An aerial view of the rural farmland in southern Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Things to do in  Lancaster

Take a day trip to Dutch Country

Here in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, life seems to run a bit slower—and is all the better for it. Lancaster’s pace is partly set by the city’s Amish community, a religious group who dress modestly, still use horse-drawn buggies, and avoid many modern conveniences. Visitors can learn more about their practices during a farm visit (and visit Amish bakeries for tempting treats like whoopie pies). Beyond the buggies, Lancaster’s quaint downtown offers many things to do—think antique shopping, gallery hopping, and market browsing aplenty—and is a popular weekend escape from ever-bustling Philadelphia.

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Top 3 attractions in Lancaster

#1

Amish Farm and House

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Anyone curious about the history, heritage, and daily life of America’s Amish will be fascinated by the community at the Amish Farm and House in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This 200-year-old house—one of the nation’s oldest Amish attractions—hosts house and farm tours, cultural demonstrations, and interactive classes.More
Tours & Tickets
#2
Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland

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A giant purple-trimmed castle welcomes families to Dutch Wonderland, a fairytale-themed amusement park on the eastern outskirts of Lancaster in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country. Its 30-plus rides are tame compared to larger amusement parks like Six Flags or Cedar Point, and most of its daily shows like “Bubba Bear & the Badland Band” or “Adventure of the Frog Prince” are geared toward younger children.More
#3

President James Buchanan's Wheatland

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Encounter presidential history at Wheatland, President James Buchanan's 19th-century Pennsylvania property on the grounds of LancasterHistory. Explore a mansion replete with period details. See objects from the 15th president of the US, learn about Civil War America, and enjoy a guided tour free with general admission.More
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Explore Lancaster by interest

Top activities in Lancaster

Amish Experience SuperSaver Package
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Amish Experience SuperSaver Package

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Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House

Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House

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Truly Authentic Lancaster Experience!

Truly Authentic Lancaster Experience!

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Lancaster History and Craft Beer Walk

Lancaster History and Craft Beer Walk

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Lively Lancaster Scavenger Hunt
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Lively Lancaster Scavenger Hunt

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Murder Mystery Night Solve the Case Lancaster PA
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Murder Mystery Night Solve the Case Lancaster PA

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45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz
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45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz

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$12.00
Unique Amish Immersion in Lancaster
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Unique Amish Immersion in Lancaster

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Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster

Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster

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Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House
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Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House

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$12.00
Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz
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Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz

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$12.00
International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania
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International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania

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Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City

Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City

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Lancaster Puzzling Adventure

Lancaster Puzzling Adventure

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Lititz Whiskey and History Tour
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Lititz Whiskey and History Tour

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Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour
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Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour

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Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!

Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!

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Lancaster Scavenger Hunt Adventure
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Lancaster Scavenger Hunt Adventure

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$23.75
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Historic Lancaster Photo Shoot Tour

Historic Lancaster Photo Shoot Tour

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$100.00
Sweet & Savory Tour of Lancaster City!

Sweet & Savory Tour of Lancaster City!

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All about Lancaster

When to visit

Summer is a popular time to visit Lancaster County. Families flock to the Dutch Wonderland amusement park, while good-weather days are perfect for an Amish farm visit. But fall—with its harvest days, Hot Air Balloon Festival, and Whoopie Pie Festival—is also a great bet.

Getting around

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is roughly 72 miles (116 kilometers) west of Philadelphia. Lancaster Station is served by Amtrak's Keystone line, linking it to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. The city itself is best explored on foot or by car. (Failing that, horse-drawn buggies are the most traditional mode of travel.)

Traveler tips

Lancaster is celebrated for its Amish baked goods and traditional fare, but those in the know realize that its all-you-can-eat buffets might be the city's best culinary offering. Shady Maple Smorgasbord, located in nearby East Earl, is Lancaster County's most popular option—come hungry.

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
EDT (UTC -5)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English
Attractions
3
Tours
21
Reviews
2,238
EN
2128b3e5-5b04-4a61-a960-9503d36abc25
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People Also Ask

Is it worth visiting Lancaster, Pennsylvania?

Yes, it’s absolutely worth visiting Lancaster. Not only is the city home to the oldest Amish community in the United States—with plenty of opportunities for cultural exchange, it also boasts antique parlors, boutiques, and museums, plus highlights like the Dutch Wonderland amusement park and Lancaster Central Market.

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What is Lancaster known for?

Lancaster is the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country known for its sizable Amish community. Visitors will encounter Amish culture and traditions by visiting farmsteads, enjoying traditional treats at local bakeries, or even watching the horse-drawn buggies drive by. The city is also renowned for its antiques.

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Does Lancaster have a beach?

No, Lancaster does not have a beach. The landlocked city—the county seat of Lancaster County—is located in southeastern Pennsylvania. However, it is a 20-minute drive from Lake Clarke, an artificial lake along the Susquehanna River that operates a swimming area in the summer months.

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Is Lancaster a walkable city?

Yes, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a walkable city. Thanks to its wealth of shops, restaurants, and bakeries, its charming and approachable downtown area is best explored on foot. However, if you wish to visit area farms, flea markets, or highlights like Dutch Wonderland, you'll need to travel by car or taxi.

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What is the best time of year to visit Lancaster?

There’s never a bad time to visit Lancaster, but summer and fall are particularly popular. Both offer festive events—including Fourth of July fireworks, harvest celebrations, and even a hot-air balloon festival—as well as generally dependable good weather, making outdoor excursions more appealing.

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Is Lancaster Amish country?

Yes, Lancaster County in Pennsylvania is known as the home of Amish Country, and the city of Lancaster is located right in its heart. There are plenty of opportunities to engage with Amish culture, from farm and house visits to horse-drawn buggy rides, walking tours, and shared meal experiences.

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