Spending a weekend in Lancaster, PA, and searching for fun activities to do with your family?
Look no further! Follow this guide for a two-day itinerary to ensure your getaway to Lancaster is unforgettable.
Begin your adventure by checking into one of Lancaster County’s charming countryside hotels. Whether you are looking for a hotel with amenities like a swimming pool, or a unique lodging option, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Lancaster County that suits your needs.
Savor the original flavors of PA Dutch cuisine, known for its hearty and homestyle dishes. Choose from several dining spots, such as Miller’s Restaurant & Smorgasbord, Shady Maple Smorgasbord, and Dienner’s Country Restaurant, each offering a unique taste of PA Dutch culinary heritage.
Next, take your family to Dutch Wonderland, an amusement park filled with excitement. This park is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering roller coasters, a water park, and a variety of entertainment options. Dutch Wonderland is the ideal destination for family fun throughout the year, featuring attractions that cater to all ages.
After the park, treat your family to some fresh, cow-to-cone ice cream, a local specialty of Lancaster County. There are plenty of options to choose from, including Fox Meadows with locations in Leola and Ephrata, Lapp Valley Farms in New Holland and Gordonville, and 32 Below Ice Cream Shop in Lititz. Get ready for a sweet treat!
Lancaster, PA offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures with your family. Whether you'd like to hike through scenic trails or kayak along the Susquehanna River, Lancaster County’s parks and preserves have something for everyone. For a gentle kayaking experience, consider joining KayakLanCo for guided trips on the river's calmer waters, which are safe and enjoyable for all ages. Alternatively, you can go on a relaxing and educational River Discovery Tour with Susquehanna National Heritage Area to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Susquehanna River.
Experience a journey back in time on the Strasburg Rail Road, the oldest continuously operating railroad in the US. This train offers a unique perspective of Lancaster County’s picturesque countryside. Strasburg Rail Road features a variety of specialty trains and seasonal events that cater to visitors of all ages throughout the year. For the full list of special trains and events, be sure to visit the Strasburg Rail Road Official Website.
Did you know that Lancaster County is home to America’s oldest Amish settlement? Thousands of Amish still live a centuries-old "Plain" lifestyle. Spend some time immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Amish Country. Consider taking a guided tour through the countryside, perhaps even in a traditional Amish horse and buggy.
Elevate your Lancaster getaway with a zipline experience at Refreshing Mountain. Open year-round, Refreshing Mountain offers a range of family-friendly outdoor activities, including high ropes courses and ziplines that soar 30 feet above the ground. Explore even more of Lancaster County’s outdoor adventures after you are done.
For animal enthusiasts, Lancaster County provides a wonderful opportunity to get up close with a variety of farm animals. Guests can pet, feed, and learn about different species, including cows, chickens, goats, sheep, alpacas, and more. Don’t miss out on some of Lancaster’s unique animal experiences, such as visiting Eastland Alpacas, exploring the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, or enjoying the charm of the Lil’ Miniature Horse Farm.
Lancaster County is renowned for its locally owned roadside stands, where you can find the freshest seasonal produce. Make sure to visit one during your trip— you might even discoversome made-from scratch baked goods. The roadside stands in Lancaster County offer unmatchedlocal flavor and tradition you won’t find anywhere else.
Enjoy the fresh air while dining at one of Lancaster’s open-air eateries. With many patios and porches available, you can savor an outdoor meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. To get you started, here are some outdoor dining options: Annie Bailey’s Irish Public House, Chellas Arepa Kitchen, and Funk’s Restaurant & Bar.
Downtown Lancaster features a diverse array of local shopping options, where you can findquality, unique gifts. Whether you’re interested in clothing and accessories, home décor, books,or vintage treasures, Lancaster has something for everyone. Here are some ideas to kick off yourshopping adventure: Happy Happy Joy Joy, BUiLDiNG CHARACTER, and Central Market Flowers on Queen.
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455 Camp Rd Stevens, PA 17578 (717) 738-1490 Website
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things to do
Show at Prima Theatre
We'll Get Back To You marks Prima's first non-musical play, a highly anticipated East Coast premiere showing April 25 - May 10.
stay the night
Tru by Hilton Denver
Check in to Tru by Hilton Denver to enjoy a great location and a ton of natural beauty. We’re nestled amongst the rolling hills and mountains close to Pennsylvania Dutch Amish Country.
special event
Sheep Shearing
Watch sheep shearing demonstrations on May 9th, performed by a professional shearer on Amish Farm & House's 15-acre farm.
