Summer is just around the corner, so it’s an excellent time to decide how you want to enjoy the warm months. Even if you have lived here a long time, there are plenty of exciting options in Lancaster. Here is a list of 10 things to do in the Lancaster area this year.

1. Take a hike

Need a breath of fresh air? Lancaster has some of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania, such as the Homewood Nature Reserve, Rannels-Kettle Run Nature Reserve, and Tucquan Glen Nature Reserve. All of these places have gorgeous hiking trails and lovely nature views for the perfect peaceful getaway. You can find a full list of hiking trails here.

2. Learn about Lancaster history

Take the Historic Lancaster Walking Tour for a deep dive into the rich history of Lancaster, where your tour guide will share almost 300 years of exciting history. A non-profit organization offers the tour, and all profits go to charities and other non-profit organizations based in Lancaster.

3. Go to the Strasburg Rail Road

The Strasburg Rail Road offers a relaxing 45-minute ride on an authentic steam train. Sit back, enjoy the ride, and experience the beautiful views of Lancaster County’s farmland! There are also special themed train experiences. During the summer, kids can enjoy “Day Out with Thomas” and meet Thomas the Tank Engine.

4. Spend the day at the lake

Located 25 miles north of Lancaster County, Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is a fantastic place to enjoy the lake. The recreation facility offers family-friendly activities such as swimming, sand volleyball, diving boards, and kayaking. You can easily spend the whole day enjoying the sun and water!

5. Go camping

Are you a camper? Lancaster County is home to several campgrounds where you can pitch your tent or park your camper. It’s the perfect place to enjoy nature, go stargazing, and hang out around a campfire. You can find a complete list of campground sites here.

6. Cool off at Hersheypark

One of the most memorable cures for a hot summer day is cooling off at The Boardwalk in Hersheypark. The 11-acre waterpark features pools and multiple waterslides. There are over 16 attractions within The Boardwalk, so everyone in the family will find something fun to do.

7. Explore Amish culture

Take a visit to Amish Country and tour the Pennsylvania Amish countryside. There are several authentic destinations to visit, like the Amish Farm & House and The Amish Experience, where visitors will gain an insight into Amish life and explore the stunning countryside.

8. Take a horse and buggy ride

While visiting the Amish, one part of the experience that you just can’t skip is taking a horse and buggy ride! Many companies offer rides through the countryside driven by an Amish or Mennonite driver, and some rides also include a tour of an Amish farm.

9. Attend the many summer festivals

There’s an exciting new festival to attend practically every weekend during the summer. In 2022, foodies may enjoy the Strawberry Festival (June 6-7 at Barnyard Kingdom) or the Picnic Tasting Tour (June 5, July 3, and August 7 at Kitchen Kettle Village), just to name a few. To view a full list of summer events, check out this calendar.

10. Have a family-friendly day at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm has 60 farm activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy. The completely solar-operated farm was voted the #1 corn maze in America by USA Today in 2020, so it’s definitely something to check out. It also has attractions like pedal carts, baby chicks, straw bale racer, and so much more.

Need help finding a realtor in Lancaster County, PA?

If you need assistance finding a realtor for buying or selling in Lancaster County, Life Changes Realty Group is here to help you. We’re dedicated to putting your needs first and will guide you through your real estate journey. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to sell your home, Life Changes Realty Group will listen to your needs and make it happen.

Schedule an appointment online or call our Lancaster office at 717-621-2672. You can reach our Elizabethtown office at 717-366-4056. We look forward to hearing from you.