Plan an Affordable Summer Day Trip in Lancaster, Pa.

Posted on by in Experiences

Just a short drive from many major mid-Atlantic cities, Lancaster, PA is a perfect destination for an easy and affordable summer day trip or overnight stay. With its covered bridges, rolling hills, sprawling farms, historic sites, and charming small towns, Lancaster County is brimming with relaxing backdrops and peaceful scenery.

Whether you have some time off work or are looking to spend the day doing something fun, we’ve created a shortlist of our favorite summer day trips in Lancaster, Pa.


Explore Lancaster County’s Amish Countryside

Home to the second-largest Amish settlement in the world, Lancaster, PA is full of pockets of culture and Amish farmlands. Why not spend the day learning more about the Amish way of life? There are many exciting Amish exhibits, homesteads, and farm tours you can explore.

If you want a more interactive experience, we recommend a guided Amish buggy ride through the backcountry roads of Lancaster County. Learn firsthand about Amish life and ask your burning questions about this unique religious group.

If the outdoors is more your scene, there’s plenty of lower-budget adventures to embark on. Take to the streets on a rental bike or even a scooter ride and seek out over two dozen historic covered bridges scattered across the county. Launch yourself into the memorable sights and sounds of Lancaster County.


Visit a Lancaster County, PA Market

From roadside stands to farmers’ markets, it’s not hard to find fresh produce from the farm in Lancaster. Our mouths are salivating, thinking of all the delicious treats you can find at markets like Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market or Lancaster Central Market, the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ market.

The list of fresh food you’ll stumble on may be endless: homemade lemonade, root beer, soft pretzels, whoopie pies, shoofly pie, stroopwafels, fresh vegetables and fruit, meat, cheese, jams, ice cream, and more. If that doesn’t make you want to taste the best of Lancaster, we don’t know what will.


Explore Lancaster City

Head downtown into the city of Lancaster, one of the oldest inland towns in the United States for its overflowing arts scene, historic architecture, and rich cultural traditions. For an invigorating theatrical performance, be sure to check out Prima Theatre. Known for its intimate, high-quality live stage performances, Prima provides shows with fresh takes on classic songs, as well as new, one-of-a-kind productions.

Before you hit up a show, be sure to dine downtown at one of the many well-recognized restaurants. We suggest homegrown food from the colorfully decorated Imperial Restaurant or Plough, where local ingredients find their way into each creative entree. End your evening with craft cocktails and a panoramic view of the city at The Exchange.

Looking for More Day Trip Ideas in Lancaster, PA?

Are you still looking for more things to do during your day trip to Lancaster? We’ve got you covered. Don’t take our word for it. Experience all the fun things to do on a summer day in Lancaster County. From long-time visitors to new guests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

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