The Choo Choo Barn was started by a WWII vet in 1945. You dont have to spend a lot of money or hire an expensive travel guide. You'll see and learn about Amish schools, Amish farms and culture, covered bridges, and even visit an Amish store or roadside stand. 20 PHENOMENAL THINGS TO DO IN LANCASTER PA - 365 Traveler Guided tours are available with limited capacity, and Wheatland hosts a variety of educational program offerings, academic symposiums and public events throughout the year. Its a point of pride in Pennsylvania, and itll give you a great story to tell your friends when you get back home. There are shopping malls and amusement parks; there are places to hike, bike, swim, fish and kayak. It will put you in touch with nature while still giving you access to modern conveniences. Churches & Cathedrals. It is open as a museum that includes a gift shop and a cafe. Use caution when passing them on the road. Lancaster History and Craft Beer Walk 18 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. Address: 400 College Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603. THE 5 BEST Lancaster Historical & Heritage Tours - Tripadvisor 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. Try our amazing breakfast sandwiches, famous toasted cheese sandwiches, and fried cheese curds. 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. There's so much to explore at the area's only museum for 35 S. Willowdale Drive, Suite 1818 Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Hershey, PA& some of the things to do in Gettysburg, PA? 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. 28 Top Things to Do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania - US News & World Report The beautiful countryside can be explored on scenic bicycle tours or take an authentic Amish buggy ride. Address: 2425 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602-1423 Website: American Music Theatre Opening hours: 9am - 6pm Price: 59 USD 9. While many visitors to Philadelphia have specific You can also participate in different activities depending on the size of your family or group. Youll love the teas and ice creams of the Turkey Hill Experience. 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. Read More, While many visitors to Philadelphia and the Brandywine Valley have specific sites they would like to see, many are happy to let our team create It was created by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the days of the pioneers, and it uses molasses and brown sugar to create a sweet, crumbly and finger-licking cake. The museum offers tours and exhibits, and is home to the Herr House, the oldest surviving homestead in Lancaster County. Popular options include traditional sourdough pretzels and flavored pretzels like honey mustard and onion or ranch. Watch cheese making via large observation windows. Read More, How did the Battle of Gettysburg affect the small bustling town, &the people who called it home? Address: 2215 Millstream Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. Hike, bike, fish or picnic on the gorgeous grounds that include everything from wildflower fields to a spring-fed lake. 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 If you live in any of these areas, you're easily within driving distance! Strasburg, PA 17579. Address: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Ronks, Bird in Hand, PA 17505, USA. This charming region offers experiences that harken a bygone era, including horse-and-buggy rides, antique shopping and scenic train excursions. BJ's Restaurants, Inc. hiring Senior Kitchen Manager in Lancaster This market features more than 60 vendors who sell their goods from home decor and crafts to meats and cheeses three days a week, on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Intercourse, PA 17534. His show combines music, lights, shadows and narration. Address:100 Museum Rd, Stevens, PA 17578, USA, Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue / flickr. 25 Best Things to Do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania - VacationIdea Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, Lancaster, Pick-up and Drop-off locations are the groups choice. Address:454 New Holland Ave, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. The museum seeks to preserve their culture through art, music, clothes, tools and other materials. What can you do in Lancaster for free? It'll give you a great sense of culture that you're probably not used to. 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. 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. Read More, Relax on a private guided sightseeing tour of New York City, with pick-up in and return to Philadelphia. Bowl, drink, and dine at Decades. Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572, (Courtesy of The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant). Previous visitors have been impressed by the display of birds as well as the reptile room. When you visit Lancaster, you'll experience a countryside steeped in history, art, creativity, fun and most importantly, that Pennsylvania Dutch Country goodness. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Who are the Amish and why do they live like that? If youre looking for the best places to go in Lancaster, consider the Choo Choo Barn. 63. Read More, Short and highly selective information in the audio commentary for top 16 tourist attractions in around Philadelphia. Read More, Fallingwater stands as one of the greatest architectural triumphs of the 20th Century. It sends literal tons of water crashing down to the rocks below, and the sights and sounds of such a powerful scene will take your breath away. Itll be a fun, unique experience that gives you a greater appreciation for the lost art of marionette making. 10 Fun Things to Do in Lancaster March 2023 | Expedia If youre looking for the most romantic things to do in Lancaster, PA, take out your beau for a night on the town. Beer lovers can try an array of local favorites on the Lancaster Ale Trail, a self-guided brewery crawl with stops throughout Lancaster County. Copyright 1995-2023 Action Video, Inc. All rights reserved. Farm Tour: This was a great place to take the family for a a bit of fun we will surely be back to this place real soon. Visit Website Amish Farm and House Enjoy 45 minutes aboard a real steam train. Lancaster, PA 17602. Founded in 1832, Strasburg Rail Road isthe oldest continuously operating railroad in both America and the Western Hemisphere. From sampling award-winning ice cream at the Turkey Hill Experience to sipping craft brews along the Lancaster Ale Trail or staying in the one-of-a-kind Cartoon Network Hotel, this county offers an endless number of unique activities to partake in some family-friendly and some just for the adults. learn more Amish Farm Experience Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! They organize food, drinks, games and even petting zoos for families who want to unplug from their electronics and go outside. What kind of train ride do you want to have in PA? 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). 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. Have more time to explore? Amish Farm and House Tour was one of the first Amish tourist attractions in Lancaster, PA, and its still among the most popular today. We offer quality opportunities to learn, improve health and most importantly, to have lots of laughs. Restaurants & Food in Lancaster, PA You can sample ice creams, bag your own tea leaves, milk a mechanical cow, play with interactive exhibits or sit inside of a dairy truck. Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Erie, PAand things to do in Pittsburgh! There are other things to do near and around the shop, including shopping for Amish souvenirs. Senior Programs and Fitness - Lancaster Rec Read More, Pennsylvania is home to a fascinating culture found in the rural farmlands outside of Philadelphia. There are over 30 rides that will entertain all ages. 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. 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. Make sure you bring your appetite if you visit. Address:2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA. Read More, Situated directly on the University of Pennsylvania's campus, the Penn Museum is the largest University Museum in the United States! The good news is that the Kitchen Kettle Village makes it easy! The names are legendary. Bonfires are lit for marshmallows and hot dogs, and live entertainment is available on special occasions. Read More, Enjoy three activities in one package at the Amish Experience! Columbia, PA 17512. These impressive displays combined hand-drawn images with old-fashioned light machines to captive audiences around the world. 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. Enjoy some blood-curdling fun at the Field of Screams. Lancaster is one of the most fascinating cities in Pennsylvania. Stay up to date on upcoming events. Its a state of farms and cornfields, and theyre put to good use in places like the Field of Screams. Discover exceptional views of the countryside, and an insightful look at some of Lancaster County's oldest covered bridges. While you'll find antique dealers throughout the entire region, the best shops line the streets of Adamstown, known as the Antiques Capital of the U.S. The most famous is probably the Horse-Shoe Trail thats used by local horseback riders, but there are other paths and summits as well. Check out the North Museum of Nature and Science if you want to add some education to your trip through PA. Rather than dragging their feet, your kids will never want to leave! THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lancaster - Tripadvisor Read More, Learn about Philadelphias thriving brewpub scene and taste up to 16different beers on this guided brewery tour with lunch or dinner. Address:2451 Kissel Hill Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. 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. Amtrak has several train stations in Lancaster County, making the area easily accessible from New York, Philly, DC, and Baltimore. Bring your camera! You can plan a trip thats both educational and entertaining at the same time. 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. During the summertime. Advance purchase is recommended. All things considered, Dutch Wonderland is one of the most amazing places to visit in Lancaster when youre traveling with kids. Bird-in-Hand is a quaint village that transports visitors to simpler times. 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. There are two ways to get soaring with this particular company: a shared or private tour. Its the biggest Turkey Hill building in the state, so its worth a visit while you have the chance! Experience the history of this landmark with a themed tour or train ride. There are five acres to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, and theyre packed with stuff to do. Address: 2285 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. German Do you enjoy TV detective shows such as CSI or Sherlock 18 E McGovern Ave, Station Square Center See Lancaster, PA Dutch Country: Attractions, Amish, Events (2023 Learn More Places to Stay Classic Watercolor Thursday Evening with Alice Meyer Wallace Despite the name, the Fulton Opera House doesnt see a lot of opera concerts anymore. Past guests say the buggy rides with Aaron and Jessica's family in particular felt truly authentic, and that they had a lot of fun. 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. 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. If youd prefer a more sedate experience, you can take an archery lesson or tour the wildlife center. This center provides visitors with information on the Amish Amish Mennonite Information Center - Morgantown. Things to Do in Lancaster, PA - Discover Lancaster Get lost in the corn maze; take a wagon ride around the property; make some new friends at the petting zoo. Previous patrons say they appreciate the hilarious and interesting productions, including shows from a bygone era. Options include the Tap Takeover, a scenic train ride that features a tasting of four local craft beers; a Murder Mystery train ride for ages 2 and up, which features live performances with the usual "whodunit" twist; and Christmastime rides such as Santa's Paradise Express. Address: 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA. Milk a cow, bottle feed calves, gather eggs, piglets, goats and more! 18 hole miniature golf course Bube's Brewery is a 19th century brewery complex; a series 102 North Market Street It is heavily used during the summer months and is the perfect place for a relaxing morning or evening stroll. The "Adamstown Antique Mile" runs along state Route 272 in northeastern Lancaster County and features roughly 5,000 antique dealers, with even more offered during Antiques Extravaganza Weekends. Owned and operated by King Swings, a local equipment supplier, it offers everything from swing sets to trampolines for kids with energy to burn. 2004-2023 Cool Destinations. Visitors to this science museum say it's fun for all ages, including adults. Check out our list of the best non-touristy things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Its vintage atmosphere is part of its charm. Why do 2395 Covered Bridge Drive 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. Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505. Photographs and listings of businesses in this website include paid advertisements. Address:191 College Ave, Mountville, PA 17554, USA. Theres also lists for attractions that are: Lancaster is more than just the Amish. Truly Authentic Lancaster Experience! 2023 - Viator Depending on your strength and stamina, you can attempt everything from beginner-level treks to expert-level summits. Speciality Museums. With exhibits on physics, chemistry, biology, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique science center. Smorgabords and buffets reign supreme in Lancaster, with many of them featuring authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. Willow Street, PA 17584. If youre looking for cool places for your six-year-old dinosaur lover, this museum will make him roar. Address:2857 Lincoln Hwy A, Ronks, PA 17572, USA. Lancaster, PA 17601 OPEN 24 Hours From Business: Comfort Keepers Home Care provides seniors in the Lancaster, Harrisburg, and Lititz area of Pennsylvania specialized services. His first train set was a modest thing that he built with his two-year-old son, but the pair made a lifelong hobby out of it, and their trains wound up taking over the family basement. 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 simply is no other building like it on Planet Earth. If youre interested in broadening your horizons and maybe overcoming a few stereotypes, call and reserve your bus. Take back roads to avoid traffic on Route 30. 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. 246 N. Decatur Street, Strasburg, PA 17579, 717-344-2488 Visit Website Learn More Coupon Map Reviews Video A is For Amish Buggy Rides Guided tours are offered, but require a reservation in advance. Marvel at elaborate model train displays or climb aboard a train pulled by a full-sized, steam-powered locomotive. Historians say that its one of the first Lancaster attractions to ever exist. Mom and dad will appreciate the chance to get off their feet and relax on the benches. for tickets. 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. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. The chief attraction of Lancaster Central Market is the food. 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. (Getty Images). James Buchanan's Wheatland is made up of a Federal-style mansion and several outbuildings on more than 150 acres of land. Theres lots of things to do in Lancaster County, PA. Heres a list of 101+ popular things to do. 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.