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Whether you’re planning some free fun ahead of time or are looking for a quick way to fill a few hours while you’re here, we’ve rounded up a list of Lancaster’s free attractions, outdoor spots, and events for your morning, afternoon or evening. You’ll be surprised at just how easy it is to find free things to do in Lancaster, PA.
Explore on this page
Outdoor
Farmers Markets
For Kids
Events
On your Birthday
Looking for a fun and budget-friendly way to explore your local area? Look no further than the many spots sharing the history and heritage of your community, as well as the trails perfect for hiking and biking. And if you're looking for even more entertainment, don't miss these free events happening in your area.
But that's not all - if you're looking to save even more money, be sure to check out the coupons and discounts available for shopping, delicious eats, and a restful overnight stay. With all these deals and savings, you will surely have a memorable and affordable experience.
Join the Lancaster County Experience Passes for FREE! These passes are packed full of discounts, freebies, and new places you probably haven't explored in Lancaster yet!
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Coupons & Discounts
Take advantage of these exclusive deals!
Free Outdoor Activities in Lancaster
One of the great things about the fresh Lancaster County air is it's free! Enjoy the walking and hiking trails, biking paths, and parks as you stretch your legs, but not your budget. Before you hit the trail, stop by Columbia Crossings River Trails Center for even more area and trail information.
- | Various locations
- | Various locations
- Birding | Various locations
- Columbia Crossings River Trail Center | 41 Walnut Street, Columbia
- White Cliffs of Conoy | 107 Race St, Bainbridge
- The Northwest River Trail | Decatur St, Marietta
- Disc Golf, Pickle Ball, Volleyball | D.F. Buchmiller County Park | 1050 Rockford Rd., Lancaster
- Covered Bridges Driving Tours | Various locations
- Pet Mini Horses | The Li'l Country Store and Miniature Horse Farm | 264 Paradise Ln. Ronks
- Mud Sales | Various locations
- See Historic Trains | Strasburg Railroad | 301 Gap Road, Ronks
- Shenks Ferry Wildflower Preserve | Green Hill Road, Conestoga
- Fishing | Various locations
- Gardens at Conestoga House (free on the last Wednesday of the month) | 1608 Marietta Ave, Lancaster
- Explore Fall Foliage | Various locations
- Penn State Demonstration Gardens | 1446 Auction Road, Manheim, PA 17545
More Outdoor Adventure
Free Farmers Markets & Window Shopping in Lancaster
Wander our farmers markets or browse the local shops of Lancaster - all for free! You'll be surrounded by community vibes and local goodies to check out. Admission to these locations is free - however you may want to pick up some treats from local vendors as you peruse.
- | 955 North State Street, Ephrata
- Kitchen Kettle Village | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
- Lancaster Central Market | 23 North Market Street, Lancaster
- Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market | 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand
- Antiques Capital | Adamstown
- Stoudtburg Village | 55 Stoudtburg Road, Adamstown
- The 300 Block Shops | 300 North Queen Street, Lancaster
- Prussian Street Arcade | 49 North Main Street, Manheim
- Downtown Lititz | Lititz
- Lancaster Gift Box | 317 N. Queen, Lancaster
- Stoudtburg Village | 55 Stoudtburg Rd, Reinholds
- Old Candle Barn Factory Tour | 3551 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
- Columbia Historic Market House | 15 S. 3rd Street, Columbia
- Roots Country Market & Auction (open on Tuesdays) | 705 Graystone Road, Manheim
- Village Farm Market | 1520 Division Highway, Ephrata
- | Various locations
More Markets
Free History & Heritage Attractions in Lancaster
Lancaster's stories are waiting to be told at our free heritage and history attractions. Dive into the past or discover more about the Amish way of life - all while sticking to your vacation budget.
- Mennonite Life Visitors Center | 2209 Millstream Road, Lancaster
- Mascot Roller Mills | Stumptown Road & Newport Road, Ronks
- Haldeman Mansion | 230 Locust Grove Road, Bainbridge
- Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley Museum | 237 - 249 West Main Street, Ephrata
- Lititz Moravian Church Square Archives | 8 Church Square, Lititz
- Covered Bridges | various locations
- Gettysburg National Military Park | 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA
- See Historic Trains | Strasburg Railroad | 301 Gap Road, Ronks
- Blue Rock Heritage Center | 2251 River Rd, Washington Boro
- Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Historic Site | 25 S Queen St, Lancaster
- Seiverling Museum Car & Pedal Car Museum | 66 Lancaster Ave, Ephrata
- Stoudtburg Village | 55 Stoudtburg Rd, Reinholds
- Outdoor Adventure + History Experiences | Various locations
More Museums
Free Art Galleries & Art Museums in Lancaster
Admire the arts in Lancaster as you browse galleries and museums that are open to the public with free admission. Works created by current artists and art from creators of the past are on display for you to enjoy.
- Demuth Museum | 120 East King Street, Lancaster
- Gallery Row | Prince Street, Lancaster
- Lancaster Museum of Art | 135 North Lime Street, Lancaster
- Friendship Heart Gallery | 118 N Water St #101, Lancaster
- Kitchen Kettle Village | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
- | 623 College Avenue, Lancaster
- Discover Lancaster Art Gallery | 501 Greenfield Road, Lancaster
- Murals | Various locations
More Art Galleries
Free for the Kids in Lancaster, PA
Traveling as a family can get a little pricey, but Lancaster offers free things to do that will entertain all ages. You'll enjoy lasting memories and family fun, without the hefty price tag.
- | 264 Paradise Lane, Ronks
- The Red Caboose Motel | Petting Zoo | 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks
- Hershey's Chocolate World | 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey
- King Swings | 909 Strasburg Pike, Strasburg
- | 230 N President Ave, Lancaster
- That Fish Place That Pet Place | 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster
Free for the Kids under age 3 in Lancaster, PA
- Pretzel Tour | Julius Sturgis | 219 East Main Street, Lititz
- Snack Factory Tour | Herr Foods Inc. | 20 Herr Drive, Nottingham (just outside of the county)
- Choo Choo Barn | 226 Gap Rd, Strasburg
- Turkey Hill Experience | 301 Linden St, Columbia
- Lancaster Science Factory | 454 New Holland Avenue, Lancaster
More Kid Friendly Activities
Events in Lancaster, PA
Live music, awesome art, annual auctions, and more! You'll find fantastic (and FREE) events throughout the county where there is plenty of community, history, and culture to experience at various times during the year.
- First Friday & Music Friday | Downtown Lancaster
- Second Friday | Downtown Lititz
- First Thursday | Manheim
- Lititz Fire & Ice | February | Downtown Lititz
- Mud Sales | Beginning in February | Various locations
- Family Farm Days | Oregon Dairy
- Charter Day | March
- | 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster
- Railroad Museum of PA | 300 Gap Road, Strasburg
- Ephrata Cloister | 632 West Main Street, Ephrata
- | 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster
- Spring and Fall ArtWalk | May & October | Downtown Lancaster
- Long's Park Summer Music Series | June - August | Route 30 & Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster
- Strawberry Festival | May - June | Lancaster County
- Rhubarb Festival | May 19th & 20th | Kitchen Kettle Village
- River Discover Boat Tours | Summer | 1706 Long Level Road, Wrightsville
More Events
On Your Birthday in Lancaster, PA
What's better than celebrating a birthday in Lancaster? How about a free meal or dessert? If you're in town on that special day, stop by one of the places below for a tasty meal or sweet treat on the house to celebrate. Be sure to check the birthday date verification requirements before heading out!
- Shady Maple Smorgasbord | 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl
- | 240 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks
- La Borimex | 1623 Division Highway, Ephrata
- Esbenshade's Garden Centers | 546 A East 28th Division Highway, Lititz
- | 2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand
Free 1st birthday smash cake with purchase of 8" layer or 1/4 sheet cake - Yoder's Restaurant and Buffet | 14 South Tower Road, New Holland
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Things to do on Sundays in Lancaster, PA
There are still plenty of things to do on a Sunday in Lancaster, PA
Animal Experiences in Lancaster, PA
For those looking to get up close with these friendly farm dwellers, check out our list of animal experiences throughout the county.