posted Apr 06, 2026

Best Day Trips from Philadelphia

•Your Next Easy Getaway•

Looking for an easy road trip from Philadelphia? Lancaster County, PA offers the perfect getaway just a short drive or train ride away, with a mix of charming small towns, scenic countryside, unique shopping, delicious dining, and memorable attractions.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family outing, a friends’ trip, or a spontaneous day away, Lancaster County makes it easy to slow down and explore at your own pace. From vibrant downtown Lancaster to peaceful farmland and one-of-a-kind local experiences, this destination has something for every kind of traveler.

Credit: Gabe McMullen

Lancaster County is an easy, convenient getaway from Philadelphia because it offers the kind of flexibility and ease that can be hard to find in a bigger city. Across Lancaster City and the county’s many small towns, visitors will find ample free or low-cost parking, making it simple to explore without the stress of circling for a spot or paying premium garage rates. Overnight stays are just as approachable, with plenty of affordable hotels, inns, and boutique properties that still deliver comfort, character, and thoughtful amenities. Dining feels easier here, too. With so many standout restaurants to choose from, it is often possible to grab a last minute reservation or seat at the bar, whether you are planning a casual meal or a special night out

Beyond where to stay and eat, Lancaster County makes it easy to settle into a more authentic rhythm through hyper-local experiences like browsing farmers markets, stopping by roadside stands, or heading outdoors for fresh air and adventure. From trail walks and hikes and kayaking to roadside stands and market mornings, visitors can connect with the landscape, culture, and community in a way that feels more personal, grounded, and refreshingly unhurried.

Slow-Paced Experiences

Whether you’re planning a relaxed couples getaway or a family-friendly road trip from Philadelphia, Lancaster County, PA is filled with experiences that make it easy to slow down and enjoy the moment. Here, the focus is less on packed schedules and more on simple pleasures. Craft your own adventure with a few of these slow-paced experiences:

Take a self-guided tour of Lancaster's 25+ covered bridges
Enjoy a picnic at one of the wide open, peaceful spaces around Lancaster
Discover the many species of birds that visit and inhabit Lancaster County
Reserve a private horse and buggy ride to experience riding down country roads at 5 mph
Book a day of relaxing services at one of Lancaster's top-rated spas or wellness centers
Explore peaceful trails throughout Lancaster County for a refreshing outdoor escape
Take a scenic drive through Lancaster County’s rolling farmland and backroads.

Everyone’s idea of a slow-paced getaway looks a little different. Explore even more things to do in Lancaster County and find the experiences that best match the kind of relaxation you’re looking for during your trip.

skip the traffic

Take the Train to Lancaster

Looking for an easy weekend escape from Philadelphia? Lancaster County is just over 60 miles away, and getting here by train is one of the simplest ways to travel. With direct Amtrak service between Philadelphia and Lancaster, you can skip traffic, avoid the stress of driving, and arrive ready to enjoy your trip.

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Quiet and Cozy Places to Stay

Lancaster County offers plenty of cozy, quiet places to settle in and truly unwind. From charming inns and boutique stays to peaceful countryside accommodations, these spots make it easy to relax and enjoy a slower pace.

AmishView Inn & Suites is especially relaxing thanks to its adults-only accommodations, giving guests a quieter space to fully unwind.
Lancaster Arts Hotel offers a quiet, comforting stay just outside of Lancaster City, with striking art-filled spaces and an on-site farm-to-table fine dining restaurant that make the experience feel both relaxing and refined.
Lancaster County campgrounds offer a relaxing way to stay close to nature, with evenings by the fire and unhurried mornings outdoors.
Lancaster County farm stays offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by open fields, fresh air, and a slower rhythm that helps guests truly disconnect.
The Historic Smithton Inn offers a cozy, restful stay with inviting historic charm and a large yard area complete with a firepit for cozy evenings.
Indiandale Springs offers a tranquil setting that feels removed from the noise, making it the perfect place to recharge during your trip.
The Inn at Leola Village is an ideal place to unwind, with elegant accommodations and a top-rated on-site spa that adds an extra layer of relaxation.
The Liberty Spring House at Stone Gables offers a cozy, tucked-away experience with plenty of charm and a peaceful setting perfect for slowing down.
Pheasant Run Farm Bed and Breakfast feels especially quiet and secluded, tucked back in the woods for a stay that is restful and removed from the bustle.
Quiet Haven Motel lives up to its name with a low-key, restful atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in and relax.
Summit Hill Retreat makes for a uniquely cozy escape with covered wagon glamping that feels peaceful, private, and tucked away from the everyday rush.

Find more places to stay

Old Windmill Farm

Credit: Gabe McMullen

Farm Experiences

One of the most memorable experiences for visitors is the chance to spend time on a Lancaster County farm. Whether that means a few relaxing hours with farm animals like goats and horses or a deeper look at local heritage through a full Amish farm tour, these experiences offer a meaningful way to connect with the land and culture that make Lancaster County so special.

Amish Farm and House brings a fun, fresh spin to the traditional farm visit with special events like goat yoga and sheep shearing.
The Amish Experience gives visitors a more in-depth look at Amish culture, especially through its state-of-the-art theater experience.
The Amish Village offers a relaxed way to take in the countryside, with immersive tours that bring visitors through the farm and surrounding backroads.
Eastland Alpacas is an easy stop where you can meet the alpacas, enjoy the farm setting, and shop for authentic alpaca fur goods like socks and scarves.
Kreider Farms Farm Tour gives visitors a whole new perspective, with its 100-foot silo observation tower overlooking the farm and surrounding countryside.
Old Windmill Farm is perfect for anyone who wants to get a little closer to farm life, with hands-on experiences like feeding calves, milking a cow, and gathering eggs.
Farm Tours at Verdant View offer a chance to slow down and experience daily farm life through interactive activities and time with the animals.

Find More Farm Fun in Lancaster

Special Events

One of the best times to visit Lancaster County is during one of its uniquely local events. From summer favorites like VegFest and Rivefest to the iconic Fire & Ice Festival in February and festive celebrations throughout the fall, every season brings something memorable for visitors to experience.

See Festival & Fair Schedule

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Author

Olivia•

Director of Marketing

Olivia is a Lancaster County native, born and raised in the small town of Manheim. She loves the variety that makes Lancaster so special, from its diverse food scene and vibrant downtown to the endless things to see and do throughout the county. She hopes visitors feel the same warm, welcoming spirit that has always made Lancaster feel like home. After traveling to seven countries and 30 U.S. states, Olivia finds that every trip gives her an even greater appreciation for her hometown. When she’s not traveling, she enjoys playing soccer, spending time with her seven nieces and nephews, and getting lost in a good book.

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Best Day Trips from Philadelphia

•Your Next Easy Getaway•

Slow-Paced Experiences

Quiet and Cozy Places to Stay

Farm Experiences

Special Events

Recommended For You

Author

Olivia•

Get more of Lancaster, PA