Top Reasons to Visit Lancaster, PA

When most people think of vacationing, they don't usually have Lancaster, PA at the top of their list. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to find this city on any list!

However, this small town is a hidden gem. Plus, it's a perfect destination for a staycation if you live a few hours away.

Despite its small size, there's so much to do that you'd need to come back repeatedly to get through everything. You definitely won't get bored here.

Are you now interested in booking a vacation to this city? Then read on to see why you should visit Lancaster!

There's a Welcome Center With History

The city itself is old, but the Lancaster City Welcome Center itself was built in the late 1790s, so it's a definite slice of history when you gaze upon it. It used to be the Old City Hall, and it's a great starting point to orient yourself when you get to the city.

While the outside is old, the inside of the welcome center is updated and modern, with a restroom you can use if you need to freshen up. You can also grab free maps and brochures that show you all the best attractions and things to do.

If you have questions, don't hesitate to speak to the staff. They're friendly and knowledgeable, so you're sure to get informative answers.

And if you want to grab some souvenirs, the welcome center has an art gallery and gift shop you can browse!

The Historic Downtown Is Beautiful

Once you've oriented yourself at the welcome center, head outside to explore the city's downtown area. You'll see many historical buildings that are well-preserved, which make for great pictures. A stroll down the streets here will show you a glimpse of what cute shops and tasty restaurants are available.

To learn even more about Lancaster, consider booking a walking tour beforehand in the welcome center. The expert guides will give you a new appreciation of the city after you hear what they have to say.

There's Plenty of Shopping

For those who like to shop until they drop, you'll be in heaven when you visit Lancaster, especially if you like to shop local. As we've just mentioned, a walk through downtown will give you access to myriads of shops, where you'll find hand-crafted products. You may even score some vintage finds!

Make sure you block out at least one afternoon to shop in downtown Lancaster. The shops and boutiques are filled with treasures that'll make unique souvenirs, which will remind you of the fond memories made on this trip.

You Can't Beat the Culinary Scene

You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food in Lancaster. You can find anything from casual pizzerias to sophisticated seafood bars. There are plenty of restaurants that use local ingredients too, and some even serve farm-to-table dishes.

There isn't a lack of food from around the world either. For example, there's a Trinidadian restaurant that serves authentic dishes, and we bet it'll be challenging to find another one in your local area.

Foodies should take full advantage of the varied restaurants here, as you'll have an unforgettable experience.

The Breweries and Distilleries Are Fantastic

In addition to a popping culinary scene, Lancaster also has several local breweries and distilleries.

If there's any brewery you should go to, then it should be the one named after the city: Lancaster Brewing. They always have seasonal beers, so no matter what time of the year you visit, there's something different to try.

For something more unique, go to Meduseld Meadery. As the name suggests, you can drink draft mead, as well as beer. And you can blow off steam by throwing some axes around too!

Most (if not all) of these establishments offer tastings and tours, so think about booking one (or two) for your vacation.

There's a Large Amish Community

Lancaster is well-known for its Amish Country. In fact, it's home to the oldest Amish communities, so it doesn't get more authentic than that.

These people live life frozen in time, rejecting electricity in their everyday lives. This means you'll see lots of horse-drawn buggies and Amish people dressed in simple and traditional garb.

If you're curious about their lives, you can take a ride on one of these buggies and/or tour an Amish farm. You can even bring back some of their homemade items as souvenirs.

You Can Walk Through Gorgeous Parks and Gardens

For some greenery, walk through Lancaster's numerous parks and gardens. These have been carefully designed to bring peace and serenity into the locals' lives, and you can enjoy these green spaces too.

One you can't miss out on is Buchanan Park. Its large grounds have grass, a playground, a pavilion, and basketball courts. You can also watch playful pups at Beau's Dream Dog Park.

If you're a fan of artist Charles Demuth (who was a Lancastrian himself), then visit Demuth Garden too. It served as an inspiration for his work, so you can see exactly what he was viewing when creating his paintings.

The Nature's Astounding

There's more to Lancaster's natural beauty than just its parks and gardens. Take a drive around Lancaster County, and you'll find breathtaking scenery next to its historic covered bridges.

The city is also home to Holtwood Environmental Preserve, where you can go camping, hiking, hunting, swimming, and boating. In addition, there are excellent birdwatching opportunities! If you're lucky, you'll see bald eagles and ospreys.

Another place to visit is the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. It's technically in Lititz, but it takes under 20 minutes to drive there, and it's well worth the journey! You'll see wolves and wolf hybrids up close and personal, and you'll get to learn all about these majestic creatures if you book a guided tour.

There Are Several Informative Museums

If you like to soak in information while on vacation, then you'll certainly be pleased with the selection of museums in Lancaster. There are so many niche subjects here that you'll be stuffed with interesting new facts by the time you go home.

For instance, there's the National Watch & Clock Museum. Here, you'll find the largest collection of 19th-century American clocks and watches.

If you're bringing the kids, then take them to the Lancaster Science Factory. Children under two get in for free, which can make it a cost-effective activity. There are many STEM-related programs and workshops, as well as interactive exhibits, which means everyone will have a blast here.

Other museums include the Demuth Museum, North Museum of Nature and Science, Lancaster Museum of Art, 1719 Museum, Mennonite Life Visitors Center, and Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum.

The Arts District Is Extremely Interesting

For an artsy time, head over to Gallery Row. Located on Prince Street, Lancaster's arts district has a few art galleries you can lose yourself in.

The local artists will show off and sell their work, so save some space in your car to bring a painting or two home. Try to book your vacation on the first Friday of the month, as the art galleries and shops are open extra late, giving you more time to appreciate local art.

To combine your love of art and museums, check out the Demuth Museum and Lancaster Museum of Art, both of which are in this area.

There's a Thriving Performing Arts Scene

Performing arts fans will be astonished to see how many local theaters are packed into Lancaster. They range from small to large, and they cover performances of all genres.

For example, Sight & Sound Theatres brings the Bible to life in an epic and unforgettable way. This is an absolute must see theater while you're visiting Lancaster. Also, you can catch dinner and a show at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, where you'll feast upon terrific food while watching outstanding performances.

Wherever you go, don't skip out on the Fulton Theatre. This is the country's oldest continuously operating theater, plus it's a National Historic Landmark.

Visit Lancaster on Your Next Trip

By now, it should be clear that you need to visit Lancaster the next time you get a few days off from work. This city is rich in culture, history, and art, and it offers a great time away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

While it may be out of the way for most people, Lancaster is definitely a hidden gem worth exploring. You won't regret checking it off your list!

For family-friendly Lancaster attractions, browse our tickets now!