Things to do Near Spooky Nook Sports

Spooky Nook Sports is the country’s largest indoor sports complex, exhibiting 14 acres of courts, turfs, games, food, and fun all under one roof. It may be hard to imagine that there could be more fun to have in Lancaster, but trust us, there is! Whether you’re staying for a weekend tournament or just a single-day scrimmage, Lancaster has everything you need to entertain your sports team.

1. Visit Downtown Lancaster

Only a short 15-minute drive away, Lancaster’s vibrant downtown is waiting for you to explore! Downtown Lancaster truly has it all, from beautiful historical buildings to fine dining and boutique shopping. Lancaster City features “must-visit” attractions such as the Lancaster Central Market, America’s oldest continuously operating farmers market, and Southern Market, a recently renovated food hall that offers 10+ different food options of all different cuisines and backgrounds. Another fun and unique destination is Decades, a six-lane boutique bowling alley and arcade with a full-service restaurant and bar. Located in the historic Stahr Armory on North Queen Street, Decades evokes nostalgia with class in a 90-year-old 15,000 square foot gymnasium filled with fun for all ages.

2. Experience Outdoor Adventure

Looking for a breath of fresh air? Luckily for you, Lancaster’s choices for outdoor adventure are about as endless as our landscapes!

Located a quick 10 minutes away from Spooky Nook Sports are wonderful hiking and walking locations such as Long’s Park and Chickies Rock Park. Looking to explore on wheels instead? There are plenty of ways to rent a bike and explore on your own or join a bike tour. Chiques Rock Outfitters and Unique Lancaster Experiences offer convenient and easy bike and electric bike rentals to help you explore Lancaster nature in style.

If you’re still in the mood for some outdoor excitement, Corn Cob Acres is a farm with over 50 activities that will leave your group entertained and satisfied for hours! With tons of unique activities and experiences, mixed with great food and friendly staff, it makes the 15-minute drive there feel like a breeze.

3. Enjoy Some Friendly Competition

If you have a group whose competitive spirit outlives the courts and fields of Spooky Nook Sports, then these options may be just what you need!

Located just outside of the heart of downtown Lancaster, Escape Room Lancaster offers a unique interactive, entertainment experience that appeals to a wide range of demographics. Work as a team to beat the 1-hour time limit of the 3 unique and customized escape rooms that Escape Room Lancaster has available.

Head over to Boulder’s Miniature Golf Course to enjoy their 18-hole miniature golf course. The course is conveniently located next to Scoops Ice Cream & Grille – the perfect spot for a round of victory ice cream! Shoot for a top score and be featured on the digital leaderboard at Laserdome Family Fun Center. Laserdome features their high-tech Laser Tag Arena, along with their huge collection of classic and new prize games.

4. Explore Lancaster’s History

Since its founding in 1729, Lancaster has had a rich and cherished history. Lancaster County museums and tours offer insight into every aspect of Lancaster’s history and culture. Both the National Watch & Clock Museum and President James Buchanan’s Wheatland are only about 15 minutes away from Spooky Nook. These immersive museums are great for groups to have an educational, yet entertaining experience.

The Lancaster Science Factory and North Museum of Nature and Science both offer a more “hands-on” experience for learning, allowing for your inner scientist to come out and play! The North Museum of Nature and Science features a planetarium, nature gallery, live animal room, and so much more. The Lancaster Science Factory features over 75 interactive exhibits such as their sustainable energy dance floor and their water lab.

5. Shop Till You Drop!

Long known for our fabulous outlet stores and hand-crafted Amish goods, Lancaster County is a shopper’s paradise. In addition to name-brand items found at our outlets and malls, Lancaster also has unique treasures in store at our local shops.

The Shops at Rockvale and the Tanger Outlet Center are both conveniently located along route 30, offering a combined total of over 100 different name brand shopping stores. These shops feature names such as Gap, Nike, Under Armour, and Calvin Klein.

Step away from the mainstream and support some local Lancaster businesses by shopping the streets of our small towns. Lancaster’s boutique shops are filled with unique gifts, rare books, collectibles, and curated vintage items, creating a truly memorable Lancaster shopping experience. Pennsylvania Dutch Country offers authentic quilts, furniture, farmers markets, and antique shopping. These items are often handmade and have long-lasting quality!

6. Immerse Yourself in Amish Culture

Lancaster County’s Amish Country is one of the most notable things about Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Home to one of America’s oldest Amish settlements, the PA Amish are a vital part of Lancaster County’s rich culture.

Immerse yourself in Lancaster’s Amish culture by taking a Pennsylvania Amish countryside horse and buggy ride. Afterward, explore one of our many Amish-themed attractions, such as the Amish Farm & House located just off Route 30 or The Amish Village located in Ronks, PA. These attractions offer a glimpse into the unique day-to-day lives, as well as the history and beliefs, of the PA Amish communities.

7. Dine Like a Local

Farm-to-Table cuisine is a way of life here in Lancaster County, with homemade and hand-crafted delights filling tables and tummies. Lancaster is the birthplace of the whoopie pie and is famous for traditional homemade PA Dutch style cooking. This hearty and welcoming cuisine that we’re known for now proudly shares the stage with an eclectic collection of casual eateries, quaint cafes, unique international restaurants, and fine dining. Head over to Mount Joy - just a 10 minute drive from the Nook to find your new favorite local restaurant!

Experience PA Dutch goodness at the largest smorgasbord buffet in the USA, Shady Maple Smorgasbord. Shady Maple features their founder’s favorite family recipes, prepared fresh daily. Another great smorgasbord to try is Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant and Bakery, serving real, good food since 1929. Both accommodate large groups and have something that everyone will enjoy!

Lancaster City offers a wide range of foodie experiences. Enjoy your dinner at an authentic Irish bar at Annie Bailey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant or settle in for a unique, tasty burger at Lancaster Brewing Company. No matter where you choose to dine, Lancaster will be sure to leave you full and happy!