Wayfaring Lancaster

Top Day Trips from Lancaster, PA: Explore Nature & Adventure

Day Trips from Lancaster, PA

Adventures Nearby for Locals, Families, and Curious Explorers

Lancaster County is perfectly placed for amazing day trips. Whether you’re looking to hike through caverns, explore major cities like Philadelphia and Harrisburg, or find a fun spot for the kids to burn energy, there’s something for everyone—all within 1 to 2 hours from home.

Nature & Adventure

  • Indian Echo Caverns (Hummelstown) – Explore underground passageways and natural limestone formations.
    • I took this tour recently with my 3 tween girls and remember many people noting the 71 steps (staircase) down and up to the cave though it wasn’t a problem for us. It was so hot out. We brought a jacket because in past cave adventures it was necessary but in this one I did not feel it was. This is a living cave so I had to be 100% sure my girls did not touch the sides or anything in the cave. A toddler with ADD would have stressed me here. Over all it was very beautiful and the rules and difficulties above probably keep it that way.
  • Crystal Cave (Kutztown) – One of PA’s oldest show caves with cool rock formations and a family-friendly gift shop.
    • I remember going here a while back. I just remember feeling cold and it was a nice break in the summer heat.
  • Refreshing Mountain (Stevens) – Ziplines, obstacle courses, and a nature-based resort with hiking and wildlife programs.
    • My kids did this but I did not because I am not one to do ziplines. They really liked it.
  • Ski Roundtop (Lewisberry) – Great for winter skiing, snow tubing, and summer ziplines and ropes courses.
    • My husband and kids ski, but I don’t ski. It’s a good option if some in the party ski and some want to snow tube.
  • Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (Kempton) – Scenic trails, birdwatching, and mountaintop views.
    • It’s been a while since I have been her. I say I am waiting for retirement to birdwatch again…but no one should but things off they enjoy like that! (Self lecture here!)

City Escapes

  • Philadelphia – Just 1.5–2 hours away, visit the Liberty Bell, Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Reading Terminal Market. The Liberty Bell is free to see but some historical places to cost. The Reading Terminal Market is similar to Lancaster Central Market but Bigger.
    • My favorite place in Philadelphia is China Town. I also give to Metro Grace in Philadelphia if anyone cares to know what charities I support.
  • Harrisburg – PA’s capital offers the State Museum of PA, Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, and the beautiful Capitol Building.
    • My youngest daughter recently went on a school field trip to the Whitaker Center and can’t stop talking about it. My other kids are now interested in going.
  • West Chester & Media – Charming downtowns with dining, shopping, and art centers—perfect for a relaxing urban stroll.
    • I recently toured a new restaurant that will be opening in West Chester for an insurance inspection. It has such an urban vibe right in the heart of the suburbs! The whole town resonates with that sort of energy.

Indoor Fun & Energy Burners

  • Urban Air Adventure Park (Lancaster & Downingtown) – Trampolines, obstacle courses, indoor ziplining, and climbing walls.
    • I am actually writing this page while sitting in Urban Air. It is a great place to get work done while the kids play. It is a bit loud. I had to schedule a zoom call for after our time here.
  • Sky Zone (Lancaster) – Great for kids who need to bounce and climb in a safe, air-conditioned space.
    • My girls had memberships here for about three years when they were younger, and it was such a gift during those busy seasons. It kept them active and gave us a reason to get out of the house. I even had a membership myself (yes, really!) and used that time to play right alongside them. They knew that was our time together—and when I was home working in the office, that was mom’s time to work. It helped create balance, connection, and a whole lot of fun.
  • Water’s Edge Mini Golf, Ice Cream, and Petting Zoo ( Bird in Hand) – A low-key, active outing for younger kids followed by a sweet treat.
    • Mini golf and ice cream is always a great combination. There are other great golf and ice cream options in the area. This one really stands out for us as a family because of the petting zoo and pond. Bring some quarters to feed the goats and have a blast! MOST wonderful….. and do not miss it…… is the fish in the pond though. The fish in that pond are so much fun to feed and so very big. Get ready with your camera in hand. The fish alone are worth the trip!

Culture, Learning & History

  • Hands-on House (Lancaster) – A local favorite for young children with interactive exhibits.
    • My eldest kids had memberships when they were little.
  • North Museum of Nature and Science (Lancaster) – Dinosaurs, live animals, and science fun.
    • The price for this is very reasonable for a museum.
  • Reading Public Museum & Planetarium – Art, science, and history under one roof.
  • Philadelphia’s Please Touch Museum – A dream for little ones to learn through immersive play.
    • I have had kids go on field trips but have not gone myself.
  • Amish Farm & House (Lancaster) – Local history brought to life, perfect for out-of-town visitors.

Amusement & Family Parks

Knoebels Amusement Resort (Elysburg) – Classic rides, pay-per-ride pricing, and free admission—great for a budget-friendly day. I like this park because I don’t have to pay for my self to have a pass if I don’t ride. Since I don’t like rides it is cost effective.

Dutch Wonderland (Lancaster) – Ideal for younger kids with gentle rides, a splash zone, and fairytale charm. This is an easy park to go into and out of for lunch if you have dietary restrictions or a special need child. The parking lot is set up in such a way where going back to your car and even driving away and coming back is the least fuss of all the many parks I have been to over the years. Keep in mind I have 8 kids!

Hersheypark (Hershey) – Roller coasters, a chocolate world tour, and a waterpark for full-day fun. I had a membership here for 3 years during and shortly after covid 19. I really have learned to love Hersheypark! For the water park, where flip flops, expect to secure your cellphone in a locker or with some who is not going on water rides. I (think) I have always completed my day with the carrousel ride for nostalgia.

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (Allentown) – Thrill rides and water attractions in one place.