Things to Do This Summer in Lancaster PA
April 19, 2022
The summer months of June, July and August are some of the best times of year to visit Lancaster PA. The weather is comfortable, farmers fields are growing, outdoor dining & lawn concerts are happening and outdoor activities & attractions abound! No matter what your vibe – from exciting and boisterous to laid back and relaxing, you’ll find it on our list of things to do in Lancaster PA this Summer!
This Blog is all About Things to Do This Summer in Lancaster PA
#1: Become Irish for a Day at Celtic Fling
Celtic Fling is one of the most popular Celtic events in Central Pennsylvania. This annual event brings together Celtic dancers, musicians, storytellers, performers, food and artisans for a super-festive weekend of fun!
Date: June 24 – June 26
Address: 2775 Lebanon Rd. Manheim, PA
Website: http://www.parenfaire.com/celtic.html
#2 - #5: Kick Back at Restaurants with Great Outdoor Dining
Who doesn’t love eating outdoors on a comfortable afternoon or evening? These restaurants are some of our favorites:
- Funck’s | 365 W Main St, Leola | Website
- Agape | 366 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks | Website
- Weathered Vineyards Ephrata | 900-A W. Main Street, Ephrata | Website
- Dutchmaid Deck | 222 N Reading Rd l, Ephrata | Website
#6 - #8: Take a Farm Tour
With agriculture being such a fundamental aspect of life in Lancaster County, taking a farm tour is a perfect way to really get to know about farming life and culture.
- Kreider Farms | 1461 Lancaster Rd, Manheim | Website
- Verdant View Farm | 429 Strasburg Rd, Paradise | Website
- Old Windmill Farm| 262 Paradise Ln, Ronks | Website
#9: See Sight & Sound’s Newest Show: David
Sight and Sound Theater is far and away the most popular tourist attraction in Lancaster County. Whether this is the first time for you to see a show at Sight and Sound or you’ve been to every performance, you’ll walk out amazed and wanting to see the NEXT show!!
Dates: Now – December 31, 2022
Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks
Website: https://www.sight-sound.com/shows/lancaster/david/2022
#10: Experience a Covered Bridges Drive
Lancaster County has one of the largest collection of covered bridges in the country. You’ll travel through the charming back roads and Amish Countryside to find these historic bridges. Along the way, stop at a few roadside stands to buy locally made snacks, Amish grown tomatoes, fresh picked flowers or handmade soaps & candles!! Here’s a list of all the Covered Bridges in Lancaster County.
#11 - #12: Enjoy Wonderful Live Theater at these Hidden Gems
You can find live theater in just about every large town and city in America. But what about UNIQUE theater experiences? Those places that catch you buy surprise with their extraordinary quality, atmosphere, or edginess.... If THAT'S what you'd like to see on your next Lancaster Getaway, then these are the theaters to check out. Prepare to be wow'd!!
- Ephrata Performing Arts Center | 320 Cocalico St, Ephrata | Website
- PRIMA Theater | 941 Wheatland Ave, Lancaster | Website
#13: Rock-On at the Roots & Blues Fest
The Annual Roots & Blues Fest is a must-experience event in downtown Lancaster each year. With 11 venues, hundreds of top performers & great food & drinks all around, this is a perfect summertime getaway for music lovers.
Dates: July 9 – July 10, 2022
Address: 25 S Queen St, Lancaster
Website: https://lancasterrootsandblues.com/
#14: Get the Scoop on an Ice Cream Tour
As you’re driving the backroads of Lancaster PA you’ll notice the landscape dotted with red barns, pastures and corn fields. Apart from the scenic beauty of Amish farmland, they provide Lancaster PA with its #1 agriculture product, Dairy. Know what that means to visitors and locals? We’ve got the BEST ice cream in Lancaster PA!! A really fun way to try some of our delicious ice cream treats is by taking a guided Ice Cream Experience Scooter Tour where you can take in the sights and taste the delicious treats!
#15: Do Some Kayaking at Shanks Mare Outfitters
Time spent on the water is time well spent! (If that's not a famous quote, it SHOULD be... and if it is, I have no idea who I stole it from...!) You can bring your own kayak, rent one & go out on your own, or join a guided tour at Shanks Mare Outfitters.
Address: 2092 Long Level Rd, Wrightsville
Website: https://www.shanksmare.com/
#16 - #18: Take On One of These Bike Rides
There are some wonderful scenic bike rides for you to enjoy during your visit to Lancaster PA. Either bring your own bike, or rent one at Lititz Bike Works’ Bike Share location (229 Railroad Ave, Ephrata) just 1 mile from the Historic Smithton Inn.
- Ephrata to Lititz | Parking Lot: 229 Railroad Ave, Ephrata | Website
- Cornwall to Mt. Gretna | Parking Lot: 119 Schaeffer Rd, Lebanon | Website
- NW Lancaster County River Trail |Parking Lot: 41 Walnut St, Columbia | Website
#19: Downtown Lancaster Walking Tour
Discover the unique stories, architecture, art, history and charm of downtown Lancaster. This guided walking tour takes you down historic streets, past churches and cemeteries, and businesses with intriguing history going back 300 years.
Address: 38 Penn Square, Lancaster
Website: https://historiclancasterwalkingtour.org/
#20: Discover Hidden Gems on a Country Roads Excursion Scooter Tour
This is hands-down our favorite tour in Lancaster County. Whether you’re driving a traditional scooter, or a 3-wheel “Scoot-Coupe”, your guide will weave through gorgeous backroads to get you to some of the best Amish-Owned shops.
Address: 2705 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand
Website: https://strasburgscooters.com/location/bird-in-hand
#21: Hike the Horseshoe Trail to Eagle Rock and the Pretzel Hut
Hikes can be fun and exhilarating, and sometimes a fantastic view is “enough”… but how about combining a scenic hike, sweeping views AND an ice cream reward along the way?! Sounds like a win to me!
Parking Area Address: 80 Pumping Station Rd, Lititz
Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/pennsylvania/eagle-rock
#22 - #24: Visit a Farmers Market
Farmers markets in Lancaster PA are pretty special. From the oldest indoor market in the country to one of the largest weekly markets in the state, Lancaster has it! PRO TIP: Be sure to show up hungry!!
- Central Market (Tues, Fri, Sat) | 23 N Market St, Lancaster | Website
- Roots Market (Tuesday) | 705 Graystone Rd, Manheim | Website
- Green Dragon Market (Friday) | 955 N State St, Ephrata | Website
#25: Eat at an Amish Restaurant
At Hometown Kitchen, Amish chefs & waitstaff offer familiar comfort-foods such as meatloaf and Baked Chicken in a laid-back atmosphere.
Address: 18 Furnace Rd, Quarryville
Website: https://eatathometown.com/
#26: Take a Buggy Ride
Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird and Hand is a wonderful way to experience one of the unique aspects of the Amish way of life. Ask your guide about the culture and traditions of our Amish neighbors as you clippity-clop your way through Amish farms and rolling hills.
Address: 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand
Website: https://reallancastercounty.com/abes-buggy-rides/
#27: Play a round or two at Fox Chase Golf Course
Fox Chase is a lovely, well cared for, 18 hole public golf course with a country club vibe. Their links-style golf course is perfect for players of all skill levels. They even have practice facilities and an Indoor Golf Simulator for those days when the weather doesn't cooperate.
Address: 300 Stevens Rd, Stevens
Website: https://foxchasegolf.com/
#28: Take a Self-Driving Wine Tour
Lancaster County has a rich farming tradition, and recently a number of traditional farmers have turned their agricultural talents to grape growing and wine making. Drive Lancaster’s Amish countryside to discover the wonderful wines being produced in Central PA. Here's our suggestion for Wineries in Lancaster PA you should visit!
#29: Catch a Baseball Game at Clipper Stadium
If summer makes you think about an organ playing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”, then you should make time to catch an independent minor league game at Clipper Stadium! The food, drink, games, entertainment and of course, BASEBALL, are all top-notch fun!
Address: 650 N Prince St, Lancaster
Website: https://www.lancasterbarnstormers.com/stadium-info/
#30 - #33: Attend a Craft Beer Fest
Lancaster’s brewing roots run deep, and nothing celebrates our brewing tradition quite like a good ole brewfest! Schedule your getaway during one of these fun & festive events for a “Hoppy” vacation!
- Hope Craft Brew Fest | June 11, 2022 | 2775 Lebanon Rd, Manheim | Website
- Ephrata Brewfest | June 25, 2022 | 16 E W Main St, Ephrata | Website
- Lancaster Craft Beer Fest | August (date TBD) 2022 | 100 block of North Queen Street | Website
- Nook Brewfest | August 13, 2022 | 2913 Spooky Nook Rd, Manheim | Website
#34: Life's a Beach in Mount Gretna
Spending the day at Mount Gretna is like being transported back in time to a simpler time. The town is dotted with Craftsman-style cottages, shops, restaurants, walking trails, a theater, tennis courts, bike trails and a wonderful lake. A swimming day pass for the lake can be a big pricey, but it’s totally worth it for the unique fun time you’re guaranteed to experience! Be sure to go to the Jigger Shop for some delicious Ice Cream!
Address: 130 Lakeview Drive, Mt Gretna, PA
Website: https://mtgretnalake.com/
#35: Do Some Rooftop Dining
For incomparable views of downtown Lancaster, check out The Exchange. And while the views are THE BOMB, the fire pits, food, drinks and service are pretty darn good too! The Exchange is located on the roof of the Penn Square Marriott.
Address: 25 S Queen St, Lancaster, PA
Website: https://www.exchangeroof.com/
#36: Go Tubing at Sickman’s Mill
Nothing says ‘perfect summer afternoon’ like combining Tubing-Drinking-Music, right?! This is the perfect laid-back summertime activity, with the occasional burst of excitement. Tubing at Sickman’s Mill is summer fun at its finest! Best of all, you can finish up your epic day at Jimmy's Place where you can enjoy live music, cold brews & whatever that day's food truck is serving up.
PRO TIP: Take a ride on the Cool Bus!! Get picked up at Tellus 360 in Lancaster city, and ride down to Sickman's Mill for drinks, music and tubing fun and they'll take you back to Tellus when your done!! The bus runs Friday-Monday all summer long !!! First pickup is at 10am!!
Source: Sickman's Mill Facebook PageAddress: 671 Sand Hill Rd, Pequea
Website: https://www.sickmansmill.com/
#37: Pet the Goats and Buy Cheese at Misty Creek
Goats are so stinking cute and you can get up and personal with them at Misty Creek Goat Dairy. Hold the babies, pet the mommas & stay-the-heck-clear of the pappas!!! And after you’re done getting your goat-fix in, check out their shop for cheese, goat milk, soaps, lotions and other products produced right there on -site.
Address: 43 W Eby Rd, Leola
Website: https://www.mistycreekgoatdairy.net/
#38: Escape the Ordinary at the Escape Room
If you’re a smarty-pants challenge junky, then the Escape Room in downtown Lancaster is just the place for you! Test your wits and see if you’re savvy enough to make it out before time runs out.
Address: 1018 N Christian St Suite 110, Lancaster
Website: http://escaperoomlancaster.com/
#39 - #41: Take a Day Trip
Lancaster PA is the perfect place to base yourself for an extended getaway. There are some wonderful day trips in the region, here are a few suggestions to consider:
- Jim Thorp | Visit Jim Thorpe Website
- Port Deposit MD | Town of Port Deposit Website
- Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library| 5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE | Website
#42: Double Down at Hollywood Casino in Morgantown
Are you feeling lucky?! If an evening of gambling and entertainment is just the sort of relaxing (& exciting) thing to do when you travel, then Hollywood Casino in Morgantown is worth checking out!
Address: 6021 Morgantown Rd, Morgantown
Website: https://www.hollywoodmorgantowncasino.com/
#43 - #46 Tour a Garden:
Take advantage of great summer weather and stroll some of the fantastic gardens in and near Lancaster PA. We promise you won’t be disappointed!
- Conestoga House & Gardens| 1608 Marietta Ave #2450, Lancaster | Website
- Longwood Gardens | 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA | Website
- Hershey Gardens | 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA | Website
- Bartram Garden | 5400 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia | Website
#47 - #49: Summer Art & Craft Shows
If shopping therapy is what the doctor ordered this summer, then plan your Lancaster visit during one of these amazing Art & Craft shows!
- Lititz Rotary Club Craft Show | August 13 | Website
- Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show | August 20 - 21 | Website
- Longs Park Art Festival | September 2 – 4 | Website
#50 - #54: Catch a Lawn Concert
There’s just something about listening to live music, outside, on a summer evening. Here are some Lancaster PA music venues where you can do just that.
- Long’s Park Summer Music Series | Harrisburg Pike, US-30, Lancaster | Website
- Weathered Vineyards Ephrata | 900A W. Main Street, Ephrata | Website
- Every Friday & Saturday Night from 5 – 8 pm
- Concerts by the Creek | 409 Cocalico St, Ephrata | Website
- Tuesday June 7 | Tuesday July 5 | Tuesday August 16 at 6:30 pm
- Waltz Vineyard | 1599 Old Line Rd, Manheim | Website
- Vineyard at Grandview | 1489 Grandview Rd, Mount Joy | Website
#55: Crush It at Putt Putt Golf
Imagine a Putt Putt course that’s lush and green and bursting with flowers. The Village Green Miniature Golf Course is unlike any other course you’ve experienced. Forget the cheezy-kitchy courses you're used to. It’s like someone reimagined the entire concept and decided to integrate a botanical garden with mini golf! We’re telling you… you’re going to fall in love with this place and make it part of every future trip’s itinerary!!
Address: 1444 Village Rd, Strasburg, PA
Website: https://villagegreens.com/
#56 Spend the weekend at the Historic Smithton Inn
With so much to see and do in Lancaster PA, we hope you'll book your stay at our historic Bed and Breakfast Lancaster PA! Choose from one of our 9 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites. We have options to fit your budget and style. Our queen guest rooms are all spacious, while our king suites give you extra room to spread out. If you're staying for several days, we recommend the Tailor's Cottage or the Smithton Gables, which both have full kitchens! No matter which room you choose, you'll have a private in-room bathroom, mini fridge, coffee maker and fireplace. Plus, the homemade full breakfast we serve each morning is always a special treat! Check our website for more photos, pricing and availability!
Address: 900 W. Main Street, Ephrata PA
Website: www.HistoricSmithtonInn.com
This Blog is all About Things to Do This Summer in Lancaster PA