This year, summer vacations are more important than ever. If you’re looking for fresh air and wide-open spaces, Lancaster County is the ideal destination. You can enjoy a getaway while avoiding crowded cities and beaches. And whether you are planning a day trip, a weekend or a longer family vacation, you’ll find many things to do in and around Bird-in-Hand.

Right about now, a change of scenery could be good for the soul – whether you’re coming from a distance or looking for a “staycation” in your own county. Bird-in-Hand is a great place to relax and it’s a great location, convenient to many of Lancaster County’s most popular attractions.  

You’ll notice that local businesses have put enhanced procedures in place for the safety and comfort of guests. Here’s an overview of what’s open in Lancaster County in the Green Phase. For details, see our list of open attractions.

AUTHENTIC AMISH EXPERIENCES

One way to see the county and learn about the area’s unique culture is by riding along our quiet roads in Amish horse-drawn buggy with Aaron and Jessica’s Buggy Rides or AAA Buggy Rides. Or tour the Amish Village in Ronks, the Amish Farm and House in Lancaster, or the Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm right here in Bird-in-Hand. And if you are staying at one of the Bird-in-Hand family of properties, like the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn, your stay includes a complimentary guided bus tour of Amish farmlands.

FAMILY FUN

Lancaster County is a great family destination, with lots of things for the kids to do. Give them a glimpse of our agricultural heritage at the Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Ronks, which offers a 5-acre corn maze, petting zoo and more. The Bird-in-Hand Family Inn also puts you within easy driving distance of the amusements at Hersheypark in Hershey and at Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster. In Lancaster, the kids might also enjoy the thrills of Go’N Bananas Family Fun Center or the Hands On House children’s museum, where learning and playing go hand in hand. The young railroad buffs in your family might enjoy a visit to nearby Strasburg, where you’ll find the Strasburg Railroad and the Choo Choo Barn, Traintown USA model train layout. Kids still have energy at the end of the day? With the exception of the arcade and fitness room, the pool and other recreational amenities at our Family Inn are open.

THE SHOW MUST GO ON!

If you come to Lancaster County to enjoy live entertainment, you’ll find it on our Bird-in-Hand Stage. We’re opening up in August with limited seating for two new shows: Ryan & Friends: Comedy Calamity and The Güt Life – with the Yoders. Bird-in-Hand is also convenient to the new Magic & Wonder Theater in Paradise as well as the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster.

SEE WHAT OUR STORES HAVE IN STORE

In the heart of our village, the Bird-in-Hand Farmer’s Market is open Wednesday through Saturday, with dozens of vendors offering handcrafted goods, souvenirs, and fresh local foods, including Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods from our Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe. Just down Old Philadelphia Pike, Kitchen Kettle Village features more than 40 shops and restaurants. If you’re a fan of flea markets, spend a Friday at the Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction in Ephrata, one of the largest Amish markets on the East Coast, with seven large market buildings and other small shops. If outlet shopping is more your style, you’re still in luck. You’ll find many stores open at The Shops @ Rockvale and Tanger Outlets, both in Lancaster.

TAKE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Fresh air is good for the body and for the soul – especially now. In Bird-in-Hand, you can enjoy a quiet game of miniature golf at Water’s Edge Mini Golf or something more adventurous, like floating over Lancaster County farmlands with the US Hot Air Balloon Team. You can also get a bird’s-eye view from nearby Smoketown Helicopters – or a cow’s eye view with Strasburg Scooters. Unleash your inner explorer at Indian Echo Caverns or take to the trees at Refreshing Mountain Ziplines & Outdoor Adventures. Still want more of the great outdoors? Consider a stay at our Country Acres Campground, where you can pitch your tent or pop-up, park your camper or RV or stay in a cozy cabin.

WHERE TO GET THE LATEST UPDATES

For more information on what’s open in Lancaster County, you can find our listings here.