posted Mar 19, 2026

Two-Day Family Itinerary in Lancaster County, PA

Looking for the best two-day family itinerary in Lancaster County, PA? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with toddlers, big kids, or multiple generations, Lancaster County is packed with family friendly things to do, from amusement park thrills and scenic train rides to Amish Country experiences, outdoor adventures, and local dining.

This guide highlights how to spend 48 hours in Lancaster, PA with your family, so you can make the most of your time and discover why this destination is a favorite for easy, memorable family trips.

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Day One

Experience Thrills and All-Day Entertainment at Dutch Wonderland

Start your Lancaster adventure at the iconic Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park. This park is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering roller coasters, a water park, and a variety of entertainment options. Dutch Wonderland is the ideal destination for family fun throughout the year, featuring attractions that cater to all ages.

Pro Tip: If your children are a little too old for Dutch Wonderland, consider Refreshing Mountain for adrenaline-seeking teens and big kids. Elevate your Lancaster getaway with a zipline experience, high ropes courses, and and more.

Find Top Outdoor Things to Do with Kids

Enjoy Traditional PA Dutch Favorites

Savor the original flavors of PA Dutch cuisine, known for its hearty and homestyle dishes. Choose from several dining spots, such as Miller’s Restaurant & Smorgasbord, Shady Maple Smorgasbord, Hershey Farm Resort Grand Smorgasbord, and Dienner’s Country Restaurant, each offering a unique taste of PA Dutch culinary heritage.

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Hershey Farm Resort

Check In to Your Family-Friendly Hotel

End day one by checking into one of Lancaster County’s family-friendly hotels. Whether you are looking for a hotel with amenities like a swimming pool, or a unique lodging option, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Lancaster County that suits your needs.

A Few Top Family Accommodations:

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Get Cow-to-Cone Ice Cream

After a day of fun, treat your family to some fresh, cow-to-cone ice cream, a local specialty of Lancaster County. There are plenty of options to choose from, including Fox Meadows Creamery, Lapp Valley Farm, 32 Below Ice Cream Shop, and many more.

Want to try several places during your trip? Sign up for the Lancaster County Ice Cream Trail try find the best ice cream shops in Lancaster County, plus free coupons at participating locations.

Find Ice Cream Shops in Lancaster

Day Two

Ride on a Historic Train at the Strasburg Rail Road

Journey back in time on the Strasburg Rail Road, the oldest continuously operating railroad in the US. This train offers a unique perspective of Lancaster County’s picturesque countryside. Strasburg Rail Road features a variety of specialty trains and seasonal events that cater to visitors of all ages throughout the year.

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Get Immersed in Amish Culture

Did you know that Lancaster County is home to America’s oldest Amish settlement? Thousands of Amish still live a centuries-old "Plain" lifestyle. Spend some time immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Amish Country. Book a guided tour through the countryside or of an Amish home and farm, slow down the pace of your trip with a ride in an Amish horse and buggy, and visit more Amish-owned businesses around the County.

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Embrace The Great Outdoors

Lancaster, PA offers many opportunities for outdoor adventures with your family. Whether you like to hike through scenic trails or kayak along the Susquehanna River, Lancaster County’s parks and preserves have something for everyone.

For a gentle kayaking experience, consider joining KayakLanCo for a guided trip on the river's calmer waters, which are safe and enjoyable for all ages. Or, book a relaxing and educational River Boat Discovery Tour with Susquehanna National Heritage Area to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Susquehanna River.

More Outdoor Adventure Options

Enjoy Your Meals Outside

Enjoy some fresh air while dining at one of Lancaster’s open-air eateries. With many patios and porches available, you can savor an outdoor meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

A Few of the Best Outdoor Patios for Families:

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Beat the Heat Before Heading Home

Beat the heat before heading home with an indoor stop in Lancaster County. At Turkey Hill Experience, families can dive into interactive exhibits centered around ice cream, iced tea, and dairy culture. Lancaster Science Factory invites kids to learn through play with more than 75 hands-on science and STEM exhibits, while Magic & Wonder Theater offers a family-friendly show filled with illusions, music, and comedy for an easy, memorable end to your trip.

Explore more kid-friendly shows happening across the county! Servant Stage Company is a pay-what-you-can theatre making art accessible to all, Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre offers kid shows all year long throughout the summer into the holiday season and Fulton Theatre offers a few high production value shows throughout the year.

Find More Indoor Kid-Friendly Activities