Looking for some fun things to do in Lancaster County in Pennsylvania?
Lancaster County is a Pennsylvania gem! Although it’s known for the Amish culture in the area, there is so much more that it can offer visitors for the day, weekend, or even a week!
Some of the best things we’ve done in Lancaster have been hiking (they have tons of trails!) and taking in the scenery on a train ride. And oh yes, taste-testing some delicious ice cream.
The guide below shares some of the fun things to do in Lancaster County, PA, (and even some cool hotels to stay at) so you can start planning your adventure.
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Train-Themed Things to Do in Lancaster County
1. Take a Ride on the Strasburg Railroad
301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572
There is no better way to enjoy the scenic Amish countryside than a steam train ride! The Strasburg Railroad offers fun train rides throughout the year, including their notable fall foliage and Santa train rides at Christmas.
The Strasburg Railroad isn’t just for kids! It also offers murder mystery trains, wine and cheese trains, and entertainment trains.
Hours vary based on the season. Ticket prices vary depending on age and type of train ride. Visit their website for more information.
2. Visit the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
300 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579
Across the street from Strasburg Railroad is the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. This museum has several real trains on display that visitors can explore, including steam and diesel engines and many passenger cars.
The museum also offers special events like Rails & Ales, Model Railroading Days, and Swing Dancing.
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is open Wednesday – Sunday, various hours. Admission ranges from $8-$10, depending on age, with children under two FREE to visit.
3. Enjoy the National Toy Train Museum
300 Paradise Ln, Ronks, PA 17572
The National Toy Train Museum is perfect for kids and adults who love playing with trains! They have seven interactive train layouts that include brands like Lionel and LEGO. They also have an extensive library on-site to help you discover and learn about the best toy train!
The National Toy Train Museum has limited operating hours. It’s open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends in April, September, and October. Admission ranges from $5.50-$8.50, depending on age. Children under four are FREE. Visit their website for more information.
4. Check Out the Choo Choo Barn Model Train Display
226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579
If you love model train displays, the Choo Choo Barn is one not to miss. This huge display brings in visitors from all over, and since it’s right down the street from the Strasburg Railroad and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, it’s the perfect addition to those activities. Strasburg offers so much right, making it one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania.
The Choo Choo Barn is open seasonally, starting in April, with varying hours. Kids cost $6, and adults cost $10 for admission.
Hikes and Other Outdoor Activities in Lancaster County, PA
5. Enjoy One of Lancaster’s Preserves
Lancaster County has over four dozen preserves encompassing over 10,000 acres. The preserves offer over 40 miles of hiking trails, hunting, and fishing. Some of these preserves are located along the Susquehanna River, giving visitors gorgeous area vistas.
You can connect to some of the major trail systems in the area, like the Mason-Dixon Trail, the Horseshoe Trail, and the Conestoga Trail (more info below).
6. Visit the White Cliffs of Conoy
Marietta, PA 17547
Although they look like a natural phenomenon, the White Cliffs of Conoy is actually a byproduct of a limestone and dolomite quarry. Remnants of the limestone factory can still be found across the train tracks from the cliffs.
The cliffs are located off the NW Lancaster County River Trail (see below). The easiest way to get to the cliffs is to park at Koser Park (north of the cliffs) and walk or bike the 1.5 miles to the cliffs. You can also park at the Riverfront Park in Marietta and walk about 2.5 miles to the cliffs.
7. Ride or Walk on the NW Lancaster County River Trail
Along the Susquehanna River, this 14.2-mile paved trail runs from Falmouth to Columbia. Visitors of the NW Lancaster County River Trail can enjoy biking, walking, jogging, and even cross-country skiing along the path.
The trail passes by several parks, including the Falmouth Forest Garden and Chickies Rock County Park. Visit the Lancaster County website to learn more about the park and download a map.
8. Hike the Conestoga Trail
The Conestoga Trail is a 63-mile-long hiking trail that bisects Lancaster County. The course runs from Lititz to the Norman Wood Bridge in Holtwood. The trail follows the Hammer, Cocalico, Conestoga, and Pequea Creeks, all the way to the Susquehanna River and is marked by orange blazes.
Some of the most scenic parts of the trail are along the Susquehanna River, crossing through several nature preserves. This section of the trail is just over 5 miles long and is considered difficult due to the steep inclines and water crossings. Be prepared with proper footwear, water, and snacks for the hike.
9. Visit Susquehannock State Park
1880 Park Dr, Drumore, PA 17518
Susquehannock State Park is the only state park in Lancaster County! The park offers many fun activities, like hiking and horseback riding. It also has several overlooks of the Susquehanna River at the central park (Hawk Point and Wisslers Run Overlook) and its satellites (Urey and Pinnacle Overlooks).
For more outside fun, try this electric bicycle tour!
Kid-Friendly Fun in Lancaster County
10. Turkey Hill Experience
301 Linden St, Columbia, PA 17512
Ice cream fans will love visiting the Turkey Hill Experience. This interactive museum depicts Turkey Hill making its delicious ice cream, allowing visitors to digitally create their own flavor, design the packing, and film a TV commercial!
Unlimited samples of ice cream and their tea and lemonade lines are included with admission. For an additional fee, you can make your own ice cream flavor to enjoy.
Admission varies depending on age and activities, and hours change depending on the season. Visit their website for the most up-to-date information.
11. Dutch Wonderland
2249 E Lincoln Hwy, Lancaster, PA 17602
Dutch Wonderland is an amusement park built for kids! The rides and attractions are geared toward young kids, giving them a place to call their own. They even have some water attractions during the hot summer months.
Dutch Wonderland is open seasonally, with hours and days varying. Ticket prices depend on the guest’s age and the day you visit.
12. Lancaster Science Factory
454 New Holland Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17602
Who doesn’t love a science museum? Lancaster has one of its own, with several hands-on exhibits that will teach your kids about engineering, light, sound, and other science-based topics.
The Lancaster Science Factory participates in the ASTC Passport Program, allowing FREE entry to those with a membership at another ASTC museum (distance requirements enforced). Otherwise, admission is $12 per person. Hours vary, but the museum is closed on Mondays.
13. Hands-On House Children’s Museum
721 Landis Valley Road · Lancaster, PA 17601
Entertaining little ones is always easy at a children’s museum. Thankfully, Lancaster has one! This small museum is packed with fun, giving kids several fun ways to use their imagination, learn, and get out some energy.
The Hands-On House Children’s Museum is open daily, with hours varying. Prices range from $9-$12, depending on age.
14. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572
You can spend an entire day at the Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and still not have done everything they have to offer. This is one of the best things to do in Lancaster County with kids, especially in the fall.
With over three dozen activities, plus their multiple festivals throughout the year, you won’t be bored at the farm!
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is open from the end of May into November, with days varying depending on the season. Tickets start at $18.
15. Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater
3065 Lincoln Hwy E, Paradise, PA 17562
From magic shows to music jukebox-style shows, the Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater offers fun family-friendly entertainment in Lancaster.
Start with dinner (they recommend arriving 90 minutes prior to the show). Dinner includes options like roasted chicken, barbeque pork, and fun sides like coleslaw and roasted potatoes. They also serve kid-friendly options like pizza and chicken fingers.
Visit their website for show information and dates.
While you’re in town, try this fun scavenger hunt!
Amish Country Fun in Lancaster County, PA
16. The Amish Village
199 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks, PA 17572
The 12-acre Amish Village allows guests to tour an Amish homestead while learning all about the Amish culture. The Amish Village offers walking and bus tours with different information and insight into Amish living. You can even combine tours to make the most of your visit.
The Amish Village is open daily. Tour prices vary depending on the type. Visit their website for more info.
17. Amish Farm and House
2395 Covered Bridge Drive, Lancaster, PA 17602
Like the Amish Village mentioned above, the Amish Farm and House offers various tours to give visitors different options and information about Amish life. Visitors can take a self-guided or guided tour of the farm or take a bus tour. You can also combine tours. They also feature seasonal tours and events.
Amish Farm and House is open seven days a week. Tour times and prices depend on the type of tour. Visit their website for the best information.
18. Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides
3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand, PA 17505
You know you’re in Amish country when you encounter horse and buggies on the street! You can be in one of those buggies, learning all about Amish culture and traditions with Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides.
Tours range from 25-60 minutes long. Some even involve pretzels and cookies! Tours are offered Monday-Saturday, with special “Sunday Rides” in the spring. Prices vary depending on tour type.
19. Old Windmill Farm
262 Paradise Lane Ronks, PA 17572
If you want to learn how an Amish farm works, you’ll want to visit the Old Windmill Farm. This active Amish farm offers tours demonstrating daily tasks like gathering eggs and milking cows. In the fall, you can do the whole farmhouse experience and learn how to make butter and apple cider.
Prices depend on tour type, so visit their website to learn more.
Pennsylvania Dutch History in Lancaster, PA
20. Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
2451 Kissel Hl Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601
The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is a living history museum designed to give visitors insight into what life was like for a German farm immigrant and their family over the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Exhibits include an old schoolhouse, a general store, barns, and more.
The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is open Thursdays – Sundays, various hours, with admission ranging from $8-$12, depending on age.
Places to Stay in Lancaster County
Lancaster County is perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long family vacation!
It is a big area, though, so you’ll want to stay somewhere close to the attractions that interest you the most. Although Lancaster itself is in the center of the county, you’ll find plenty of hotel options closer to Dutch Wonderland, just east of downtown.
There are also some fun and unique hotels in Lancaster.
Eden Resort & Suites is a popular option due to its heated outdoor pools and kids’ water zones.
And most kids will love staying the night at the official Cartoon Network Hotel.
Of course, one of the more unique options is the Red Caboose Motel, where 19 cabooses have been converted into suites for you and your family.
Wrapping Up Things to Do in Lancaster County
We love visiting the Lancaster County area! There are so many fun and unique things to do, anytime of year.
We especially love all of the outdoor activities and hiking. And there is nothing like enjoying a beautiful train ride along the Amish countryside.
Lancaster County in PA is easy to get to from major cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, DC, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
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