 4 people per class, children 10 years and over are welcomed. Looking things to do when the grandkids visit your Lancaster County home? Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has something for you. If youre wondering what to see in Lancaster, PA, the Lancaster Science Factory can be considered one of the top destinations in the area. For example, they can learn how to code or how to mix different chemical solutions. The Fulton Opera House is the oldest working theater in the United States. Previous visitors say the pretzels are delicious, the tour guides are great and that this is a must-visit in Lititz. Churches & Cathedrals. Guided tours are offered, but require a reservation in advance. 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. One of this country's most comprehensive collections of 3562 Old Philadelphia Pike Lancaster County also has a self-guided winery trail, which lets you traverse the countryside while stopping to sip local wines. Lancaster, PA 17602. Lancaster, PA 17601 OPEN 24 Hours From Business: Comfort Keepers Home Care provides seniors in the Lancaster, Harrisburg, and Lititz area of Pennsylvania specialized services. Campgrounds are available if youd like to turn it into a full weekend adventure. Open year-round, it has extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits and events for every season. Today, the Choo Choo Barn is one of those unique tourist attractions that you just cant pass up when you see it advertised on a billboard. In fact, its a little outside of the city limits; its near Lancaster but not technically a part of it. This landmark motel lets you spend the night in a historic caboose that's been remodeled to serve as a retreat for couples and families. 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. From the beginning, AAA (Amish All Around) Buggy Rides has Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides is owned by Plain people 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike Top Things to Do in Lancaster, PA this January take a self-guided driving tour of Lancaster's covered bridges. Elite Coach provides charter service and ground National Historic Landmark founded in 1732. 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 on to learn about the best ways to fill your days when you visit Lancaster. Imagine visiting three Amish properties where our longstanding relationships allow you to become You can also tour the area via a mini-bus, stopping at an Amish farmhouse and for photo ops along the way. Address:454 New Holland Ave, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. You can take a self-guided driving tour of Lancaster's covered bridges with five different routes outlined by Discover Lancaster. Travel through 2,500 acres of breathtaking farmland in. Read More. 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. Families with kids in tow should check out the Lancaster Science Factory for a fun, educational experience everyone in the crew can enjoy. Experience dynamic theatre, one-of-a-kind art exhibitions, and captivating live performances. Historians say that its one of the first Lancaster attractions to ever exist. Options include the Tap Takeover, a scenic train ride that features a tasting of four local craft beers; a Murder Mystery train ride for ages 2 and up, which features live performances with the usual "whodunit" twist; and Christmastime rides such as Santa's Paradise Express. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. It might be Annie; it might be Saturday Night Fever. Hailed as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is one of the best amusement parks in Lancaster. Read More, Experience a bit of the Amish life on this private driving tour from Philadelphia to Lancaster County in Pennsylvania.