Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Kitchen Kettle Village
A quaint village filled with traditional Pennsylvania Dutch shops and crafts. Unique in its authentic preservation of local heritage.
- Craft Shops: Browse through a variety of handmade items, from quilts to candles.
- Restaurants: Experience traditional Dutch cuisine at several on-site eateries.
- Year-round Events: Visit during seasonal events like the Christmas Village or the Kite & Craft Festival.
2. The American Music Theatre
A unique theater showcasing a variety of music performances from Broadway shows to contemporary artists. Offers an eclectic mix not found elsewhere in Lancaster.
- Diverse Performances: Enjoy performances ranging from classic rock to contemporary pop, and everything in between.
- Comedy Shows: Laugh it up at the regular comedy nights featuring nationally known comedians.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in pre-show meet and greets, or post-show Q&A sessions with performers.
3. Rock Ford Plantation
A historic home turned museum showcasing the life of Revolutionary War hero, General Edward Hand. Unique in its connection to American history.
- Historic Artifacts: View original furnishings, artwork, and artifacts from the 18th century.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the life and times of General Hand.
- Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens, including one of the oldest boxwood collections in the U.S.
4. Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
A living history museum showcasing Pennsylvania German farming and domestic life from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Unique in its focus on rural life.
- Historic Buildings: Visit over 40 restored historic buildings and structures.
- Animals: See heirloom breeds of farm animals up close.
- Events: Attend seasonal events like the Harvest Fair or Christmas Candlelight Tours.
5. Strasburg Rail Road
A historic steam train ride offering a unique glimpse into the past. Unique in its preservation of one of America's oldest operating railroads.
- Railroad Museum: Explore the adjacent Rail Road Museum to learn about the history of trains.
- Day Trips: Take a day trip to destinations like Hershey or Philadelphia on selected days.
- Special Events: Ride the train during special events like Thomas the Tank Engine days or Halloween Train Rides.
6. The Bird-in-Hand Village
A collection of shops, restaurants, and theatre located on an Amish farm. Unique in its blend of Amish culture with modern attractions.
- Shops: Browse through shops selling everything from handmade crafts to locally made food products.
- Restaurants: Dine at one of the several restaurants, including an Amish buffet or a bakery offering fresh whoopie pies.
- Theatre: Enjoy live shows at the Bird-in-Hand Theatre, featuring everything from musicals to comedy.
7. The Lancaster Central Market
North America's oldest continuously running farmers' market. Unique in its wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and other local goods.
- Fresh Produce: Find fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers from local farms.
- Artisanal Foods: Taste locally made cheeses, breads, and other specialty foods.
- Crafts: Browse through handmade crafts, from quilts to pottery.
8. The Land of Little Horses
A miniature horse park showcasing over 120 miniature horses. Unique in its focus on these tiny equines.
- Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the care and training of these miniature horses.
- Shows: Watch performances featuring these tiny equines, including trick riding shows.
- Gift Shop: Pick up miniature horse-themed gifts and souvenirs in the gift shop.
9. The Vintage Fire Museum
A museum dedicated to firefighting history featuring vintage fire trucks and equipment. Unique in its focus on the evolution of firefighting.
- Exhibits: View exhibits showcasing the history of firefighting, including antique fire trucks.
- Firehouse Tours: Take a tour of an authentic firehouse to learn about its history and operations.
- Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs about fire safety for both kids and adults.
10. The Amish Farm & House
A living history farm and house offering a glimpse into the daily life of an Amish family. Unique in its authentic representation.
- Farm Life: Learn about farming practices, livestock, and crops on an active Amish farm.
- Amish House Tour: Take a guided tour of an authentic Amish home to understand their lifestyle.
- Demonstrations: Watch demonstrations of traditional skills like quilting, blacksmithing, and woodworking.
11. The Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park
A family-friendly amusement park with rides, water attractions, and shows based on Pennsylvania Dutch culture. Unique in its blend of fun and education.
- Rides & Attractions: Enjoy a variety of rides, including the Duke's Lagoon water park.
- Shows: Watch live shows featuring puppets, acrobatics, and comedy.
- Cultural Activities: Participate in hands-on activities like rope making and corn shucking.
12. The Bird-in-Hand Aviary
A unique aviary housing over 30 species of birds. Unique in its focus on education and conservation.
- Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs about bird conservation and behavior.
- Feeding Time: Watch as the birds are fed and learn about their diets.
- Flight Demonstrations: Watch flight demonstrations showcasing various species' abilities.
13. The Hands-On House Children's Museum
An interactive children's museum designed to educate and entertain. Unique in its focus on hands-on learning.
- Exhibits: Explore exhibits focused on topics like science, art, and history.
- Workshops & Activities: Participate in workshops and activities designed to engage children.
- Special Events: Attend special events like story times, science experiments, or craft workshops.
14. The Turkish Art Museum
A museum dedicated to the art and culture of Turkey. Unique in its focus on this often overlooked region.
- Exhibits: View exhibits showcasing Turkish art, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.
- Artist-in-Residence Program: Learn from visiting Turkish artists during the Artist-in-Residence program.
- Cultural Events: Attend cultural events like Turkish music concerts or cooking demonstrations.
15. The Americana Music Campground & Theatre
A unique campground and theatre featuring bluegrass and country music performances. Unique in its focus on traditional American music.
- Camping: Stay at the campground during performances or events.
- Live Music: Enjoy live music performances, often featuring well-known bluegrass and country artists.
- Workshops & Jams: Participate in workshops or join in jam sessions with other musicians.