Family Fun

In Lancaster County – the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country – families can explore the nation's original Amish community and so much more.

For a fun introduction to the Plain culture, try one of the area's interpretive attractions like the Amish Village, the Amish Experience, or the Amish Farm & House, then journey along picturesque backroads in an Amish buggy with folks like Abe's Buggy Rides, Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides, or Ed's Buggy Rides.

Enjoy the beautiful rolling farmland in a different way with a ride on the Strasburg Rail Road, the oldest shortline in the country. Take a break from the rails mid-trip, as the train stops at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, with its Amazing Maize Maze and 50 other cool farm activities. After pulling back into the SRR station, simply cross the street to enjoy the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, an incredible collection of historic locomotives and vintage railroad cars rated among the best in the world.

Lancaster is also home to Dutch Wonderland, one of the top children's amusement parks (for kids 2-10); the inspirational faith-based stories at Sight & Sounds Theatre; and thematic fun at the Turkey Hill Experience and its interactive story of their famous ice cream and teas.

There's even more fun to be had at the Lancaster Science Factory, or taking in a Lancaster Barnstormers pro baseball game, or at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum – for an authentic immersion in early Pennsylvania German life (1740-1940), with interactive demonstrations from tinsmiths, blacksmiths, and tavern keepers in period costume.

All that activity is sure to build up an appetite, so dig in to a traditional PA Dutch family-style, pass-the-platter meal at venues such as Plain & Fancy or Good ‘n Plenty.

And to rest up for the next day's activities, enjoy the great family amenities of the Best Western Premier Eden Resort & Suites or the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn. For a different type of stay, try a working farm B&B – where you can help with the chores – like Rocky Acre, Verdant View, or Olde Fogie.

Visitors are likely to find they can afford to do all this and more over a few days time, as vacation dollars go farther in Lancaster with loads of vacation packages, discount coupons, and value-priced attractions.