
Best Train Station & Airport Layover Destinations in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Lancaster Central Market
A bustling indoor market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and prepared food. Perfect for a quick bite or souvenir shopping.
- Local Delicacies: Sample regional foods like whoopie pies, shoofly pie, and scrapple.
- Unique Shopping Experience: Find handmade crafts from local artisans.
- Central Location: Located in downtown Lancaster, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
2. American Music Theatre
A premier venue for live performances featuring a variety of musicians and shows. Check the schedule for upcoming events.
- Diverse Performances: Experience a mix of genres, from classical to contemporary music.
- Intimate Setting: Enjoy performances in an intimate theater setting.
- Accessibility: Located near the Amtrak station and airport, it's easy to visit on a layover.
3. Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Step back in time at this living history museum showcasing Pennsylvania German farm life from the late 1700s to the early 1900s.
- Historical Insights: Learn about Pennsylvania Dutch culture and traditional farming practices.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in demonstrations of blacksmithing, quilting, and other traditional crafts.
- Rural Setting: Enjoy a peaceful, picturesque setting just minutes from the city.
4. Fulton Theatre
One of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the country, offering professional productions year-round.
- Rich History: Experience over two centuries of theater history.
- Variety of Productions: See plays, musicals, and performances for all ages.
- Convenient Location: Located in downtown Lancaster, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
5. The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
A scenic trail perfect for walking, biking, or inline skating, following an abandoned railroad corridor.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of Lancaster County.
- Length and Accessibility: The trail spans over 25 miles, with numerous access points along the way.
- Local Landmarks: Pass by historic covered bridges, Amish farms, and small towns.
6. The American Baptist Historical Society Museum
Explore the history of the Baptist faith in America through exhibits, artifacts, and documents.
- Spiritual Insights: Learn about the role of Baptists in American history.
- Historical Artifacts: See historical documents and artifacts related to Baptist leaders.
- Accessible Location: Located in downtown Lancaster, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
7. The Pennsylvania Dutch Farmstead
A living history museum showcasing the daily life of a traditional Pennsylvania German farm.
- Historical Insights: Learn about Pennsylvania Dutch culture and farming practices.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in demonstrations of traditional skills like blacksmithing, weaving, and baking.
- Rural Setting: Enjoy a peaceful, picturesque setting just minutes from the city.
8. The Lancaster County Central Library
A modern library offering books, media, and resources for all ages. Perfect for a quiet stop or researching local history.
- Extensive Resources: Access a wide range of books, audiobooks, and digital resources.
- Quiet Space: Find peaceful study or reading areas.
- Central Location: Located in downtown Lancaster, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
9. The Landis Homestead and Garden
A beautifully restored historic home showcasing the life of an influential Pennsylvania Dutch family.
- Historical Insights: Learn about the Landis family and their impact on Lancaster County.
- Architectural Beauty: Admire the beautiful Federal-style architecture of the homestead.
- Garden Tours: Explore the surrounding gardens, which are open for tours from May to October.
10. The Lancaster Marionette Theatre
A unique theater experience featuring handcrafted marionettes in traditional puppet shows.
- Traditional Puppetry: Experience the art of traditional marionette puppetry.
- Variety of Shows: See a variety of shows, from fairy tales to historical stories.
- Central Location: Located in downtown Lancaster, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
11. The Central Market House Restaurant
A farm-to-table restaurant located inside the Lancaster Central Market, offering delicious meals made with local ingredients.
- Local Ingredients: Enjoy meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Variety of Cuisines: Choose from a variety of cuisines, including American, Mexican, and Asian.
- Convenient Location: Located inside the Lancaster Central Market, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
12. The Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania
A non-profit organization dedicated to the care and preservation of gray wolves. Visitors can observe the wolves in a natural habitat.
- Wolf Education: Learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation of gray wolves.
- Natural Habitat Observation: Observe the wolves in a natural habitat.
- Support Conservation Efforts: Your visit helps support the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
13. The Lancaster History Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of Lancaster County, featuring exhibits on local culture, industry, and art.
- Local History Insights: Learn about the rich history of Lancaster County.
- Engaging Exhibits: Interactive exhibits bring local history to life.
- Accessible Location: Located in downtown Lancaster, it's easily accessible by train or airport.
14. The Turkey Hill Experience
A fun and educational destination dedicated to the history and production of Iced Tea and Mint Lover's Brew.
- Ice Tea Education: Learn about the process of making iced tea.
- Interactive Exhibits: Participate in interactive exhibits and taste tests.
- Central Location: Located near the Amtrak station and airport, it's easy to visit on a layover.
15. The Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
A living history museum showcasing the daily life of a traditional Pennsylvania German farm.
- Historical Insights: Learn about Pennsylvania Dutch culture and farming practices.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in demonstrations of traditional skills like blacksmithing, weaving, and baking.
- Rural Setting: Enjoy a peaceful, picturesque setting just minutes from the city.