Find something for everyone, from toddlers to art and music enthusiasts, the outdoorsy types or not so much. There’s no excuse to be bored in Lancaster County this summer, unless, of course, you’re lazily enjoying happy hour somewhere (we’ve got recommendations for the best places for that, too). Style Insiders share the best local secrets to life in Lancaster County this season. Pick your path to get out and explore.
2 Hikes to Take this Summer
For the beginner–Tucquan Glen
Rhododendrons, hemlocks and ferns line the winding rocky trail along the tranquil Tucquan Creek and provide a cool canopy on a hot summer day. And, at just 2 ½ miles, it’s an easy loop to fit into a busy weekend. -MC
River Road, Martic Township, PA/lancasterconservancy.org/preserve/tucquan-glen/
For the advanced hiker–Northwest Lancaster County River Trail
14 miles of paved and dirt trails along the Susquehanna River with numerous access points from Columbia to Falmouth–it’s perfect for walking, biking and running. Highlights include the White Cliffs of Conoy, Chickies Rock and plenty of picnicking options along the way. -MC
susquehannaheritage.org/learn/ourworkalongthesusquehanna/northwestlancastercountyrivertrail.aspx
See 4th of July Fireworks
US Army Band, Cannon Brigade and Fireworks
Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and a picnic to Long’s Park for a festive 4th of July. Or go fuss-free with food from vendors. Settle in for the free concert at 7:30 p.m. with fireworks to follow. The patriotic concert by Pershing’s Own US Army Band begins at 7:30 pm. Don’t miss the area’s biggest celebration of our nation’s birth. -KCH
Long’s Park/Route 30 and Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA/longspark.org/2016-performers/pershings-own-u-s-army-band
Lititz Springs Park
The oldest yet coolest celebration in the county, Lititz hosts the 199th continuous 4th of July Celebration (since 1818). This year’s falls on July 2. Gates open at noon; entrance fee charged. Includes entertainment, baby parade, games, food court, Queen of Candles pageant with over 5,000 candles illuminated and hi-tech fireworks with synchronized sound. Fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:55 p.m. -KCH
24 N. Broad St., Lititz, PA/lititz4thofjuly.com
Ephrata 4th of July Celebration
Start the day with the annual Ephrata Firecracker Five Mile Run. Later join a free community event beginning at 6 p.m. with live music, juggling, pony rides and games for children, followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m. -KCH
Lincoln Heights Outdoor Recreation Area/201 Crescent Ave., Ephrata, PA/ephrataboro.org
2 Festivals to Mark on Your Calendar
Washington Boro Tomato Festival
It’s the quintessential summer food and one of life’s simple pleasures. This year marks the 59th year for the tomato festival. The lines are long but worth it. Nothing beats a juicy Washington Boro tomato sandwich: white bread, mayo, salt, pepper, lettuce and the ripest, sweetest tomatoes you’ll ever taste. Make sure to try the chicken corn soup and fruit pies, too. -MC
Saturday, July 9 and Saturday, July 16/Washington Boro Community Park/3717 Blue Rock Road, Washington Boro, PA
Long’s Park Art Festival
With more than 200 of the country’s top artists and craftspeople, this is window-shopping at its best—no windows, just rows upon rows of vendors offering unique, one-of-a-kind creations. Find traditional ceramics, bronze sculptures, contemporary jewelry, fine art paintings, hand-blown glass pieces and various other artistic creations. -MC
Labor Day weekend: September 2-4/Long’s Park/Route 30 and Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA/longspark.org/art-festival
If You’re Outdoorsy
See what’s new at Lancaster County Central Park
Partnering with the Lancaster County SPCA, the park recently added horseback rides to the already long list of things to do in Lancaster’s largest park. Offering an abundance of activities like swimming, trail hiking, playgrounds, the Garden of Five Senses, rentable garden plots, pavilions, a library and the environmental center with awesome, inexpensive programs for all ages offered all summer and year-long. Seasonal learning programs like composting, star watching and birdhouse building are just a few topics to explore. -CS
web.co.lancaster.pa.us/151/Parks-Recreation/717-299-8215
Paddle the Susquehanna
If you’re looking for a little more adventure, try kayaking on the Susquehanna. Make sure to slather on your sunscreen, pack your hat and Tevas, and bring lots of water. First timers, take a guided float with Chiques Rock Outfitters (full or half day options are available). Insider tip: The 5 o’clock River Therapy float is a beautiful way to enjoy the river at sunset. -MC
41 Walnut St., Columbia, PA/717-475-6196/chiquesrockoutfitters.com
Covered Bridge Bike Tour
3 Bike Rides to Take This Summer
The Susquehanna Valley could be called a bike-riding mecca, with rolling hills, lesser-traveled country roads and scenic landscapes; it’s a great place to get your ride on. Not only is biking good for your health (and better for your joints than running and walking) it’s a great activity for families to do together. Here are three bike rides to take this summer. -KW
Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
Rail Trails, such as the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) are abandoned railways that have been converted into multi-use paths for runners, walkers and cyclists. They’re great for those who want to ride without having to worry about traffic, especially when young cyclists are in tow—perfect for an easy weekend ride. The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail was created from the former Cornwall-Lebanon Railroad and travels through a number of historic areas. At 14 ½ miles long, it stretches from Chestnut Street, Lebanon, to the Conewago Trail at the Lancaster/Lebanon county line. Beginning in Lebanon, hop on and ride to Cornwall where you can take a break at The Root Beer Barrel. If you’re feeling up to it, continue all the way to Mt. Gretna. -KW
Slow Ride Lancaster
Biking enthusiasts of any age (and the fun at heart) can join the Slow Ride Lancaster group and enjoy a once-a-month, approximately 5-mile-per-hour ride through Lancaster City beginning in Binn’s Park in Lancaster Square and touring various areas and neighborhoods downtown. Each ride ends at Tellus360 where riders can grab a pint and socialize. Rides often have a theme, making it more like a bike party than a cardio session—costumes and camaraderie encouraged. Slow Rides take place every 4th Friday of the month and begin at 7 p.m. Be sure to arrive around 6:30 p.m. to receive directions on the evening’s route. -KW
Covered Bridge Bike Tour
For the avid cyclist, this year’s 38th Annual Covered Bridge Metric Century ride will be taking place on August 21. 100k, 50k and 25k routes will wind through beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch country, traveling over rolling hills and crossing through covered bridges, dazzling riders with Amish countryside views. The ride begins at HACC’s Lancaster Campus at 7 a.m. Proceeds help restore covered bridges in Central Pennsylvania. -KW
August 21/lancasterbikeclub.net/cbmc
If You’re Outdoorsy, as in Having Happy Hour Outside
Sip summer
Sip the first taste of summer Kolsch at Lancaster Brewing Company (best brewery) on the new patio. -KCH
302 N. Plum St., Lancaster, PA/lancasterbrewing.com/717-391-6258
Have Happy Hours Here
Pour’s outdoor patio or the Tellus 360 rooftop bar (voted the best place for dancing). Plus, at either Pour or Tellus you might catch a live tune by Corty Byron, Lancaster’s best musician. Altana rooftop (which is part of the best new business of 2015). Horse Inn (best cocktails and burger). The Pressroom outdoor bar (live music third Thursdays). Annie Bailey’s (best happy hour and casual date spot). Grab a bottle of brew at The Fridge (best craft beer spot) and people watch at the sidewalk bar. -KCH
pouronprince.com, tellus360.com, cortybyron.com, 26eastlancaster.com/altana, horseinnlancaster.com, pressroomrestaurant.com, anniebaileys.com, beerfridgelancaster.com
Take a Summer Stroll Downtown
Summer evenings are perfect for walking downtown and grabbing an outside table at one of the many fabulous restaurants. Leave room for ice cream from Penny’s at the pop-up park. Any line is worth the wait! -AF
Girls' Night Out
Have a grilled Caesar and mussels on the Belvedere’s beautiful deck (best fine dining restaurant and best place for a girls’ night out). It’s a Style staff summer must to dine amongst the prettiest flowers. -KCH
402 N. Queen St., Lancaster, PA/belvederelancaster.com/717-394-2422
5 Local Favorites Foodies Shop this Season
Lancaster Central Market
Local comes to life at Lancaster Central Market, reader-voted best place to take out-of-town guests, local attraction and farmers market. It’s a historic mainstay presenting Amish goods, local fruits and vegetables, ethnic cuisines and a host of other offerings sprinkled in for new and already discerning shoppers. Don’t miss reader-voted best market stand S. Clyde Weaver. Perfectly situated as a first or last stop in the city center, the country’s oldest farmers’ market has remained a local favorite for over 100 years. Visitors welcome the window into the area, while residents take home their favorite ingredients and ready-made meals. Open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday
only, check hours online. -CS
23 N. Market St. Lancaster, PA/centralmarketlancaster.com/717-735-6890
Roots Country Market
Indoor and outdoor stalls provide shoppers with all things local in a rural setting at Roots Country Market. Buying fruits and vegetables directly from farmers gives a communal sense to this market in the heart of Dutch Country. Currently run by 4th and 5th generations since its founding by A.W. Root in 1925. Crowds pack in every Tuesday for food, antiques and an authentic flea market. -CS
705 Graystone Road, Manheim, PA/rootsmarket.com/717-898-7811
Lancaster East Side Market at Musser Park
Pops up in Musser Park on Sundays so urbanites can pick up produce and other unique products at the East Side’s prettiest park. Sundays add a shopping bonus day for all those who missed getting to Central Market on Saturday. Entertainment and activities for kids accompany the vendors peddling their wares nearby. Picnic tables and Musser Park’s playground make for an excellent place to nosh and romp. -CS
35 N. Lime St., Lancaster, PA/lancastereastsidemarket.com
The Corn Wagon
Locals in the know snag cheap produce to “put up” for harvest at The Corn Wagon. Open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. till they sell out and until November or December, The Corn Wagon sells seasonal produce, including that from their own farm. -KCH
Along Route 741 at the 324 intersection, New Danville, PA/thecornwagon.com
Family Fun
Cherry Crest Farm
Situated amongst Lancaster’s luscious, verdant farmland lies Cherry Crest Farm, a farm-themed entertainment area specializing in agricultural activities for the whole family. Featuring over 50 attractions (not including the Strasburg railroad that runs through!) like wagon rides, baby chicks and the famous corn maze, there’s enough to fill an entire day. -CS
150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, PA/cherrycrestfarm.com/717-687-6843
Pick sweet cherries and juicy peaches at Cherry Hill
With cherries, peaches and apples, Cherry Hill Orchards is a favorite summer destination for picking delicious seasonal fruit. Bring plenty of containers and a camera. If you’re not planning on canning or freezing, share some of your bounty with a friend or two. -AF
400 Long Lane, Lancaster, PA/cherryhillorchards.com/717-872-9311
Enjoy America’s Pastime
See Lancaster’s best sports team, the Lancaster Barnstormers, play a game at Clipper Stadium. July 13th catch an all-star game with a special appearance by The Bachelor Chris Soules with fireworks (no really, real fireworks) at 7 p.m. -KCH
650 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA/lancasterbarnstormers.com/717-509-4487
For Music Lovers
Long’s Park Summer Music Series
For more than 50 years, the Long’s Park Summer Music Series has been treating the community to an all-star lineup of musicians of every genre. And it’s free! New this year, Saturday concerts are included in the lineup of typical Sunday evenings (check out the website for the full schedule). This year’s series features the whimsical sounds and circus antics of March Fourth! marching band, complete with stilt-walkers and hoopers; the Pimps of Joytime, bringing the funky beats to get your booty shaking; and Darlingside, blending melodic folk-infused harmonies with bluegrass and indie rock. -MC
Through August 28/Route 30 and Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA/longspark.org/summer-music-series/
For Plant Lovers
Conestoga House & Gardens
Tucked away off an unsuspecting Marietta Avenue lies the stunning Conestoga House & Gardens, open free from June 10 through September 30 on Wednesdays and Thursdays (check site for specific times). Offering the perfect setting for picnics, group meetings and general daydreaming, the bounty of beautiful botanicals will dazzle first time guests and welcome back repeat visitors. Decompress from a hectic day with an impromptu visit to this photogenic locale. -CS
1608 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA/conestogahouse.org/717-397-5353
Artsy Folks
Gallery Hop
If you’ve never experienced a Lancaster City First Friday, make a point to be on Gallery Row and take in the art and the energy this summer. It’s a great free opportunity to expose children to art, too. Be sure to stop in Lancaster’s best gallery, Red Raven Art Company. July’s exhibit of diverse artists will include Lancaster’s beloved Fred Rodger’s “Daredevils Doing Dangerous Stuff on Classic Bicycles.” (Belvedere fans know his work in the bar upstairs.) The work of Michael Scotko and Red Raven Scholarship winner Sara Hake will also be on display. -KCH
138 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA/redravenartcompany.com/717-299-4400
Beat the Heat
Afternoon Buzz
Have a cold bottle of Passenger’s signature iced coffee at their new King Street location downtown. Just a tad sweet and refreshingly buzzed with your afternoon caffeine fix. -KCH
7 W. King St., Lancaster, PA/passengercoffee.com/717-715-0992
Summer Smarts
Stay cool and science smart at the North Museum. July 16, STEAM Carnivale highlights the wonders of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM). Activities will include eco-racing cars, 3D printing, live animals, a digital art gallery and food trucks including the delicious Lancaster Brgr Company and Sugar Whipped Cupcakes. -KCH
12-5 p.m./400 College Ave., Lancaster, PA/northmuseum.org/717-358-3941
Post Treat
After a visit to the North Musuem, head down Lemon Street to have a cool treat at Splits & Giggles, Lancaster’s best ice cream shop. -KCH
500 W. Lemon St., Lancaster, PA/splitsandgiggles.com/717-399-3332
Animal Lovers
One unexpected place locals love to take little ones is That Fish Place/That Pet Place (Lancaster’s best pet store) where they can explore the reptile room, see hundreds of varieties of fish and even pet stingrays. Mark your calendar for a special event, Kids Day on July 17, filled with activities, pet education and fun. -KCH
237 Centerville Road, Lancaster, PA/thatpetplace.com/717-299-5691
Run Wild
When the kids just need to burn off some steam, Go ‘N Bananas, new to Lancaster, has become a family favorite for indoor fun when the weather is bad outside. Big kids can be daredevils on the suspended (and safe) aerial obstacle course while little ones below enjoy mazes, balls and slides. With arcade games, a snack shop and ice cream, this place has everything families need to spend a hot summer day inside. -KCH
1170 Garfield Ave., Lancaster, PA/gonbananas.com/717-287-5000
Bounce Off the Walls, Literally
Kids bouncing off the walls with boredom yet? Let them literally bounce off the walls at Sky Zone, Lancaster’s indoor trampoline park. With special times for toddlers, ball pits to dive into, basketball and more, including Sky Camps for summer, it’s no wonder adults and kids alike love this place. -KCH
1701 Hempstead Road #102, Lancaster, PA/skyzone.com/lancaster/717-208-8922
Visit America’s Coolest Small Town
Feed the ducks and play at Lititz Springs Park, then have a slice of the signature dish at Tomato Pie Café for lunch. Bribe the kids with ice cream at Greco’s so the grown ups can get a little retail therapy at the downtown Lititz shops, and maybe even have happy hour on the iconic corner patio at General Sutter Inn. -KCH
Make Magic
No summer with little ones is complete without a trip to Dutch Wonderland, home of Duke the dragon and his magical kingdom full of fun. Splash in Duke’s Lagoon with water slides and sprays to cool off, whirl around in the new hot air balloon ride, and enjoy classics like the Turtle Whirl; many rides geared toward toddlers make this pint-sized theme park extra special. Don’t miss the live and strolling performances that add to the fun. -KCH
2249 Lincoln Highway, Lancaster, PA/dutchwonderland.com/866-386-2839
Picnic and Play
Spend the day in downtown Lancaster and let the kids splash at Binn’s Park on Queen Street. Grab lunch from Lancaster’s best sandwich shop, Isaac’s Famous Grilled Sandwiches, across the street and make a picnic of it! -KCH
25 N. Queen St., Lancaster, PA/isaacsdeli.com/717-394-5544
Be a Bookworm and Eat Bugs
Did you know there are over 100 free activities for kids and teens at the Manheim Township Public Library this summer? From story time in the iconic silo room for smaller children, to programs for teens that include computer coding workshops on July 12 and Aug 9, to eating bugs July 14, kids can learn so much more than the content of the books within by spending time at this cornerstone of the community this summer. -KCH
595 Granite Run Drive, Lancaster, PA/mtpl.info/717-560-6441
Sweet Treat Tacos
After an afternoon at the library, head to Good Life across the street on Fruitville Pike for ice cream tacos, or fold in toppings to homemade flavors of ice cream to create your own summer sweet treat. -KCH
2088 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA/goodlifelancaster.com/717-735-1999
By Keely Childers Heany, Michelle Ciarrocca, Ann Fulton, Crystal M. Schreffler and Katie D. Walmer
