Things to Do in Lancaster

Amish Activities

Lancaster County is home to one of the largest Amish communities in North America, and experiencing their traditional way of life is a highlight of any visit. From rolling through the countryside in a horse-drawn buggy to exploring working farms, these authentic experiences offer a window into a simpler time.

Buggy Rides

There's no better way to experience Lancaster's scenic backroads than from an authentic Amish buggy. As you ride through farmland and past one-room schoolhouses, knowledgeable guides share insights about Amish culture, traditions, and daily life. These peaceful rides offer a stark contrast to modern travel and provide unforgettable photo opportunities amid Lancaster's picturesque countryside.

Amish Farm Tour

After your buggy ride, take a guided tour of a working Amish farm. You'll explore traditional farmhouses, see how the Amish live without electricity, and learn about their sustainable farming practices. Many tours include hands-on experiences like feeding animals, visiting workshops where craftsmen create handmade goods, and sampling homemade treats. It's an educational and engaging experience that brings Amish culture to life for visitors of all ages.

Train Activities

Lancaster County is a haven for train enthusiasts, offering authentic steam railroad experiences and a world-class railroad museum. These attractions celebrate America's railroad heritage while providing unforgettable rides through Amish farmland.

Strasburg Railroad

As North America's oldest continuously operating railroad, the Strasburg Rail Road offers a 45-minute round-trip journey through picturesque Amish countryside aboard vintage steam locomotives. Choose from coach class, first-class cars, or even dining cars where you can enjoy meals while you ride. Special events like Day Out With Thomas, Murder Mystery trains, and seasonal rides with Santa make this attraction appealing year-round.

Discover the joy of the Strasburg Rail Road

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Located steps from the Strasburg Rail Road, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania houses over 100 historic locomotives and train cars. This impressive collection showcases Pennsylvania's crucial role in railroad history, with beautifully restored engines and interactive exhibits that bring the golden age of railroading to life for visitors of all ages.

So Much to Do, No Matter Who You’re Traveling With

Whether you're looking for Lancaster activities for kids, or traveling alone or with your partner, Central Pennsylvania offers an incredible amount of activities for all ages and interests. No matter who you're traveling with, you'll make plenty of new memories in Dutch Country.   

Things to Do in Lancaster with Kids

Lancaster is a family-friendly paradise with attractions designed to delight children of all ages. Thrill-seekers will love Dutch Wonderland's 35+ rides and live shows, or venture to nearby Hersheypark for world-class roller coasters and a water park. Ride America's oldest operating railroad on the Strasburg Rail Road, including special Thomas the Tank Engine events. Explore interactive museums like the Lancaster Science Factory with hands-on exhibits, or catch a family show at the Fulton Theatre. Mini golf in Lancaster is always a great idea, too!

Don't miss indoor play centers like Tiny Town and Spooky Nook Sports on rainy days, plus outlet shopping at Tanger and Rockvale with play areas for little ones. 

5 things to do in Lancaster with kids

Lancaster Things to Do for Couples

Lancaster sets the perfect stage for romance with intimate experiences designed for two. Sip and savor at local wineries like Deerfoot Vineyards and Thorn Hill Vineyards, or explore Gallery Row's art galleries hand-in-hand during First Friday celebrations. Catch a captivating show at Sight & Sound or the Fulton Theatre, then stroll through Central Market discovering artisan vendors and local treats. For something more playful, bowl and dine at Decades in historic Stahr Armory or admire classic cars at Barry's Car Barn. 

Plan your perfect romantic getaway in Lancaster

What to Do When Traveling Alone in Lancaster

Solo travelers will find Lancaster County welcoming and full of enriching experiences at your own pace. Explore your creative side at Beadworks designing custom jewelry or take pottery classes at Lancaster Creative Factory. Browse charming independent bookstores like Aaron's Books in Lititz, then settle in with your new read at a cozy coffee shop. Shop unique artisan goods at Building Character with 70+ local vendors, or discover handcrafted treasures at Artisan Mills. Catch a show at the historic Fulton Theatre, explore art galleries along Gallery Row, or simply enjoy a peaceful meal and solo relaxation.

Read the complete solo traveler's guide to Lancaster

Food & Drink in Lancaster

It's no secret that foodies absolutely love Lancaster. Whether you're sampling traditional Amish fare or exploring the international food scene in Lancaster City, you'll find plenty of incredible restaurants and culinary things to do. 

Recommended Restaurants

Lancaster's culinary scene punches well above its small-town size, featuring acclaimed chefs and diverse cuisines. Fine dining shines at The Greenfield Restaurant & Bar, helmed by former White House Chef John Moeller, and John J. Jeffries with its farm-to-table philosophy. Enjoy upscale casual fare at Bistro 2two2 and Horse Inn, or indulge in locally crafted brews at Lancaster Brewing Company and Mad Chef Craft Brewing. Breakfast lovers shouldn't miss Rachel's Cafe & Creperie or the Eden Resort's legendary Champagne Sunday Brunch. Craving international flavors? Try Norbu for Bhutanese cuisine or Issei Noodle for authentic Japanese bowls.

Explore Lancaster's best restaurants

Wineries & Breweries

Lancaster County's craft beverage scene thrives with award-winning wineries and innovative breweries. Sample handcrafted wines at Waltz Vineyards' sixth-generation farm, enjoy California-style wines at Thorn Hill Winery's trivia nights, or sip organic Italian varietals at Vine Bar. Beer enthusiasts can explore Lancaster Brewing Co's 30-year legacy, experiment with Mad Chef Craft Brewing's innovative seasonal releases, or experience authentic German lagers at Bierhall Brewing. Discover small-batch creations at Spring House Brewery using local ingredients, or try Cartel Brewing's award-winning IPAs and wood-aged sours. For spirits, visit Thistle Finch Distillery's handcrafted gins and whiskeys.

Sip your way through Lancaster's wineries and breweries

Ice Cream

Lancaster County takes ice cream seriously, with farm-fresh creameries dotting the countryside. Sample artisanal flavors at Fox Meadows made from local dairy, watch your ice cream rolled fresh at Rolled Cold Creamery, or experience liquid nitrogen magic at 32 Below. Visit Pine View Dairy to enjoy creamy scoops while petting calves, or indulge in rich frozen custard at Nikki's Custard. For a unique adventure, take the Ice Cream Scooter Tour visiting multiple local favorites, or create custom flavors at the hands-on Turkey Hill Experience. Don't miss mobile options like Creamline Cruiser's vintage truck or classic parlors like The Jigger Shop in Mt. Gretna.

Discover the best ice cream in Lancaster

Food Activities

Lancaster offers immersive culinary experiences beyond just dining out. Tour Hershey's Chocolate World for a free behind-the-scenes look at chocolate-making with samples included, or get hands-on at the Turkey Hill Experience where you can create your own custom ice cream flavors. Explore Central Market's vendor stands sampling artisan foods and fresh-baked goods, or join farm tours where you can learn traditional food preparation methods and taste homemade Amish treats. Pick your own fruit at local orchards like Cherry Hill and Shenk Berry Farm, then bring your harvest home. Many wineries offer vineyard tours paired with tastings, while cooking classes at venues throughout the county teach you to recreate Lancaster's farm-to-table cuisine. Learn how to twist your own Lancaster pretzels at the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery.

Running Out of Things to Do in Lancaster? Take a Day Trip!

If you’ve checked off Lancaster’s must-see attractions, extending your stay with a day trip is the perfect way to keep the adventure going. Nearby small towns each offer their own charm—from historic villages and artisan shopping to outdoor escapes and family-friendly attractions. Explore Lititz for boutique shopping, pretzels, chocolate, and scenic parks; Ephrata for rich history, local breweries, and the famous Green Dragon Farmer’s Market; or Elizabethtown and Mount Joy for river trails, vineyards, and classic Lancaster County charm. Outdoor lovers will enjoy Columbia and Wrightsville along the Susquehanna River, while Manheim and Mount Gretna deliver arts, festivals, and active fun. These easy day trips add variety, depth, and plenty of reasons to stay a little longer in Lancaster County.

Places to Visit Near Lancaster County