Free Things to Do in Lancaster, PA

Whether you’re planning some free fun ahead of time or are looking for a quick way to fill a few hours while you’re here, we’ve rounded up a list of Lancaster’s free attractions, outdoor spots, and events for your morning, afternoon or evening. You’ll be surprised at just how easy it is to find free things to do in Lancaster, PA.

Explore on this page

Outdoor

Farmers Markets

History & Heritage

Art Galleries & Museums

For Kids

Events

On your Birthday

Looking for a fun and budget-friendly way to explore your local area? Look no further than the many spots sharing the history and heritage of your community, as well as the trails perfect for hiking and biking. And if you're looking for even more entertainment, don't miss these free events happening in your area.

But that's not all - if you're looking to save even more money, be sure to check out the coupons and discounts available for shopping, delicious eats, and a restful overnight stay. With all these deals and savings, you will surely have a memorable and affordable experience.

Join the Lancaster County Experience Passes for FREE! These passes are packed full of discounts, freebies, and new places you probably haven't explored in Lancaster yet!

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Request a copy of our Visitors Guide to be mailed directly to your door. Start planning your trip today! Order Guide

Free Outdoor Activities in Lancaster

One of the great things about the fresh Lancaster County air is it's free! Enjoy the walking and hiking trails, biking paths, and parks as you stretch your legs, but not your budget. Before you hit the trail, stop by Columbia Crossings River Trails Center for even more area and trail information.

Parks & Preserves | Various locations
Biking & Hiking Trails | Various locations
Birding | Various locations
Columbia Crossings River Trail Center | 41 Walnut Street, Columbia
White Cliffs of Conoy | 107 Race St, Bainbridge
The Northwest River Trail | Decatur St, Marietta
Disc Golf, Pickle Ball, Volleyball | D.F. Buchmiller County Park | 1050 Rockford Rd., Lancaster
Covered Bridges Driving Tours | Various locations
Pet Mini Horses | The Li'l Country Store and Miniature Horse Farm | 264 Paradise Ln. Ronks
Mud Sales | Various locations
See Historic Trains | Strasburg Railroad | 301 Gap Road, Ronks
Shenks Ferry Wildflower Preserve | Green Hill Road, Conestoga
Fishing | Various locations
Gardens at Conestoga House (free on the last Wednesday of the month) | 1608 Marietta Ave, Lancaster
Explore Fall Foliage | Various locations
Penn State Demonstration Gardens | 1446 Auction Road, Manheim, PA 17545 | Open June - August

More Outdoor Adventure

Free Farmers Markets & Window Shopping in Lancaster

Wander our farmers markets or browse the local shops of Lancaster - all for free! You'll be surrounded by community vibes and local goodies to check out. Admission to these locations is free - however you may want to pick up some treats from local vendors as you peruse.

Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction | 955 North State Street, Ephrata
Kitchen Kettle Village | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
Lancaster Central Market | 23 North Market Street, Lancaster
Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market | 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand
Antiques Capital | Adamstown
Stoudtburg Village | 55 Stoudtburg Road, Adamstown
The 300 Block Shops | 300 North Queen Street, Lancaster
Prussian Street Arcade | 49 North Main Street, Manheim
Downtown Lititz | Lititz
Lancaster Gift Box | 317 N. Queen, Lancaster
Stoudtburg Village | 55 Stoudtburg Rd, Reinholds
Old Candle Barn Factory Tour | 3551 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
Columbia Historic Market House | 15 S. 3rd Street, Columbia
Roots Country Market & Auction (open on Tuesdays) | 705 Graystone Road, Manheim
Village Farm Market | 1520 Division Highway, Ephrata
Plant & Garden Centers | Various locations

More Markets

Free History & Heritage Attractions in Lancaster

Lancaster's stories are waiting to be told at our free heritage and history attractions. Dive into the past or discover more about the Amish way of life - all while sticking to your vacation budget.

Mascot Roller Mills | Stumptown Road & Newport Road, Ronks | Open May 1 - Oct 26
Haldeman Mansion | 230 Locust Grove Road, Bainbridge | Open every Sunday May-Oct 1-5pm
Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley Museum | 237 - 249 West Main Street, Ephrata | Open Saturdays 10-2 March - December
Lititz Moravian Church Square Archives | 8 Church Square, Lititz | Open May - October
Covered Bridges | various locations
Gettysburg National Military Park | 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA
See Historic Trains | Strasburg Railroad | 301 Gap Road, Ronks
Blue Rock Heritage Center | 2251 River Rd, Washington Boro
Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Historic Site | 25 S Queen St, Lancaster | Opening in 2026
Seiverling Museum Car & Pedal Car Museum | 66 Lancaster Ave, Ephrata
Stoudtburg Village | 55 Stoudtburg Rd, Reinholds
Outdoor Adventure + History Experiences | Various locations

More Museums

Free Art Galleries & Art Museums in Lancaster

Admire the arts in Lancaster as you browse galleries and museums that are open to the public with free admission. Works created by current artists and art from creators of the past are on display for you to enjoy.

Demuth Museum | 120 East King Street, Lancaster
Gallery Row | Prince Street, Lancaster
Lancaster Museum of Art | 135 North Lime Street, Lancaster
Friendship Heart Gallery | 118 N Water St #101, Lancaster
Kitchen Kettle Village | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
Franklin & Marshall's Phillips Museum of Art | 623 College Avenue, Lancaster
Discover Lancaster Art Gallery | 501 Greenfield Road, Lancaster
Murals | Various locations

More Art Galleries

Free for the Kids in Lancaster, PA

Traveling as a family can get a little pricey, but Lancaster offers free things to do that will entertain all ages. You'll enjoy lasting memories and family fun, without the hefty price tag.

Lil' Miniature Country Store & Horse Farm | 264 Paradise Lane, Ronks
The Red Caboose Motel | Petting Zoo | 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks
Hershey's Chocolate World | 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey
King Swings | 909 Strasburg Pike, Strasburg
LancasterHistory & Wheatland | 230 N President Ave, Lancaster
That Fish Place That Pet Place | 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster

Free for the Kids under age 3 in Lancaster, PA

Pretzel Tour | Julius Sturgis | 219 East Main Street, Lititz
Snack Factory Tour | Herr Foods Inc. | 20 Herr Drive, Nottingham (just outside of the county)
Choo Choo Barn | 226 Gap Rd, Strasburg
Turkey Hill Experience | 301 Linden St, Columbia
Lancaster Science Factory | 454 New Holland Avenue, Lancaster

More Kid Friendly Activities

Events in Lancaster, PA

Live music, awesome art, annual auctions, and more! You'll find fantastic (and FREE) events throughout the county where there is plenty of community, history, and culture to experience at various times during the year.

First Friday & Music Friday | Downtown Lancaster
Second Friday | Downtown Lititz
First Thursday | Manheim
Lititz Fire & Ice | February | Downtown Lititz
Mud Sales | Beginning in February | Various locations
Family Farm Days | Oregon Dairy
Charter Day | March
- Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum | 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster
- Railroad Museum of PA | 300 Gap Road, Strasburg
- Ephrata Cloister | 632 West Main Street, Ephrata
Spring and Fall ArtWalk | May & October | Downtown Lancaster
Long's Park Summer Music Series | June - August | Route 30 & Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster
Strawberry Festival | May - June | Lancaster County
Rhubarb Festival | May 19th & 20th | Kitchen Kettle Village
Live Music & Food Trucks | all summer long | Greenfield Park

More Events

On Your Birthday in Lancaster, PA

What's better than celebrating a birthday in Lancaster? How about a free meal or dessert? If you're in town on that special day, stop by one of the places below for a tasty meal or sweet treat on the house to celebrate. Be sure to check the birthday date verification requirements before heading out!

Shady Maple Smorgasbord | 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl
Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn | 240 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks
La Borimex | 1623 Division Highway, Ephrata
Esbenshade's Garden Centers | 546 A East 28th Division Highway, Lititz
Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe | 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand
Free 1st birthday smash cake with purchase of 8" layer or 1/4 sheet cake
Yoder's Restaurant and Buffet | 14 South Tower Road, New Holland