Finding something to do with teenagers isn’t always easy. They’ve outgrown some of the activities they loved when they were younger, and spending an afternoon with the family might not be at the top of their list.
But fall in Lancaster County has some options that could change their minds!
Whether your teen likes a challenge, enjoys being outdoors, or is counting down the days until Halloween, there are plenty of ways to spend an afternoon or evening together.
Here are three ideas worth putting on the calendar before fall is over.
1. Take on a Corn Maze Challenge
A corn maze might sound like something for younger kids, but don’t rule it out for teenagers. Finding your way through acres of corn can be surprisingly challenging, especially when you’re trying to beat your friends or family to the finish.
Some Lancaster County farms offer larger mazes with twists, turns, and activities along the way. It’s a good choice for teens who enjoy a little competition without anything too intense.
A few things to consider:
- Allow at least an hour for a larger maze, depending on the location.
- Wear comfortable shoes that can handle uneven or muddy ground.
- Check whether the farm offers evening maze hours for an added challenge.
For families with younger children, a farm with additional activities can make it easier to keep everyone entertained.
2. Try an Outdoor Adventure
If your teenager would rather be doing something active, consider spending a few hours at an outdoor adventure attraction.
Refreshing Mountain in Stevens offers outdoor activities that can appeal to older kids and teens, including ziplining and other adventure experiences.
It’s a chance to do something a little different from the usual fall activities. And for teens who like a challenge, getting up in the trees might be much more appealing than another afternoon of shopping or sightseeing.
Before you go:
- Check the age, height, and weight requirements for individual activities.
- Look into reservations, since some experiences need to be booked ahead.
- Plan around the weather and allow enough time for your selected activities.
This is also a good option for a Birthday Outing or an afternoon with a few friends.
3. Get Ready for Some Halloween Scares
For teens who love Halloween, Lancaster County has a few attractions that take things well beyond pumpkins and hayrides.
Field of Screams in Mountville is one of the area’s best-known haunted attractions, with experiences designed to frighten visitors.
This isn’t the same kind of Halloween outing you’d plan for young children. Expect dark settings, loud noises, actors, and plenty of surprises.
For teenagers who enjoy horror movies and being scared, it could be exactly the kind of night they’re looking for.
Parents should know:
- Haunted attractions can be intense and aren’t suitable for every teen.
- Check the attraction’s current age recommendations before purchasing tickets.
- Some experiences involve walking through dark, uneven areas.
- Review the schedule and ticket options before heading out.
If your teen isn’t comfortable with jump scares or intense Halloween experiences, a corn maze or outdoor adventure may be the better choice.
Let Your Teen Pick the Adventure
Sometimes the easiest way to get teenagers interested in a family outing is to let them make the decision.
Give them a few choices, invite a friend along, and make an afternoon or evening of it. You might even get them to put their phones away for a while!
Fall activities won’t be around much longer, so now is a good time to make plans.
Looking for more things to do with your teens? Browse Lancaster County Attractions for more ideas, and check our events calendar for upcoming fall activities and Halloween events.
