Seasons in Lancaster, PA

Summer

Summer is one of the best times of year to visit Lancaster County, PA! Experience outdoor adventure, a horse & buggy ride, family-fun attractions and so much more. Naturally, outdoor activities abound — from zip-lining, hiking, biking, and enjoying fun-filled days at an amusement park. A walk through our historic downtown is the perfect way to spend a few hours shopping, dining, and exploring. Lancaster County is a cultural destination with wide-open spaces, ready to welcome visitors of all ages and interests. Experience the Amish, spend quality time with your loved ones, have an upscale night out on the town or embark on a thrilling outdoor adventure.

Packing List

• Cash - Hundreds of Amish-owned roadside stands dotted around the County offer farm fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and more year-round. One of the staples of Amish culture is the tendency to use cash instead of electronic payment to sell and purchase items. Be sure to have cash with you (small bills in case it’s a cash box that doesn’t provide change) so you can swing by and pick up all of the farm stand goods. Learn more about how to purchase at roadside stands and find a few on your route.

• Shoes for Farm Adventures, Hiking, or Biking - Lancaster County has a plethora of outdoor activities. From a working Amish farm tour and horse and buggy ride to hiking and biking, there’s always something to explore outside. Pack your most reliable outdoor shoes so you’re fully prepared to embrace the natural landscape of the County.

• Outdoor Blanket or Chairs - The many parks and preserves in Lancaster make for the perfect spot for a picnic or simply relaxing in the sunshine. Some of our live music venues allow you to bring your own seating to set up on the grounds, so bring your comfiest lawn chair and blanket to be set for a day (and night!) outdoors.

Fall

The brisk autumn weather is perfect for wandering through one of our many orchards, getting lost in one of our vast corn mazes, or taking to the skies and traveling across our beautiful vistas in a hot air balloon ride. Fall in Lancaster County is also harvest time — the best time to get local produce and seasonal baked goods, homemade crafts & wares at roadside stands and farmers markets. Looking for the best Halloween spot this year? Find the best spots to trick or treat in Lancaster County. Find out about all the fantastic things to do, see, and taste this fall in Lancaster County. There's tons to experience all season long!

Packing List

• Tickets - The fall is an exciting time of year because of all of the special events happening in Lancaster! Order your event tickets ahead of time to ensure you can attend on the day and time that works best for you!

• A Light Jacket or Sweatshirt- Lancaster, Pennsylvania is in the Northeast United States, which allows us to experience all four seasons and their weather patterns. Fall usually brings brisk, cool air making most days between September and October comfortable and cozy. You’ll want to check the weather before coming to town in case there’s a warmer or colder pattern during your visit.

• Reusable Tote Bag - When shopping at roadside stands, you may want to stock up with the freshest produce and goods around. Bring your favorite reusable tote bag to use there and at any of our Farmer’s Markets. If you don’t own one, visit one of Lancaster’s indie shops to see if they have any in stock. While you’re there, you’re sure to find a one-of-a-kind item that will make it well worth the trip!

Winter

Whether you venture out and brave the cold or prefer the warmer climes of the great indoors — winter in Lancaster County is a wonderland filled with exciting things to do, see, and experience. It’s the perfect time to take in a Broadway-caliber show at one of our many theaters, succumb to the temptation of our delicious fare; or seek the thrill of snow tubing down runs designed for kids of all ages. Winter in Lancaster is also ideal for exploring the many ways we celebrate the holidays –– take in the aromas of freshly baked seasonal treats, wander through our beautiful, historic downtown, and pick up a few Christmas gifts along the way.

Packing List

• Swim Suit - This packing list item might surprise you, but we promised that it will come in handy when you stay overnight at one of Lancaster's amazing hotels with an indoor pool/hot tub!

• Pack Light! - This is less of a packing list item and more a packing tip for your trip. As you continue to plan, you'll quickly find that Lancaster is a shopper's paradise! We have two outlet centers, Amish markets, furniture stores, and quilt shops, antique stores, galleries and more! Chances are you'll return home with at least one special item to commemorate your trip to Lancaster. And, since you're visiting around the holidays, you can get some gift shopping done and surprise your loved ones with a totally unique and thoughtful gift.

Spring

The warmer weather brings lots of opportunities for fun things to do outdoors. As the trees and flowers begin to bloom, hikers and bikers take to the state parks, rail trails and country roads to take in the fresh air and beautiful views of PA Dutch Country. Springtime in Lancaster also means the beginning of outdoor and al fresco dining. Restaurants throughout Lancaster County begin to open up their outdoor patios and gardens, bringing together great food and great atmospheres.

Packing List

• Boots - Pack your boots for Amish Mud Sales! Contrary to what the name suggests, Amish Mud Sales are not run by the Lancaster County Amish. They are actually outdoor auctions and sales set up to benefit our local fire companies. They get their name from the messy conditions that sometimes result from the thawing spring ground. You’ll see plenty of locals (including the Amish) looking for bargains on everything from hand-made quilts and furniture to buggies and lawn equipment.

• Covered Bridges Map - Covered Bridges are a hallmark of our local heritage and landmark of our community, and can be seen throughout most parts of the region. They are especially beautiful when the flowers and trees start to bloom again. Travel the back roads by car or by bike to experience the rich history of the area. Our Covered Bridge Tour guides you from region-to-region with some tasty stop in between.
  
• Bike - Lancaster is an outdoor adventure destination with lots of different types of activities. If you have a bike, bring it along and cruise the miles and miles of trails around the County. If you don't own a bike or can't bring it, we've got you covered. There's a handful of businesses that offer traditional and e-bike rentals!