Lancaster County Bucket List

Who doesn't love a good bucket list? Lancaster has plenty to offer, but if you're only here for a short time, you need to take advantage of these must-do activities. If you're a repeat visitor, you might have already checked off a few things on this list (good for you!), but there could be some activities that you aren't aware of yet!

1. Visit Kitchen Kettle Village

Kitchen Kettle Village offers a Lancaster County experience with over 40 shops and eateries. You can sample pepper jam, watch fudge being rolled, and experience one of our many food festivals and events. You can also cherish locally made treasures like heirloom quilts, hand-thrown pottery, handmade furniture, art, and more. Come and enjoy the experience and create exceptional memories.

Explore More of The Area

2. Train Ride on Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg Rail Road is America's oldest operating railroad. During the 45-minute train ride, you can enjoy the picturesque farmland of Lancaster County. The steam trains offer seating in our Presidential, First-Class, Coach, and Open-Air Cars. There are plenty of unique extras such as pump cars, a shop tour, and fun extras for the little passengers. Strasburg Rail Road also hosts special events throughout the year, including the Easter Bunny Train, Wine & Cheese Train, Day Out With Thomas, Santa's Paradise Express, The Night Before Christmas Train, and Christmas Tree Train.

Trains, Trains, Trains

3. Have a Fun-Filled Day at Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland is a premier family amusement park with over 35 rides, attractions, and shows. It features Duke's Lagoon water play area, Exploration Island, and Merlin's Mayhem, the park's first suspended coaster. It is designed for families with young children in mind. Since its opening in 1963, it has consistently been recognized as one of the Top 5 Best Kid's Parks in the World by Amusement Today magazine. Come visit and experience why it's a kingdom for kids!

Things to do with Toddlers

4. Buy a Hand-Made Gift

Lancaster County is filled with locally owned shops that have one-of-a-kind items. Pick up a hand-made gift for someone special!. From quilts and furniture to sweet treats and apparel, the perfect gift is waiting in one of Lancaster’s quaint shops.

Shop Local - Online Too!

5. Buy an Amish Quilt

Hand-made Lancaster quilts, often stitched with care by Amish and Mennonite women, are excellent examples of the craftsmanship and quality that is common among Lancaster County artisans.

If you are visiting Lancaster County in the Spring, be sure to check out our local mud sales. Hosted by a number of local fire companies, mud sales attract thousands of people looking for bargains on anything from Amish quilts and antiques to lumber, buggies, and lawn equipment.

What are Mud Sales?

6. Visit a PA Dutch Smorgasbord

Explore the authentic flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine in Lancaster County. From hearty pot pies to scrumptious shoofly pies and whoopie pies, our restaurants proudly serve up generations-old recipes, to savor the rich heritage and homestyle goodness that defines Lancaster County.

Authentic PA Dutch Dining

7. Stay in a Cozy Bed & Breakfast

Spend the weekend out of the house and in one of Lancaster’s cozy bed & breakfasts. This is the perfect getaway for Valentine’s Day or a solo trip idea to rejuvenate and relax. Whether you’re looking for traditional or modern, Lancaster County has all of the options when it comes to overnight accommodations.

Find Places To Stay

8. Tour Over 25 Covered Bridges

Locals have grown accustomed to Covered Bridges as part of our normal commutes around the county. These bridges are a historic trademark of our Lancaster – making them intriguing to tourists from all over! We've developed driving tours of covered bridges in Lancaster County to pull you off the main roads and onto our winding, country routes. Fall back in love with the old charm and quaintness of your hometown this month.

Explore Our Covered Bridges

9. Ride a Horse and Buggy

Locals are very familiar with horse & buggies as the Amish use this mode of transportation all around the County. We see them on the roads, in parking lots, and tons at Amish churches on Sundays. But have you ever experienced what it’s like to ride in one?

Where To Ride One

10. Visit Lancaster Central Market

Lancaster Central Market at Penn Square is America's oldest farmers' market building. It's been around since the 1730s and has been a hub for local residents to buy fresh produce, meats, desserts, breads, cheeses, flowers, crafts, and more. Come early and often for a friendly conversation and locally grown goods.

Walkable Downtown