30 Things to Do Spring 2023 in Lancaster, PA

It’s time to shake off cabin fever and explore all that Lancaster, PA has to offer this spring. Whether you prefer the beautiful outdoors, tasty dining, or themed festivals, there’s something for everyone this season.

Check out our list of 30 activities to create your Spring 2023 itinerary.

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1. Hit the trail. As the weather warms up, dust off those sneakers and hiking boots. Lancaster is home to plenty of hiking and biking trails.

2. Bid on a bargain at an annual Mud Sale. These annual auctions are a great way to get a taste of the community, as the Amish and English come together to bid on quilts, housewares, lawn equipment, shrubbery and more.

3. Celebrate Easter in Lancaster with lots of family-friendly Easter events. Between Easter Bunny Trains at Strasburg Rail Road and egg hunts galore, Lancaster hosts a variety of events to celebrate the holiday.

4. Search for unique treasures at our eclectic antique shops. Shops are plentiful in Adamstown, Columbia and Lititz to browse. If you’re in town April 26-30, head up to the Antiques Capital for their extravaganza weekend for more deals and extended shop hours.

5. Thrills and fun can be had at Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park (great for younger kids) which re-opens on April 1st or Hersheypark (for older thrill-seekers) which opens on April 1st. Both offer rides, games and plenty of excitement!

6. Head to a museum. Rainy days are unavoidable in the spring, but that shouldn’t ruin your day. There’s a museum for every interest in Lancaster, from industrial topics to hands-on science.

7. Celebrate rhubarb at Kitchen Kettle’s annual Rhubarb Festival on May 19 & 20 with family-friendly activities, tasty samples, a baking contest, and more. You’ll learn lots of ways to use this spring vegetable, all while enjoying the incredible village.

8. Try out your green thumb with a purchase from one of our plant and garden centers in Lancaster!

9. Refresh and recharge for spring with a visit to a spa in Lancaster, PA. Whether you’re enjoying a massage or treating a loved one to a spa day away, this is a perfect way to relax.

10. Take a tour of all of the historic and beautiful covered bridges in Lancaster County.

11. Take a ride on the tranquil, countryside Strasburg Rail Road. In addition to their daily 45-minute rides, they also host a variety of events. Try some local wines on the Wine & Cheese Train, solve the mystery on the Escape Room Train, or test your knowledge with the Trivia Night Train. You can also look forward to a Day Out with Thomas a few times throughout the year.

12. Live music lovers and music industry professionals won’t want to miss the LAUNCH Music Conference happening April 13th-16th. The conference features panels and lectures, along with tons of music performances. This spring you can also check out Decked Out Live for live music, drinks, and more!

13. Head to the stage at Sight & Sound Theatres. Moses is a must-see for those looking for a wholesome Bible story brought to life. You’ll be thrilled by the vibrant costumes and scenery, breathtaking effects, and talent-filled musical numbers as Moses' story comes to life.

14. Lace up your running shoes. The Garden Spot Village Half Marathon and 10k takes place on March 25th. Runners will love the course that takes you through the picturesque farmland of PA Dutch Country.

15. Get cooking. Visit Lancaster Central Market, Root’s Market or Green Dragon to make the most of the early vegetables and fruits harvested in the spring. It’s the perfect time to score some asparagus, peas, and rhubarb.

16. Take a spring camping trip at one of the campgrounds in Lancaster. The “off-season” has many benefits, like fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and beautiful spring flowers and trees in bloom.

17. Impress your followers. As the flowers and trees begin to bloom, head out to our Instagram-worthy photo spots to capture the beauty of spring. Spots include hiking trails, parks, coffee shops, restaurants and more.

18. Grab your clubs for a round of golf in Lancaster as the weather begins to warm up. If mini-golf is more your speed, Lancaster has a plethora of mini-golf courses the whole family will love.

19. Refresh your wardrobe and head over to Tanger Outlets and the Shops @ Rockvale for some retail therapy. Find looks and accessories you love with the added bonus of no sales tax on clothes or shoes.

20. Catch a show at one of Lancaster's theatres! See Singin' in the Rain, Rock of Ages, or Summer: The Donna Summer Musical at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre. Head into downtown Lancaster to the Fulton Theatre for Smokey Joe's Cafe and Man of La Mancha on the mainstage. You can also catch Murder Ballad at Prima, and Mystery and Jukebox Jive at Magic & Wonder Theatre. Keep up to date with shows in Lancaster.

21. Grab a bite for brunch to start your Saturday or Sunday. The menus at Lancaster’s brunch spots are packed with tasty bites and sips to brighten your morning.

22. Look around and take a tour to learn a little more about Lancaster. From food tours in Downtown Lancaster to countryside bus tours along the backroads, you’ll learn a lot about our local culture and history, while have fun along the way.

23. Wine not try some wines made right here in Lancaster, while enjoying the beautiful views at the vineyards. Our Wine Trail guides you to some of the best Lancaster-made wines, served at scenic wineries across the county.

24. Explore Lancaster's small towns. First Fridays in downtown Lancaster, Second Fridays in Lititz, and First Thursdays in Manheim offer the perfect opportunity to see local artists, dine out, and check out some small shops.

25. Browse a gallery exhibit to get in touch with your artsy side. The Demuth Museum, Lancaster Museum of Art, Galleries on Gallery Row, Pennsylvania College of Art and Design, and more host artists for seasonal exhibits that range from professional photography to student works.

26. Head out to Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum for the Herb and Garden Faire on May 12th and 13th.

27. Dine Outdoors in Lancaster County! Local restaurants have found creative ways to keep their guests cozy and warm while safely seating them outside. Make a reservation at one of these delicious spots today!

28. Discover stories from the past at Lancaster’s historical spots. From the home of the only Pennsylvanian president to a religious community dating back to the 1700s, these sites offer up many facts and interesting places to explore.

29. Clip-clop along the backroads on an Amish Buggy Ride. You’ll feel the fresh spring breeze as you take in the sights, learn more about the Amish and Mennonite culture, and maybe even stop for a treat or two along the way.

30. There’s always something new to check out. Whether you already have some traditional favorites or you're a first-timer here in Lancaster, we hope you browse our list of new attractions, places to eat, and places to stay to add something new and special to your trip this spring.

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