Vacation rentals in Lancaster (PA)

Lancaster, commonly referred to as “Amish Country,” is hands-down one of Pennsylvania’s most fascinating destinations. The city is full of history, country charm, rolling farmlands, amusement parks, and endless outdoor activities. There is an abundance of different vacation rentals available throughout the area. Spend a few days here in the Pennsylvania countryside, away from the busyness of everyday life, and explore all the sights, activities, and experiences Lancaster has to offer.

Lancaster offers something for just about everyone. Whether you’ll be traveling with your family, friends, or significant other, there is an abundance of vacation rentals to choose from in various sizes, styles, and locations. Larger groups and families can opt for an oversized vacation rental, with enough rooms to sleep several people. Book a rental with a private pool to cool off in during the summer months. If you wish to stay closer to nature, there are several vacation rentals available in the quiet rolling hills and farmlands of Lancaster. Vacation rentals are also available in the downtown area for anyone wishing to stay within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

Getting to Lancaster can be done a variety of different ways depending on where you’re coming from. The closest regional airport is located right in Lancaster, and the nearest major airport is Harrisburg International Airport, 30 miles away. The city is just a 1 hour and 30-minute drive from Philadelphia. Visitors can also travel by train to the Lancaster Amtrak Station.

Lancaster is consistently rated as one of Pennsylvania’s most walkable cities. The city spans just two miles across, meaning that anyone of a moderate fitness level can easily visit all the downtown attractions on foot. The downtown center of Lancaster is filled with sights, attractions, restaurants, galleries, shops, cafés, bars, markets, and more. Some of the more rural attractions are situated outside the city and are not within walking distance. To visit these places and any other attractions outside the city limits, it’s advisable to use a car, taxi, or tour bus.

Lancaster is a fantastic destination for families of all ages. Families with children should visit the Lancaster Science Factory, one of the top family-friendly destinations in the city. The center promotes STEM education through fun hands-on activities for kids and teenagers. Kids can learn to code, mix different chemical solutions, and engage with a variety of science exhibits. Long’s Park is a great place to visit for families of all ages. The massive green public park is full of possibilities. You can hike, walk through a field of wildflowers, visit the spring-fed lake, pet a variety of animals at the petting zoo, or attend one of the regular events.

Lancaster is full of romantic and unique date activities. Take your partner for a ride on an old-fashioned locomotive train at the Strasburg Rail Road. The train tour passes through Amish country, where you’ll get to see some stunning areas only accessible by train. Top off your stay with an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride. Hot-air balloon rides in Lancaster have become a popular activity in recent years since it offers the most incredible way to view the countryside in the area. Prepare to be blown away by the breathtaking views from hundreds of feet above.

This is your chance to get a real glimpse of how the Amish people of America really live. During this tour, you’ll get to visit some authentic Amish shops, do a tour of their villages and farmlands, and take a buggy ride. This tour was among one of the first Amish tourist attractions and still remains one of the most popular ways to learn about the daily life of the Amish.

If you love ice cream, you won’t want to miss out on this one. Turkey Hill Experience is one of the most fun things to do in Lancaster, and it’s a particularly great activity for families and couples. Turkey Hill is a well-known Pennsylvania dairy company, and during a visit you’ll get to sample their ice creams, milk a mechanical cow, sit inside a dairy truck, and visit their taste lab. You can even create your own original ice cream flavor from scratch for a small price.

Lancaster Central Market is the oldest farmer’s market in Pennsylvania and is considered one of the best things to do in the city to this day. The massive market is filled with all kinds of vendors, selling crafts, household goods, homemade souvenirs, produce, freshly baked goods, organic foods, and more. It’s a good idea to come hungry during a visit here so that you can try a variety of delicious local dishes. Be sure to try the scrapple if you come around breakfast time, it’s a Lancaster favorite!

Sadly, there haven’t been any wild wolves left in Pennsylvania for over 100 years. But the Wolf Sanctuary of PA still offers the opportunity to visit, observe, and learn about them. The non-profit organization houses, tracks, and rehabilitates wolves in the northeastern region of the country. During a visit to the sanctuary, you’ll get to do a guided tour to see all the wolf packs that live on site.

Dutch Haven is one of Lancaster’s oldest attractions, created by the Pennsylvania Dutch back in the pioneer days. The bakery hasn’t changed its menu much since it first open doors in 1940 and still boasts a charming, vintage atmosphere with vintage-style baked goods to match. They use molasses and brown sugar to sweeten their cakes and pies. You can try samples of their baked goods, like their famed “shoo-fly pie.”