Best Time to Visit Popular Destinations in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Lancaster Central Market
A vibrant year-round market offering local produce, arts, and crafts. Best visited on Tuesdays and Fridays for the widest variety.
- Local Produce: Enjoy fresh produce straight from Pennsylvania farms
- Unique Arts & Crafts: Discover handmade items not found elsewhere
- Community Atmosphere: Experience the friendly and bustling market atmosphere
2. American Music Theatre
A popular venue for live performances, with shows ranging from music concerts to comedy acts. Best visited during the summer season.
- Variety of Shows: Enjoy a wide range of entertainment options
- Intimate Venue: Experience up-close performances in an intimate setting
- Accessible Location: Easy to reach, located downtown Lancaster
3. Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Step back in time at this living history museum showcasing Pennsylvania German farming culture. Best visited during the summer for interactive demonstrations.
- Living History: Learn about Pennsylvania's rich farming heritage
- Interactive Demonstrations: Participate in hands-on activities like blacksmithing and weaving
- Scenic Setting: Enjoy a beautiful, rural setting on the museum's expansive grounds
4. Hershey's Chocolate World
Explore the world of Hershey's chocolate, with attractions like a factory tour and chocolate-making workshops. Best visited during the holiday season for extra festivities.
- Factory Tour: Witness the chocolate-making process up close
- Chocolate Workshops: Create your own Hershey's treats in interactive workshops
- Holiday Celebrations: Enjoy special events and decorations during the holiday season
5. Rock Ford Plantation
Step into the historic home of Revolutionary War General Edward Hand. Best visited in spring for beautiful blooming gardens.
- Historical Significance: Learn about a key figure in the American Revolution
- Beautiful Gardens: Stroll through stunning gardens filled with blooming flowers
- Guided Tours: Participate in guided tours to gain insight into the home's history
6. Strasburg Rail Road
Ride on historic steam trains through picturesque Amish farmland. Best visited during fall for scenic autumn foliage.
- Historic Trains: Experience travel by authentic steam trains
- Scenic Routes: Take in the beautiful sights of Lancaster County's countryside
- Special Events: Participate in themed rides, such as the Polar Express during the holiday season
7. Kitchen Kettle Village
A quaint shopping village offering local crafts, specialty foods, and restaurants. Best visited during the Christmas season for festive decorations.
- Local Crafts: Find unique gifts and souvenirs from Lancaster County
- Specialty Foods: Taste local favorites like whoopie pies and shoofly pie
- Festive Atmosphere: Experience a charming, holiday-themed village
8. Amish Farm & House Tour
Visit an Amish family's farm and home to learn about their culture and lifestyle. Best visited during the summer for a more active experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Gain insight into the Amish way of life
- Farm Activities: Participate in chores like milking cows or gardening
- Home Tour: Explore an Amish home and learn about their traditions
9. Wheatland (James Buchanan's Home)
Tour the home of James Buchanan, the 15th U.S. President. Best visited during the summer for guided tours and events.
- Historical Significance: Learn about a key figure in U.S. history
- Guided Tours: Participate in guided tours to gain insight into the home's history
- Events: Attend events like lectures and book signings related to James Buchanan
10. Lancaster County Central Park
A beautiful urban park offering walking trails, a lake, and picnic areas. Best visited during the spring or fall for picturesque scenery.
- Walking Trails: Take a leisurely stroll through the park
- Lake Activities: Enjoy activities like fishing or boating on the lake
- Picnic Areas: Pack a lunch and enjoy it in the park's scenic surroundings
11. Lancaster Mennonite Homes Tour
Visit Mennonite homes and businesses to learn about their culture and lifestyle. Best visited during the summer for a more active experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Gain insight into the Mennonite way of life
- Home Visits: Visit homes to learn about their traditions and daily life
- Business Tours: See how Mennonite businesses operate and thrive
12. Lancaster County Prison
Tour a historic prison, originally built in the 1800s. Best visited during the summer for guided tours and events.
- Historical Significance: Learn about Lancaster's criminal history
- Guided Tours: Participate in guided tours to gain insight into the prison's history
- Events: Attend events like lectures and book signings related to the prison's history
13. Landis Valley Museum (Village & Mansion)
Explore a living history museum showcasing Pennsylvania German farm life and culture. Best visited during the summer for interactive demonstrations.
- Living History: Learn about Pennsylvania's rich farming heritage
- Interactive Demonstrations: Participate in hands-on activities like blacksmithing and weaving
- Scenic Setting: Enjoy a beautiful, rural setting on the museum's expansive grounds
14. Lancaster City Cemetery
A historic cemetery featuring notable figures from Lancaster's past. Best visited during the spring for blooming flowers.
- Historical Significance: Learn about key figures in Lancaster's history
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the picturesque, historic cemetery setting
- Self-Guided Tour: Explore at your own pace using a provided map or guidebook
15. Lancaster's Central Market District
A bustling district filled with shops, restaurants, and the iconic Lancaster Central Market. Best visited on Tuesdays and Fridays for the market's widest variety.
- Local Shops: Discover unique, locally-owned businesses
- Restaurants: Savor diverse culinary options from around the world
- Market Atmosphere: Experience the lively, community-focused market atmosphere