Winter Activities for Kids in Lancaster, PA

With 9.13 million visitors in 2021, Lancaster, PA, is emerging as a popular tourist destination. These numbers are likely to increase this winter as families explore this city.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a lovely city to visit all year, especially in the winter. From excursions to hands-on adventures, there are plenty of winter activities for kids. The twinkling lights and snow-covered streets create a magical atmosphere perfect for families.

In this guide, we will talk about these activities in depth to help you find something your kids will like.

Let Your Kids Play Arcades and Laser Tag

Arcades and laser tag are among the fun things to do in the winter with kids. Central PA has two great places to go for these winter family activities. The options include Carlisle Sports Emporium and Go 'N Bananas.

Carlisle Sports Emporium is a year-round indoor and outdoor interactive entertainment complex. It boasts batting cages, indoor and outdoor go-kart tracks, and a roller-skating rink. Other amenities include the following:

• The largest arcade in South Central PA with an indoor rock-climbing wall
• A 7,500 sq. ft. two-tier LED LASERTRON laser tag arena
• Two 18-hole miniature golf courses
• 4-player HOLOGATE Virtual Reality

Go 'N Bananas is a Family Fun Center with attractions like a ropes course, mini bowling, and a two-level laser tag arena. It also boasts a foam ball arena with blasters, vacuums, fountains, cannons, and an arcade-style laser maze. Your kids can enjoy arcade games, including skeeball, Monster Drop, bumper cars, and an area for younger children to play.

Go Ice Skating Courtesy of Flight on Ice

Flight On Ice is a pop-up outdoor ice skating rink at the Park City Center mall in Lancaster, PA. It's the perfect place to enjoy winter fun with friends and family of all ages. In addition to ice skating, Flight On Ice also offers a variety of other attractions.

These attractions include affordable skate rentals, free onsite parking, and festive music, lighting, and video decor. Your family will also enjoy delicious food and beverages and plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pennsylvania in winter. And if you'd like private parties, there are heated hospitality tents with next-level entertainment.

Science Fun at the Lancaster Science Factory and the North Museum of Nature & Science

Lancaster, PA, is a great place to visit for kids who love science. There are two museums in the area dedicated to science education. They include the Lancaster Science Factory and the North Museum of Nature & Science.

The Lancaster Science Factory focuses on physical science and chemistry. Its interactive exhibits include a Sustainable Energy Dancefloor, Water Lab, Engineering Zone, and Outdoor Courtyard. The Science Factory recently added a new SkyBridge to offer views of the exhibit hall from 30 feet in the air.

The North Museum of Nature & Science focuses on nature, space, and animals. It has a dinosaur gallery, live animal room, planetarium, and science discovery room. The museum also offers diverse educational programs for kids of all ages.

There are also many other places in Lancaster where kids can learn about science. For example, Lancaster County Park offers plenty of things to do in winter. These activities include guided hikes, nature camps, and educational programs.

Hands-On Learning at Hands-On Children's Museum

The Hands-on Children's Museum is a nonprofit museum in Lancaster, PA. It provides young children with a fun and educational experience. The museum's exhibits suit children ages 2-10 to explore with a parent or other adult and focus on science, art, and culture.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is Little Valley Farm. In a fun and interactive way, the exhibit teaches kids the connection between farms and food. Children can play with farm animals, climb aboard a real tractor, and learn what it takes to run a farm.

Another popular exhibit is Marty's Machine Shop, where children can learn about the basics of engineering and construction. They can build their machines and bridges and learn how different machines work. In addition to Little Valley Farm and Marty's Machine Shop, the Hands-on Children's Museum also has the following:

• E-I-E-I KNOW teaches kids about science and farming with fun games and activities
• Space Voyage Checkpoint that teaches children about space and the solar system
• Water Lab teaches children about the water cycle and how water is used daily
• Art Studio that allows children to express their creativity through a variety of art projects
• Toddler Zone for toddlers and young children with soft play equipment and appropriate activities for this age group

The Hands-on Children's Museum is a great place for families to spend a day learning and playing together. The museum's exhibits are educational and engaging. They are sure to spark children's curiosity about the world around them.

Take an Adventurous Ride on America's Oldest Operating Railroad at Strasburg Rail Road

Enjoy the peaceful train ride for 45 minutes. Take in the beautiful scenery of Lancaster County's farmland with your kids. The authentic steam trains offer Presidential, First-Class, Coach, and Open-Air car seating.

When you return to the station, you can expect a steam train railroad atmosphere. Strasburg Rail Road offers plenty of unique extras along with the magical setting. Kids can enjoy extras like Pint-Sized Pufferbelly and Cranky Cars.

Strasburg Rail Road hosts many special events throughout the year. These events include Easter Bunny Train, Wine and Cheese Train, and Day Out With Thomas. In the Winter, you can ride Santa's Paradise Express and The Night Before Christmas Train.

Santa's Paradise Express brings the Christmas magic to many families. Strasburg Rail Road invites families to enjoy a train ride with Santa, musicians, and storytellers. Experience the joy and excitement of Christmas Eve on the Night Before Christmas Train.

Enjoy a Magical Holiday Experience at the Christmas Spirit Light Show

The Christmas Spirit Light Show is one of the most thrilling Christmas shows in Lancaster, PA. Running through December, this immersive light show features hundreds of thousands of color-changing lights. It also boasts animated lights dancing in harmony with your favorite Christmas classics.

As you walk along the one-mile track, you'll see a beautiful show of lights and music. You can also have fun with big Christmas trees, shiny snowflakes, hopping reindeer, and singing snowmen. Other attractions that will make you feel festive include:

• A drive-thru Santa's Village, where kids can meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elves
• A concession stand with delicious holiday treats and drinks
• A gift shop with unique Christmas souvenirs
• A variety of photo opportunities to capture the memories of your visit

Experience the magic of Christmas at the Christmas Spirit Light Show and create lasting memories. To make the most of your visit to the Christmas Spirit Light Show, arrive early to beat the crowds. Dress your kids warmly, as the light show is held outdoors.

Go on a Christmas Cookie Tour

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and join the Christmas Cookie Tour. The Christmas Cookie Tour is a unique and festive experience that's the perfect way to slow down. It lets you enjoy the company of loved ones and learn about Amish culture.

On your tour, you'll visit three authentic Amish homes. Expect friendly families to welcome and treat you and your kids to several delicious homemade Christmas cookies. You'll also have the opportunity to learn about Amish traditions and customs and ask questions about their way of life.

The Christmas Cookie Tour is a great way to bond with family and friends. It's also a perfect gift for those who love cookies and Amish culture, or those who want a break from the holiday stress. 

Observe Ice Artists in Action

Get rid of winter blues and enjoy the enchantment of ice and fire at Lititz Fire and Ice, a lively outdoor event in Lancaster County. Each February, visitors from all over flock to the vibrant downtown Lititz. They all expect to enjoy a weekend of ice sculptures, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly fun.

The festival's highlight is the ice carving competition, where local artists transform ice blocks into stunning works of art. Visitors can watch the artists in action and admire their finished creations. These creations include intricate snowflake designs and life-size sculptures of animals and people.

In addition to the ice carving competition, Lititz Fire and Ice also features a chili cook-off. At the cook-off, local restaurants compete for the title of the best chili in town. There's also a carnival with rides, games, and prizes for all ages and live music from local bands and performers.

Ice carving is a unique and beautiful art form. It's amazing to watch how artists can transform a block of ice into a work of art. Pay attention to the techniques that the artists use, how they shape the ice, and the tools they use. Though the artists often spend hours carving intricate details into their work, they're usually happy to talk about their work and their process.

Explore Covered Bridges

Check out the county's covered bridges if you want a special winter activity in Lancaster, PA. With over 30 covered bridges, there's something for everyone. Below are a few of our recommendations.

The Forry's Mill Covered Bridge (built in 1869) is a great place to take a walk, enjoy the views, and snap a few photos. The Siegrist's Mill Covered Bridge, on the other hand, is a historic bridge where you can learn about the area's history.

Moving forward, the Schenck's Mill Covered Bridge (built in 1847) is one of the oldest known covered bridges in Lancaster County, where you can experience the quiet of the countryside. But if you want to learn about the history of distilling in Lancaster County while enjoying great farmland views, Kauffman's Distillery Covered Bridge is a better place.

The Hunsecker's Mill Covered Bridge is the longest single-span covered bridge in Lancaster County, offering breathtaking creek views. And if you want to learn about the Amish way of life, the Pinetown Amish Covered Bridge is a great example of traditional Amish craftsmanship. 

No matter which covered bridge you choose to visit, you will surely have a memorable experience. Covered bridges are a unique and special part of Lancaster County's history and culture. They're also a great way to enjoy the winter scenery.

When you visit the covered bridges in Lancaster, PA, with your kids, pick ones that are easy to reach. Bring a snack or lunch, as restaurants or food vendors are not always near the covered bridges. Always supervise your kids because some bridges are close to roads.

Candy, Mystery, and Fun at the Magic & Wonder Theater

The Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater is a 350-seat theater in Lancaster, PA. It features a variety of wonder-filled shows for all ages. These shows include Mystery, JukeBox Jive, Winter Wonderland, and Holly Jolly Jukebox. Whether you're looking for a magical evening with your family or a night out with friends, Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater has something for everyone.

Join us for a magical evening of candy, mystery, and fun at the Magic & Wonder Theater. Activities and candy are part of the ticket purchase. Let your kids dress up in Halloween costumes, and they'll receive a free small popcorn!

All kids will get a goodie bag with Scavenger Hunt details, a Spooktacular Activity Page, and crayons. At 6:00 p.m., the Lobby opens, and the Candy Scavenger Hunt begins. And at 6:30 p.m., the Theater Doors open.

The show starts at 7:00 p.m. while the meet and greet with the cast happens at 9:00 p.m. You can buy our full dinner experience beginning at 5:30 p.m. Order off of our made-to-order food menu for lighter fare and enjoy it during the show.

Ready to Explore Winter Activities for Kids

Known for its rich culture, history, and art, Lancaster, PA is a great place to visit with your family. With many indoor and outdoor winter activities for kids, you're sure to find something. No matter what you choose to do, you'll have a winter wonderland of a time in Lancaster, PA.

Look no further than Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater for a fun-filled evening in Lancaster. We offer a variety of shows, including magic, music, and special Christmas events. Choose something perfect for your family from our upcoming showtimes today.