“Amish Country” may be one of the first things that comes to mind when people think of Lancaster, PA, but the area has received accolades and press for more than that in recent years.
Lancaster County has been named as one of the top five places in the nation to retire by U.S. News, one of the top 10 coolest places to visit in the country by Forbes, and among the top nine up-and-coming food scenes by Thrillist. This recognition that was rightfully reiterated when the Food Network’s Alton Brown cited Lancaster Italian restaurant Luca as having the “best salad in the world.” And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to amazing places to eat – Lancaster foodies will assure you that the mouthwatering choices are certainly not limited to salad!
Our co-founders, Matt Roda and Adam Roda, were born and raised in Lancaster, PA and couldn’t be prouder to call it home. Whether you’re local to Lancaster like us and looking for things to do this summer or you’re planning a visit from out of town, today we’re rounding up some of the many fun things to do in Lancaster this summer!
- Go Tubing
Located just 15 minutes outside of downtown Lancaster and back a few beautiful winding roads, you’ll find Sickman’s Mill Outfitters in Pequea. You can rent tubes and float down the Pequea Creek taking in the gorgeous scenery and wildlife around you. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable activity for all ages. Afterward, grab a beer at Jimmy’s Place and take in a concert along the water beside the historic stone mill.
- Take a bike ride
Just about every part of the county has paved and well-maintained rail trails for you to bicycle along and take in the gorgeous scenery, from rolling farmland to woodlands and the Susquehanna River.
The Northwest Lancaster County Rail Trail is a 14-mile ride that follows the historic Pennsylvania Mainline Canal, connecting Columbia, Marietta, Bainbridge, and Falmouth. Historical remains such as old canal locks are along the trail, with educational plaques to fill you in on historical details as you ride, run, or walk. Check out the Warwick to Ephrata Rail Trail or the Enola Low Grade Trail for more great rides.
- Try farm fresh ice cream
Pennsylvania boasts a delicious adventure called Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail, and Lancaster is home to several creamery stops on the southcentral part of the trail. Fox Meadows Creamery in Ephrata has views of stunning farmland, ample seating indoors and out, and a fun little wooden playground for kids to enjoy. The Milkhouse at Oregon Dairy in Lititz and Lapp Valley Farms are also featured on the trail.
Other great ice cream stops throughout the county include Pine View Dairy in Conestoga, Maplehofe Dairy in Quarryville, Down on the Farm Creamery in Strasburg, and the Strasburg Creamery, Café, and Country Store.
- Watch a show at the Fulton Theatre
The Fulton Theatre is a national historic landmark that dates back to 1852, often called the “Grand Old Lady of Prince Street.” The stunning restored interior is the perfect backdrop for taking in a matinee or evening showing of whatever show is playing while you’re in town.
- Cross skydiving off your bucket list
If sky diving is on your bucket list or if you’re looking to take the leap again in a stunning region of the country, the Maytown Sport Parachute Club is the place to go. It is one of the oldest skydiving clubs in the United States and offers options for first-time jumpers and experienced skydivers alike. Geronimo!
- Cool off at Mt. Gretna
Take a swim at the Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach. Relax or play on the 300-foot sand beach area or perfect your form on the high dive and diving board. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded picnic grove, or grab a bite to eat at the Mt. Gretna Hideaway or Porch & Pantry in the charming mountain town of Mt. Gretna.
Enjoying some ice cream from the 100-year-old Jigger Shop, a Mt. Gretna summer staple for more than 100 years, is always a wonderful decision too.
- Take a hot air balloon ride
Indulge your adventurous side with a hot air balloon ride with Lancaster Balloon Rides in quaint Bird in Hand. The views of the Amish countryside are awe-inspiring and make the perfect romantic date or outing for family and friends.
- Visit Dutch Wonderland
This amusement park is a treasure of a place for anyone to take their kids or grandkids and make memories. The walkability and stately old shade trees make Dutch Wonderland enjoyable even in the thick of summer, plus the water park is loads of fun – as is the assortment of rides. A natural stream full of ducks, turtles, and fish winds along the park, and there’s even a dinosaur display you won’t want to miss!
If you try out any of our suggestions this summer, let us know what you think! What would you add to the list? Between all of your summertime adventures in Lancaster, PA and beyond, RODA marketing is here to help with your digital and internet marketing needs, from web design to SEO, social media, reputation management, and more.
Choose RODA marketing internet marketing services, and your business will grow. We’ll go to work for you right away, and you’ll benefit from proven internet marketing strategies that attract targeted visitors to your website. Call 888-653-0331 or schedule a discovery session to learn more.