Lancaster County is located on Susquehanna River in southern Pennsylvania. It is a destination that appeals to everyone regardless of age and has numerous unique towns and distinct villages. Discover the vibrant cultural scene, festivals, amazing food, and various attractions. A popular tourist destination here is the Amish community which has a notable lifestyle of using horse and buggy transportation and generators instead of commercial electricity. Some tourists opt to stay in the glamping spots to experience the same humble customs. If you’re traveling with a fur baby by your side, take refuge in a pet-friendly cabin near Lancaster County. While there are popular attractions such as Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and Strasburg Rail Road steam train, plenty of wonderful sights are left to discover, especially in neighboring locations. Scroll down to find out more about top day trips from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
1. Annapolis, MD (from USD 12.0)
Annapolis is a beautiful and historic city that offers well-rounded getaways near Lancaster County, offering a great mix of sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Visit the United States Naval Academy, where you can tour the impressive campus and learn about its history and graduates. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront and visit the City Dock, where you can watch boats and people-watching.
Don’t miss the Maryland State House, where George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Finally, take a relaxing boat tour around the Chesapeake Bay or explore the nearby parks for hiking or biking.
Annapolis Scavenger Hunt: Red Bricks & Blue Views
Duration: 2 hours
2. Jim Thorpe, PA
A trip to Jim Thorpe promises a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Explore the National Historic District, boasting Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and art galleries. Visit the Asa Packer Mansion, a beautifully preserved Victorian home, and gain insight into the town’s past. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the stunning surroundings as Jim Thorpe sits amidst scenic mountain vistas and the picturesque Lehigh River.
The nearby Glen Onoko Falls provides a scenic spot for relaxation and exploration. For railway enthusiasts, a ride aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers a memorable experience. Overall, this town offers one of the most unique day trips in Pennsylvania.
3. Lancaster Amish Country (from USD 65.0)
On this tour that takes approximately three hours, you will get to explore the unique culture and lifestyle of this community. The tour starts at Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm. Transportation in a minibus and a guide is part of the package. Visit a working Amish farm, where you will see how cows are milked, how milk is kept cold in a bulk tank using “Amish electricity” and learn about farm life. Marvel at crafts made by a carriage maker, basket weaver or wood worker, among others at an Amish craftsman studio. Finally, get the chance of being welcomed into the home of an Amish family, where you can interact with the locals and get to learn more about the community. This small-group tour makes the experience more intimate.
Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour
Duration: 3 hours
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4. Gettysburg, PA
History lovers will have a blast in this town. Get to learn about the Battle of Gettysburg that took place in 1863. Visit Gettysburg National Military Park that is home to Gettysburg National Battlefield, Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center, and Gettysburg National Cemetery. A guided tour of this park will take you through the history of the civil war, 1400 monuments and statues, and civil war artifacts. This town is also famous for being where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his best-known speech, Gettysburg Address. Other attractions include Little Round Top where you will see the rough terrain battleground, Jennie Wade House which is a civilian history museum, and the Shiver House Museum.
5. Hershey, PA
Indulge your sweet tooth and discover everything about Hershey’s chocolate when in this town. Hershey is renowned for being home to Hershey Company, which is one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world. Explore Hershey Story Museum which features exhibits and interactive experiences that document the life of Milton Hershey, his chocolate company and Hershey Town. Go on the enlightening Hershey’s Chocolate tour at Hershey’s Chocolate World and get free chocolate at the end of the tour. For a day outdoors, visit Hershey Gardens and marvel at the colorful plants in the botanical garden and arboretum, and make sure to stop by the butterfly atrium. Thrill-seekers can feel adrenaline rush while on the 70 rides in the huge, chocolate-themed Hershey Park.
6. Harrisburg, PA
Explore this town which is the capital of Pennsylvania. Visit the Pennsylvania State Capital Complex and marvel at its unique and beautiful architecture, its grand staircase and the spectacular artworks, statues and murals that decorate its interior. Tour the National Civil War Museum which houses interactive exhibits documenting the American Civil War. Get to learn about the role Harrisburg played during the Westward Migration, American Civil War and Industrial Revolution. The State Museum of Pennsylvania showcases the area’s natural, cultural and industrial heritage. Other attractions include Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, Susquehanna Art Museum, Broad Street Market, and Fort Hunter Mansion and Park.
7. Allentown, PA
Allentown is located in eastern Pennsylvania. It’s a city that has numerous interesting museums for you to visit. The Liberty Bell Museum has on display a full-size replica of the Liberty bell and a mural documenting its history. The Allentown Art Museum includes a collection of visual arts. See vintage vehicles at America On Wheels Museum. Other attractions in the city include Cedar Beach Park, Allentown Rose Gardens and Da Vinci Science Center.
8. Philadelphia, PA
Commonly referred to as Philly, this city is the largest in Pennsylvania. Take a journey down history lane and learn about the birth of USA when in this city. For history lovers, you can visit historical sites, such as the Independence Hall, where the declaration of independence and the constitution was signed, Liberty Bell, and Independence National Historical Park. Art lovers can enjoy sites such as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Rodin Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art. See the iconic steps where Sylvester Stallone did his triumphant run in the movie Rocky. A walk on some streets exposes you to amazing street murals, which act as an outlet for graffiti artists to showcase their work. This city also has a number of history and science museums, including the Franklin Institute and the Museum of the American Revolution.
9. Atlantic City, NJ
Atlantic City is a vibrant and exciting resort city, with its many casinos, high-rise hotels, nightclubs, beaches and splendid Boardwalk. Try your luck while having fun in one of its numerous high-end casinos. These include Borgata which is a waterfront casino with dining, Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City that also has a concert arena, and Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino. If you are not into gambling, Atlantic City Boardwalk is another great entertainment spot to be in. With a lot of shops and restaurants, you can enjoy your day exploring the area, shopping, and dining.
Also a superb destination for day trips for couples in Pennsylvania, Atlantic City has amazing beaches where you and your partner can spend a lazy day soaking up the sun and taking in glorious sunset views.
10. Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is the largest and the most populous city in Maryland. This city is renowned for the beautiful Inner Harbor, which is its most popular tourist attraction. Located in the Inner Harbor are museums such as the American Visionary Art Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium. There are also several shops and entertainment venues. Visit the National Aquarium which houses a number of exhibits, including Blacktip Reef, Shark Alley and Australia: Wild Extremes. These exhibits showcase a variety of marine life. Baltimore also has several buildings that are worth checking out for their unique architecture belonging to different periods of time. The must-see building is the Baltimore Basilica that stands out with its neoclassical design.
11. Washington, DC
How awesome is it to explore the capital of U.S.? This city is the center of the U.S. government. It has an abundance of buildings featuring neoclassical, Georgian, gothic and modern architectural styles. Marvel at the beautiful and grand buildings and monuments, including the United States Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial and the White House. Washington, DC also has several museums, including National Mall, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and Smithsonian National Museum of American. The museums include collections that showcase the US heritage, the universe and natural wonders. Discover Washington, DC by exploring its various attractions.
12. Wilmington, DE
Situated at the junction of two rivers - Christina and Brandywine, Wilmington is the largest city in Delaware. It is a city rich in diverse cultures and lifestyles. Be part of the many ethnic festivals that take place throughout the year. A popular festival is the Italian Festival which features traditional Italian food, music, carnival rides and games. Visit the Delaware Art Museum and see a collection of American art, Pre-Raphaelite pieces and sculptures. Have fun hiking in trails winding through thick forests at the four parks which make up the Wilmington State Parks. Take a walk on Market Street and admire the different buildings with architectural designs from different periods. Foodies can sample different restaurants on Market Street, Union Street and Trolley Square.
Explore the unique towns of Lancaster
For exciting day trips in Pennsylvania, Lancaster County is an excellent starting point. Whether you are interested in learning about the Amish community, discovering American history, marveling at artworks and exhibits in museums, seeing renowned landmarks and monuments, attending festivals, or learning everything about Hershey chocolate, this county has it all. Explore it using our list of top day trips from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
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