Lancaster, PA

Travel Guide

Lancaster featuring farmland, land animals and signage
Historic Downtown Lancaster
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
Central Market
Lancaster featuring land animals, a sunset and farmland
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.

Where to stay in Lancaster

Historic Downtown Lancaster

Historic Downtown Lancaster

Historic Downtown Lancaster is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Central Market or Fulton Theatre.

Historic Downtown Lancaster
Default Image

Prospect Heights

While there might not be top attractions in Prospect Heights, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fulton Theatre and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square.

Prospect Heights
Square One Coffee could easily become one if my favorite coffee houses. Great latte

Musser Park

When in Musser Park, you can plan a visit to Central Market and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Musser Park
Default Image

Ross

Ross might not have many top sights, but Penn Medicine Park and Central Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Ross
After the rain, discovered this mushroom art on West Chestnut Street.

Chestnut Hill

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Chestnut Hill and surrounding area, you can visit Fulton Theatre and Penn Medicine Park.

Chestnut Hill
Default Image

East Side

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in East Side and surrounding area, you can visit Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster Science Factory.

East Side
Cartoon Network Hotel

Cartoon Network Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA
The price is ¥12,459 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
¥12,459
¥13,829 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star family-friendly hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the pool and the clean rooms ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,842 reviews)
"Good hotel"

Reviewed on Aug 15, 2025

Cartoon Network Hotel
Parkview Inn & Suites Lancaster

Parkview Inn & Suites Lancaster

3 out of 5
2260 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA
The price is ¥19,668 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
¥19,668
¥21,832 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,001 reviews)
"Spacious rooms, easy parking, wonderful staff"

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2025

Parkview Inn & Suites Lancaster
Lancaster Suites

Lancaster Suites

2.5 out of 5
2045 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA
The price is ¥11,387 per night from Aug 18 to Aug 19
¥11,387
¥14,274 total
Aug 18 - Aug 19
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Location and the price"

Reviewed on Aug 14, 2025

Lancaster Suites
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, very near Sight & Sound

In the heart of Lancaster Co Amish Country, very near Sight & Sound

Lancaster
Stay at this vacation home in Lancaster. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Dutch Wonderland and Amish Farm and House are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (157 reviews)
"Super happy with our stay at the "Betty Home". Clean, easy access to our planned events,and beds supper comfortable."

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025

In the heart of Lancaster Co Amish Country, very near Sight & Sound
Lovely Downtown Townhome

Lovely Downtown Townhome

Lancaster
Stay at this vacation home in Lancaster. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (85 reviews)
Plenty of space
"Great space for the kids and adults. Thanks!"

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Lovely Downtown Townhome
Perfect family getaway with pool and hot tub close to everything!

Perfect family getaway with pool and hot tub close to everything!

Lancaster
Book a stay at this family-friendly cottage in Lancaster. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a sauna. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (78 reviews)
A Great Vacation Property
"The Cottage and surrounding grounds were just as described in the listing. Great location, easy access to almost anywhere. Cottage is quaint & charming; has everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Cottage was clean & pristine! Layout is perfect for smaller families or friends vacationing together. ..."

Reviewed on Jul 5, 2025

Perfect family getaway with pool and hot tub close to everything!
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.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Cities near Lancaster