By FamilyTime23. Located in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern, Pennsylvania, just 70 miles east of Pittsburgh, it was designed in 1935 as a residence and summer home. Our friendly Senior Center staff will be glad to introduce you to our programs. While many of the caboose rooms sleep two, three or four people, the Large Family Caboose and Baggage Car sleep six guests, plus there is a refrigerator and microwave. Its a funky, old-fashioned bakery that has been in operation since the 1940s, and not much has changed about its menu or decor. Its housed in a big, Victorian-style building in downtown Lancaster, and its registered as a National Historic Landmark because of its heritage, culture and contributions to the PA arts community. Experience the history of this landmark with a themed tour or train ride. Ice cream lovers, especially families, say they had a great time here. Amish At Home Meals - Hosted By Samuel and Ruth Lapp at Amish Meals at Home with Samuel and Ruth Lapp. Visitors agree this hotel mostly lives up to its expectations, and that the property is clean and ideal for families with small kids. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. It isnt a stuffy, boring place filled with glass displays that they arent allowed to touch. If any part of your childhood was spent building model trains, the Choo Choo Barn will take you right back to the days of poring over whistles and wheels. The Lancaster Science Factory is a hands-on science center for kids from kindergarten to the eighth grade. Ephrata Cloister 366 Speciality Museums Historic Sites By RingoPisco12 My wife and I really enjoyed our guided tour of the buildings and grounds. Visit the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area if youre looking for charming, romantic destinations with lots of things to see. If you dont have time for the full experience at the Field of Screams, you can sign up for bite-sized frights like a haunted hayride or horror-themed escape room. Featuring: Amish-made items, apparel, baked goods, books, One of south-central Pennsylvanias few professional Mt Gretna Playhouse, 451 State Route 117 It might be Annie; it might be Saturday Night Fever. Previous guests say it's one of the most unique hotels they've ever stayed at, with some saying it very much feels like you're staying on a steamboat or even the Titanic. The class will work predominantly from still life but on occasion, the instructor . So Many Things to Do in Lancaster Pennsylvania. Sleep in a caboose, eat in a train car, shop and play and watch the Strasburg Rail Road's steam engines go right by our front porch. But lets be honest. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster as an astronomy geek, this museum will be your shooting star. You dont even have to be a birdwatcher to appreciate the majesty of this many birds in flight! Major attractions include a planetarium with an XD projection system; a live animal room with frogs, turtles, snakes and other living creatures; and a Lego Lab that lets kids use the popular blocks to build their own creations. 1 - Take in the scenic beauty of rural Lancaster County. Black Rock Retreat, a Christian Retreat Center and Summer Family fun and entertainment. Vendors sell all kinds of arts, crafts, flowers and household goods, so its a great place to pick up some souvenirs from your vacation. In fact, its a little outside of the city limits; its near Lancaster but not technically a part of it. Address:12 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. His ancient light machine has been painstakingly restored to full function. 1 Hollinger Lane, Star Barn Way Elizabethtown, PA 17022 717-902-9791 Learn More Map Video Strasburg Rail Road Steam through Amish country. Enjoy authentic trains and railroaders, shops, dining and other fun extras at the historic East Strasburg Station. Smorgabords and buffets reign supreme in Lancaster, with many of them featuring authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. If youre looking for points of interest in PA, try the only place in the entire state where you can find this sort of vintage wonder. Visitors who stop in can also enjoy living history interpretations, learn about open hearth cooking and baking, and see traditional craft demonstrations. Top Attractions in Lancaster See all 2022 1. Experience one of America's largest, most engaging custom 226 Gap Rd, Route 741 East Columbia is one of the most popular destinations in Lancaster County since it offers everything from outdoor adventures to museums and shopping. You'll be getting access to several farms and properties Free cancellation Recommended by 100% of travelers from $79.00 per adult Reserve LIKELY TO SELL OUT* 4. learn more Amish Farm Experience Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! You can also participate in different activities depending on the size of your family or group. Read More, Many visitors to Lancaster seek out meaningful personal contact with the Amish community. Itll work off some of the calories that youve been consuming at the farmers market! Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Erie, PAand things to do in Pittsburgh! The beautiful countryside can be explored on scenic bicycle tours or take an authentic Amish buggy ride. Decades is a six-lane boutique bowling alley and arcade A master watercolorist and pioneer of the Precisionist 120 East King Street Toddlers can enjoy the carousels and teacup rides. Read More, Experience a bit of the Amish life on this private driving tour from Philadelphia to Lancaster County in Pennsylvania. Our collaborative of communities aims to help those seeking senior independent living in Lancaster, PA, find both the home and the care they need to thrive as they enjoy their retirement years successfully. You probably stopped listening at the word pie.. Tickets for both are available online. The museum in particular gets high marks for its beautiful natural setting. If youre looking for the best things to do in Lancaster, check out the Lancaster Central Market. This charming region offers experiences that harken a bygone era, including horse-and-buggy rides, antique shopping and scenic train excursions. While Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is home to the oldest Amish communities in the U.S., there's a lot more to Amish Country than meets the eye. Address: 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, PA 17572. In addition to being beautiful, its also free to enter, so its at the top of our list of free things to do in Lancaster, PA. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602 Independence Hall: Philadelphia (J. Fusco/Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia) At Independence Hall in Philadelphia, you can take a free. Itll be a fun, unique experience that gives you a greater appreciation for the lost art of marionette making. The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Another fun thing about the Strasburg Rail Road is that it offers train robbery reenactments, so if you want to huddle extra close to that special someone, take a ride on the robbery train and let Bonnie and Clyde shake you down. People from all over come to Lancaster for this unique Pennsylvania experience. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. Find special events and one-of-a-kind things to do in Lancaster County all-year long. FALLINGWATER - America's UNESCO World Heritage Masterpiece! Classes are booked in advance. Self-guided and guided tours are available, and reservations are required. Intercourse, PA 17534. You can have all kinds of fun at Longs Park. Address:24 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA. Journey back 451 Baltimore Street Theres a lot to see and do, and its all sugar-sweet. Once youve tasted scrapple, youll never want an ordinary breakfast again! See, smell, taste, experienceFarm to Table products. Address:23 N Market St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. Museum visitors are take a self-guided driving tour of Lancaster's covered bridges. See the current mud sale schedule for this year as well as images and videos. learn more amish Experience Amish This Lititz Fire & Ice Festival 2023s Annual Celebration in Lititz, PA, Halloween & Oktoberfest Activities in Lancaster County, About Columbia, Marietta, and the River Towns, Eastern Lancaster County (including New Holland, East Earl, and Churchtown), Shopping in Lititz Small Town Charm & Many Unique Shops, Paradise, PA Hotels, B&Bs, and Campgrounds, attractions and things to do in Lancaster, Things to do in Eastern Lancaster County, PA, Things to do in Southern Lancaster County, PA, Traveling to Lancaster County, PA for Activities. Address:909 Strasburg Pike, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA, Refreshing Mountain Retreat & Adventure Center. Families with kids in tow should check out the Lancaster Science Factory for a fun, educational experience everyone in the crew can enjoy. (717) 208-7244. Unearthed Beauty. 42. Address:2395 Covered Bridge Dr, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. You can find just about everything at Park City Center. This living history museum is home to a Pennsylvania German Village with historic buildings, which feature a collection of more than 100,000 artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Most popular is Shady Maple Smorgasbord, a 200-foot, all-you-can-eat buffet. Theres nothing like dinner and a show, and the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater will give you a New York-style theater experience right in the heart of Pennsylvania. An overhead projection dome functions as a planetarium for cosmic shows. You dont have to drop big bucks to enjoy some quality time with your family! This area appeals to all ages and interests. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Who are the Amish and why do they live like that? Conestoga Greenway Trail. Read More, A huge part of Philadelphia is the food and places associated with it. Read More, Pennsylvania is home to a fascinating culture found in the rural farmlands outside of Philadelphia. Address:2451 Kissel Hill Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Philadelphia& the fun things to do in Scranton, PA! Churches & Cathedrals. Running along the Conestoga River, this 1.3-mile trail is a great way to explore Lancaster's natural beauty even if you are a bit short on time. A haunted house will keep your heart racing as you stumble through demons, zombies, monsters and other terrors. Do you want to experience something exciting during your trip to Lancaster? Address:455 Camp Rd, Stevens, PA 17578, USA. Visitors of all ages can find something to do at the retreat. Lancaster, PA 17602-2832. Read More, How did the Battle of Gettysburg affect the small bustling town, &the people who called it home? Senior-friendly activities in Pennsylvania, Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option, Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket, Go City: Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions, Philadelphia to New York City Private Day Trip. Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim is especially popular with a brewery, seasonal festivals and more available on its expansive property. Lancaster Central Market 23 N Market Street Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 735-6890 The Lancaster Central Market is a historic public marketplace in downtown Lancaster. Church is located in a bad section of Lancaster but we have never had a problem. Maximum 4 people per class, children 10 years and over are welcomed. Book an overnight stay in a one-room Amish schoolhouse or 18th-century inn, and enjoy special experiences that include an Amish farmland tour, ice cream socials, cornfield picnics and wine tastings. The North Museum of Nature and Science is home to an array of exhibits and features that can keep kids of all ages interested and entertained. Parks Hiking Trails. The Interactive Adventure for Young Historians There are so many things to do in Lititz and Lancaster County, PA that go beyond your typical Amish tourist attractions! Enjoy over 35 rides, attractions, and shows at Dutch 2249 Lincoln Highway East Theres a reason why its one of the top points of interest in Lancaster, so make sure to put it on your list of attractions to visit while youre in Pennsylvania. Admire the pyramids of colorful fruits and vegetables. Another nice thing about Dutch Wonderland is that its super convenient for tourists. As a sprawling complex with dozens of shops, stores, activities and tours, the Kitchen Kettle Village is one of the best places in Lancaster to learn about the Pennsylvania Dutch. Visitors to the sanctuary can take a guided tour of the wolf packs that live on the grounds. Theyre short and sweet, so you wont need a bathroom break, and theyre appropriate for all ages. Its a point of pride in Pennsylvania, and itll give you a great story to tell your friends when you get back home. This region of the U.S. is home to 25 covered bridges from different periods of history, with many of the best-preserved bridges dating back to the 1800s. Address: 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534, USA. Original Philly Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner, Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob - Two Visions of Frank Lloyd Wright, Philadelphia to Valley Forge Park, Private 4 or 6 Hour Tour, Private Driving Tour of Lancaster and Amish Country, Brandywine Valley Tour with Private Driver, Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections, The Best Pennsylvania Activities for Seniors and Over 50s. Historians say that its one of the first Lancaster attractions to ever exist. Read More, Fallingwater stands as one of the greatest architectural triumphs of the 20th Century. Check out The Wright's Ferry Mansion, which was built to increase access to new areas along the Susquehanna River, and make a stop at the National Watch & Clock Museum, home to the largest known collection of 19th-century American clocks and watches in the world. Try ziplining, the elevated obstacle course, giant swing and more! (Courtesy of Cherry Crest Adventure Farm). If your child gets distressed by the loud noises and you have to leave, you can get a full refund. Lancaster Virtual Reality Lounge offers a one-of-a-kind experience where your clan can enter a new dimension of gaming. Visiting other areas of Pennsylvania? 340) Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505 717-392-1794, 4606 Marietta Avenue Columbia, PA 17512 717-669-2042, 211 South Donerville Road Lancaster, PA 17603 717-872-1554, 312 Primrose Lane Mountville, PA 17554 717-285-7007, 900 Lancaster Pike Quarryville, PA 17566 717-859-4244, 800-344-7855, 2089 Risser Mill Road Mount Joy, PA 17552 717-653-2757, 632 W. Main Street Ephrata, PA 17522 717-733-6600, 63 Bridle Path Road Kirkwood, PA 17536 717-786-4928, 368 Middletown Road Hummelstown, PA 17036 717-566-8131, 219 E. Main Street Lititz, PA 17543 717-626-4354, 2521 Lincoln Hwy (Route 30) Ronks, PA 17572 717-391-8234, Kitchen Kettle Village 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. There are other things to do near and around the shop, including shopping for Amish souvenirs. Located in the heart of Lancaster's Amish Country, theSuper Saver includes the 90-minute guided Amish Check out this list. Originally founded in 1861, the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery in Lititz is the oldest commercial pretzel bakery in the U.S. It can be a relaxing excursion; it can be a romantic date. (Brian Evans/Courtesy of DiscoverLancaster.com). Lititz itself offers many small shops, fantastic restaurants, museums, art galleries , hiking trails, and more. 3050 Industry Drive Lancaster, PA 17603 717-290-1303, 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. As the largest shopping mall in Lancaster, PA, it covers a staggering 1.4 million square feet of retail space, and it boasts more than 170 shops across multiple stories. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Active travelers can stay busy on 39 miles of hiking trails in the area or explore the Lock 12 Historic Area or the Indian Steps Museum of Native American artifacts. No problem! You can wander through everything from jam stores to pottery barns while getting a firsthand look at the art, heritage and culture that make up the community. The on-site Herr House tends to get positive reviews, mostly due to its well-kept grounds, its artifacts and its historical significance. In the private tour, you can take your lover on a dreamy date or your parents on an amazing anniversary celebration. Lancaster County also has a self-guided winery trail, which lets you traverse the countryside while stopping to sip local wines. Address:142 Park City Center, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Lancaster is one of the most fascinating cities in Pennsylvania. Visit. When you visit Lancaster, you'll experience a countryside steeped in history, art, creativity, fun and most importantly, that Pennsylvania Dutch Country goodness. Read More, Enjoy three activities in one package at the Amish Experience! Address:150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, USA. As the oldest farmers market in Pennsylvania, Lancaster Central Market is a feast for the senses, and its definitely one of the coolest things to do in the city. Planning to travel to other parts of Pennsylvania? 2022 2. Enjoy some blood-curdling fun at the Field of Screams. Another notable attraction in Columbia is the Turkey Hill Experience, which combines the craft of ice cream making with the joy of eating it. Its one of the most fun things to do in Lancaster, PA, especially when you need to beat the heat on a hot summer day. You'll see and learn about Amish schools, Amish farms and culture, covered bridges, and even visit an Amish store or roadside stand. The park always has an event going on, so its just a matter of catching the latest musical festival, barbecue competition or fine arts fair. Visitors to Wheatland praise the guided tours and the beautiful decor and furnishings found in the mansion on the property. 63. Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Since 1997, AMT has welcomed Grammy, CMA, Dove, Tony, Emmy, 2425 Lincoln Highway East There are several places to mini-golf in Lancaster - Leisure Bowling and Golfing Center, Lost Treasure Golf and Maze, Boulder's Miniature Golf, The Shack Restaurant & Mini Golf, and Village Greens Miniature Golf and Snack Shoppe to name a few! If youre looking for unique places to visit in Lancaster, consider the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. This new experience combines history and craft beer so participants can plunge into a cool learning experience. Other theaters include the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, which offers musicals and concerts with an all-American buffet meal that changes with each performance, and the American Music Theatre, which hosts traveling acts such as Riverdance. You can download a map of the Ale Trail on the Discover Lancaster website. Speciality Museums. Book your seat and get up in the clouds as early as this weekend! Youll need to check their online schedule to know whats playing this weekend. Here you can enjoy a thriving cultural scene, a variety of special events, great food, diverse shopping opportunities, and a variety of attractions for families and things to do for kids. At Americas oldest short-line railroad, enjoy a 45-minute ride, aboard an authentic steam train. After the show, the puppeteer will give you a backstage tour of his theater, and youll get to see everything that actually goes into the show. Recommended for You Sight & Sound Theatres Where stories from the Bible come to life on stage. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. One of this country's most comprehensive collections of 3562 Old Philadelphia Pike Shop til you drop at the Park City Center. This means that youll enjoy a totally immersive experience with the staff greeting you in old-fashioned costumes as they walk you through the various displays and exhibits. Its a popular PA attraction because theres a little something for everyone, so gather the family and get your wristbands. Only minutes away from rolling farmlands and the clip-clop sound of horses and buggies, youll find the bustling city of Lancaster (population 59,000). Amish horse-and-buggies can create dangerous road situations. 246 N. Decatur Street, Strasburg, PA 17579, 717-344-2488 Visit Website Learn More Coupon Map Reviews Video A is For Amish Buggy Rides Hike, bike, fish or picnic on the gorgeous grounds that include everything from wildflower fields to a spring-fed lake. Address: 23 N. Market St., Lancaster, PA 17603. They organize food, drinks, games and even petting zoos for families who want to unplug from their electronics and go outside. If you love the theater, however, you wont want to miss the Fulton Opera House. Read More, BLAQK House Collections is the only African American Gallery in the Downtown Pittsburgh and that it Showcases local and Unknown Artists. The Choo Choo Barn was started by a WWII vet in 1945. You wont find anything else like it in the state! You can find joy and fulfillment at any one of Explore Retirement Living's independent living facilities right here in Lancaster County, PA. The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continually-operating railway in Pennsylvania, so its definitely one of the top places to visit in Lancaster. A hot air balloon ride is one of the most incredible ways to view the Pennsylvania countryside. The Fulton is Lancaster County's professional regional 12 North Prince Street Its been ranked as one of the scariest tourist attractions in Pennsylvania by outlets like USA Today and the Travel Channel, and its right there in Lancaster County when youre traveling to southeast PA. A dark corn maze will make you question every step. No. These Florida Keys resorts are ideal for family getaways and romantic retreats. You won't lack for fun things to do. Summers can get hot in Pennsylvania, and since there arent a lot of indoor attractions at the farm, youll be under the sun for most of the day. Check out our list of the best non-touristy things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Lancaster County Park Environmental Center offers year-round events and activities for adults and children to learn about the wildlife around them. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Read More, Situated directly on the University of Pennsylvania's campus, the Penn Museum is the largest University Museum in the United States! Their force is something that you wont soon forget. Its hearty, down-home fare that really reflects the spirit of Lancaster. Its also known for the fact that it attracts 100,000 migratory snow geese every year. The museum's full-scale replica of a longhouse provides a glimpse into the history and cultures of Indigenous tribes that lived in south-central Pennsylvania in the early 1700s. Read More, Learn about Philadelphias thriving brewpub scene and taste up to 16different beers on this guided brewery tour with lunch or dinner. Popular places to visit Dutch Wonderland 4.5 /5 (236 reviews) With plenty of thrill rides, attractions, shows and water activities, this award-winning amusement park is one of the best in the state.