Lancaster, Pennsylvania 3-Day Family Itinerary
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a wonderful destination for families, offering a blend of rich history, beautiful countryside, and fun attractions. Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary for a family trip to Lancaster:
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
• Morning:
• Arrive in Lancaster and check into your family-friendly accommodation (consider a hotel or a cozy bed and breakfast).
• Start your day with breakfast at The Good 'N Plenty Restaurant, known for its hearty Amish-style breakfast buffet.
• Afternoon:
• Enjoy lunch at The Lunch Box, a local favorite for sandwiches and salads, located near the science center.
• Head to Dutch Wonderland, a family amusement park designed for younger children, featuring rides, shows, and attractions. Plan to spend a few hours enjoying the rides.
• Evening:
• Enjoy dinner at Miller’s Smorgasbord, a buffet offering a variety of traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes.
Day 2: Amish Country and History
• Morning:
• Have breakfast at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, famous for its extensive breakfast buffet.
• Take a scenic drive through Lancaster County’s Amish countryside. Stop at various markets and farms along the way. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about Amish culture and traditions.
• Afternoon:
• Visit The Amish Farm and House, where you can take a tour of an authentic Amish farm and learn about their lifestyle. The guided tour is educational and family-friendly.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the farm or nearby at Long's Park, which features playgrounds, walking paths, and beautiful landscaping.
• Evening:
• Have dinner at The Harvest Grill, located at the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, offering fresh, local cuisine.
A little bit more upscale is The Log Cabin Restaurant, open since 1933! We really enjoyed the experience and staff.
• If your family enjoys live performances, check for any shows at the American Music Theatre or the Sight & Sound Theatres for a family-friendly production.
Day 3: Culture and Departure
• Morning:
• Start your day with breakfast at The First Watch, known for its great brunch menu and fresh ingredients.
• Visit the Lancaster Central Market, one of the oldest continuously operating farmers' markets in the country, to explore local produce, crafts, and food vendors.
• Afternoon:
• Head to the North Museum of Nature and Science, where kids can engage with hands-on exhibits and explore the planetarium.
• Enjoy lunch nearby at The Brick House Café, known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious sandwiches.
• Evening:
• Depending on your departure time, consider a visit to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm for fun outdoor activities and corn mazes (seasonal).
Additional Tips
• Weather Preparation: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as Pennsylvania can vary in temperature. Wear layers!
• Local Events: Look for local festivals, fairs, or events that may be happening during your visit for an enhanced experience.
• Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside and reaching attractions outside the city. Watch out for horse and buggies!
This 3-day itinerary highlights the best of Lancaster, blending education, fun, and delicious food for a memorable family trip. Enjoy your adventure, and if you need any adjustments or more specifics, feel free to ask!
