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Set in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster is one of the most fascinating and charming corners of the state.
It’s best known for its Amish community and rolling farmland, but there’s honestly so much more to it than that.
You can ride a historic steam train, discover America’s oldest farmers market, twist your own pretzel, and drive past horse-drawn buggies clip-clopping down country lanes, all in the same day! That sounds pretty unique and amazing doesn’t it?
It really is a wonderful mix and I loved every minute of exploring it which is why I want to share with you all the things you can do in Lancaster, PA.
🏡 1. Visit the Amish Village
For most people, learning about the Amish community is the main reason to visit Lancaster.
To do that, I would recommend starting by visiting the Amish Village near Strasburg.
You can take a guided tour of an authentic Amish farmhouse, then explore the 12-acre grounds at your own pace, which include a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, farm animals and a market full of Amish foods and handmade crafts.
They also run a backroads bus tour out into the surrounding farmland. It’s a bit pricey but it’s interesting as you learn more about the Amish life in a real life setting.
Give yourself a couple of hours here, it’s a lovely, respectful introduction to the community.
Quick note: The Amish do not like people taking pictures of them and that’s fair! They are people, not tourist attractions so please refrain from photographing them.
🛒 2. Get food from Lancaster Central Market
Located in the heart of downtown Lancaster, Lancaster Central Market is a must-visit.
It’s the oldest continuously operated public farmers market in the whole of America, dating back to the 1730s.
It’s packed with stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses and Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, so it’s the perfect spot to grab breakfast or lunch.
Just note it’s only open on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays (from 6am to 3pm), so plan your visit around those days.
🚌 3. Go on a tour of the Amish Farmlands
For a deeper look at Amish country, hop on a countryside tour with The Amish Farm and House.
Established in 1955, it was the very first Amish-focused attraction in the US.
Their guided bus tours take you out along the back roads and through the farmland, with a knowledgeable guide explaining Amish traditions, beliefs and daily life as you go.
It’s a brilliant way to see the countryside and understand the community without intruding on it.
🚂 4. Ride a historic steam train on the Strasburg Rail Road
If you love steam trains as much as I do, this one is for you!
The Strasburg Rail Road is America’s oldest continuously operating short-line railroad, chartered way back in 1832.
Today you can ride a beautifully restored steam train as it chugs through the heart of Amish farmland, passing fields, farms and the occasional buggy along the way.
It’s relaxing, scenic and a real hit with kids and train lovers alike.
It’s one of the most popular things to do in Lancaster, so book ahead in peak season.
🎢 5. Go to Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park
If you’re traveling with little ones, Dutch Wonderland is a brilliant day out.
Open since 1963 and billed as “A Kingdom for Kids,” this family amusement park on Route 30 is designed with younger children in mind, with gentle rides, roller coasters, a water play area and live shows.
It’s a fun, low-stress way to break up all the history and culture with something the whole family will enjoy.
🛍️ 6. Visit the Amish shops at Kitchen Kettle Village
Located in the village of Intercourse, Kitchen Kettle Village is a lovely place to browse and snack your way through an afternoon.
It’s a collection of more than 40 shops, eateries and craft stores, all built up around a working jam and relish kitchen where you can watch jams, pickles and salsas being made (and taste plenty of samples!).
It’s a great spot to pick up local food and handmade souvenirs to take home.
Quick tip: many smaller Amish-run shops only take cash, so it’s worth carrying some.
🐄 7. Visit an Amish farm at Old Windmill Farm
For a hands-on experience, book a tour at Old Windmill Farm in Ronks, a genuine working Amish dairy farm.
Milking cows, gathering eggs, taking a hayride around the fields and meeting all the friendly farm animals… that’s what you should expect!
The tours are led by Amish guides who share their own experiences, making it an authentic and really special look at farm life.
It’s perfect for families, but honestly, adults love it too.
🐐 8. Try goat yoga
Yes, you read that right! One of the most fun and unexpected things you can do in Lancaster is goat yoga at The Amish Farm and House.
You’ll take a one-hour yoga class out on the farm while adorable baby goats wander around, climb on you and generally make everyone laugh.
Certified instructors lead the sessions, and your ticket includes a farm visit too.
It’s silly, joyful and genuinely one of the most memorable things you can do here.
🍽️ 9. Go on a food tour
Lancaster is a foodie paradise, so a guided food tour is a delicious way to explore.
You’ll sample a mix of sweet and savory local specialties at a handful of spots while learning about the city’s history and Pennsylvania Dutch food traditions between bites.
It’s a great way to taste your way around and discover places you might otherwise walk straight past.
🛵 10. Go on a scooter tour in Strasburg
For a more adventurous way to see Amish country, book a guided tour with Strasburg Scooters.
You’ll zip along scenic backroads on your own scooter, following a guide past Amish farms, covered bridges and gorgeous countryside.
Tours range from around 1.5 to 3.5 hours, and it’s such a fun, breezy way to cover more ground than you would on foot while still soaking up the scenery.
👻 11. Go on a ghost tour
Lancaster has a long and layered history, which means plenty of spooky stories to go with it.
With an evening ghost tour, you’ll discover the streets of downtown after dark and learn about all the spooky tales along the way.
It’s a fun way to see the city from a different angle, and a great option for the evening once the daytime attractions have closed.
🏘️ 12. Visit the beautiful town of Lititz
Just a short drive from Lancaster, the little town of Lititz is well worth a visit.
I absolutely loved it and I think it’s one of the best small towns on the East Coast.
It’s absolutely charming, with three centuries of history, gorgeous architecture, one-of-a-kind shops, cozy cafes and the lovely Lititz Springs Park.
It’s the perfect place for a relaxed stroll, some shopping and a bite to eat.
Chocolate lovers should also look out for the Wilbur Chocolate store.
🥨 13. Get a pretzel from Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery
While you’re in Lititz, you can’t miss the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the first commercial pretzel bakery in America, founded in 1861.
On the tour you’ll learn the history of the pretzel, watch bakers hand-twisting them the traditional way, and even get to twist your own.
Then, of course, you can pick up some freshly baked pretzels and treats to take home.
It’s a fun, tasty and quintessentially Pennsylvania Dutch experience.
🗺️ Map of the best things to do in Lancaster, PA
❓ Is Lancaster worth visiting?
Absolutely! Lancaster is one of my favorite places in Pennsylvania. There is so much to do and to learn here.
Whether you’re here for the Amish culture, the history, the food or a family day out, there’s something for everyone.
Take your time, be respectful of the community, and enjoy this wonderfully unique corner of Pennsylvania.
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