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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesPennsylvaniaLancaster

Lancaster

Pennsylvania, United States
City·Historic, Vibrant, Community Focused
Lancaster
Photo by Zoe Gavilondo from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Sal DiBlasi from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Sal DiBlasi from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Olga Elisa Jiménez Lora from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Sal DiBlasi from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Zoe Gavilondo from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Sal DiBlasi from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Sal DiBlasi from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Olga Elisa Jiménez Lora from Google Places
Lancaster
Photo by Sal DiBlasi from Google Places

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a city steeped in history and culture. As one of the oldest inland cities in the United States, it served as the state capital from 1799 to 1812 and remains a vibrant community today. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster is a hub for various industries, including healthcare, tourism, and public administration. Its rich cultural heritage and diverse economic activities make it an attractive destination for both visitors and residents. With its historic charm and modern amenities, Lancaster offers a unique blend of past and present.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a city steeped in history and culture. As one of the oldest inland cities in the United States, it served as the state capital from 1799 to 1812 and remains a vibrant community today. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster is a hub for various industries, including healthcare, tourism, and public administration. Its rich cultural heritage and diverse economic activities make it an attractive destination for both visitors and residents. With its historic charm and modern amenities, Lancaster offers a unique blend of past and present.

Highlights

  • One of the oldest inland cities in the US.

  • Former capital of Pennsylvania from 1799 to 1812.

  • Core city within South Central Pennsylvania.

  • Hub of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

  • Diverse industries including healthcare and tourism.

Before you go: Lancaster essentials

  • Close access to Pennsylvania Dutch Country, offering unique cultural experiences.

  • Rich historical background with numerous museums and historical sites.

  • Vibrant arts scene with galleries and performances.

Getting Around

Lancaster has a reliable public transportation system, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings.

Local Cuisine

Try local Pennsylvania Dutch specialties such as scrapple and shoofly pie.

Best For

History enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

English, Spanish

Historical Sites

Visit the Lancaster Central Market, one of the oldest farmers' markets in the country.

Cultural Events

Check out the city's calendar for numerous festivals and events celebrating local culture.

Occasion Tags

History, Culture, Tourism

Best time to visit Lancaster

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Lancaster with blooming landscapes and mild weather.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are warm and ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and attending local festivals.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers stunning foliage and is perfect for scenic drives through Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Winter

Winters are cold, but the holiday season brings festive events and cozy indoor activities.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
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Things to do in Lancaster

Unique Amish Immersion in Lancaster
From $99

Unique Amish Immersion in Lancaster

4.9(507)
Duration: 3h
Lancaster
Amish Experience SuperSaver Package
From $36

Amish Experience SuperSaver Package

4.7(603)
Duration: 4h
Lancaster
International Food Tour Lancaster, PA
From $65

International Food Tour Lancaster, PA

4.7(149)
Duration: 2h 15min
Lancaster
Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour
From $59

Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour

4.8(516)
Duration: 3h
Lancaster
Truly Authentic Lancaster Experience!
From $89

Truly Authentic Lancaster Experience!

5.0(115)
Duration: 2h 30min
Lancaster
Amish Farmlands Tour
From $30

Amish Farmlands Tour

4.6(16)
Duration: 1h 30min
Lancaster
45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz
From $12

45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz

4.9(157)
Duration: 45 min
Lancaster
Guided Tour of the Lititz 1792 Johannes Mueller House
From $12

Guided Tour of the Lititz 1792 Johannes Mueller House

4.9(135)
Duration: 45 min
Lancaster
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Attractions in Lancaster

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LUCA

4.5(1,8 K)
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Trendy, Bustling, Lively

Natural & historic sites near Lancaster

Place
Place

Carlisle Federal Indian Boarding School National Monument

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Protected Area · Somber, Reflective, Educational, Respectful
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Place

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Protected Area · Rugged, Inspiring, Expansive, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

Baltimore, Maryland
Protected Area · Educational, Scenic, Reflective
Place
Place
Place
Place

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Protected Area · Peaceful, Historic, Educational, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Protected Area · Educational, Quiet, Reflective
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Valley Forge National Historical Park

King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
Protected Area · Educational, Scenic, Peaceful, Expansive
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Catoctin Mountain Park

Maryland
Protected Area · Historic, Peaceful, Scenic, Natural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Protected Area · Quiet, Educational, Reflective