Lancaster PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
1. Lancaster Central Market
HISTORIC FOOD MARKET
Lancaster Central Market is the oldest continuously operated farmers market in the United States, dating back to 1730. Visitors can explore a vibrant array of local produce, meats, baked goods, and crafts within its iconic brick Market House at the heart of downtown Lancaster.
2. Dutch Wonderland
FAMILY AMUSEMENT PARK
Dutch Wonderland is a whimsical amusement park specially designed for families with young children, featuring over 35 rides, shows, and a splash-filled water play area. The park's friendly Dutch theme, live entertainment, and the famous Kingdom Coaster make it a staple of Lancaster's family fun scene.
3. The Amish Farm and House
AUTHENTIC AMISH EXPERIENCE
The Amish Farm and House offers a unique glimpse into Lancaster's Amish heritage with guided tours of a historic farmhouse, scenic countryside drives, and interactive farm activities. Guests can meet farm animals and experience authentic Amish traditions on this 15-acre property.
4. President James Buchanan's Wheatland
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIC HOME
Wheatland was once the home of James Buchanan, the fifteenth President of the United States, and is a beautifully preserved Federal-style mansion open for guided historical tours. The site also features the serene Louise Arnold Tanger Arboretum and museum exhibitions focused on local and national history.
5. Historic Rock Ford
REVOLUTIONARY-ERA MANSION
Historic Rock Ford is the meticulously restored 18th-century home of Edward Hand, George Washington's adjutant general, set on 33 scenic acres. Tours of the mansion and its decorative arts gallery reveal the stories of Lancaster's role in the American Revolution.
6. The Amish Village
LIVING HISTORY VILLAGE
The Amish Village in Strasburg presents a 12-acre experience with tours of an 1840s farmhouse, Amish schoolhouse, barns, and scenic countryside. Visitors enjoy immersive learning about Amish customs and rural life through guided walks and countryside bus tours.
7. Bird-in-Hand Stage
MUSICAL THEATRE DESTINATION
The Bird-in-Hand Stage features family-friendly musicals, comedies, and variety shows celebrating Lancaster's heritage and stories. Conveniently located in the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn, the theatre offers wholesome entertainment and a taste of Amish culture.
8. Lancaster Science Factory
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE MUSEUM
Lancaster Science Factory engages curious minds with more than 75 hands-on exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, and math. Children and adults can build, experiment, and explore in a fun, educational environment designed for discovery.
9. Strasburg Rail Road
HISTORIC STEAM TRAIN RIDE
Strasburg Rail Road offers vintage steam train excursions through the picturesque farmlands of Amish Country, providing a step back into the golden age of rail travel. Visitors can enjoy themed rides, special events, and explore the restored historic station.
10. Turkey Hill Experience
INTERACTIVE ICE CREAM FUN
Turkey Hill Experience invites visitors to create their own ice cream flavor, sample unlimited treats, and learn about ice cream making through interactive exhibits. Located in Columbia, the attraction blends delicious fun with hands-on learning for all ages.
11. Ephrata Cloister
HISTORIC CLOISTER SETTLEMENT
Ephrata Cloister preserves the unique 18th-century religious community founded in 1732, featuring original Germanic buildings and tranquil grounds. Guided tours reveal the spiritual, musical, and architectural legacy of its celibate members and their contributions during the American Revolution.
12. Kreider Farms Farm Tour
WORKING DAIRY FARM TOUR
Kreider Farms Farm Tour offers guests a behind-the-scenes look at a real working dairy farm with interactive tours, modern barns, and the chance to watch cows being milked. The tour includes a scenic drive up the farm's giant cowyard and panoramic views from the silo observation tower.
13. American Music Theatre
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
American Music Theatre showcases world-class performances ranging from Broadway musicals and concerts to original productions. Its modern auditorium in Lancaster hosts top touring acts and family-friendly shows year-round.
14. Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
LIVING PENNSYLVANIA GERMAN HISTORY
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is a living history village documenting Pennsylvania German rural life from 1740 to 1940. Visitors can explore historic buildings, demonstrations, farm animals, and museum collections on this sprawling Lancaster site.
15. Fulton Theatre
HISTORIC PLAYHOUSE LANDMARK
The Fulton Theatre, one of America's oldest continuously operating theatres, hosts Broadway-caliber shows in a beautifully restored 1852 auditorium. Its grand architecture and vibrant season of musicals and plays make it a cultural cornerstone in downtown Lancaster.
16. Barry's Car Barn
VINTAGE AUTO MUSEUM
Barry's Car Barn features an impressive collection of classic and vintage automobiles, delighting car enthusiasts with meticulously restored vehicles and automotive memorabilia. Located in Bird-in-Hand, the museum offers a nostalgic journey through automotive history.