Top Things to Do in Lancaster, PA this January

Start the New Year off right with a fun-filled January in Lancaster County. Seek out new experiences or invoke nostalgia of growing up in Lancaster by revisiting places you haven't been to in awhile. There are so many things to do this winter, so bundle up, take-in the cool air, and enjoy!

Find Free Things to Do

Whether you've lived in Lancaster your whole life, or you just moved to the County, there is bound to be something you haven't explored yet. There's no better time than the present to get acquainted - or reacquainted with the place we call home.

Plan your Staycation

See a Show

See a Broadway caliber show at Lancaster prices this month! From quaint theatres in PA Dutch Country to the historic Fulton Theatre in Downtown Lancaster, there's a wide variety of shows and theatre experiences to be had. For a list of upcoming shows, click here.

Explore the Great Outdoors

If you are a snow-bunny at heart, one of the most popular winter attractions in Central PA is AvalancheXpress Snow Tubing. Bundle up and beat your family’s cabin fever by heading over to the hills for some great outdoor fun.

Whether you venture out on your own or join a Naturalist Guide in Lancaster County Central Park, you are sure to see the beauty and splendor of our County in winter. The Lancaster County Park Environmental Center offers year-round events and activities for adults and children to learn about the wildlife around them.

Refreshing Mountain is a year-round destination with adrenaline-pumping experiences in store. Try ziplining, the elevated obstacle course, giant swing and more! If being suspended 30+ feet in the air doesn't get you excited, there's still something for you at Refreshing Mountain. Visit their Wildlife Center or Farm Animal Experience to get interact with all types of common and uncommon animals!

The Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania has been a safe haven for wolves for over 40 years. The sanctuary offers refuge to over 50 gray wolves and wolf dogs, safely housed in spacious, natural enclosures. Take a full moon tour and see how wolves act during that time of the month. Or, take a regular tour of the sanctuary, for a totally unique and possibly once-in-a-life encounter with wolves.

Level up your typical dinner date night with dining experience in one of our local restaurant's outdoor pods or enclosures. If you're lucky, you'll get to watch snow gently fall while you sit warmly inside of one their spaces and enjoy a delicious meal. Find restaurants with option to dine outdoors in the winter.

Burn off a few of those holiday calories and hit the ice. Lace up your skates at Flight on Ice, a pop up ice skating rink at Park City Center, visit their website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.

Experience The Arts

Engage your inner artist with Painting with a Twist. Bring your beverage of choice and the studio will provide all of the art materials you'll need to create a masterpiece. You can also experience the fun from the comfort of your own home with a "Twist at Home Kit". Each kit contains everything you need to complete your artwork, including video instructions, a painting surface, paint, brushes, a disposable apron and more!

Visit Gallery Row, located along Prince Street in Downtown Lancaster, and other galleries scattered around the city. As you wander the row, take in the gorgeous works in the windows and find that perfect piece for your home or to gift. Local artists take inspiration from a variety of subjects - from the local landscape to far away places.

Attend an event at Horst Arts, located in Manheim. They offers lessons in every art subject. They have events for those that just want to have fun with their arts and crafts. They also offer classes for homeschooled students (grades 8 through 12) who really want to delve deep into their art.

Take a six week long class at Lancaster Creative Factory. They have classes that range from learning how to throw you're own clay to make pottery, hand-building with clay, how to blow glass and even date night classes!

Savor Seasonal Flavors

Many of the restaurants in Lancaster change their food and drink menus seasonally to feature local ingredients that are currently being harvested. You might wonder, what can be harvested in January? Actually there is a lot! Root vegetables such as beets, potatoes, and carrots are all in season and make for delicious, hearty dishes to share. Whether you are looking for fine dining, international fair, or a warming PA Dutch meal, Lancaster County has got you covered.

Kid-Approved Activities

Lancaster is a kid's dream-come-true in terms of fun filled activities and kid-friendly events. Explore what's happening in January for families to enjoy!

Don't wait until the weekend to have fun in Lancaster County. Give them a day out in Traintown, U.S.A to see real steam engine locomotives up-close - even treat them to a ride at the Strasburg Rail Road. There are plenty of things to do during the week that your kids are sure to enjoy!

Refresh Your Wardrobe

New year, new you! Spend the day shopping at Tanger Outlets or Kitchen Kettle Village to find some new pieces for your closet and freshen up your style. For more one-of-a-kind items, visit one of Lancaster's many independent boutiques in our smalls towns & downtown.

Experience the Amish & Agriculture

It’s always exciting to learn about new cultures and heritages. Whether you are a Lancaster County local, or from out-of-town, there is a lot we can all learn about Lancaster's Amish communities. Try one of our many Amish and Farmland tours to explore the County!

If farm and agriculture peaks your interest, you won't want to miss the 107th Annual PA Farm Show January 7th - 14th. The complex in Harrisburg is just a short drive from Lancaster County. Venture out to experience the tastes, sights, smells, and shows of authentic Pennsylvania.