New Lebanon Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near New Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
1. Park at Governor Dick
NATURAL OUTDOOR RECREATION
Park at Governor Dick is one of the top attractions in Lebanon, offering visitors beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for nature exploration. Visitors can enjoy spending time outdoors while experiencing the natural beauty of Lebanon County.
2. Lebanon Farmers Market
LOCAL FOOD AND CRAFTS
Lebanon Farmers Market ranks among the most popular attractions in the area, providing a vibrant marketplace for local produce and goods. Visitors can browse a variety of fresh foods, handcrafted items, and specialty products from local vendors. The market offers an authentic taste of Lebanon County's agricultural heritage and community spirit.
3. Lebanon County Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Lebanon County Historical Society, organized in 1898, serves as a center for historical research and education in the region. Visitors can experience local history firsthand through exhibits, archives, and educational programs. The society provides access to historical research materials along with related gifts and souvenirs for history enthusiasts.
4. Union Canal Tunnel Park
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION LANDMARK
Union Canal Tunnel Park encompasses 109 acres of meadows and woods surrounding the oldest existing transportation tunnel in the United States. The tunnel, completed in 1827, stands today as a treasured National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore this significant piece of American transportation history while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding park.
5. Light's Fort
COLONIAL ERA LANDMARK
Light's Fort, built in 1742 on the Quittapahilla Creek, represents an important historic landmark in Lebanon County. Originally part of a 274-acre tract, the fort provides visitors with a glimpse into early colonial settlement in the region. History enthusiasts can explore this well-preserved structure that played a role in Lebanon's early development.
6. Seltzer's Smokehouse Meats
TRADITIONAL MEAT DELICACIES
Seltzer's Smokehouse Meats has been crafting quality beef products in Lebanon County since 1902, offering visitors a taste of local culinary tradition. The establishment features a store and museum where visitors can purchase original bologna, beef sticks, and jerky. Tourists can immerse themselves in the rich history of this iconic brand while sampling authentic regional specialties.
7. St. Luke's Episcopal Church
VICTORIAN GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE
St. Luke's Episcopal Church of Lebanon, completed in 1880, showcases fascinating Victorian Gothic Architecture funded by a member of the Coleman family. The church features impressive architectural details and craftsmanship representative of its historical period. Visitors interested in historical religious buildings will appreciate the church's architectural significance and local historical importance.
8. Thomas R. Brendle Museum
PENNSYLVANIA GERMAN HERITAGE
The Brendle Museum is named for Thomas R. Brendle, a local resident and leader in preserving Pennsylvania German folklore. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Pennsylvania German community in Lebanon County. Visitors can learn about local traditions, crafts, and the daily life of early Pennsylvania German settlers in the region.
9. Lebanon Bologna Trail
FAMOUS LOCAL DELICACY
The Lebanon Bologna Trail offers visitors a chance to explore the history and production of world-famous Lebanon Bologna, a regional specialty. Food enthusiasts can visit various producers and retailers to sample this distinctive smoked meat product unique to the area. This culinary trail provides insight into Lebanon Valley's food heritage and the traditional methods used to create this popular delicacy.
10. Mount Gretna Lake & Beach
REFRESHING OUTDOOR RECREATION
Mount Gretna Lake & Beach offers a popular summer destination for swimming, picnicking, and outdoor relaxation near Lebanon. The lake features a sandy beach, swimming areas, and various recreational facilities for visitors of all ages. Families especially enjoy this natural retreat during warm weather months for its clean water and pleasant surroundings.
11. Cornwall Iron Furnace
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL SITE
Cornwall Iron Furnace stands as an exceptionally well-preserved example of American industrial heritage near Lebanon. The site, which operated from 1742 to 1883, includes the original blast furnace and related structures that demonstrate early American iron production. Visitors can tour this National Historic Landmark to learn about the technology, working conditions, and economic importance of the early American iron industry.
12. Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
MEDIEVAL FANTASY EXPERIENCE
The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, located a short drive from Lebanon, transports visitors to a 16th-century English village complete with period entertainment, food, and crafts. The faire features jousting tournaments, musical performances, comedy shows, and interactive experiences throughout its seasonal operation. Visitors enjoy the immersive atmosphere created by costumed performers and elaborate themed areas across the 35-acre grounds.
13. Hersheypark
CHOCOLATE-THEMED AMUSEMENT PARK
Hersheypark, located near Lebanon, combines thrilling rides with chocolate-themed attractions to create a unique amusement park experience. The park features roller coasters, water rides, family attractions, and entertainment options suitable for visitors of all ages. Chocolate enthusiasts particularly enjoy the park's connection to the Hershey chocolate company, with themed areas and sweet treats available throughout.
14. Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATH
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail offers visitors miles of scenic paths for walking, running, cycling, and horseback riding through beautiful countryside. Following a former railroad corridor, the trail connects Lebanon with surrounding communities while providing access to natural areas and historic sites. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the well-maintained trail surface and the opportunity to experience Lebanon Valley's rural landscapes at a leisurely pace.
15. Snitz Creek Brewery
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Snitz Creek Brewery serves handcrafted beers in a relaxed atmosphere that showcases Lebanon Valley's brewing traditions and innovation. Visitors can sample a variety of unique beer styles while enjoying food pairings that complement the brewery's offerings. The establishment provides a social gathering place that highlights local ingredients and brewing expertise in the heart of Lebanon County.