Looking for a way to escape the COVID cabin fever? Check out the sights and Spring activities in Lancaster and Southern PA! While it is true that the pandemic has postponed or caused some events to cancel, there is still plenty this region has to offer. So, whether you are looking for a quiet weekend getaway or fun for the whole family, check out these must-see activities below.
Spring Activities in Lancaster County
Spring offers the ideal chance to explore bustling cities like Lancaster or meander down the rural country roads. As more and more businesses get back to normal, families and individuals alike can find plenty to do. Below are some of our top Spring activities in Lancaster to shake off the COVID blues.
- Hit the Trails
- Experience Amish Culture
- Get a Thrill at Dutch Wonderland
- Go Antiquing
- Relax at a Spa
- Check Out a Museum
- See a Show at Sight and Sound
- Visit Strasburg Railroad
- Outlet Shop Until You Drop
- Create Your Own Food Tour
Hit the Trails
Lancaster County and Southern PA are home to some very challenging and beautiful hikes and rail trails to suit any hiking ability. So, whether you choose to walk, run, bike, or horseback ride through the countryside, check out these top 5 year-round trails below –
- Northwest Lancaster County River Trail – This trail hugs the Susquehanna River for 11 miles offering one of the most well-known and well-maintained trails. Thus, it is one of the most popular Spring activities in Lancaster for bikers and runners.
- Conewago Recreation Trail – This scenic trail connects to several others, creating a nearly 20-mile network along the border of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties. If 20 miles is a bit much, stick to the Conewago Recreation Trail, which follows along the former Cornwall-Lebanon rail line for about 5 miles.
- Warwick-to-Ephrata Rail-Trail – Connecting some of Lancaster County’s highlights, the Warwick-to-Ephrata Rail-Trail allows adventure seekers to casually explore Lititz, Akron, and Ephrata via an 8-mile trail.
- Lancaster County Central Park – Central Park boasts the largest public green space in the county and includes over 10 miles of eclectic trails. Additionally, this trail accommodated everything from horseback riding and off-road biking to snowshoeing in the Winter. Therefore, there is something for everyone!
- Enola Low-Grade Trail – This trail has a variety of sections to suit any activity level. For a more challenging hike, check out the 10-mile section from Quarryville to Atglen. Looking for a leisurely bike ride? Visit the western section that stretches 5 miles along the Susquehanna.
Experience Amish Culture
Dating back 300 years, the Amish Community of Lancaster County is America’s oldest Amish settlement. Today, their “plain” lifestyle remains as it has been for centuries. While the community regularly participates in agriculture, handmade crafts, homemade local delicacies, and small businesses, they also provide a glimpse back in time to a simpler way of life. Lancaster County offers several ways for tourists to interact with this extraordinary way of life. So, consider some of these ideas below –
- Amish Buggy Rides – Clip-clop down rural country roads and experience this unique form of travel. However, be sure to book early as space is limited!
- Quilts and Crafts – Amish quilts are known for their beautiful designs and heirloom quality. Check out one of the many local shops that sell these, along with other local handicrafts.
- The Amish Experience – Located in Bird-in-Hand, PA, The Amish Experience offers tours and authentic insight into the daily life of the Amish community.
Get a Thrill at Dutch Wonderland
Also known as “A Kingdom for Kids,” Dutch Wonderland has been attracting adventure-seeking families since 1963. Along with over 30 rides and attractions, check out Duke’s Lagoon Water Park, Exploration Island, and the many live entertainment opportunities the park has to offer. Due to continuing efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19, travelers are advised to review the park website for the latest updates, calendar of events and to prebook your park tickets. Dutch Wonderland continues to be one of the best all-around Spring activities in Lancaster.
Go Antiquing
Many travelers may not realize that “Antique Capital USA” is right in the heart of Lancaster County. In fact, visitors to Adamstown, PA, could spend days hunting through its many shops and flea markets, boasting over 5,000 dealers. So, check out some of the top-rated Lancaster antique destinations along with the many mom-and-pop shops along the way, and you are sure to find a treasure.
Relax at a Spa
When the stress of the world becomes too much, relax your cares away at one of Lancaster County’s premier spa destinations. Coupled with a weekend stay, this is just what the doctor ordered. Additionally, these locations are following all CDC recommended guidelines to keep you both relaxed and safe. Consider a trip to The Inn and Spa at Leola Village. From sumptuous suites to a wide variety of specialty spa services, it’s not hard to see why The Inn at Leola Village is the area’s only Forbes Travel Four-Star Awarded Spa.
Check Out a Museum
Lancaster County is home to some fantastic museums that preserve the local history and culture for generations to come. As the tourism industry – y continues to navigate reopening amidst the pandemic, visit the websites for these museums and plan your visit today!
- Amish Farm and House – 2395 Covered Bridge Drive, Lancaster, PA 17602 – Offering traditional farmhouse tours that provide an up-close understanding of the Amish way of life.
- Ephrata Cloister – 632 West Main Street, Ephrata, PA 17522 – Founded in 1732, this National Historic Landmark plans to reopen for tours on April 30, 2021. Check out their website to book a tour and take advantage of the historic architecture, picnic areas, and expansive grounds.
- North Museum of Nature and Science – 400 College Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 – What better way to spark creativity and learning than to take the whole family to the North Museum of Nature and Science? Once your done meeting a T-Rex, be sure to catch an immersive exhibit at the SciDome Theater.
See a Show at Sight and Sound
Offering a perfect example of a passion project, Sight and Sound Theater started as the dream of a dairy farmer and his wife. Eager to share their faith with the masses, their dreams grew to what is now the nation’s largest organization of its kind. To this day, one of the top three theater destinations in the country remains a family-owned business that now employs over 600 actors, designers, builders, and support staff. As the 2021 season opens, Sight and Sound Theater is committed to bringing guests back safely at a limited capacity to share in the incredible spectacle of classic Bible stories brought to life.
Visit Strasburg Railroad
The need for advanced tickets and strict face-covering compliance does not hinder the excitement and nostalgia of visiting The Strasburg Railroad. Apart from traditional train rides, Strasburg also has gift shops, dining, and unique experiences such as a day with Thomas the Tank Engine. Therefore, this is a great destination for the whole family to enjoy a beautiful Spring day in the country.
Outlet Shop Until You Drop
What is better at wiping away the COVID blues than a little retail therapy? Thankfully, Lancaster has you covered! Conveniently located along Route 30, Rockvale and Tanger Outlets provide shoppers with a combined over 100 stores to choose from. Whether you are looking for a great deal on designer items or some much-needed new housewares, outlet shopping in Lancaster has it all. Also, just in case the shopping leaves you feeling famished, plenty of restaurants and eateries are just minutes away.
Create Your Own Food Tour
When it comes to eclectic dining, Lancaster County has the variety to suit even the most discerning palate. When it comes to great food, turn to the experts – fellow travelers! Let’s take a look at some of the most popular food destinations that are a must not miss in Southern PA below –
Best Bang for Your Buck Restaurants
When you are feeding a crowd or just long for some Dutch-country home cooking, these best-value restaurants allow travelers to experience a great meal for a great value. Check out the following –
- Sticky’s Homemade Sticky Buns – Yum! Who doesn’t love a large, warm, gooey, and best of all, homemade sticky bun to start their day?
- Shady Maple Smorgasbord – A jam-packed 200-foot buffet specializing in Dutch Country classics with something for everyone.
- Good ‘N Plenty – The name says it all; no one walks away hungry from this family-style food paradise.
- Mean Cup – A charming eatery with casual vibes that the locals love.
Unique Lancaster Eats
Sometimes a burger or chicken fingers just will not do, and you feel the need for a culinary adventure. Transport yourself to a whole other world with these unique eats below –
- Callaloo – Spice things up with authentic Trinidadian cuisine.
- Issei Noodle Lancaster – A local favorite for noodles and vegetarian dishes.
- Decades – Mixing fantastic and hearty eats with a fun atmosphere that is also a bowling alley.
- John J Jeffries – A little pricey, but the quintessential farm to table.
- Luca – Wood-fired delicious pizza, enough said.
Helping Tenants Put Down Roots in Southern, PA
Southern PA, and especially Lancaster County, has something for everyone. At Bay Property Management Group, we help new transplants and locals alike find their ideal rental home. Our dedicated team of rental property managers assists owners and tenants in navigating the entire rental process. So, if you are looking to get the most out of your unique investment property and benefit from a comprehensive marketing plan, give us a call today for a free rental home analysis.