• Question: What is Lancaster known for?
    Answer: Lancaster, the seat of Pennsylvania's Lancaster County, is a great weekend destination offering a variety of historical attractions, museums, tours, markets, and restaurants.
  • Question: What unique festivals can visitors attend in Lancaster?
    Answer: Visitors can attend a music festival in Long's Park.
  • Question: What is a family-friendly attraction in Lancaster?
    Answer: Families can visit Dutch Wonderland, a popular kids’ attraction.
  • Question: Where can visitors sample local food in Lancaster?
    Answer: Visitors can sample local food at the Central Market.
  • Question: What cultural and historical tours are available in Lancaster?
    Answer: Visitors can take a tour of the Amish Farm and House and explore The Phillips Museum of Art.

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1. Long's Park


Stroll scenic paths and enjoy summer concerts on an easy outdoor outing.

Long's Park

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  • What is Long's Park?
    • Long's Park is an 80-acre park located in the northwest corner of Lancaster. It has been a part of the community since 1900, when it was gifted to the town by Judge Henry Grimly Long and his daughter Catherine Long.
  • What events are held at Long's Park?
    • The park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including:
      • A season-long music festival
      • A barbecue competition
      • A fine arts exhibit
  • What recreational facilities are available?
    • Visitors can enjoy:
      • Tennis courts
      • Fitness trails
      • A beautiful spring-fed lake
  • What family-friendly activities are available?
    • Families can enjoy:
      • A playground
      • A petting zoo
      • Picnic areas

Route 30 & Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, 717-735-8883

2. Dutch Wonderland


Ride kid-friendly coasters and splash in water zones on a fun family trip.

Dutch Wonderland

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  • What is Dutch Wonderland?
    • Dutch Wonderland is a family-friendly amusement park in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, known as a "Kingdom for Kids."
  • How many rides are at Dutch Wonderland?
    • The park features over 30 rides designed to entertain visitors of all ages.
  • What is Duke's Lagoon?
    • Duke’s Lagoon is a tropically themed water park open during the summer, featuring tipping buckets and bubblers.
  • Are there live shows at Dutch Wonderland?
    • Yes, Dutch Wonderland offers live shows, which are included with park admission.
  • What types of tickets are available?
    • Visitors can choose from day passes or season passes.

2249 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602, 866-FUNatDW (866-386-2839)

3. Central Market


Browse local goods and savor fresh bites during a lively weekend visit.

Central Market

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  • What is the Central Market in Lancaster?
    • Central Market is the oldest farmers' market in the United States, operating in a 120-year-old brick building full of local charm.
  • What types of local foods are available at Central Market?
    • The market offers a variety of unique local foods, including:
      • Scrapple – A breakfast meat made from pork scraps and cornmeal.
      • Headcheese – A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch delicacy.
      • Pennsylvania Dutch Sausage – A regional favorite.
  • What types of preserves can be found at the market?
    • Popular preserves include:
      • Chowchow – Pickled vegetables marinated in mustard.
      • Bread-and-butter pickles – A local favorite.
  • When is Central Market open?
    • The market is open year-round on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6 AM to 4 PM.

23 North Market Street, Lancaster, PA

4. Amish Farm and House


Tour historic barns and learn Amish traditions on an affordable cultural trip.

Amish Farm and House

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  • What is the Amish Farm and House?
    • Amish Farm and House is a historic site in Lancaster offering visitors a first-hand look at Amish life. It has been open for tours for over 60 years and is the first Amish tourist attraction in the country.
  • How old is the Amish Farm and House?
    • The house is over 200 years old and has been preserved to reflect traditional Amish living.
  • What do the house tours include?
    • House tours run throughout the day and last approximately 45 minutes. Visitors can explore the:
      • Front room
      • Kitchen
      • Bedrooms
  • What is included in the Countryside Bus Tour?
    • The Countryside Bus Tour includes stops at:
      • A 15-acre farm
      • A one-room schoolhouse
      • An Amish roadside stand
  • Who leads the tours?
    • Highly trained and professional tour guides provide insight into the area’s history, the Amish lifestyle, and local hidden treasures.

2395 Covered Bridge Drive, Lancaster, PA 17602, 717-394-6185

5. The Phillips Museum of Art


Admire diverse exhibits and explore creative works on a quiet afternoon getaway.

The Phillips Museum of Art

© The Phillips Museum of Art

  • What is The Phillips Museum of Art?
    • The Phillips Museum of Art is a cultural resource located at Franklin & Marshall College, serving students and the local community.
  • What exhibits are featured at the museum?
    • The museum features:
      • A permanent collection
      • An outdoor sculpture trail
      • The Franklinian database of Benjamin Franklin artifacts
  • What events are hosted by the museum?
    • The museum hosts a variety of events, including:
      • Lectures
      • Film screenings
      • Panel discussions
      • Performances
  • How do students use the museum?
    • Students utilize the museum for course-based and independent research and as a venue to showcase their work to the campus and community.
  • Is there an admission fee?
    • No, the museum is free to the public.
  • When is the museum open?
    • The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday during the academic year.

Located in the Steinman College Center, Entrance on College Ave between New Street and Frederick Street, Lancaster, PA 17604, 717-291-3879

6. Landis Valley Museum


Walk through historic buildings and discover early Pennsylvania life on an educational fall outing.

Landis Valley Museum

© Landis Valley Museum

  • What is the Landis Valley Museum?
    • Landis Valley Museum is a living history village and farm dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of the Pennsylvania German rural community.
  • When was the museum founded?
    • The museum was opened in 1925 by Henry and George Landis.
  • What can visitors experience at the museum?
    • Guests can explore 18th and 19th century village and farm life in Lancaster County.
  • Does the museum offer educational programs?
    • Yes, the museum provides an extensive education program that includes:
      • Workshops
      • Field trips
      • Special events
    • These programs allow children and adults to learn new skills, trades, and crafts.
  • What is The Heirloom Seed Project?
    • The museum is home to The Heirloom Seed Project, which focuses on preserving historic plant varieties.
  • Are the museum’s facilities available for private events?
    • Yes, the facilities are available to rent for weddings, parties, and corporate meetings.

2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster, PA 17601, 717-569-0401

7. North Museum of Nature and Science


Explore fossils and gaze at stars with the kids on an exciting visit.

North Museum of Nature and Science

© North Museum of Nature and Science

  • What is the North Museum of Nature and Science?
  • What is the SciDome Theater?
    • The museum is home to the SciDome Theater, which offers visitors a tour of the galaxy and stunning views of the night sky.
  • What types of exhibits are available?
    • The museum has permanent exhibitions featuring:
      • Live animals for a hands-on learning experience
      • A wide collection of birds and fossils
  • Is the museum good for children?
    • Yes, it is a great place to visit if you are looking for things to do in Lancaster with kids.
  • Are there rotating exhibitions?
    • Yes, depending on the time of visit, the museum hosts up to three featured exhibitions throughout the year.

400 College Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603, 717-358-3941

8. Mennonite Life Information Center


Learn cultural history and look at exhibits on a meaningful retirement trip.

Mennonite Life Information Center

© Mennonite Information Center

  • What is the Mennonite Life Information Center?
  • What exhibits and films are available?
    • The center features:
      • “Who are the Amish” – A three-screen feature exclusive to the center.
      • Another short film about Amish and Mennonite life.
      • A walk-through exhibit on Amish and Mennonite culture.
      • A bookstore and a selection of fair-trade handicrafts from Ten Thousand Villages.
  • What is the Biblical Tabernacle Reproduction?
    • The most popular feature of the center is the full-sized reproduction of Moses’ Tabernacle in the Wilderness.
  • How is the Tabernacle tour conducted?
    • Knowledgeable tour guides lead visitors in conversation from the Brazen Altar to the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies.
  • When is the center open?
    • The center is open year-round from Monday through Saturday.
  • How can visitors see the Biblical Tabernacle Reproduction?
    • The Tabernacle is available to see by guided tours only, which last 45 minutes.

2209 Millstream Road, Lancaster, PA 17602-1494, 717-299-0954

9. Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre


Savor a buffet meal and see live performances on a romantic night out.

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre

© Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre

  • What is the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre?
    • Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre is a dinner theatre known for its top-quality productions, award-winning food, and exceptional service for nearly 30 years.
  • How many guests does the theatre seat?
    • The theatre seats 370 guests in a simple yet sophisticated setting.
  • What dining options are available?
    • The theatre offers a variety of dining experiences, including:
      • Dinner buffet
      • A La Carte nights
      • Appetizer and Dessert only shows
      • Enhanced upscale weekend buffets
  • What types of shows are performed?
    • The theatre presents a mix of:
      • Classic musicals
      • Contemporary hits
  • Where do the performers come from?
    • Performers are from New York, Phoenix, South Carolina, and Chicago.
  • Is there live music?
    • Yes, a live orchestra accompanies each production.
  • Who creates the productions?
    • Shows are produced by nationally recognized designers, directors, and choreographers for a truly magical experience.

510 Centerville Road, Lancaster, PA 17601, 717-898-1900

10. American Music Theatre


Catch touring shows and enjoy top-tier entertainment on a fun weekend evening.

American Music Theatre

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  • What is the American Music Theatre?
    • American Music Theatre is a premier live entertainment venue known for hosting a variety of musical and theatrical performances.
  • What is the mission of the American Music Theatre?
    • The theatre’s mission is to provide outstanding entertainment by collaborating with artists from all musical genres and regions.
  • What makes AMT unique?
    • AMT is the only theatre in America that presents both original shows and performances by touring artists.
  • How many seats does the theatre have?
    • The theatre features 1,600 seats, offering a spacious yet intimate concert experience.
  • What types of performances are hosted at AMT?
    • AMT hosts a wide variety of shows, including:
      • Rock and roll
      • Comedy
      • Broadway-style productions
      • Pop music concerts
  • When was the American Music Theatre established?
    • The theatre opened in 1997 and has since built an impressive list of performers.
  • What kind of artists perform at AMT?
    • AMT has hosted artists who have won Grammys, Tonys, and Oscars, making it a renowned destination for top-tier entertainment.

2425 Lincoln Hwy East, P.O. Box 10757, Lancaster, PA 17605, 800-648-4102 | 717-397-7700

Lancaster is 1 hr 45 min (81.3 miles via US-1 S) from Philadelphia.



Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming farmlands. Fulton Steamboat Inn – A unique steamboat-themed hotel with charming decor. Visit the Amish Farm & House – Learn about the Amish way of life and take a countryside tour.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor activities. The Inn at Leola Village – A luxurious boutique hotel with spa services. Explore Central Market – Shop for fresh produce and local artisan goods at the oldest farmers’ market in the U.S.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage. Eden Resort & Suites – A family-friendly stay with great amenities. Take a scenic ride on the Strasburg Rail Road – Enjoy picturesque views of the Amish countryside.

Plan Your Trip


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