Our family of five took a weekend trip to Lancaster County, PA. There are so many kid-friendly activities, restaurants, and places to stay. While we were only able to fit so much into a few days, we definitely have plans to go back!
An Unfortunate Beginning
Our trip did start with our car overheating in Baltimore. We originally had planned to leave Friday morning after our son’s swim lessons and head straight to Sight & Sound theater for their 3pm showing of Joshua. Instead, my kids and I spent 2 hours in Chick-fil-a, then 2 hours in Target, and then an hour in Lowe’s while our car was towed home and my husband secured a rental. Thankfully, after that we were off!
Places to Stay in Lancaster County
We arrived at our airbnb around 8pm after our unplanned detour. It was the most fun and unique airbnb we’ve ever stayed in! We were staying on a working amish farm. The farm and rolling hills around it were beautiful. Our children loved being able to see the goats, cows, and horses. The owners of the farm were so kind and friendly. We had homemade whoopie pies, puffed wheat, bread, and yogurt during our stay. For another unique stay, there’s the Red Caboose Motel. Guests stay in train cars turned into hotel rooms around the property. There are plenty traditional hotel chains to stay in as well.
Things to Do in Lancaster County
There are so many kid friendly things to do in and around Lancaster! We spent most of our time at the Strasburg Railroad for their Day Out with Thomas event. It was a beautiful and magical day. The Strasburg Railroad feels like stepping back in time. Riding the open air train cars through the Pennsylvania farms felt like a dream.
The event itself was filled with great Thomas themed activities for the kids. We got Thomas tattoos and took pictures with Thomas, Percy, and Sir Topham hat. We watched a magic show and a live performance of Thomas and Friends songs. The kids bounced in a bouncy house and played yard games. The fun was truly endless!
After that, we were able to attend the Sight & Sound show of Joshua. Other then about 15 minutes in the family room, our children (3 years, 22 months, and 3 weeks) sat through the entire 2.5 hour production. It was truly spectacular. The acting, music, special effects, and scene builds are excellent and create a riveting experience for all ages.
Other popular attractions in Lancaster include Dutch Wonderland and Hershey Park.
Places to Eat in Lancaster County
Thanks to the amazing Mennonite and Amish influences in the area, Lancaster has plenty of restaurants serving delicious and hearty menus. Our family’s favorite was Miller’s Smorgasbord. This is a buffet where kids 3 and under eat free. There were so many options and everyone left happy and full. Lapp Valley Farm is a must-try for their ice cream and cute little barn playground. Don’t forget to try Emma’s popcorn while you’re there!
We had such a wonderful trip that I left wishing I had booked us another day in the area! It just means that we’ll have to go back another time. I hope your family is able to enjoy a trip this summer to Lancaster or another destination!
