Lancaster, PA

Travel Guide
Historic Downtown Lancaster
Shop for handmade Amish goods, explore a thriving arts scene and visit some of the oldest attractions in America in this south central Pennsylvania city.

Founded in 1730, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is one of America’s oldest inland cities. Its quaint, tree-lined streets and numerous historical buildings can keep history buffs entertained for days.

Modern Lancaster features a thriving contemporary arts scene which is centered at Gallery Row. Enjoy shopping for art and unique goods or explore the town center to find numerous other boutique stores and upscale dining.

As you drive outside the city, be alert for horses and buggies belonging to the local Amish and Mennonite communities who farm the surrounding land as they have done for centuries. From spring to fall, head to Plain and Fancy Farm to learn about a typical Amish community and enjoy a farm-to-table meal. Shop for a handmade Amish quilt at small farm stands in the area.

The Amish also sell their wares at the city’s Central Market. Established in 1730, this is one of America’s longest continually running farmers markets. Visit Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays year-round to find fresh local produce and handmade souvenirs.

Several more attractions in Lancaster are famed for being among America’s oldest. Climb aboard a coal-powered locomotive at Strasburg Rail Road, one of the country’s first short-line railroads, or attend a performance at Fulton Theatre, the oldest continually running theater in America. Pay a visit to Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, whose living history interpretations help visitors explore the area’s long history.

The city of Lancaster is small and walkable at 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) across, but having a car to get around is advised, especially if you want to visit some of the nearby attractions such as the historic streets of Lititz or the crossroad villages of Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse.

If you’re not driving, the best way to get to Lancaster is by train from Philadelphia, 80 miles (129 kilometers) east, or from other East Coast cities. The relatively mild climate and abundance of Lancaster’s indoor attractions mean that any time of year is good to discover this colorful and unique city.

Lancaster Travel Guide Video

Where to stay in Lancaster

The Country Inn of Lancaster
The Country Inn of Lancaster
3 out of 5
2133 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA
The price is $101 per night from Sep 25 to Sep 26
$101
per night
Sep 25 - Sep 26
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast. Our guests praise the spacious rooms and the property condition in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,009 reviews)
"Check in was quick. Room was nice & clean. Location is great close to restaurants. Definitely would stay here again."

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2023

The Country Inn of Lancaster
Cartoon Network Hotel
Cartoon Network Hotel
3.5 out of 5
2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA
The price is $102 per night from Sep 25 to Sep 26
$102
per night
Sep 25 - Sep 26
Stay at this 3.5-star family-friendly hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the bar and the family amenities ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,314 reviews)
"2nd night had rust colored water so could not take showers"

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2023

Cartoon Network Hotel
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
3.5 out of 5
25 South Queen Street, Lancaster, PA
The price is $127 per night from Oct 22 to Oct 23
$127
per night
Oct 22 - Oct 23
Stay at this 3.5-star spa hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy 3 restaurants, 2 bars/lounges, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Dutch Wonderland and Heritage ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"Good!"

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2023

Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
In the heart of Lancaster Co Amish Country
In the heart of Lancaster Co Amish Country
Lancaster
Stay at this vacation home in Lancaster. Enjoy WiFi, onsite parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Dutch Wonderland and Sight and Sound Theatre are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (79 reviews)
The Wilson’s and Collins’s
"Nice comfortable home to getaway and close to many attractions"

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2023

In the heart of Lancaster Co Amish Country
Perfect family getaway with pool and hot tub close to everything!
Perfect family getaway with pool and hot tub close to everything!
Lancaster
Stay at this cottage in Lancaster. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a sauna. Popular attractions Sight and Sound Theatre and Dutch Wonderland are located nearby. ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (36 reviews)
Cozy comfortable guest house on a beautiful property with amazing amenities!
"I’ve stayed in dozens of VRBO rentals over the years and this would be in the top 5. Everything was just what we were looking for. Cozy and comfortable and perfectly situated to explore Lancaster County. The property and landscaping felt like you were staying at a historic estate and the amenities ..."

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2023

Perfect family getaway with pool and hot tub close to everything!
refinished barn with pool table, ping pong, pool and hot tub!
refinished barn with pool table, ping pong, pool and hot tub!
Lancaster
Stay at this vacation home in Lancaster. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and an arcade/game room. Popular attractions Sight and Sound Theatre and Dutch Wonderland ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (13 reviews)
It looked great, but was even better once we arrived and met the hosts!
"I can’t express how much of a wonderful birthday that these hosts provided to us, not only through the beautiful accommodations which are unique and right up our alley, but also in their other hospitality, and fun. First of all, the barn is extremely comfortable, delightfully, rustic, but has all ..."

Reviewed on Jun 6, 2023

refinished barn with pool table, ping pong, pool and hot tub!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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