1. Visit. Listen to the tinkle of wooden wind chimes. Lancaster, PA 17603. The names are legendary. Based conveniently on the Susquehanna River in Lancaster 41 Walnut St./1028 River Rd. 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. A dark forest filled with jump scares will necessitate a new pair of pants. Farm Tour: Address: 2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. 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. If you dont mind getting wet, theres also a Holtwood Dam Whitewater Play Park where you can go paddling or kayaking. Run by Turkey Hill, a dairy company in Pennsylvania, the Turkey Hill Experience is basically a self-guided tour through their headquarters. Guided tours are offered, but require a reservation in advance. Copyright 1995-2023 Action Video, Inc. All rights reserved. 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. Take in the scenic beauty of rural Lancaster County. 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. If youre looking for cool places for your six-year-old dinosaur lover, this museum will make him roar. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. Visitors to the Lancaster Science Factory can play, build, dream and create things that have real-world value in the fields of science and engineering. You'll see and learn about Amish schools, Amish farms and culture, covered bridges, and even visit an Amish store or roadside stand. Its the biggest Turkey Hill building in the state, so its worth a visit while you have the chance! Another nice thing about Dutch Wonderland is that its super convenient for tourists. The park always has an event going on, so its just a matter of catching the latest musical festival, barbecue competition or fine arts fair. Another notable attraction in Columbia is the Turkey Hill Experience, which combines the craft of ice cream making with the joy of eating it. Visitors of all ages can find something to do at the retreat. 340) Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505 717-392-1794, 4606 Marietta Avenue Columbia, PA 17512 717-669-2042, 211 South Donerville Road Lancaster, PA 17603 717-872-1554, 312 Primrose Lane Mountville, PA 17554 717-285-7007, 900 Lancaster Pike Quarryville, PA 17566 717-859-4244, 800-344-7855, 2089 Risser Mill Road Mount Joy, PA 17552 717-653-2757, 632 W. Main Street Ephrata, PA 17522 717-733-6600, 63 Bridle Path Road Kirkwood, PA 17536 717-786-4928, 368 Middletown Road Hummelstown, PA 17036 717-566-8131, 219 E. Main Street Lititz, PA 17543 717-626-4354, 2521 Lincoln Hwy (Route 30) Ronks, PA 17572 717-391-8234, Kitchen Kettle Village 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. Theres a reason why its one of the top points of interest in Lancaster, so make sure to put it on your list of attractions to visit while youre in Pennsylvania. 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. Previous visitors say it's a beautiful, heartwarming place to visit. 54 of Maximum 4 people per class, children 10 years and over are welcomed. Longs Park has a petting zoo where visitors of all ages can make furry friends. Restaurants & Food in Lancaster, PA 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. Amish Farm and House Tour was one of the first Amish tourist attractions in Lancaster, PA, and its still among the most popular today. The Wolf Sanctuary of PA is a nonprofit wolf refuge and education facility in Lititz, housing and caring for both wolves and wolf hybrids. Toddlers can enjoy the carousels and teacup rides. Experience the history of this landmark with a themed tour or train ride. Intercourse, PA 17534. Featuring: Amish-made items, apparel, baked goods, books, One of south-central Pennsylvanias few professional Mt Gretna Playhouse, 451 State Route 117 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. By Kathryn921. James Buchanan's Wheatland is made up of a Federal-style mansion and several outbuildings on more than 150 acres of land. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. You can also participate in different activities depending on the size of your family or group. The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continually-operating railway in Pennsylvania, so its definitely one of the top places to visit in Lancaster. Why You Should Go This extraordinary park is the site of the 1777-78 winter. For assistance with any senior fitness or recreation program, contact Elaine at ecampbell@LancasterRec.org. A botany exhibit houses rare and beautiful plants. During the summertime. The American Revolution was dramatic, gritty, and full of uncertainty- an era of unparalleled political and social upheaval, even by todays standards. 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. State License Fla. The Lancaster Science Factory is the perfect family-friendly activity. (Getty Images). Visitors to Wheatland praise the guided tours and the beautiful decor and furnishings found in the mansion on the property. Decades is a six-lane boutique bowling alley and arcade A master watercolorist and pioneer of the Precisionist 120 East King Street 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. Visitors to this science museum say it's fun for all ages, including adults. Enjoy over 35 rides, attractions, and shows at Dutch 2249 Lincoln Highway East You dont have to wait for Halloween to enjoy spooky adventures in Pennsylvania. That said, the campground comes with plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable. Visit the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area if youre looking for charming, romantic destinations with lots of things to see. Try our amazing breakfast sandwiches, famous toasted cheese sandwiches, and fried cheese curds. 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. 3. Shop til you drop at the Park City Center. Classes are booked in advance. There are nearly a dozen wineries to explore, each one specializing in different varieties of wine. The Lancaster Science Factory is a hands-on science center for kids from kindergarten to the eighth grade. Previous visitors have been impressed by the display of birds as well as the reptile room. An overhead projection dome functions as a planetarium for cosmic shows. Its activities can get a little messy, but its all in the name of STEM education! Address:226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA. Previous patrons say they appreciate the hilarious and interesting productions, including shows from a bygone era. Visiting other areas of Pennsylvania? Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum | 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster Railroad Museum of PA | 300 Gap Road, Strasburg Ephrata Cloister | 632 West Main Street, Ephrata Spring and Fall ArtWalk | May & October | Downtown Lancaster Long's Park Summer Music Series | June - August | Route 30 & Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster 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 There are so many things to do in Lititz and Lancaster County, PA that go beyond your typical Amish tourist attractions! 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. With over 1 million objects At Abe's, enjoy a private tour - just you and yours - in a 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike 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! Mount Joy, PA 17552. Join Thomas the Tank Engine, Percy, Mavis, and Rusty during Day Out With Thomas, visiting multiple times a year. Visit Website Amish Farm and House Address: 1120 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. Once you gaze into the eyes of a wild wolf hybrid, however, youll realize that it was worth the extra gas. 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. The absolute best thing about the Turkey Hill Experience is the taste lab.. 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). In the private tour, you can take your lover on a dreamy date or your parents on an amazing anniversary celebration. Hike, bike, fish or picnic on the gorgeous grounds that include everything from wildflower fields to a spring-fed lake. It has a rich history that traces its roots back to Dutch, German and English influences, and its also popular among the Amish and Mennonite communities. Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572, (Courtesy of The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant). Its a state of farms and cornfields, and theyre put to good use in places like the Field of Screams. Visitors who stop in can also enjoy living history interpretations, learn about open hearth cooking and baking, and see traditional craft demonstrations. Demuth Museum. Other theaters include the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, which offers musicals and concerts with an all-American buffet meal that changes with each performance, and the American Music Theatre, which hosts traveling acts such as Riverdance. It is heavily used during the summer months and is the perfect place for a relaxing morning or evening stroll. Its a point of pride in Pennsylvania, and itll give you a great story to tell your friends when you get back home. Here's some ideas of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster, PA. Get lost in a cornfield maze or tour a fascinating museum. Columbia, PA 17512. Activities Come experience all of the wonderful things for every age in Lancaster County. 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. This tour focuses on both the iconic and locally known dishes that Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602 Independence Hall: Philadelphia (J. Fusco/Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia) At Independence Hall in Philadelphia, you can take a free. The beautiful countryside can be explored on scenic bicycle tours or take an authentic Amish buggy ride. Hungry guests with a sweet tooth will also enjoy the chocolate-covered pretzels on offer. This means that youll enjoy a totally immersive experience with the staff greeting you in old-fashioned costumes as they walk you through the various displays and exhibits. Travel through 2,500 acres of breathtaking farmland in. Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without eating some of the famous ice cream that's made on-site. Address: 1 Hartman Bridge Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. Parents and children can both enjoy them. 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. Use caution when passing them on the road. 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. Longs Park is one of the liveliest places in Lancaster, PA. At the same time, however, Lancaster is also a thriving tourist town. Bonfires are lit for marshmallows and hot dogs, and live entertainment is available on special occasions. Offerings include a large array of theaters, historical sites, and local Amish culture. You can take a self-guided driving tour of Lancaster's covered bridges with five different routes outlined by Discover Lancaster. Amish horse-and-buggies can create dangerous road situations. Daily tours - please call ahead for reservation. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. 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. Read More, Many visitors to Lancaster seek out meaningful personal contact with the Amish community. It wont take a lot of time, but itll leave a big impact. If youre looking for unique places to visit in Lancaster, consider the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. Teenagers can ram into each other with bumper cars. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster, PA, these are just a few attractions that will ensure an unforgettable vacation. A lot of it depends on what you want to do. Self-guided and guided tours are available, and reservations are required. Address:142 Park City Center, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. 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 a fan of thrills and chills, you can test yourself with things like ziplines, climbing towers and obstacle courses. Read More. Watch cheese making via large observation windows. 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. Ice cream lovers, especially families, say they had a great time here. Enjoy 45 minutes aboard a real steam train. Experience TripAdvisor's #1 rated tour attraction in Lancaster County! In the shared tour, youll make some new friends while hundreds of feet in the air. These Florida Keys resorts are ideal for family getaways and romantic retreats. Another thing that will take your breath away is the series of hiking trails around the dam. 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. Columbia is one of the most popular destinations in Lancaster County since it offers everything from outdoor adventures to museums and shopping. This area appeals to all ages and interests. When you visit Lancaster, you'll experience a countryside steeped in history, art, creativity, fun and most importantly, that Pennsylvania Dutch Country goodness. Our work allows seniors and 10. Before there were televisions and movie theaters, people entertained themselves with magic lantern shows. This center provides visitors with information on the Amish Amish Mennonite Information Center - Morgantown. There are other things to do near and around the shop, including shopping for Amish souvenirs. All things considered, Dutch Wonderland is one of the most amazing places to visit in Lancaster when youre traveling with kids. A haunted house will keep your heart racing as you stumble through demons, zombies, monsters and other terrors. Prefer to fly here? It was created by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the days of the pioneers, and it uses molasses and brown sugar to create a sweet, crumbly and finger-licking cake. Lancaster City is home to a renowned creative community of studio artists, artisans, gallery spaces, and performing arts venues. The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. From the beginning, AAA (Amish All Around) Buggy Rides has Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides is owned by Plain people 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike Our collaborative of communities aims to help those seeking senior independent living in Lancaster, PA, find both the home and the care they need to thrive as they enjoy their retirement years successfully. While many visitors to Philadelphia have specific Mt Gretna, PA 17064-0578. Visitors agree this hotel mostly lives up to its expectations, and that the property is clean and ideal for families with small kids. Experience one of America's largest, most engaging custom 226 Gap Rd, Route 741 East Bring your camera! Previous visitors of Renningers rave about their experiences, noting that it's open on Sundays only. The Choo Choo Barn was started by a WWII vet in 1945. Mom and dad will appreciate the chance to get off their feet and relax on the benches. Learn More Places to Stay If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Black Rock Retreat, a Christian Retreat Center and Summer Family fun and entertainment. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster PA on a hot summer day, consider the Turkey Hill Experience. 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. It has a very classy atmosphere, especially when the waiters bring out your dishes in covered platters. If youre looking for the best places to go in Lancaster, consider the Choo Choo Barn. Address: 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534, USA. You dont have to drop big bucks to enjoy some quality time with your family! 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 you want a free treat during your Lancaster vacation, you know where to go. You can also donate to various charitable causes that are championed by the staff. The Old Mill Stream Campground is owned by Dutch Wonderland, the amusement park that weve already revealed as one of the best Lancaster attractions. Where stories from the Bible come to life on stage. Lancaster, PA 17602. Strasburg, PA 17579. Original Philly Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner, Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob - Two Visions of Frank Lloyd Wright, Philadelphia to Valley Forge Park, Private 4 or 6 Hour Tour, Private Driving Tour of Lancaster and Amish Country, Brandywine Valley Tour with Private Driver, Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections, The Best Pennsylvania Activities for Seniors and Over 50s. Lancaster County's most unique and iconic motel, restaurant and gift shop, serving our area for over 50 years! 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. Address: 2425 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602-1423 Website: American Music Theatre Opening hours: 9am - 6pm Price: 59 USD 9. You probably stopped listening at the word pie.. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. You 2089 Risser Mill Road Hailed as a kingdom for kids, Dutch Wonderland is one of the best amusement parks in Lancaster. Bounce on over to the trampolines of Lancaster Playground if youre looking for fun activities that you can do in Lancaster, PA, even when youre on a budget. Join our tour to understand the complex history and lifestyle Address:2395 Covered Bridge Dr, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. Your kids will be charmed by the magic of the puppets just as much as you are. Take back roads to avoid traffic on Route 30. 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. The North Museum of Nature and Science is home to an array of exhibits and features that can keep kids of all ages interested and entertained. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. With its padded seats and white tablecloths, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater looks a bit like a fine dining establishment at first glance. Vendors sell all kinds of arts, crafts, flowers and household goods, so its a great place to pick up some souvenirs from your vacation. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. For a small fee, you can create your own ice cream flavor from scratch. The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is the perfect place for an outing with the family. See, smell, taste, experienceFarm to Table products. By the time that the son needed money for college, their collection was big enough that they decided to charge admission for people to see it, and the Choo Choo Barn was born. 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. Hand dipped ice cream, outdoor seating, play area. 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. Some things are just plain cool, and magic lantern shows are a great example. 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? Address:126 N Water St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. Lancaster Central Market 1,026 Flea & Street Markets By Z9982YKdavidg The Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum is a living history museum in Lancaster, PA. Read More, Fallingwater stands as one of the greatest architectural triumphs of the 20th Century.