Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Lancaster County, Lancaster County

Central Pennsylvania’s nationally regarded premier regional theatre, producing Broadway caliber musicals, comedies and dramas, employing professionals from New York City, the local community, and nationwide, experienced within a beautifully restored 165 year old national historic landmark of ornate Victorian architecture, walking distance from Lancaster’s historic attractions and one block from the Lancaster County Convention Center. MAINSTAGE: Million Dollar Quartet NOW-05/20/18; Hunchback of Notre Dame 06/15/18-07/22/18; GROFF STUDIO SERIES–99-seat Black Box–Intimate, Experiential: Red 05/08/18-05/27/18; FAMILY SERIES (Theatre for Young Audiences) one-hour performances at 11AM Saturday mornings: The Emperor's New Clothes 04/28/18-05/19/18; Aladdin 06/16/18-07/21/18

The Lancaster Marionette Theatre is one of the few marionette theatres in America, located in Historic Downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Robert Brock, the founder and Artistic Director, keeps this unique art form alive and well. He creates all the marionettes used in all productions, writes the scripts and music and performs in his unique one-man style. His humor appeals to children, as well as grown-ups. The John Durang Puppet Museum is open before performances. John Durang was the first puppeteer to be born in the USA. He was born in Lancaster in 1768. Backstage tours are given prior to every performance.The Marionette Theatre welcomes field trip groups. We hope to see you soon at one of our exciting shows. Thanks for visiting!

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is home to a world-class collection of more than 100 historic locomotives and railroad cars, an immersive education center, a vast library and archives and a working restoration shop. Special events, museum store, free on-site parking, free WiFi.

Museum featuring hundreds of model trains, some specimens dating back to the 1800s.

A place to come to learn about the Mennonites and Amish of Lancaster County through literature, videos, guided tours, and conversation with a knowledgeable staff person. Also we have a full-scale model of the Biblical Tabernacle on our grounds.

Due to the precautions taken regarding COVID-19, the museum will be closed until further notice. Relax and roam through the authentic crossroads village and farms of Landis Valley as you learn the rich history of the Pennsylvania Germans of Lancaster County. Comprised of over 40 buildings on 100 acres, the museum is the guardian of 65+ varieties of heirloom seeds and the largest collection of Pennsylvania German artifacts in the U.S. Through costumed demonstrators, special events, group tours, award-winning exhibits, and educational programs for adults and children you'll come away all the more enriched by your experience here.

Currently open for pickup of pre-purchased beverage orders only. A year-round entertainment facility and home to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, the estate provided seasonal outdoor events, as well as dinner theaters inside the Victorian Mansion. Mount Hope Estate specializes in unique entertainment and culinary experiences. Pennsylvania’s original winery, brewery, cidery and distillery, Mount Hope Estate is the home of Mount Hope Winery, Swashbuckler Brewing Company, Lancaster County Cider and Spirits Distilling Company.

Come discover the warmth and hospitality of President James Buchanan's Wheatland. Costumed tour guides share facts and stories from Buchanan's personal and professional life. Buchanan represented Pennsylvania in the United States House of Representatives and later the Senate, served as Minister to Russia, Secretary of State, and Ambassador to the United Kingdom. And, in 1856, Wheatland served as the hub of his successful campaign to become the 15th President of the United States. During his presidency, Wheatland served as Buchanan’s retreat as a divided nation struggled with slavery and states’ rights. Post-presidency, Wheatland became Buchanan’s refuge as he avoided public life after his term and retired as a private citizen. Wheatland’s tangible connection to the US Presidency, Antebellum and Civil War America, and the American political process make it instrumental to teaching history to modern day visitors.

Over 70 years in the making, this gigantic model train layout is still owned and operated by the Groff family. Master modeler, Tom Groff, designs and adds new animations, scale buildings and local scenes each year. See a fire engine race to the rescue to put out the fire at a burning house – with real water! Watch in awe as night falls over Traintown, USA. You’ll recognize local landmarks like Dutch Wonderland and the Strasburg Railroad – in detailed miniature! This is much more than a train display – it is an amazing, hand-built work of art.

Steam through scenic Lancaster County aboard America’s oldest operating railroad, where the first thing you can expect is an authentic steam railroad experience! Strasburg Rail Road steam locomotives and cars, including First Class, Dining, Coach, and Open Air, all beautifully restored and carefully maintained by a world-class staff. Our regular steam train excursion provides a 45-minute roundtrip through the countryside, while an audio commentary highlights the history about the railroad and surrounding area. More than 2,500 acres of farmland are visible from the train, much of which is farmed by our Amish neighbors. Group rates are available for 10 or more Guests with additional perks for Cafe 1832 and our gift shops! Special Events include Day Out With Thomas, Christmas Trains, Wine & Cheese events, and more! Face Masks and social distancing required. Advanced Reservations required.