Lancaster, PA, has been welcoming tourists for over 300 years and continues its efforts to welcome more visitors through improved infrastructure, community engagement, and exciting events. So, if you're planning a trip to Pennsylvania any time soon, be sure to add this welcoming city to your itinerary. Be sure to allocate a few days for your visit, as you'll find there's plenty to keep you busy in this tourist-centered town. Want to plan your stay in more detail? Here's what to do in Lancaster, PA, during your well-deserved break. Visit Historical Sites Visiting historical sites in Lancaster, PA, is a richly immersive experience that takes you deep into American history, with a dash of culture and architecture for good measure. These are the top historical Lancaster attractions to put on your list: Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum This is a living history museum showcasing German life in Pennsylvania between the 1700s and 1900s. Original buildings, hands-on demonstrations, and costumed interpreters bring your journey back in time to life. The Fulton Theatre The Fulton is one of the oldest working theaters in America. Here you can enjoy live performances and guided tours against a backdrop of stunning 19th-century architecture. Lancaster Central Market Lancaster Central Market has been among the most popular things to see in Lancaster since 1730. It's still a wonderful place to pick up local food while musing about the city's culinary and social history. Rock Ford Estate Visitors are invited to learn about 18th-century life and Revolutionary War history at this vast, glorious mansion. Once owned by General Edward Hand of the Continental Army, this venue also houses the Kauffman Museum of Pennsylvania Folk Arts and Crafts. The Ephrata Cloister Founded in 1732, the Ephrata Cloister is a fascinating place that once offered a diversion for a devout early American religious community dedicated to discipline and spiritual preparation. It's one of the best places to visit in Lancaster to experience: -Remarkable architecture -Significant publications -Original music -Extraordinary art -Other noteworthy Lancaster landmarks include the burial site of Thaddeus Stevens, a 19th-century politician and lawyer, and President James Buchanan's home, Wheatland. Enjoy Cultural Attractions Cultural attractions in Lancaster go way beyond history, immersing you in local art, food, traditions, and community experiences. The city brims with diverse, vibrant offerings for the enjoyment of all. The African American Heritage Walking Tour is an excellent way to get a feel for this community's history and contributions to the city, brought alive by storytellers' narrations. Art lovers can get their fix at several galleries and theaters, such as: Liz Hess Gallery Annex 24 Gallery Friendship Heart Gallery and Studio The Trust Performing Arts Center Ware Center for the Arts For a family-friendly theater experience, head to the Magic and Wonder Dinner Theatre, where you can enjoy varied seasonal performances to delight audience members of all ages. This long-established landmark is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike and is a recipient of the prestigious Merlin Award for its entertaining offerings. One of the most interesting Lancaster day trips is immersing yourself in the local Amish community's traditions. Be sure to set aside a day for this enlightening outing. Experience Amish Country Pennsylvania has the largest population of Amish people in the United States, and millions of people travel to this part of the U.S. every year to experience this unusual way of life. In Amish Country, things move at a much slower, more traditional pace, providing a welcome respite from the stress and busyness of modern life. Lancaster, PA's Amish attractions offer a deeply immersive and authentic experience. The Amish village is one of the most popular destinations for visitors. Attractions at this 12-acre living history site include: An authentic Amish farmhouse built in 184 A one-room schoolhouse A blacksmith shop Farm animals like goats, chickens, and horses Knowledgeable guides are on hand to share interesting insights into Amish culture, traditions, and daily farm routines, helping visitors to understand a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for almost 300 years. The Amish Farm and House is another gem, established as the first Amish-focused tourist attraction in 1955. The historic 1805 Amish homestead is open for tours with local guides who relate detailed stories about Amish culture, farming, and religion. Other top Amish-based Lancaster activities include bus tours and buggy rides through the verdant countryside with peaceful roads and quaint covered bridges. Some tour operators provide interactive experiences where visitors can join Amish families for a meal or learn traditional Amish recipes. Amish culinary traditions emphasize homemade, hearty, and comforting dishes, and you can get a taste of them at: Plain & Fancy Restaurant and Hometown Kitchen Try a traditional family feast featuring ham with cider sauce, beef meatloaf, golden fried chicken, buttered noodles, and mashed potatoes with gravy. This communal experience is typical of the Amish tradition of sharing. Katie's Kitchen Katie's Kitchen is located near Strasburg. It's a popular restaurant specializing in wedding dinners with handcrafted Amish favorites like: Baked ham Meatloaf Homemade rolls Seasonal vegetables Miller's Smorgasbord If you love buffet-style dining, you'll feel right at home at Miller's. Established in 1929, this restaurant has mastered the art of dishing up family favorites, like chicken and waffles and pie, using locally sourced ingredients from Amish farmers. Miller's also features a wonderful bakery established in 1973, which is known for raisin bread, chocolate pecan pie, and whoopie pies. Explore Local Flavors Apart from Amish dining, you'll find no shortage of more conventional meals to enjoy in Lancaster, PA. The city's restaurant scene ranges from casual farm-to-table spots to elegant fine dining experiences, with a healthy focus on locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss these local favorites while you're in town: -Sophisticated Dining at The Belvedere -Scratch-made local favorites at Cork and Cap -Seasonal farm-fresh dining at John J. Jeffries -Classic American fare with a modern twist at Plough -House brews and comfort food at Lancaster Brewing Company -A historic, cozy vibe at Horse Inn -Hearty dishes at Huckleberry's Mealtimes in Lancaster offer a choice of authentic regional flavors and modern culinary flair enjoyed in charming settings that reflect the city's appealing rural culture. What to Do in Lancaster, PA, if You Love Nature The great outdoors offers a smorgasbord of activities for nature lovers, including scenic beauty, peaceful retreats, and riveting adventures. Rolling farmlands and river landscapes lure those who love walking, hiking, picnicking, or road tripping. Some of the best sites include: Chickies Rock County Park Located just 20 minutes outside of the city center, this dramatic quartzite rock outcrop towers 100 feet above the Susquehanna River. This standout geological feature is a playground for rock climbers, bikers, and photographers wanting to capture unforgettable moments in beautiful surroundings. This 400-acre site is crisscrossed by historical remnants of iron furnaces and trolley lines, which you may encounter on your explorations. Lancaster County Central Park This is the region's largest offering, spanning 544 acres dotted with diverse landscapes. There are 12 miles of trails perfect for horseback riding, biking, and hiking, as well as a swimming pool and skate park. The park also offers interesting educational programs and tours to the Kurtz Mill Covered Bridge. This historic 90 ft. structure was built in 1876 over the Conestoga River near Hinkletown. After being damaged in a storm, it was relocated to its current location across Mill Creek in 1972. Columbia Crossing River Trails Center Paddlers and boaters delight in spending time exploring the Susquehanna River at this picturesque site. There are boats and kayaks for hire as well as picnic sites and walking trails. Visitors may also enjoy educational programs and several interesting rotating exhibits detailing the river's history and ecosystem. Shenks Ferry Wildflower Preserve This tranquil gem features a 1.7-mile trail, which is the perfect place to view 50 different bird species and over 100 varieties of wildflowers, like violet phlox, trillium, and columbine. It's especially lovely in the summer when migrant birds return and in the spring when all the flowers put on a spectacular show. Valley Forge National Historical Park From here, you can traverse 140 miles of scenic woodlands and rock formations on foot or horseback along the Horseshoe Trail. Be sure to make your way to the Eagle Rock lookout, one of the highest peaks in Lancaster County, where you can gaze over forested landscapes, with the Blue Mountains in the background. Start Planning Your Trip to Lancaster, PA, Today Visiting Lancaster, PA, is the perfect antidote to the bustle of your daily existence. Leave the emails, phone calls, deadlines, and household chores far behind and escape to this pleasant, welcoming city. Lancaster is alive with opportunities for enlightenment and entertainment, offering a rich blend of culture, history, and natural escapes, fuelled by wonderful local cuisine. The Magic and Wonder Show is the perfect complement to these adventures, with our unique variety of family-friendly fun and fare. Established in 2016, we are proud to be a longstanding part of Lancaster's finest offerings. Browse our blog for more ideas on what to do in Lancaster, PA, and purchase your tickets now to enjoy one of Pennsylvania's most celebrated performances.

This year marks a major milestone for Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater in Lancaster County — 10 incredible seasons of bringing joy, magic, music, and memories to audiences of all ages. And to celebrate, the theater is flipping the script and putting the spotlight on the community that’s made it all possible. As part of its “10 Years of Wonder” celebration, Magic & Wonder is donating 10 private performances to 10 local non-profit organizations throughout the next year. These free shows give each organization the opportunity to use the theater space in a way that best supports their mission — whether it's hosting a fundraiser, a donor appreciation night, or a volunteer celebration. So far, scheduled partners include: Servant Stage North Star Initiative WEPA Empowerment Center SCORE Lancaster-Lebanon HOPE International Poiema Visual Arts Each of these groups will enjoy a fully produced, private performance at no cost — and 100% of any ticket proceeds from the events go directly to their cause. "This is our way of saying thank you to the community that has supported us over the past decade," said Brett Myers, founder and producer at Magic & Wonder. "We’ve always believed that entertainment should inspire and uplift, and we’re honored to use our stage to do just that — not just for audiences, but for the organizations working hard to make Lancaster a better place.” Giving Back Doesn’t Stop There In addition to the nonprofit partnership initiative, Magic & Wonder is also hosting a community food drive throughout the month of August to benefit Water Street Mission, an organization serving the local homeless and hungry population. Here’s how it works: Lancaster, York, and Chester County residents can receive $10 “show only” tickets to IMAGINARIUM (Magic & Wonder’s award-winning magic show) or Jukebox Generation (a musical tribute to the 50s–80s) when they bring two canned food items per person to the theater on the day of the show. This offer is valid for any August performance (based on availability), and all canned goods will go directly to Water Street Mission’s food pantry. It’s a win-win: Guests get a fun and affordable night out, and the community comes together to support neighbors in need. Join the Celebration Whether you're enjoying one of Magic & Wonder’s mind-blowing illusions or grooving to the greatest hits of yesteryear, your ticket helps support something bigger this year. For showtimes, tickets, or more information about these community initiatives, visit www.MagicAndWonderShow.com or call the box office at (717) 323-3077. Let’s make this 10th season truly magical — together.