strasburg railroad

We recently spent 2 days in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which is just 120 miles from Washington, DC. We had an amazing time and wanted to share our itinerary with you! Our main attraction was to visit Dutch Wonderland because our kids loved it so much last year, that’s all they talked about leading up to this summer. Last year when we visited Dutch Wonderland, we drove up and back in one day and it was do-able. This year we found a family friendly hotel and planned to see more of Lancaster County. Cue itinerary…

Day 1:

Drive straight to Dutch Wonderland

Dinner at Funck’s. Food is mediocre with an extensive beer list but the best part is kids eat for $2 on Sunday’s and their meal came with ice cream at the end! TV’s filled the restaurant so our tired little one’s were entertained with sports watching and kids menu coloring.

Overnight:

Double Tree Resort by Hilton Hotel Lancaster The hotel room was like dinner; fine. We woke up Monday morning and surprised our kids with a trip to the indoor pool which had a water slide, mini-slide and a rainbow spray as well as two separate pool areas that were heated. The hotel had several events for children from movie nights to crafts during the day so be sure to check that out. OR surprise them and stay in a train caboose at The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant. Perhaps staying at a working farm is of interest to you. There are many to choose from but one that comes recommended from family is the Verdant View Farm. Rise and shine – slip on your boots and head to the barn for hands-on farm experience before a family-style breakfast. Or you can just join an educational tour of a homestead farm. Roll up your sleeves, milk a cow, and interact with our many farm animals and not stay overnight.

Day 2:

Strasburg Railroad was my favorite part of the trip. We went on a 45-minute STEAM train ride which includes an audio commentary providing interesting facts, history, and information about the railroad and surrounding area through the tranquil Amish countryside. Before or after your ride, the Fun Extras at the Station include shops, playground, Cranky Cars, Pump Car and Pint-Sized Pufferbelly (open seasonally). Thomas the Train also makes appearances here throughout the year, including Sept 15-23 and Nov 16-18, 2018.

There is also a Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania across the street.

We spotted Cherry Crest Adventure Park on the train. Making a list of all they have to do there would take up too much of this post, so check it out here, you won’t be disappointed! Open for 6 months with varying hours and special holiday events!

Speckled Hen for lunch, coffee or a treat. They even have a children’s area with enough toys to keep your Bambinos busy and happy.

Immerse yourself in the culture of the area:

Lil Country Store & Miniature Horse Farm
Amish All Around Buggy Tours