Location: Lancaster
Top Things to do in Lancaster
The 10 Best Things to do Good for Big Groups in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (PA)
Pennsylvania Dutch country is a fascinating destination to explore. Visitors will get a glimpse of farm life as it was in the early 1800s. Visit markets and farm stores for homemade shoofly pie and fresh produce, or shop for a handmade quilt. President James Buchanan's elegant home, Wheatland, is no less historic but contrasts sharply to the simpler Pennsylvania Dutch heritage sites in Lancaster. Consider a side trip to nearby Hershey, home of Hershey Park and the Hershey chocolate factory.
Restaurants in Lancaster
1. Lancaster Marionette Theatre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 80 reviews
The Lancaster Marionette Theatre is one of the few marionette theatres in America, located in Historic Downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Robert Brock, the founder and Artistic Director, keeps this unique art form alive and well. He creates all the marionettes used in all productions, writes the scripts and music and performs in his unique one-man style. His humor appeals to children, as well as grown-ups. The John Durang Puppet Museum is open before performances. John Durang was the first puppeteer to be born in the USA. He was born in Lancaster in 1768. Backstage tours are given prior to every performance.The Marionette Theatre welcomes field trip groups. We hope to see you soon at one of our exciting shows. Thanks for visiting!
Reviewed By 272josephm - Lancaster, United States
I’ve seen two shows here and highly recommend this to both children and adults. The stories have cute characters and songs to keep the kiddos engaged and Robert throws in enough jokes to entertain the older crowd. Robert is the force that makes it all work with his enthusiastic personality, fun sense of humor, and genuineness! I recommend showing up early before the show to catch the museum and backstage tour. I also recommend taking some time afterwards to gets some pictures and to talk to Robert a bit. He is ridiculously friendly and loves to chat about his work and Lancaster! He’ll also give you tips for taking the best selfies!????
2. Escape Room Lancaster
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 262 reviews
Reviewed By LISTIXFH
I brought my U16 field hockey travel team over the weekend to participate in an escape room and they had an absolute blast. Listening to them interact and work as as a team was so important for team bonding. I emailed the facility prior to our visit and they were overwhelmingly accommodating at assisting with my reservation. We will be back next time we are in town!!
3. Escape On Queen
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 65 reviews
Escape. On Queen is a fun and interactive puzzle game where you and your team will have 60 minutes to solve a series of puzzles and clues to escape the room! Whether you are looking for a team building experience or you are looking for a unique Lancaster City activity, Escape. On Queen is sure to provide just what you are looking for!
Reviewed By SusanS544 - Lancaster, United States
Our team (5 of us) visited the Tavern room today at Escape on Queen and our host was so great with us. None of us had previous experience and the Tavern is apparently the most challenging of their rooms. We were all amazed at the great detail and intricate clues involved in this process. It was very well thought out and challenging. The room was a delight to be in and was well accessorized to work with the theme. While we missed solving the room in the 60 minutes allocated, we loved ever moment of the experience and look forward to trying other rooms @ Escape on Queen!!
4. Landis Valley Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 337 reviews
Due to the precautions taken regarding COVID-19, the museum will be closed until further notice. Relax and roam through the authentic crossroads village and farms of Landis Valley as you learn the rich history of the Pennsylvania Germans of Lancaster County. Comprised of over 40 buildings on 100 acres, the museum is the guardian of 65+ varieties of heirloom seeds and the largest collection of Pennsylvania German artifacts in the U.S. Through costumed demonstrators, special events, group tours, award-winning exhibits, and educational programs for adults and children you'll come away all the more enriched by your experience here.
Reviewed By leoh5 - Jenkintown, United States
Great place to visit. We went when they had their end of season festival. We enjoyed all of their home-made recipes of Apple Cider and Sour Krauts! Told my wife how to prepare it herself! Great stuff!
5. President James Buchanan's Wheatland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 496 reviews
Come discover the warmth and hospitality of President James Buchanan's Wheatland. Costumed tour guides share facts and stories from Buchanan's personal and professional life. Buchanan represented Pennsylvania in the United States House of Representatives and later the Senate, served as Minister to Russia, Secretary of State, and Ambassador to the United Kingdom. And, in 1856, Wheatland served as the hub of his successful campaign to become the 15th President of the United States. During his presidency, Wheatland served as Buchanan’s retreat as a divided nation struggled with slavery and states’ rights. Post-presidency, Wheatland became Buchanan’s refuge as he avoided public life after his term and retired as a private citizen. Wheatland’s tangible connection to the US Presidency, Antebellum and Civil War America, and the American political process make it instrumental to teaching history to modern day visitors.
Reviewed By jmalc0m - Sydney, Canada
What a wonderful surprise .An Exceptional guide in period costume made this home come alive .How progressive it was to recognize the importance of this period of history and acquire & maintain this house from the early 1940s . Well worth a visit to see the house & learn more about the Buchanan's
6. Lancaster Central Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 976 reviews
Reviewed By FellowTraveler642208 - Penns Park, United States
Great market, great assortment of vendors - local people with local goods. Something for everyone. Cannot wait to visit again the next time we are in Lancaster.
7. Dutch Wonderland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,317 reviews
With over 35 rides, attractions, and shows, Dutch Wonderland is the perfect place to spend time together as a family. Cool off in Duke's Lagoon water play area and make discoveries at Exploration Island, where dinosaurs come to life!
Reviewed By wwwkenorg
I first visited Dutch Wonderland as a child with my family, and now that I am grown with a family of my own, we visit here every year. The price of entry is a bit steep, but it includes all the rides and the water park. If you go within three hours of closing the night before and buy your tickets for the next day, they let you enjoy the park for the three hours! Parking is plentiful, but some days they charge (a premium if you want to park close), and some days the booths are closed and parking is free (I don't really understand this). If you've been coming here since the 70's like I have, and you look around, you will see some of the original rides still around (the train is the first thing you see as you come through the gate). You'll also see some of the original boats (just for posing with pictures), the still-active turnpike cars, and if you look by the horse ride area, the original farm silo slide is there (but no longer in use). Lots of newer rides too (Merlin's Mayhem is short but sweet). Please understand - this place is well kept, clean, and the friendly staff works hard to make sure you have a good time. One time we lost a special pin that we had on our backpack while on the boat road. They actually removed it from service and tore it apart and found it! They wave and smile and make you feel at home. Our kids always have a great time, and while the adults get to ride a few things, you'll enjoy watching the kids have a great time in an amusement park designed for them. It's a kingdom for kids!
8. Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 679 reviews
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre is a year-round entertainment facility that performs eight mainstage musicals and four childrens productions each year as well as hosts several tribute concerts. Our theatre seats 328, and we offer a selection of dining options. Enjoy our full all you can eat buffet before each Sunday - Wednesday evening and matinee show. The buffet menu changes with each show and can be found on our website. On Friday and Saturday evening, enjoy Prime Rib on the carving station. On Thursday evenings, we offer a four course served meal. Let us serve you with full service, plated dinners right at your table! Looking for show only? Sit anywhere in the theatre on Thursday evenings. Appetizers and desserts menu is available for an additional cost. There is also a Gift Shop and Art Gallery within the building. We offer special rates for groups of 16 or more and offer special discounts and perks for season subscribers. Let us cater your next special occasion in our Encore Room!
Reviewed By 831connier - Kempton, United States
Dinner was very good and the production of "Grease" was outstanding. The wait staff was friendly and attentive. Definitely deserves 5 stars! Connie R., Kempton PA
9. The Amish Farm and House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,556 reviews
We are OPEN for the season. Come visit us for a great tour of an Amish house or sit back and relax as we drive through the farmlands. Our 15-acre farm is filled with friendly animals who can't wait to meet you! Escape to Amish Country and enjoy your vacation at a slower pace. Here at the Amish Farm and House you can cross off your entire 'Amish Country bucket list' with us! We have guided house and bus tours, buggy rides, 15-acre farm visits, animals, Amish artisans, food and more! We invite you to visit our historic house museum and completely immerse yourself into the Amish lifestyle. Our bus tours will guide you through picturesque Amish farmlands and make stops at Amish shops. After touring with us, pet our farm animals and visit an Amish one-room schoolhouse all on our 15-acre farm. We've been welcoming guests to Amish Country since 1955 when we started as America's first Amish educational museum. Now it's your turn to experience the beauty of Amish Country.
Reviewed By jjk5332 - Hillsborough, United States
we loved the bus tour with Shirley as are guide she is very nice and knows so much about the Amish life style the stops we made were fantastic the farm itself is great so many animals and make sure you get something eat the food is great
10. American Music Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,354 reviews
American Music Theatre is the only theatre of its kind in the country that features both touring concerts and Original Shows. This 1,600-seat theatre hosts more than 300 live performances a year – from Broadway tours to rock legends to famous comedians to today’s hottest acts. Since its debut in 1997, they’ve welcomed Grammy winners, CMA winners, Tony winners, and even Oscar winners to their stage. They’ve also featured some of the most talented musicians, vocalists, and dancers in the nation in their own Original Shows. No other theatre in the region offers a wider variety of performances, year in and year out. Take the opportunity to catch a show in the comfort of one of the most premier venues on the East Coast for live entertainment.
Reviewed By mccaskeykid - Lancaster, United States
The American Music Theatre is a gem for not only Lancaster County but also for the State of Pa and even for performers worldwide! Every year, AMT produces 2-3 of their own original productions. Typically, 1 show runs from May-October which is based off of a chosen theme/concept for the year. They also produce a Christmas show that runs from November-December which has been considered better than the Radio City Music Hall Christmas show! These shows feature experienced and talented singers, dancers, musicians, and performers from across the US and beyond. Many of these people have résumé’s that include Broadway, National Broadway tours, Cruise ships, prior theatre experience, Disney, and touring positions just to name some. Some of these people return every year for the next AMT production. In addition to their original productions, AMT also books major concerts and touring productions throughout the year. Some of the shows that have took the AMT stage in the past include: Martina McBride, Trace Adkins, Celtic Woman, The Robert Cray Band, Melissa Etheridge, Johnny Mathis, The Piano Guys, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Beach Boys, Scotty McCreery, Charley Pride, Marc Cohn, Blind Boys of Alabama, Shemekia Copeland, Foreigner, Dancing with the Stars: Live!, Tony Bennett, Kristin Chenoweth, Home Free, Roger Hodgson, The Price Is Right Live!, Daughtry, Yanni, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Jay Leno, Stephen Stills, Judy Collins, Brian Setzer, Julianne Hough, Derek Hough, America, Christopher Cross, Terry Fator, Jennifer Nettles, The Moody Blues, Merle Haggard, Carol Burnett, Neil Sedaka, Million Dollar Quartet, Bob Newhart, Heart, Peter Frampton, Chicago, Ringo Starr, and Donny Osmond! And these are just a sample of some of the shows that AMT has welcomed to the stage! Usually AMT books 50-70 touring/celebrity shows every year that include returning favorites and new shows. They do listen to their fans/guests and will attempt to bring back fan favorites/requested shows as much as possible. AMT is not a large theatre so they cannot always bring in large production shows, but they do surprise you sometimes when they can book big shows or superstars. Many of the shows that AMT does bring in are shows that have played resorts in Atlantic City NJ and Las Vegas Nevada, Grand Ole Opry in Nashville TN, and even Radio City Music Hall in New York. The auditorium of the theatre only holds about 1,600 seats and all seats give you a good view of the stage! The seats are also very comfy and has plenty of leg room. The theatre does have a concession stand but only sells basically snacks and drinks. There are many great restaurants near the theatre so you can eat before or after the show. There is also a gift shop. The staff at the theatre are very nice and very accommodating. They seem to like their job and make the show experience better. Parking is a problem at this venue. The parking lot tends to fill up quickly if the show is sold out. As the theatre is on a major highway, exiting is basically at the mercy of the traffic light so getting out can be slow. I recommend that if you find out your show is almost/is sold out, That you park either across the highway at the restaurant or next door at the Target(there is a covered bridge that connects to the theatre) to avoid the risk of no more spots at the theatre and a slow exit from the parking lot.
