Lancaster

Day Trips

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Lancaster's Historic District, marveling at the beautiful architecture and unique shops. Don’t forget to stop by the Central Market, where you can experience the local culture and browse handmade crafts and fresh produce.

After lunch at a quaint bistro, visit the Lancaster County Historical Society to dive deeper into the region's rich history. Explore the exhibits that showcase artifacts and photographs from the area’s past, and take a guided tour if available. Spend your afternoon wandering the charming streets and discovering hidden gems like art galleries and bookstores.

As the sun sets, head to one of the local theaters for an evening performance, whether it be a musical or a play. Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients and flavors. Afterward, take a relaxing walk through Penn Square, taking in the lively atmosphere and beautiful evening lights.

Begin your day with a visit to an Amish farm, where you can learn about traditional farming practices and the Amish way of life. Engage with the locals as they share stories about their customs and daily routines, providing a fascinating insight into their community. Savor a hearty breakfast made with ingredients sourced straight from the farm.

After your farm visit, take a guided tour of the surrounding Amish countryside, admiring the picturesque landscapes and horse-drawn buggies. Stop by a craft shop to witness talented artisans creating handmade quilts and furniture. For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal at a local Amish restaurant, featuring traditional dishes such as fried chicken and homemade pies.

In the evening, attend a local event or festival that celebrates Amish culture, such as a food fair or craft show. Experience the warm hospitality of the Amish community while enjoying folk music and dance performances. Wind down your day with a peaceful sunset view over the rolling hills of Lancaster County.

Start your morning at the Lancaster Museum of Art, where you can appreciate local and regional art exhibitions. Take your time exploring the various galleries, each highlighting different artistic styles and mediums. Afterward, grab a coffee at a nearby café and engage with local artists and creatives.

In the afternoon, visit the Demuth Museum, dedicated to the works of the American painter Charles Demuth. Learn about his contributions to the Pennsylvania Impressionist movement and view some of his most famous pieces. Spend some time in the surrounding area, perhaps shopping at local boutiques or enjoying lunch at an artsy eatery.

As night falls, attend a live performance at the Fulton Theatre, one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the country. Enjoy a vibrant musical or theatrical performance, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. After the show, indulge in a late dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the cultural experiences of the day.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the stunning landscapes of the Lancaster County parks. Choose between hiking, cycling, or even horseback riding through scenic trails that showcase the beauty of nature. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture breathtaking views along the way.

After your morning adventure, have a picnic lunch at one of the parks, surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or participating in activities like fishing or birdwatching. Take a moment to relax and soak in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

As dusk approaches, return to your accommodation to freshen up, then head out for a casual dinner at a local grill. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while sampling delicious regional dishes. End your evening with a stroll along the Susquehanna River, where you can take in the beauty of the sunset over the water.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or a nearby diner before heading to Dutch Wonderland, a family-friendly amusement park. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and attractions designed for young children. Explore the various themed areas and visit the friendly characters roaming the park.

After a morning filled with excitement, take a break for lunch at one of the park's dining options, offering kid-friendly meals. Spend the afternoon enjoying more rides and attractions, including the water play areas to cool off on warm days. Don't miss the live entertainment shows that offer fun for the whole family.

As the park starts to wind down, enjoy a final round of your favorite rides before heading out. Visit the nearby shopping outlet for some retail therapy or souvenirs to remind you of your day. Wrap up your evening with a family dinner at a local pizzeria, sharing stories of the day's adventures.

Begin your morning with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café, fueling up for a day of wine tasting. After breakfast, head out to explore the scenic vineyards and wineries that dot the Lancaster countryside. Take a tour of one of the vineyards, learning about the winemaking process from vine to bottle.

Enjoy a delightful wine tasting session at a local winery, sampling a variety of wines while soaking in the beautiful views of the vineyard. Pair your wines with a gourmet lunch offered at the winery's restaurant, featuring locally sourced ingredients. Continue your tasting adventure by visiting additional wineries, each with its own unique offerings and charm.

As the sun sets, return to your accommodation to refresh before heading out for dinner at a fine dining restaurant known for its excellent wine pairings. Savor a multi-course meal that highlights the best of local cuisine, complemented by selections from your favorite wineries. Spend your evening reflecting on the day’s experiences and planning your next wine adventure.

Start your day with breakfast at a local diner before heading to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Explore the extensive collection of historic trains and learn about their significance in shaping the region's transportation history. Participate in any scheduled tours or demonstrations to enhance your experience.

After a morning filled with history, enjoy lunch at a nearby café and discuss the fascinating exhibits you’ve seen. Spend your afternoon exploring more of the museum, including the interactive exhibits that are great for all ages. If time permits, take a short train ride on a historic locomotive for a unique experience.

As evening approaches, enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant that offers a unique railroad-themed ambiance. Share stories from your day while relaxing in the cozy atmosphere. End the night with a stroll through the nearby park, reflecting on the rich history embedded in the Lancaster area.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local bakery renowned for its fresh bread and pastries. After breakfast, head to the Tanger Outlets for a fun shopping experience, where you can find great deals on a variety of brands. Take your time browsing through the stores and indulging in some retail therapy.

After shopping, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at one of the outlet's restaurants, enjoying a meal before continuing your retail adventures. Spend the afternoon exploring unique shops in the downtown area, where you can find artisan goods and local crafts. Don't forget to stop by a gourmet food shop to sample local delicacies and specialty products.

As the day comes to a close, enjoy dinner at a highly-rated restaurant that features a diverse menu highlighting local ingredients. Savor your meal while discussing your favorite finds from the day. Cap off the night with a dessert stop at a local ice cream shop, indulging in some sweet treats to end your day on a high note.

Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a local café before heading to Longwood Gardens, a stunning botanical garden. Spend your morning exploring the various themed gardens and conservatories filled with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. Take your time wandering through the landscapes, taking in the beauty and tranquility of the gardens.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at the on-site café, featuring seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Spend your afternoon taking part in any workshops or demonstrations available, learning about gardening and plant care. Don't forget to visit the fountain displays that are especially captivating during the warmer months.

As the sun sets, take one last stroll through the gardens to experience the evening ambiance. Head to a nearby restaurant for dinner, reflecting on the day surrounded by the beauty of nature. End your trip with a nightcap at a cozy bar or café, savoring the memories made during your time in Lancaster.