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Day Trips from Amish Country

Day Trips from Amish Country

Amish Country Pennsylvania, USA Travel Guide

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Approximately 1.5 hours west of Lancaster, Gettysburg is the site of the pivotal Civil War battle in July 1863. The Gettysburg National Military Park showcases preserved battlefields, monuments, and a museum and visitor center. Explore the battlefield by driving, walking, or with a guided bus tour.

Access Gettysburg by car from Areas Where the amish live.

Exploring Gettysburg

  • Explore independently by driving battlefield roads, with audio tours, and museum visits.
  • Guided bus tours present comprehensive narration and cover sites efficiently.
  • Private licensed battlefield guides may be hired for a personalized experience.
  • A full day covers the Gettysburg experience properly.

Nearby Destinations

Discover more of Pennsylvania's diverse attractions just not far by car from Lancaster County.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Approximately 1.5 hours east of Lancaster, Philadelphia is a historic city rich in American heritage. Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. Explore diverse neighborhoods and world-class museums.

Exploring Philadelphia

  • Accessible by car or Amtrak train from Lancaster.
  • Philadelphia's historic core is walkable and good for independent exploration.
  • Hop-on-hop-off bus tours simplify touring the city.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Approximately 45 minutes northwest of Lancaster, "The Sweetest Place on Earth" hosts Hershey's Chocolate World, Hersheypark, and The Hershey Story Museum. A fun destination, notably for families.

Exploring Hershey

  • Best accessed by car.
  • Mainly an independent exploration destination, with attractions visited separately.
  • Half to a full day encompasses the experience, depending on Hersheypark inclusion.

Natural Escapes

Susquehanna River

  • West of Lancaster County, the Susquehanna River has scenic overlooks like Turkey Hill.
  • Views of the waterway and surrounding landscape are expansive.
  • Opportunities for fishing are present.
  • Boating and kayaking are available.

Pinchot State Park Lewisberry, PA

  • About an hour's drive from Lancaster, Pinchot State Park is a good option for outdoor recreation.
  • Lake Pinchot is for boating and fishing.
  • Hiking trails are present.
  • Picnicking areas are available.

Cultural Excursions

  • Brandywine Valley (Southeastern PA/Northern DE)1 to 1.5 hours to the southeast
  • DescriptionHome to Longwood Gardens, Winterthur Museum, and Brandywine River Museum of Art.
  • Reading, Pennsylvania45 minutes north
  • DescriptionFeatures the iconic Pagoda and the Reading Public Museum.
  • Visit DurationFull day for either region.
  • TransportationCar is generally best for flexibility.
  • Attraction FocusGardens, historical estates, art museums.
  • Urban CenterReading has a different urban center experience.

Planning Day Trips

When planning day trips, take travel time into account, and consider the state of the traffic, especially during peak hours or on weekends. Check opening hours and book tickets for main sights in advance. Many day trips, tours, and excursions are bookable via GetYourGuide.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider adding 1-3 days to your itinerary to explore more broadly or combine destinations for a richer regional experience.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country Loop

Explore other nearby areas with powerful Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, like Berks County and Lebanon County. More time to discover smaller towns and local businesses.

Historic Triangle

Combine your Lancaster visit with a multi-day exploration of Philadelphia and Gettysburg. This creates a comprehensive tour of Pennsylvania's diverse history and culture.

Poconos Mountains

For nature lovers, a 2-3 hour drive northeast takes you towards the Poconos Mountains, offering hiking, waterfalls, lakes, and ski resorts depending on the season.

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

Pine Creek Gorge near Wellsboro, PA, is a more distant but rewarding natural escape. A 3-4 hour drive north leads to stunning gorge views, extensive hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for river activities.

Visit Details

  • Stunning gorge views.
  • Extensive hiking and biking trails.
  • River-based recreation available.

Longer Regional Travel

For broader journeys, consider routes that connect multiple major towns or natural attractions, blending cultural experiences with outdoor adventures.

Suggested Routes

  • East Coast Heritage Route: Philadelphia, Lancaster, Gettysburg, then potentially south to Washington D.C. Or north to New York City.
  • Pennsylvania Explorer: Amish Country with the Poconos or Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
  • Car rental is the most adjustable option. Amtrak connects major cities.

Logical Next Destinations

Washington D.C.2-2.5 hours south of Lancaster, with numerous free museums and historical sites.
New York City2.5-3 hours east of Lancaster by car or train, a global cultural and financial hub.
Baltimore, Maryland~1.5 hours south, offering Inner Harbor attractions.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania~1 hour west, the state capital with a historic downtown.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania~4.5-5 hours west, a city with diverse attractions.
Finger Lakes, New York~4-5 hours north, renowned for wineries and natural beauty.

Transportation Connections

  • A rental car has the most flexible option for joining various destinations.
  • Amtrak connects Lancaster to Philadelphia, New York City, Harrisburg, and other significant cities (sometimes with transfers).
  • Long-distance bus services offer economical connections between many of these cities.
  • When planning extended trips, always verify public transit schedules and availability.
  • GetYourGuide offers experiences you can book through different destinations.