Lancaster, PA: A Kid-Friendly Adventure in Amish Country!

Welcome to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where the rolling farmlands, horse-drawn buggies, and homemade treats await your family's exploration! Known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and Amish culture, Lancaster offers a delightful mix of educational experiences and outdoor adventures for kids of all ages. Let's embark on a journey through this charming city with our ultimate kid-friendly travel guide!

Step Back in Time:

1. Amish Farm and House:

• Start your Lancaster adventure with a visit to the Amish Farm and House. Kids can experience a taste of Amish life through farmhouse tours, buggy rides, and meeting farm animals.

2. Strasburg Rail Road:

• All aboard the Strasburg Rail Road, America's oldest operating railroad! Take a scenic ride through the countryside on a historic steam train, perfect for train-loving kids.

Hands-On Learning:

3. Hands-on House Children's Museum:

• Let imaginations run wild at the Hands-on House Children's Museum. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, role-play in a pretend town, and create art in the Discovery Garden.

4. North Museum of Nature and Science:

• Discover the wonders of the universe at the North Museum of Nature and Science. From dinosaur fossils to hands-on science experiments, this museum offers a world of exploration.

Animal Encounters:

5. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm:

• Get lost in the corn maze, hop on a hayride, and meet friendly farm animals at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm. Don't miss their special events like baby chick encounters and pumpkin picking in the fall.

6. Wolf Sanctuary of PA:

• For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the Wolf Sanctuary of PA is a must. Take a guided tour to see wolves up close and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts.

Sweet Treats and Shopping:

7. Kitchen Kettle Village:

• Explore the charming Kitchen Kettle Village, filled with shops offering homemade jams, baked goods, and locally made crafts. Kids can watch demonstrations and even make their own jam!

8. Wilbur Chocolate Factory Store:

• Indulge in chocolatey goodness at the Wilbur Chocolate Factory Store. Sample delicious treats, watch chocolate-making demonstrations, and pick up some sweet souvenirs.

Lancaster, PA offers several kosher dining options to cater to those observing kosher dietary laws:

1. Lancaster Kosher: This establishment offers a variety of kosher dishes including breakfast, pizza, and sandwiches. Located at 1120 Columbia Ave, Lancaster, PA, it operates Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM, and is closed on weekends​ (Home - Lancaster Kosher)​​ (Home - Lancaster Kosher)​.

2. KIVO at Franklin and Marshall College: KIVO is the kosher dining option at Franklin and Marshall College, located at 653 Race Avenue. It offers a selection of meat (Glatt) and parve items and is supervised by Star-K, Vaad HaKashrus of Baltimore, with a mashgiach temidi. KIVO is open during the week but closes for the Sabbath from Friday afternoon to Sunday lunch​ (F&M Dining)​.

These options provide a range of kosher meals to ensure that dietary needs are met in Lancaster. For more information, you can visit their respective websites or contact them directly.

Outdoor Adventures:

9. Lancaster County Central Park:

• Spend a day outdoors at Lancaster County Central Park, the largest park in the county. Enjoy playgrounds, hiking trails, and picnicking areas surrounded by beautiful scenery.

10. Dutch Wonderland:

• No visit to Lancaster is complete without a trip to Dutch Wonderland! This amusement park is designed especially for young children with rides, shows, and water attractions.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Amish Etiquette: Teach kids about Amish culture and etiquette before visiting. Respectful behavior, such as not taking photos of Amish people without permission, is important.

• Farm Fresh Goodies: Stock up on fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and artisanal cheeses at local farmers' markets. They make for tasty snacks during your adventures.

• Traveling Around: Consider a buggy ride or a scenic drive through the countryside to experience the beauty of Lancaster's farmlands.

• Seasonal Fun: Check for seasonal events like corn mazes in the fall, maple sugaring demonstrations in the spring, and outdoor concerts in the summer.

Lancaster, PA, offers a perfect blend of fun, learning, and wholesome experiences for families. From learning about the Amish way of life to exploring nature and enjoying delicious treats, your kids will have a blast in this historic and picturesque city. Get ready to create unforgettable memories in Lancaster, Pennsylvania!