Things to do on Weekdays for Lancaster County Locals

Families

Morning –

Treat your kiddos to a totally unique breakfast experience when you dine at Casey Jones’ Restaurant. Hop aboard one of two original dining cars that once took the rails of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Your little ones will love the yummy breakfast menu and will enjoy being able to see the trains go by from the windows inside the restaurant.

While you’re out in Traintown, USA you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Prepare to be amazed when you walk into the museum and see real, life size trains – seriously - there are 100 locomotives and railroad cars all under one roof, it’s something you have to see for yourself. It’s a great photo-worthy spot to take the kids for an entertaining and educational outing!

Afternoon -

Let your child exert some of their energy at Go ‘N Bananas. It’s a kids dream – arcade games, laser tag, a 3D immersive ride, and a ropes course. The space is complete with a Toddler Zone, so all children, young and adolescent are sure to have the best time at Lancaster’s Family Fun Center – Go ‘N Bananas!

Have the kids in their teens that might think they're too cool to enjoy Go 'N Bananas or Lancaster Science Factory?

Experience the interactive, hands-on learning environment of the Lancaster Science Factory. Kids from Pre-K through 8th grade and their families will enjoy dancing on the Sustainable Energy Dancefloor, playing in the interactive Water Lab, building bridges in the Engineering Zone, exploring the new Outdoor Courtyard and so much more. New in the Spring of 2023 is the expansive SkyBridge offering views of the exhibit hall from 30 feet in the air! Come see this incredible new exhibit for yourself!

Evening –

You probably won’t be surprised to hear this, but Lancaster’s tourists LOVE Pennsylvania Dutch dining and for good reason, it’s incredible. Take time this season to get reacquainted with Lancaster’s beloved smorgasbord and buffets. It’s the perfect solution to pleasing the entire family’s appetite.

Cap off your exciting weekday adventure with dinner at one of Lancaster's kid-friendly restaurants. With playful menu items like cartoon themed cuisine at the Cartoon Kitchen, immersive Train Town dining at Cafe 1832 located at the Strasburg Rail Road, and "kids eat free" options there is surely a weeknight treat being served up in Lancaster.

Couples

Morning –

Start your day with your choice of breakfast from Market at The Wilbur. The breakfast options include delicious food from Oola Bowls, Zig’s Bakery & Café, and Whiff Roasters. Waltz Vineyards also has a tasting room on-site so you can try delicious locally crafted wine (it’s five o’clock somewhere, right?).

Continue to explore the quaint town of Lititz as you peruse the many local shops. From thrift stores to art galleries, handmade, one-of-a-kind items await!

Make a special memory when you book a hands-on tour with Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. Established in 1861, Julius Sturgis was the first commercial pretzel bakery in the United States, so lean into the educational side while enjoying the foodie experience.

Afternoon -

Drive over to the town of Manheim for the afternoon and enjoy more truly local experiences. REO Manheim Marketplace is over 25,000 square feet of unique retail and culinary offerings. Prussian Street Arcade is a boutique shopping experience with over 100 proprietors, from clothing to home décor. Mill 72 is part of the Discover Lancaster Coffee Trail so you’ll want to stop in to redeem your special offer on a warm beverage.

Manheim is home to Waltz Vineyards Estate Winery! Their European-inspired tasting room offers a truly unique experience. See beautiful local artwork, artisan cheeses, crackers and chocolates, and of course, their handcrafted wines.Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 AM – 5 PM

Evening –

Cap your day off with a locally crafted beer, mead, or braggot at ARTifice Ales & Mead. Brewing happens on location, so you’re in for a cold and fresh beverage to pair with a delicious dish from their internationally-influenced food menu.Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 4:30 PM – 9 PM | Friday & Saturday 12 PM – 11 PM | Sunday 12 PM – 9 PM

Just a short drive away, Mount Joy is another quaint small town with lots of offer – especially when it comes to craft beer. Bube’s Brewery is a 19th century brewery complex which today, operates as a microbrewery, restaurant, and hub for entertainment. Their catacomb dining space is the perfect setting for a cozy and intimate dinner date.

Outdoor Adventurers

Morning –

Whether you’re waking up before daybreak or well after sunrise, start your day with a nutritious breakfast at one of Lancaster’s vegetarian/vegan friendly restaurants or, for an extra caffeine boost visit one of our Coffee Trail participants. Check out the new Prince Street Café location in Columbia!

If you’re prepared to let the cool winter air take your breath away, then wind your way along the beautiful banks of the Susquehanna River in historic Columbia and Marietta. These small towns have rich character, demonstrated through their unique architecture and cherished through their history. During the warm months, Columbia Crossings River Trails Center is a hub of activity for fisher people, kayakers, and active individuals.

Afternoon -

From Columbia Crossings, you’re just a short walk, run, or bike ride from the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail. The trail is paved and flat, making it a pleasant ride for novice bikers, families, or those looking for a leisurely walk or jog. The peaceful path winds through Chickies Rock County Park and takes you through a cool rock tunnel. The trail is 22-miles round trip, but there are plenty of spots on the route to park and gain access to the trail for a shorter adventure.

If you’re seeking exceptional views, you have to check out Chickies Rock County Park or Susquehannock State Park. There are perfect spots to watch the sun set over the river and capture a gorgeous photo!

Evening –

End your night with a local brew at one of Columbia or Marietta’s breweries. Columbia Kettle Works offers twelve beers on tap, as well Pennsylvania wines, cocktails mixed with PA distilled liquors, and the occasional PA crafted cider. Take your pick from their delicious menu of snacks, sandwiches, meat & cheese plates, pizza, and hot dogs. The atmosphere is cozy and will make you feel part of the Columbia craft beer scene and its community.