posted Dec 23, 2025

What's New in Lancaster County?

Plenty of new traditions to add to your visit.

Lancaster County already offers so many different things to do for groups, families, couples, and millennials, what more could we add? Trust us, there is more! We have many great shows, exhibits, and experiences coming in 2025 that will make first-timers and veterans alike want to see and explore our great corner of Pennsylvania.

Theater Performances

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, in March Sight & Sound Theatres will debut “Joshua” and his tale of strength & courage. A miraculous adventure for the whole family, full of original songs & choreography and incredible special effects.

Lancaster City’s arts scene will celebrate the 15th anniversary of two of its stellar creative venues in 2026 – the innovative productions of Prima Theatre and the rich variety of the Ware Center for the Arts.

Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater’s new show ”Enchanted” transforms a visit to a forgotten magic shop into a spellbinding experience for the whole family.

With a track extension and new passenger platform, the Harrisburg, Lincoln, & Lancaster Railroad steam train at Stone Gables Estate now encompasses a two-mile round trip over an approximate one-hour ride.

Tours & Experiences

During America’s 250th, experience the various ways Lancaster County has influenced our nation’s development at our numerous historic sites and along several heritage tours. Pick up our special commemorative passport booklet to collect custom stamps at many of these stops. Especially check out the assorted events & activities planned throughout the year at Revolutionary-era Historic Rock Ford.

Slated to open in May, the powerful stories behind the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy in Lancaster City will help highlight larger themes within our country’s continuous striving for freedom and opportunity for all.

In early spring, Dutch Wonderland plans to unveil its newly-refurbished & themed Dutch Wonderland Inn right next door to the amusement park.

Or opt for a completely new lodging property with either the unique Hampton by Hilton at the Chip Factory (with a first-floor restaurant & rooftop lounge) in Columbia or the boutique Swan Hotel (with 11 luxury rooms) in Lancaster City – both historic site renovations scheduled to open in mid-summer and early fall, respectively.

The Executive Suites & Events in downtown Ephrata offers eight luxury suites, attractive event space, and – in spring – an escape room experience.

And anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027, the magnificent Roundhouse exhibit building being added at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania will provide a close-up view of six historic steam locomotives.

Also fairly new is "The Local" Mountain Bike Park in Quarryville – a great outdoor rec activity that features everything from expert-level jumps to beginner flow trails, all connected via a 40-foot climb trail.

The newly-revitalized amphitheater at the Ephrata Cloister will serve as a hub for lively community engagement, including concerts and theater.

Our visitor experience trails – with their special deals & branded swag – continue to expand, the latest being springtime scavenger hunts in Elizabethtown and Intercourse.

Sip & Savor

Other great downtown additions include the first full year for Decades’ new outdoor patio experience, a Lancaster location of South County Brewing, and exploring the underside of the city’s past with the Lancaster Vice walking tour.

Barry’s Car Barn has recently added a restaurant on its second floor – BJ's Pit Stop Bar & Grill – combining the nostalgia of classic American cars with the comfort of traditional pub fare.

This year will also bring further development of a re-freshed Strasburg Creamery in the village square, and the Enigma Escape Room experience in downtown Manheim.

Two beloved foodie spots have returned after significant renovations: Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord, and the Kling House Restaurant at Kitchen Kettle Village.