Things To Do
in Lebanon
Lebanon, Pennsylvania is a small city in the Lebanon Valley with a rich industrial and immigrant heritage. It blends historic architecture with a friendly, walkable downtown and easy access to outdoor recreation. The center is characterized by brick storefronts, locally owned shops, and seasonal community events.
It's a convenient base for exploring Hershey, Lancaster County Dutch country, and scenic rural countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a leisurely walk through downtown Lebanon, admiring historic buildings and local street art. Stop by a cozy café for freshly brewed coffee and a house-made pastry. Chat with friendly shop owners while browsing artisanal crafts.
Head to the Lebanon Farmers’ Market for seasonal produce, baked goods, and local cheeses. Sample regional specialties and pick up picnic ingredients for later. Capture photos of colorful stalls and meet Vermont and New Hampshire growers.
Dine at a popular gastropub featuring farm-to-table fare and local craft beers. Enjoy live acoustic music in a relaxed atmosphere. Finish the night with a sunset stroll along the Mascoma River Walk.
Visit the Montshire Museum of Science in nearby Norwich for interactive exhibits on ecology and engineering. Participate in hands-on experiments that engage all ages. Explore outdoor science stations along the riverbank.
Hike one of the nearby trails in King Arthur Flour’s woods, taking in cathedral-like pines and secret footbridges. Pause for a snack by the Swift River rapids. Keep an eye out for songbirds and beaver ponds.
Enjoy a lakeside barbecue on Mascoma Lake with grilled local sausages and summer vegetables. Watch the sunset paint the water in warm hues. Roast marshmallows by a fireside pit under twinkling stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $100-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries per month | $250-450 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Walkable downtown with historic charm
- Easy access to rural scenery and state parks
- Strong local food traditions and Pennsylvania Dutch culture
- Proximity to Hershey and Lancaster County attractions
- Limited nightlife and skyline views in town
- Cold winter weather with occasional snow
- Smaller city amenities compared with larger urban areas
Places to Visit in Lebanon
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick storefronts, courthouse clock tower, and well-preserved 19th-century architecture provide classic small-town photography opportunities.
Waterfront scenes, canal towpath, and historic canal structures ideal for sunset and morning light.
Scenic stretches along the rail trail offering fields, creeks, and gentle hills perfect for wide-angle shots.
Lakeside views, pines, and charming woodlands ideal for nature photography and fall colors.
Food in Lebanon
Lebanon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A smoked, flavorful sausage iconic to the region; usually enjoyed thinly sliced on sandwiches or with cheese at local delis.
Must-Try!
A dark molasses pie with a sweet, slightly spiced crust; a Pennsylvania Dutch dessert often featured in bakeries and markets.
Warm, cinnamon-scented baked apples wrapped in pastry; a popular seasonal treat at area bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering produce, baked goods, cheeses, meats, and locally made treats.
Neighborhood spots where you can find Lebanon Bologna, Pennsylvania Dutch pastries, and hearty deli fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Arrive on time for visits and appointments; greet with a handshake and a polite greeting.
Be mindful of local history and private property in residential areas; ask permission when photographing people in homes.
Downtown and residential areas are generally quiet after late evening; keep noise reasonable.
Safety
Tipping in Lebanon
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. For takeout, tips are optional but appreciated for large orders. Rideshares and taxis typically expect 10-15%.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common. Some small markets or vendors may accept cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with occasional showers. Gardens and parks begin blooming; pack a light jacket and umbrella.
Warm to hot days with humidity. Cool evenings, frequent outdoor events, and plenty of sun for long daytime photography.
Peak foliage season with vibrant colors. Expect crowds in popular areas and cooler temperatures; ideal for scenic drives and photo trips.
Cold with occasional snow. Shorter days and opportunities for peaceful snowy landscapes; dress in layers and wear sturdy footwear.
Lebanon at Night
Hiking in Lebanon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic, well-maintained rails-to-trails route ideal for easy day hikes and bike trips.
Wooded trails around Mt. Gretna offering lake views and fall color photography.
Forest trails with overlook points and rolling hills suitable for longer hikes nearby.
Airports
How to reach Lebanon by plane.
Main regional hub with connections to major cities; about an hour drive from Lebanon depending on traffic.
Large international hub with extensive domestic and international options; about 2-2.5 hours by car.
Smaller regional airport serving local flights and charters; closer to Lancaster County, within a couple of hours.
Mid-size airport serving the Allentown area; about 1.5-2 hours away by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in the area.
A smaller but present community with diverse backgrounds.
Growing Hispanic/Latino population with cultural influence in local cuisine and events.
Smaller share, contributing to a diverse regional culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local leagues and in college venues such as nearby campuses.
Community and college teams are common in the fall season.
Common in gyms and schools; intramural and recreational leagues available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lebanon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Lebanon restaurants can accommodate meatless options. Look for veggie sandwiches, salads, pastas, and veggie sides; ask for recommendations on fresh produce and dairy choices.