If you’ve ever visited the Lancaster area, you know the charm the area holds and how special of a place it is. And if you’ve never been, well, you’re in for a treat. Lancaster, PA, offers something for everyone, from city dwellers to country folk and a little of everything in between. Lancaster is home to families of all ages, students, retirees, and others living a beautiful life in this unique place.
Once the nation’s capital for a day back in September of 1777, Lancaster was home to Hershey’s Chocolate frontier, Milton S. Hershey, Betsy Ross’s uncle George Ross, the 15th President of the United States, James Buchanan, and so many others.
Is Lancaster, PA, A Good Place To Live?
Located in southeastern Pennsylvania, just off of the Pennsylvania/Maryland border, Lancaster County is home to approximately 543,000 people. You’ve most likely heard of Lancaster County due in part to its sizable Amish population. Lancaster County is a rural setting, nestled in the rolling hills and quaint farms, offering beautiful landscapes in all directions, all at the heart of Amish country.
In Lancaster County, expansive farms blend with more modern living in a unique and charming atmosphere. Regardless of what brings visitors to the area, people are often surprised to realize there’s more to Lancaster than what they had expected!
What Does Lancaster Have To Offer?
Lancaster combines the best of downtown city life and nature’s vast countryside. It never comes up short in terms of unique things to do and offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages, interests, and budgets.
Farmers Markets
If you have an appetite for farm-fresh foods, you have come to the right place. Lancaster County is the leading non-irrigated county in the country and has been called the ‘garden spot of the nation.’ The options are endless with farm-fresh foods and handcrafted products from places like Lancaster Central Market, Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction, and Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market. The products are delicious, budget-friendly, and support the local economy.
Massages and Spas
If pampering is on your list of favorite activities, Lancaster has endless options for you. Relax, refresh, and rejuvenate at Body and Sole Reflexology & Spa or enjoy a whole day of relaxation at one of the many day spas in the area. Be sure to check out Serenity Day Spa< for full-service spa packages and Spa at Leola Village if you’re looking for something soothing and pampering.
Music and Theater
If you love the stage and performing arts, you’ll love the live performance theaters in Lancaster County, PA. You’ll find everything from popular Broadway shows to original theatrical productions, comedies, musicals, magic shows, Biblical epics, and even children’s theater. You can also enjoy dinner and a show at one of our local dinner theaters. Be sure to catch a show at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, Sight & Sound Theatres, and Bird-in-Hand Stage for their upcoming performances.
Top Places Families Moving to Lancaster Have to Visit
We have some ideas for you if you’re visiting the area and looking for things to do in Lancaster, PA, with kids, too.
Outdoor Exploring
With miles of beautiful nature surrounding the city, outdoor explorations are everywhere. We highly recommend Refreshing Mountain Retreat & Adventure Center for zip lines, climbing towers, petting zoos, and more. Your kids may also enjoy Lancaster Archery Supply & Academy or hiking with Adventure Explorations – Private, Guided, Outdoor Experiences. Many Amish Experiences also combine the beautiful outdoors with Amish farm activities.
Amusement Parks
Amusement parks are different in Lancaster County. Sure, we have roller coasters and water rides, and merry-go-rounds. But we also have a variety of other adventures to offer kids of all ages. Spend a day enjoying a variety of fun farm-related activities, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and more.
Our favorites for families include Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm – Fun on the Farm, and Go ‘N Bananas Family Fun Center.
Other Family-Friendly Attractions
In addition to the usual activities, Lancaster offers some unique family-friendly attractions you can only find here. Create and taste your ice cream flavors at Turkey Hill Experience — Ice Cream Fun For All Ages, Enjoy a 45-minute ride to Paradise and back at America’s oldest operating railroad with Strasburg Rail Road, and learn a thing or two about the most extensive collection of clocks in North America at the National Watch & Clock Museum.
Thinking of Moving to Lancaster, Pa?
If you’re considering moving to Lancaster, PA, finding activities that fit your interests will be easier than you can imagine. There is no denying that Lancaster is a beautiful, safe, and affordable place to live, with a nice mix of something for everyone.
Ready to make the move? We’ve even got a stellar lineup of moving companies ready to help! Learn more about local movers and be sure to check out some of these attractions and more next time you’re here!