Ready for a summer escape? Lancaster, Pennsylvania, has the perfect mix of chill vibes, scenic views, and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed getaway in one of the country’s oldest Amish communities or a fast-paced adventure and city life weekend, there’s something for visitors of all ages.

Here’s how to make the most of your Summer trip to the Central Pennsylvania gem:

Book a Room Downtown

Although small, downtown Lancaster is the perfect location for settling down on your getaway. This walkable city is filled with historic buildings, unique restaurants and cafes, art galleries, shops, and other places that are sure to be of interest. Booking a hotel room downtown places you right in the mix of things and allows easy access to all activities on your itinerary. 

The Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square is a top choice, with luxury bedding, unbeatable views, and on-site amenities that ensure a relaxing stay with plenty of nearby options for exploration and entertainment. Many of the area’s top restaurants, bars, and venues are within walking distance. It is attached to the Lancaster County Convention Center, making it super easy to attend events, conferences, and meetings taking place there. There’s a Starbucks in the main lobby, and a new breakfast restaurant- Two Kings. Plough serves American cuisine with ingredients sourced from the region’s farmlands. For panoramic views and innovative dishes, an afternoon or evening at the rooftop bar and lounge, The Exchange is a must. The sunsets from the outdoor area are amazing!

Eat, Drink, and Play at Local Favorites 

Lancaster is filled with great places to enjoy a bite to eat, sip craft cocktails and wine, and enjoy old school fun. From small mom-and-pop restaurants to fine dining, you will never go hungry while visiting. 

Gracies on West Main is popular amongst both locals and visitors. One visit and you’ll see why! Gracies has a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home. Their breakfast offerings are the staples with large and delicious portions made from scratch. The long waitlist and lines in and outside of the building let you know that this is some good eating! Gracies is also a BYOB establishment.

Burger lovers should head straight to Route 66. The 1950s-inspired diner offers American comfort food in a vintage-style space. The burgers are raved about continuously, as are the mozzarella sticks, and even their milkshakes. Retro arcade and full-service restaurant and bar- Decades is a nostalgic space located in a 95-year-old building. Classic arcade games, great bites, and a six-lane boutique bowling alley guarantee a great time. They’ve recently opened an outdoor Ice Cream Bar, which has proven to be an instant hit. Featuring hand-dipped ice cream flavors, classic and boozy milkshakes, food, and cocktails, this new outdoor summer experience is a must-visit.

Relax and unwind over wine at Waltz Vineyards Estate Winery. Waltz sits on 35 acres of land and features estate-grown premium wines. This sixth-generation family farm produces world-class European-style wines. Waltz’s wines have received many International, National, and State awards. Each wine is made only from hand-picked, carefully selected fruit. The European-style tasting room offers a seated tasting experience where guests can customize a wine flight or choose a glass or bottle to share. Reservations are recommended. 

Luca is a bustling, casual Italian-inspired restaurant that combines the culinary traditions of Italy, rooted in the heritage of Lancaster County. This place quickly became a personal favorite and remains on the list of places to go when in the area. The cuisine is farm-driven and focuses on locally sourced ingredients with an Italian twist. Their wood-fired pizzas are a hit, but you can’t go wrong with much of the menu.

Lancaster Central Market is the oldest, publicly owned, continuously running farmers’ market in America. Open every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, the market is home to many local producers offering fresh produce, baked goods, home-cooked meals, flowers, and unique gifts. Be sure to visit and take it all in!

Explore the Susquehanna River by Boat

Nothing quite beats experiencing summer joy on the water. The Chief Uncas is an electric-powered motor yacht that cruises the Susquehanna River each year from June through October. Chief Uncas was built in 1912 for beer tycoon Adolphus Busch, and cruised Otsego Lake, the headwaters of the Susquehanna, for over a century. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks as they view local wildlife, catch the sunset, and hear unique stories told by the boat’s crew. 

Lancaster is the kind of place that lets you slow down if you desire, soak it all in, and leave feeling refreshed. So if you’re planning your next warm-weather escape, Lancaster might just be the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed.