Where’s the perfect place for a group vacation? Whether you’re planning a girlfriends’ get-away, a family union or a business meeting, traveling with a few friends or organizing a bus trip for your club or organization, Lancaster County offers many great group-friendly activities that appeal to a wide range of interests. Bird-in-Hand puts you in the middle of it all, and for generations, countless groups have experienced our hospitality. It’s a great place for gathering.
GROUP-FRIENDLY AREA ATTRACTIONS
What would your group like to do? If shopping sounds fun, Lancaster Central Market in the 1889 Market House in downtown Lancaster is the country’s oldest continuously running public farmers’ market. Today, the market hosts more than 60 local vendors who offer fresh local produce, locally sourced meat, poultry, cheeses, baked goods, and more, along with a diverse menu of prepared foods. It’s about 20 minutes west of Bird-in-Hand. Just 5 minutes to the east, you’ll find Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse, with a unique mix of more than 40 stores offering locally made products and nationally known brands, along with a full calendar of seasonal special events—all in a lovely, walkable outdoor setting.
Want to take ‘em out to the ballgame? Clipper Magazine Stadium on North Prince Street in Lancaster’s Northwest Corridor neighborhood is home to the Lancaster Barnstormers, the city’s Atlantic League of Professional Baseball franchise. Voted #1 Stadium in the Country by Ballpark Digest, Clipper Magazine Stadium can accommodate groups with suite rentals, picnics in the TEC Pavilion, group combo tickets and more. The stadium can also handle large events like concerts, movie nights, weddings and birthday parties.
A group of friends enjoying food, drinks and a Lancaster Barnstormers game at Clipper Stadium (‘best ballpark’ in Ballpark Digest fan ballot)
Of course, if you’re considering Lancaster as a destination, your group members might want to learn more about what makes Amish Country unique. The Amish Farm & House on Covered Bridge Drive in Lancaster has been educating the public about the fascinating life of our Amish neighbors since 1955. For groups of 15 or more people, they can customize an itinerary that might include a guided tour of their early 19th-century farmhouse, time to explore the 15-acre farm, a one-room school presentation or a horse-and-buggy ride around the property. Their trained guides are available to step on your tour bus or motor coach and guide you through the picturesque Lancaster County countryside. Another option is the complimentary two-hour escorted tour of local Amish farmlands available to lodging guests of any of the Bird-in-Hand Family of properties. Bird-in-Hand can also provide step-on guides for larger bus groups. For a truly unique and authentic experience, plan your group’s visit around one of the Cornfield Banquets we hold in late summer at the Smucker homestead—and be sure to ask about discounts for groups of 20 or more.
SET THE STAGE FOR TOGETHERNESS
Stage shows are also perfect group activities, and you can take your pick in Lancaster County. Just minutes from Bird-in-Hand, you’ll find Sight & Sound Theatre, known far and wide for stage shows that bring the Bible to life with gorgeous costumes, massive sets and spectacular special effects. For group information, check out their Group Leader Guide. Nearby American Music Theatre hosts up to 300 live performances yearly, including original shows, oldies tributes and top-name entertainers. AMT also offers group discounts for 15 or more. You can save on show tickets when you book seats for Sight & Sound as an add-on or part of a meal and lodging package at Bird-in-Hand. Or, for the ultimate convenience, stay and dine at the Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord and take in a Broadway-style musical or variety show on our Bird-in-Hand Stage, with tiered seating for up to 140 and direct access via elevator from the main dining room as well as its own ground-level entrance.
Our restaurant can serve up to 110 with banquet seating, and group dining is available for 20 or more. We offer buffet and family-style meal service as well as served banquets and several banquet menus—all of which feature our famous farm-fresh, homemade food. With a choice of classic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes and other favorites, no one goes home hungry!
The historic Village Inn and Suites can accommodate small groups, like business meetings and bridal or baby showers, in upscale country comfort. Its conference and meeting space can accommodate up to 35 people theatre style and is available free when you book ten or more rooms.
BIRD-IN-HAND IS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO STAY
If you’re looking for group lodging, Bird-in-Hand offers several options. The historic Village Inn and Suites can accommodate small groups, like business meetings and bridal or baby showers, in upscale country comfort. Its conference and meeting space can accommodate up to 35 people theatre style and is available free when you book ten or more rooms. Guests also have access to all the recreational amenities at the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn, which provides a resort-style experience with tennis, swimming, basketball, a fitness room and walking paths. If you have a large group, we offer discounted rates and can group guests in a block of rooms. Choose from a wide selection of add-ons to customize the experience for your groups—such as meeting room space, a private Fireside S’mores party or a picnic pavilion with seating for 30 to 40.
We’d be glad to help you arrange a memorable time for your group. Learn more about what Bird-in-Hand can offer groups, then give us a call at (800) 627-1910 or email us.
