34 Best Places and Things To Do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, known as the “Red Rose City,” is a charming destination that offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Located in the heart of Amish country, Lancaster is famous for its picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and traditional farmsteads.

1. President James Buchanan’s Wheatland

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Wheatland, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is the historic estate and home of the 15th President of the United States, James Buchanan. A visit to Wheatland offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of this influential political figure.

2. Dutch Wonderland

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Dutch Wonderland is a family-friendly amusement park located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It is a beloved destination for children and families, offering a wide range of rides, shows, and attractions. Dutch Wonderland features over 35 rides and attractions designed specifically for young children. From gentle rides like the Duke’s Lagoon lazy river and the Sky Ride, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the park, to thrilling rides like the Kingdom Coaster and the Kite Flight, there’s something for everyone. The park also has a variety of interactive play areas, including Exploration Island and the water play area, Duke’s Lagoon.

3. Landis Valley Museum

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Landis Valley Museum is a living history museum located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It showcases Pennsylvania German rural heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into the everyday life of the region’s early settlers. The museum is home to over 40 historic buildings, including farmhouses, barns, and workshops. These structures have been carefully preserved and restored to represent different aspects of rural life in the 18th and 19th centuries.

4. Mennonite Information Center

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The Mennonite Information Center is a cultural and educational center located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It serves as a resource for visitors seeking information about the Mennonite faith, history, and heritage. The center offers guided heritage tours that provide an overview of the Mennonite faith, history, and culture. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through exhibits that showcase artifacts, displays, and multimedia presentations, offering insights into the Mennonite community’s beliefs, practices, and contributions.

5. Historic Rock Ford

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Historic Rock Ford, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a beautifully preserved historic house museum that provides a glimpse into the life of General Edward Hand, a prominent figure during the American Revolutionary War. The main attraction at Historic Rock Ford is the guided tour of the mansion. Knowledgeable tour guides lead visitors through the elegantly furnished rooms, sharing stories about General Edward Hand, his family, and the historical significance of the property.

6. Historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church

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Historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a notable religious and architectural landmark in the area. As one of the oldest Catholic churches in the United States, it holds significant historical and cultural value.

7. Long’s Park

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Long’s Park is a scenic and popular public park located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Spanning over 80 acres, it offers a wide range of recreational activities, beautiful natural landscapes, and various amenities for visitors to enjoy.

8. Lancaster County Convention Center

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Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lancaster_County_Convention_Center

The Lancaster County Convention Center is a premier event and conference venue located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. With its central downtown location, state-of-the-art facilities, and versatile spaces, it serves as a hub for various corporate, community, and social gatherings.

9. The Ware Center

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Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ware_Center_of_Millersville_University

The Ware Center, officially known as the Ware Center for Visual and Performing Arts, is a cultural and arts venue located in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It serves as a hub for visual and performing arts, offering a diverse range of programs, performances, exhibitions, and educational opportunities.

10. Lancaster City Welcome Center

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The Lancaster City Welcome Center serves as a gateway to the city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, providing visitors with valuable information, resources, and assistance to enhance their experience in the area. The welcome center offers a wealth of information about Lancaster City and the surrounding region. Knowledgeable staff members are available to provide recommendations, answer questions, and offer assistance with planning your visit.

11. LancasterHistory

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LancasterHistory, formerly known as the Lancaster County Historical Society, is an organization dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It encompasses several historic sites and offers a range of exhibits, programs, and resources for visitors to explore.

12. Northwest Lancaster County River Trail

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The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is a scenic and popular trail located in northwestern Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Stretching approximately 14 miles along the Susquehanna River, this multi-use trail offers a beautiful outdoor experience for hikers, cyclists, joggers, and nature lovers.

13. St Leo the Great Catholic Church

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St. Leo the Great Catholic Church is a prominent Catholic parish located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. St. Leo the Great Catholic Church has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1903. The church building itself is an architectural gem, featuring stunning stained glass windows, beautiful artwork, and intricate details. It is a testament to the craftsmanship and devotion of the parish community.

14. Demuth Museum

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The Demuth Museum, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life and works of the renowned American artist Charles Demuth. he museum provides insights into the life and artistic journey of Charles Demuth, a key figure in the American modernist movement. Demuth was born in Lancaster in 1883 and gained recognition for his innovative style and exploration of various artistic mediums, including watercolors, oil paintings, and poetry.

15. Woodward Hill Cemetery

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Woodward Hill Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Woodward Hill Cemetery was established in 1850 and has since become one of the most notable cemeteries in Lancaster County. The cemetery was designed as a rural cemetery, a concept popular during the 19th century that aimed to create a serene and park-like setting for burial grounds.

16. St. Joseph’s Church

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St. Joseph’s Church is a prominent Catholic church located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. St. Joseph’s Church has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the 1840s. The church building itself is a testament to the architectural styles of the time, with its stunning stained glass windows, ornate details, and beautiful craftsmanship. The church’s historical significance adds to its cultural and religious importance in the community.

17. Trinity Lutheran Church

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Trinity Lutheran Church is a well-known Lutheran church located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Trinity Lutheran Church offers regular worship services for the Lutheran community. These services typically include Sunday morning worship, midweek services, and special services during the liturgical year, such as Advent and Lent. The church provides a space for prayer, hymn singing, scripture readings, and preaching, allowing individuals to worship and deepen their faith.

18. East Lampeter Township Community Park

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East Lampeter Township Community Park is a recreational park located in East Lampeter Township, near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. East Lampeter Township Community Park offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities for individuals and families. The park features open fields for sports such as soccer, baseball, and softball. There are also basketball courts, tennis courts, and volleyball courts available for those who enjoy team sports or friendly competitions.

19. Annunication Greek Orthodox Church

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The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church is a prominent Greek Orthodox church located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church offers regular religious services for the Greek Orthodox community. These services include the Divine Liturgy, which is the central worship service of the Orthodox Church.

20. The Trust Performing Arts Center

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The Trust Performing Arts Center is a vibrant performing arts venue located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Trust Performing Arts Center hosts a wide range of performances, including theater productions, musical concerts, dance performances, and more. The center showcases local talent as well as national and international artists, offering a diverse and engaging lineup of shows throughout the year. Whether you enjoy drama, comedy, music, or dance, there is something for everyone at The Trust.

21. Old Town

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Old Town is a historic district located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It is known for its charming atmosphere, well-preserved architecture, and rich history. Old Town is home to a diverse range of architectural styles, reflecting its long history. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The architecture showcases various styles, including Georgian, Federal, Victorian, and Colonial Revival, giving the area a unique and charming aesthetic.

22. The Willows Covered Bridge

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Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willow_Hill_Covered_Bridge

The Willows Covered Bridge, also known as the Kauffman’s Distillery Covered Bridge, is a historic covered bridge located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The Willows Covered Bridge is one of the many iconic covered bridges that dot the landscape of Lancaster County. It was originally built in 1869 and has since become an important part of the region’s history and heritage. Covered bridges were commonly constructed in the 19th century to protect the wooden structures from the elements and extend their lifespan.

23. Red Raven Art Company

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The Red Raven Art Company is an art gallery and studio located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Red Raven Art Company showcases a diverse range of contemporary art through rotating exhibitions. The gallery features works by local, regional, and national artists, offering a platform for emerging and established talents. The exhibitions encompass various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media, allowing visitors to explore different artistic expressions.

24. Lancaster County Central Park

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Lancaster County Central Park is a sprawling recreational area located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Lancaster County Central Park offers a wide range of amenities and facilities for visitors to enjoy. The park features numerous walking and hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. It provides a serene and natural setting where individuals and families can engage in outdoor activities and relax amidst the beauty of nature.

25. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church

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Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church is a historic church located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Bethel AME Church has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was established in 1817 and has been a cornerstone of the African American community in Lancaster ever since. The church played a significant role in providing spiritual guidance, social support, and advocacy for civil rights throughout its history.

26. D.F. Buchmiller County Park

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D.F. Buchmiller County Park, also known as Buchmiller Park, is a scenic recreational area located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. D.F. Buchmiller County Park offers a variety of amenities and facilities for visitors to enjoy. The park features walking and hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and open fields. It provides ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation.

27. Phillips Museum of Art

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The Phillips Museum of Art is an art museum located on the campus of Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Phillips Museum of Art houses a diverse collection of artwork from various periods and cultures. The collection includes over 8,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, ceramics, textiles, and more. The artworks represent a wide range of styles, themes, and mediums, offering visitors a comprehensive view of artistic expression.

28. San Juan Bautista Catholic Church

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San Juan Bautista Catholic Church, also known as St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, is a Catholic parish located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. San Juan Bautista Catholic Church has a rich history that dates back to its establishment. The church has served as a spiritual home for the Catholic community in Lancaster for many years. It has been a place of worship, community gathering, and religious education.

29. Friendship Heart Gallery & Studio

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The Friendship Heart Gallery & Studio is a unique art gallery and studio located in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Friendship Heart Gallery & Studio is a part of Friendship Community, a local nonprofit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The gallery’s mission is to provide a platform for artists with disabilities to showcase their talents and express themselves through art.

30. Soldiers and Sailors War Memorial

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Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soldiers_and_Sailors_Monument_(Lancaster,_Pennsylvania)

The Soldiers and Sailors War Memorial is a prominent monument located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Soldiers and Sailors War Memorial was erected in honor of the brave men and women from Lancaster County who served in the armed forces during various conflicts and wars. The memorial stands as a tribute to their sacrifice and dedication.

31. Harvest Presbyterian Church

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Harvest Presbyterian Church is a Christian church located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Harvest Presbyterian Church is part of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), which is a conservative Reformed denomination. The church follows the teachings of the Bible and embraces Reformed theology, emphasizing the sovereignty of God, salvation by grace through faith, and the authority of Scripture.

32. Go ‘N Bananas Family Fun Center

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Go ‘N Bananas Family Fun Center is a popular family entertainment center located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Go ‘N Bananas offers a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Some of the main attractions include laser tag, mini bowling, bumper cars, a rock wall, a ropes course, arcade games, and a soft play area for younger children.

33. Leisure Bowling & Golfing Center

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Leisure Bowling & Golfing Center is a recreational facility located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The center features a state-of-the-art bowling alley with multiple lanes where visitors can enjoy a fun and competitive game of bowling. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a beginner, the facility provides a friendly and inviting atmosphere for individuals, families, and groups.

34. Jason’s Woods

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Jason’s Woods is a popular haunted attraction located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Jason’s Woods offers a variety of haunted attractions designed to provide a thrilling and immersive experience for visitors. These attractions may include haunted hayrides, haunted houses, mazes, and interactive experiences. Each attraction has its own unique theme and storyline, featuring elaborately designed sets, special effects, and costumed actors to create a spooky atmosphere.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring Amish traditions, enjoying the performing arts, or immersing yourself in the region’s rich heritage,