things to do in lancaster, pa for seniors
Bird-in-Hand is a quaint village that transports visitors to simpler times. In addition to all of the tourist attractions, Amish farmland in PA Dutch Country makes for a beautiful drive. Offerings include a large array of theaters, historical sites, and local Amish culture. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Lancaster, PA 17601. It can be beautiful and tranquil; it can be exciting and unpredictable. Its especially breathtaking when you fly over the picturesque farmlands of Amish country, and thats exactly what youll get when you book a tour with Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Rides. There's so much to explore at the area's only museum for 35 S. Willowdale Drive, Suite 1818 The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continually-operating railway in Pennsylvania, so its definitely one of the top places to visit in Lancaster. Theres also lists for attractions that are: Lancaster is more than just the Amish. In fact, its a little outside of the city limits; its near Lancaster but not technically a part of it. Description Classic Watercolor Thursday Evening w/Alice Meyer Wallace A five (5) session course This class with instruction by Alice Meyer Wallace will focus on classic watercolor techniques-Sargeant, Homer, Rodin, Nolde, and particularly Charles Demuth, from Lancaster, PA. Come enjoy this fun and relaxed class! The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Its the biggest Turkey Hill building in the state, so its worth a visit while you have the chance! Self-guided and guided tours are available, and reservations are required. Whether youre looking for a thrilling adventure in the skies or a romantic honeymoon excursion, Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Rides can take you on an unforgettable journey. Churches & Cathedrals. Read More, Save money on some of Philadelphia's best-known attractions compared to buying individual tickets with Go City's Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass. Whether you're thinking of visiting Lancaster for an authentic PA Amish experience, to shop until you drop, for exploring our vibrant downtown, to enjoy great outdoor activities, or for sharing memories with the whole family Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has something for you. Itll teach your kids something new, and they wont even realize the sneaky lessons that are taking place in the midst of their messy fun. Its a point of pride in Pennsylvania, and itll give you a great story to tell your friends when you get back home. Address: 2215 Millstream Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. A water fountain is surrounded by benches if you ever need to set down your shopping bags for a minute. Get out and enjoy the many fun things to see and do throughout Lancaster County for all ages: Mud sales are a Lancaster County tradition - social events and auctions that raise funds for local volunteer fire departments. Eastland Alpacas offers tours by donation. Its a state of farms and cornfields, and theyre put to good use in places like the Field of Screams. If youre afraid of dolls, puppets or mannequins, the Lancaster Marionette Theatre might sound like something out of your worst nightmare. Looking things to do when the grandkids visit your Lancaster County home? As you travel through the Heritage Center, discover Join us in our sandwich shop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Read More, BLAQK House Collections is the only African American Gallery in the Downtown Pittsburgh and that it Showcases local and Unknown Artists. The nicest thing about the Old Mill Stream Campground is its location. Address:23 N Market St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA. 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. In the shared tour, youll make some new friends while hundreds of feet in the air. Copyright 1995-2023 Action Video, Inc. All rights reserved. Originally founded in 1861, the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery in Lititz is the oldest commercial pretzel bakery in the U.S. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Address: 1 Hartman Bridge Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. Find special events and one-of-a-kind things to do in Lancaster County all-year long. Lancaster, PA 17602. Learn More Places to Stay If you want a free treat during your Lancaster vacation, you know where to go. Past visitors have commented on the delicious goods at the Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop and the excellent shopping at the on-site stores and boutiques. Featured breweries include Lancaster Brewing Company, Black Forest Brewery, Artifice Ales and Mead and, a bit farther afield, Tregs Independent Brewing, one of the top things to do in nearby Hershey. Between its fun architecture and bustling shops, the Park City Center is worth a visit if youre looking for retail therapy in Lancaster. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. Ronks, PA 17572. Address: 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. [Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania.]. The Amish Farm and House 2,161 Historic Sites Farms Temporarily closed By PattyLongIsland The Amish House and Farm is over 300 years old and became the first Amish tourist attraction in the USA since 1955. We offer quality opportunities to learn, improve health and most importantly, to have lots of laughs. The historic hotel features nautical- and Victorian-inspired guestrooms, an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, a fish feeding pond and the adorable Jr. First Mate's Happy Harbour Landing Playground. There are five acres to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, and theyre packed with stuff to do. If you dont mind a few beady eyes, however, its a quirky attraction that can give you a great vacation story! Try our amazing breakfast sandwiches, famous toasted cheese sandwiches, and fried cheese curds. Address: 1120 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. As a bonus, if you decide that youre in the mood for tilt-a-whirls after all, youll get a discount ticket price to the best amusement park in Pennsylvania! Based conveniently on the Susquehanna River in Lancaster 41 Walnut St./1028 River Rd. 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. If youre looking for fun things to do around the city of Lancaster, put this magical little theater on your weekend schedule. For example, chowchow pickles vegetables in mustard, and scrapple is made with cornmeal and pork scraps. Mom and dad will appreciate the chance to get off their feet and relax on the benches. Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim is especially popular with a brewery, seasonal festivals and more available on its expansive property. Today, theres only one theater where you can find authentic magic lantern shows, and its located in Lancaster, PA. Its run by a single showman as part of the local Amish Experience. Lancaster has tons of things to do with kids that parents love too! 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. The good news is that the Kitchen Kettle Village makes it easy! As one of the leaders in agri-tainment, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm combines real-world farming lessons with family-friendly fun. Bowl, drink, and dine at Decades. Top Attractions in Lancaster See all 2022 1. 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. If youre looking for the best places to go in Lancaster, consider the Choo Choo Barn. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Run by Turkey Hill, a dairy company in Pennsylvania, the Turkey Hill Experience is basically a self-guided tour through their headquarters. take a self-guided driving tour of Lancaster's covered bridges. Address:191 College Ave, Mountville, PA 17554, USA. The Pennsylvania Dutch have a long, fascinating history, and they played such a crucial role in the founding of Lancaster that it would be a shame to visit the city without learning more about them. 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. Previous visitors have been impressed by the display of birds as well as the reptile room. You can have all kinds of fun at Longs Park. Amish attractions in Lancaster, PA Romantic things to do Outdoor activities Farm attractions Entertainment Live theatres Amish buggy rides Amish country tours Group attractions Petting zoos Escape rooms Free things to do Events Mud sales Things to do by town Select from a 6-, 8-, or 10-hour No. Address:510 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Bounce on over to the trampolines of Lancaster Playground if youre looking for fun activities that you can do in Lancaster, PA, even when youre on a budget. If youre wondering what to do when youre in Lancaster, PA, hop on a buggy and hit up the Kitchen Kettle Village. 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. Pick-up and Drop-off locations are the groups choice. Lancaster, PA 17602. Build it Your Way! Visitors to Wheatland praise the guided tours and the beautiful decor and furnishings found in the mansion on the property. This is convenient if youre looking for Lancaster attractions to fit into a busy schedule. 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. 18 hole miniature golf course Bube's Brewery is a 19th century brewery complex; a series 102 North Market Street Play laser tag or miniature golf. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. Budget-friendly Good for a Rainy Day Good for Kids Free Entry 23 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. By the time that the son needed money for college, their collection was big enough that they decided to charge admission for people to see it, and the Choo Choo Barn was born. If youre wondering what to do in Lancaster, PA, these are just a few attractions that will ensure an unforgettable vacation. Regardless of its history, Dutch Haven is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Lancaster. There are both weekday and weekend tours, and theres even a special full moon tour where you can walk the sanctuary at night. Youll love the teas and ice creams of the Turkey Hill Experience. You can find joy and fulfillment at any one of Explore Retirement Living's independent living facilities right here in Lancaster County, PA. German Do you enjoy TV detective shows such as CSI or Sherlock 18 E McGovern Ave, Station Square Center Lancaster's 1719 Museum helps visitors learn about what life was like for earlyMennonite settlers and Native Americans in the area hundreds of years ago. The on-site Herr House tends to get positive reviews, mostly due to its well-kept grounds, its artifacts and its historical significance. Take a guided tour of an authentic 1840's Amish farmhouse At Artifice Ales & Mead, we specialize in Food and Beer Take a trip down memory lane with Barry's collection of 3504 Old Philadelphia Pike Its a popular PA attraction because theres a little something for everyone, so gather the family and get your wristbands. Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square 4 /5 (160 reviews) The Fulton is Lancaster County's professional regional 12 North Prince Street Read More, Experience a bit of the Amish life on this private driving tour from Philadelphia to Lancaster County in Pennsylvania. At Abe's, enjoy a private tour - just you and yours - in a 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike 63. Find the best things to do in Lancaster County, PA! You 2089 Risser Mill Road The Lancaster County Winery Trail impresses visitors with its wine tastings and events, although some travelers complain about high prices and limited business hours. Lancaster, PA 17602-1601. Address:150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, USA. Its such a legendary dish that Dutch Haven offers free samples to get you hooked because they know that youll want more after youve tried it. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. Visiting other areas of Pennsylvania? Lancaster has an artistic flair, with an array of art galleries and exhibits on Gallery Row in the downtown Arts District. Read More, Situated directly on the University of Pennsylvania's campus, the Penn Museum is the largest University Museum in the United States! Search for seasonal festivals, wine and food events, local music A guide to the best places to stay in Lancaster, PA. Lancaster County dining scene has all the Pennsylvania Dutch dishes you know and love, as well as fine dining options. Lancaster's Sight & Sound Theatres brings the stories of the Bible to life in spectacular performances that include professional actors in elaborate period costumes, trained animals, world-renowned orchestras and special effects that leave patrons in absolute awe. All tours can be made private. Previous guests say they enjoyed the activities at the farm, especially the corn maze and the slides. Take back roads to avoid traffic on Route 30. Listen to the tinkle of wooden wind chimes. Here's some ideas of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster, PA. Get lost in a cornfield maze or tour a fascinating museum. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. No problem! It's also within steps of Dutch Wonderland amusement park. If you arent hungry, there are other things to buy at Lancaster Central Market as well. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. Ducks weave around frogs, birds and squirrels. Each town has a slightly different atmosphere and culture to it. 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. Pennsylvania Address:100 Museum Rd, Stevens, PA 17578, USA, Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue / flickr. Address:909 Strasburg Pike, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA, Refreshing Mountain Retreat & Adventure Center. Most popular is Shady Maple Smorgasbord, a 200-foot, all-you-can-eat buffet. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Who are the Amish and why do they live like that? Youll be just in time for the Lancaster Balloon Festival! Nestled in a quiet corner of Lancaster, it has scenic views of a babbling brook and shaded tree grove. 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. The Green Dragon Farmer's Market 548 Flea & Street Markets By Sdm0627 Previous guests say they were impressed with the hotel's unique room types and family-friendly atmosphere. It wont take a lot of time, but itll leave a big impact. Refreshing Mountain is a year-round destination with adrenaline-pumping experiences in store. Explore historical landmarks, museums, and even local dessert parlors What's Included Snacks Meeting And Pickup Meeting point East King Street Garage 150 E King St, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA Open in Google Maps Please park in the East King Street Parking Garage. Experience the history of this landmark with a themed tour or train ride. A lot of it depends on what you want to do. The focus of the museum is Pennsylvania Germans. It isnt a stuffy, boring place filled with glass displays that they arent allowed to touch. Lancaster is also known for its small towns (with many unique names) sprinkled throughout the county. In addition to its everyday exhibits, the Lancaster Science Factory also hosts a number of classes, clubs and workshops. 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. Box 578 What kind of train ride do you want to have in PA? Today, the Choo Choo Barn is one of those unique tourist attractions that you just cant pass up when you see it advertised on a billboard. Amish At Home Meals - Hosted By Samuel and Ruth Lapp at Amish Meals at Home with Samuel and Ruth Lapp. There are over 30 rides that will entertain all ages. Visitors to the Lancaster area can stop in this bakery to learn how these famous hot pretzels are made and sample a few kinds along the way. Itll be a fun, unique experience that gives you a greater appreciation for the lost art of marionette making. Lancaster Neighborhood Senior Center 33 E. Farnum Street Lancaster, PA 17603 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Columbia Senior Center Columbia United Methodist Church 510 Walnut St. Columbia, PA 17512 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 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. Watch cheese making via large observation windows. Our work allows seniors and 10. Lancaster Central Market 1,026 Flea & Street Markets By Z9982YKdavidg 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. The Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center lives up to its name. See how beer is 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. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. Explore the arts Wine & Dine Come hungry! This Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Philadelphia& the fun things to do in Scranton, PA! Arts & Cultural in Historic Lancaster CityThe city is Columbia Crossing River Trails Center is located in Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, Susquehanna NHA. (Courtesy of Cherry Crest Adventure Farm). The chief attraction of Lancaster Central Market is the food. It will put you in touch with nature while still giving you access to modern conveniences. Dutch Wonderland is a popular Pennsylvania theme park with more than 35 rides, attractions and shows as well as Duke's Lagoon water play area. Journey back 451 Baltimore Street This center provides visitors with information on the Amish Amish Mennonite Information Center - Morgantown. One of the best things about Lititz Springs Park is that it often plays host to special events, so if you visit at the right time, you can join everything from wine festivals to ice sculpture competitions. Demuth Museum. Depending on your strength and stamina, you can attempt everything from beginner-level treks to expert-level summits. Its also known for the fact that it attracts 100,000 migratory snow geese every year. Lancaster County's most unique and iconic motel, restaurant and gift shop, serving our area for over 50 years! 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. Theres lots of things to do in Lancaster County, PA. Heres a list of 101+ popular things to do. This charming region offers experiences that harken a bygone era, including horse-and-buggy rides, antique shopping and scenic train excursions. All things considered, however, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater makes for a great date night. 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. When youre done with the geese, you can hike one of the many nature trails that will lead you around the Lancaster area. Mt Gretna, PA 17064-0578. 32. Lancaster, PA 17603. See, smell, taste, experienceFarm to Table products. 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. After your ride, check out the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (directly across the street) and the Choo Choo Barn with hand-built animated figures and trains. Call 717-844-1444 or email me at. Located at the Mennonite Life Visitors Center, the Indoor, air-conditioned Farmers Market in Lancaster, PA 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Farm Tour: Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), Dulles International Airport (just west of Washington, D.C.), Ronald Reagan International Airport (Washington, D.C.), Atlantic City International Airport (in New Jersey), Lehigh Valley International Airport (in PA), Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (in PA), John F. KennedyInternational Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (in NJ, right across from NYC), Train rides (on real steam-powered trains), Theatres with kid-friendly plays and magic shows, Live entertainment (including multiple theatres). Lancaster's rock, fossil and mineral Bible History Exhibits is located at 2827 Lincoln Highway 2827 Lincoln Highway East, PO Box 98 Address:226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579, USA. The Science Factory is also great for a rainy day, as it has a number of indoor activities. learn more amish Experience Amish Youll be able to appreciate the natural beauty of Pennsylvania without any city noises ruining it. Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, Lancaster, Nature lovers should visit the Holtwood Environmental Preserve, home to the Shenk's Ferry Wildflower Preserve of spring woodland flowers as well as endless opportunities for camping, boating, swimming, hunting and more. Popular options include traditional sourdough pretzels and flavored pretzels like honey mustard and onion or ranch. Our friendly Senior Center staff will be glad to introduce you to our programs. Vendors sell all kinds of arts, crafts, flowers and household goods, so its a great place to pick up some souvenirs from your vacation. Visit Website Amish Farm and House Guided tours are offered, but require a reservation in advance. Lancaster Playground isnt an ordinary playground. If you dont mind working up a sweat, however, or if youre fine with jumping on the water slide to cool off, consider a trip to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm when youre visiting Lancaster, PA. Address: 2425 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602-1423 Website: American Music Theatre Opening hours: 9am - 6pm Price: 59 USD 9. Luxurious jewelers share the floor with quiet bookstores and colorful toy shops; the food court is equally balanced between fine dining and indulgent fast food. Favorite attractions include Merlin's Mayhem, a family-friendly roller coaster; the Flying Trapeze swing ride; and Exploration Island, with lifelike dinosaurs. With its padded seats and white tablecloths, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater looks a bit like a fine dining establishment at first glance. Open year-round, it has extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits and events for every season. 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. Making homemade pretzels, visiting a clock museum and staying in a hotel that resembles a steamboat are just a few of the many unique things to do in Lancaster. Book your seat and get up in the clouds as early as this weekend! If this sounds like an idyllic spot, youre absolutely right. Plus, dine at the new Caf 1832 or enjoy lunch onboard the train, featuring seasonal scratch-made fare from the staff at Caf 1832. Learn More. There simply is no other building like it on Planet Earth. This museum offers truly amazing details on Amish life that you can't find elsewhere. The Wolf Sanctuary of PA is a nonprofit wolf refuge and education facility in Lititz, housing and caring for both wolves and wolf hybrids. Willow Street, PA 17584. Run by a single puppeteer with a passion for his craft, the Lancaster Marionette Theatre puts on shows that are a delight to watch. By FamilyTime23. This resort offers an array of fun rooms, from Cartoon Network-decorated rooms that sleep up to four guests to Dream Suites that sleep up to eight but still have living space for up to 10 "alien heroes." So the next time you're looking to take a road trip to the Northeastern United States (or the Mid-Atlantic region), add Lancaster County as a stop along the way. There are so many things to do in Lititz and Lancaster County, PA that go beyond your typical Amish tourist attractions! Previous visitors say it's a beautiful, heartwarming place to visit. The Old Mill Stream Campground is owned by Dutch Wonderland, the amusement park that weve already revealed as one of the best Lancaster attractions. Ephrata Cloister 366 Speciality Museums Historic Sites By RingoPisco12 My wife and I really enjoyed our guided tour of the buildings and grounds. With Aaron and Jessica's Buggy Rides, for example, you can book a private tour and see how the Amish live with stops at one-room Amish schoolhouses, butcher shops, bakeries, quilt shops and more.