5 Days of Affordable Fun in Lancaster!

Discover historic charm without breaking the bank in Lancaster, USA.

21 June 2023

Lancaster, situated in Pennsylvania, offers a wide range of affordable activities for those planning a budget-friendly trip. Take a stroll down the picturesque Amish countryside or visit one of many free museums such as the Lancaster County Historical Society. With plenty of budget-friendly dining options, Lancaster is perfect for travelers looking to explore on a limited budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Lancaster

  • Check into the Budget Host Inn Lancaster, a cozy and affordable hotel in the heart of downtown Lancaster.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Café One Eight, known for its tasty coffee and homemade baked goods.
  • Take a leisurely stroll down Gallery Row, featuring art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
  • Visit the historic Central Market, the country’s oldest continuously operating farmers market.
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at the Federal Taphouse, serving up craft beer and gourmet pizzas.
Day 2

Discovering Amish Country

  • Drive out to Intercourse, PA, the heart of Amish Country, and take a buggy ride with AAA Buggy Rides to see the scenic countryside.
  • Visit the Amish Village to learn about their way of life, traditions, and culture.
  • Stop for lunch at the Kitchen Kettle Village, featuring homemade jams, jellies, and delicious Pennsylvania Dutch-style food.
  • Tour the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum to see how early Americans lived and worked.
  • Enjoy a hearty dinner at Miller’s Smorgasbord, a classic Pennsylvania Dutch family-style restaurant.
Day 3

Exploring Pennsylvania Dutch Country

  • Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World, just a short drive from Lancaster, for a fun and interactive tour of the chocolate-making process.
  • Sample some of the best soft pretzels in the region at Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the first commercial pretzel bakery in America.
  • Take a stroll through the Long’s Park Farmers Market, featuring local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
  • Check out the Strasburg Railroad, a historic steam train that offers scenic rides through the Amish farmland.
  • Dine at Dienner’s Country Restaurant, known for their homestyle cooked meals and all-you-can-eat buffet.
Day 4

Visiting Nearby Attractions

  • Head to the nearby city of York for a tour of the Harley-Davidson Factory, where you can see how these iconic motorcycles are made.
  • Visit the Turkey Hill Experience, a fun and interactive attraction where you can learn about the history and process of ice cream-making.
  • Take a scenic drive through Lancaster County’s Covered Bridges, a must-see for any history buff or photography enthusiast.
  • Grab a late lunch at the historic Log Cabin Restaurant, offering farm-to-table cuisine and stunning countryside views.
  • Catch a show at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, featuring Broadway-style musicals and live entertainment.
Day 5

Taking it Easy in Lancaster

  • Sleep in and enjoy a lazy breakfast at the hotel or one of the many diners in Lancaster County.
  • Visit the Lancaster Science Factory, an interactive hands-on museum for kids and adults alike.
  • Browse the eclectic mix of vintage and handmade goods at the Building Character artisan market.
  • Stop by the Lancaster Brewing Company for a locally-sourced craft beer and tasty gastropub fare.
  • Relax and unwind with a book or board game at Prince Street Café, a cozy café serving up coffee and light bites.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lancaster by plane is through Philadelphia International Airport. From there, you can take a shuttle service or rent a car to drive to Lancaster.

Car

Driving to Lancaster is straightforward, as the city is easily accessible from major highways such as I-76 and I-83. You can also rent a car from Philadelphia International Airport.

Train

While there are no trains that go directly to Lancaster, you can take the Amtrak to the Lancaster train station, which is a short drive from the city center.

Boat

Lancaster is not accessible by boat as it is inland and does not have any navigable waterways.

Bus

Taking a bus to Lancaster is convenient and affordable. Greyhound, Trailways, and Megabus all have routes that go to Lancaster, with the bus stop located in the city center.

More travel plans

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A trip to Lancaster, United States as a tourist offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Visitors can explore the stunning Amish farmlands, take part in a traditional Amish buggy ride, and discover the intricate handmade crafts of the region. For history buffs, the city boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 1700s, with many well-preserved historical sites, such as the Lancaster Central Market and the Fulton Theatre.