Should You Visit Lancaster?

Is Lancaster worth visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting this town for two to three days because of the many great activities. During our first trip to Lancaster in 2008, we fell in love with unique and traditional culture and beautiful countryside. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Lancaster is a town in Pennsylvania that is surrounded by Pennsylvania Dutch country. The countryside is filled with beautiful farmland and Amish culture. You'll likely encounter horse and buggies as well as Amish shops and restaurants that serve up simple but well made dishes.

Lancaster, PA

Reasons to Visit Lancaster

Museums
Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Shopping
Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Food
You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Authenticity
Lancaster has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Lancaster worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Lancaster, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is fairly touristy, and in the high season it's busier than usual.

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 31°C (87°F).

You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to browse through museums.

Is Lancaster worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Lancaster. Even though Lancaster is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 13°C (56°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery and the famous sights and museums.

Is Lancaster worth visiting in the Winter?

The weather in Lancaster can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -1°C (30°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The low season for travel in Lancaster is during the winter. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums and taste delicious cuisine.

Is Lancaster worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Lancaster. Even though Lancaster is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 12°C (53°F).

The scenery of the town this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Lancaster

Nightlife: Most people don't associate Lancaster with a lively nightlife scene. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Lancaster might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Lancaster here or see if Lancaster is expensive here.

Related

What is Lancaster most famous for?

Lancaster is most famous for its history and long running Amish community. People visit this impressive town for its great museums and shopping. Also, it's known for food. It is often described as scenic, traditional, and picturesque.

What is the most famous sight in Lancaster?

The most popular sight in Lancaster is Bird-in-Hand Village. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Lancaster on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Bird-in-Hand Village and other attractions here.

How touristy is Lancaster? Is it a popular town to visit?

Lancaster is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Lancaster Electric Bicycle Tour: $130
• Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
• Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
• 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
• Truly Authentic Lancaster Experience!: $79
• Historic Lancaster Photo Shoot Tour: $100
• Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!: $89
• Lititz Whiskey and History Tour: $25

How long should I spend in Lancaster?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Lancaster is two to three days. Since Lancaster has activities such as museums and shopping, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Lancaster? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Lancaster?.