The best things to do in Lancaster

“Set on 35 acres in Lancaster County, Willow Valley Golf Course is an easygoing par-32 loop with water features, elevation changes, and quirky landmarks like a barn and a chapel. Perfect for beginners, practice rounds, or when you want a breezy nine that still keeps you honest.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Whether you're sneaking in nine before dinner this week or plotting weekend bragging rights, Overlook Golf Course keeps it classic with a well-kept layout, a double-ended lighted range for tune-ups, PGA instruction, and friendly leagues that make regulars out of neighbors.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Treat the crew this week at Go ‘N Bananas, with Urban Quest Laser Tag right here in Lancaster, the 7D XD Dark Ride, spinning bumper cars, Nano's Vine Climb Ropes Course, Ballocity for the 12-and-under crowd, Nani's Playhouse for toddlers, plus a Game Zone and Nico's Sensory Room.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 17, 2026

“If you want a true home-course feel close to home, Meadia Heights Golf Club pairs a beautiful, challenging 18-hole championship layout with a membership scene that actually plays. Add good instruction, lively social and family programming, plus relaxed dining, and it’s as much community as course.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Whether you're new to golf or just chasing that satisfying thwack, Strawberry Green Driving Range has complimentary clubs, experienced trainers, and plenty of room to groove your shot.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Four Seasons Golf Club is a par 70, well-kept local staple with greens that actually make you think and bunkers that love your Pro V1s. Book a tee time online this week, chase that satisfying up-and-down, then grab a bite at the on-site restaurant and call it a day.”

From the York newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse pairs curated indie, foreign, and documentary films with cocktails from their own Lancaster Distilleries, so you can sip while you watch. Expect rotating festivals, live music, the occasional open mic, and quirky one-offs that keep your group texts buzzing long after credits roll.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, September 3, 2026

“If you’ve got access, St. Martin's Golf Course delivers pure old-school vibes at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, the kind of classic layout that clears your head and steadies the week in a single round. Bring a friend, stripe a few, leave smugly happier than you arrived.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Crossgates Golf Club delivers 18 rolling, river-kissed holes with superb conditions, a legit driving range, lessons, leagues, and a pro shop that actually helps your game. Finish at The Bunker for a bite and a beverage, and call it your midweek reset this week.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 21, 2026

“If this week needs a blissful green timeout, Bala Golf Club is Philly's ultra-convenient private hang, a picturesque William Flynn design with major championship pedigree and 125-plus years of tradition, where you can go from Center City to the first tee in 12 minutes.”

From the Bethlehem newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Indoor amusement center with trampolines, zip line, rock climbing, go karts, laser tag, and dodgeball, plus a restaurant.”

“Whether you're fine-tuning your wedges or introducing a newbie without committing a full 18, Cobbs Creek Golf Campus packs a 68-bay Toptracer range with heated bays, a Tiger Woods' TGR Design 9-hole short course, and the Charlie Sifford inspired Little Horse Tavern.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, September 17, 2026

“S. Women's Open with a family-friendly 9-hole Highlands track, year-round racquets under the bubble, superior dining, a resort-style pool, fitness and kid-focused programming. It’s basically Lancaster’s upgrade button.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Formerly Conway Social Club, The Conway Room is downtown Lancaster’s intimate hideaway for private events and curated gatherings, pairing chef-driven small plates from Executive Chef Wilson Lopez with inspired cocktails in a warm, moody setting.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Family-friendly 18-hole mini-golf course with waterfalls and a bar, set at Stoner Commons.”

“Long-running, 18-hole golf course & practice facility with a pro shop & snack bar.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Amish Farm and House lets you wander a 15-acre farm, explore an 1805 farmhouse and schoolhouse, then roll through the countryside on a guided bus tour. If you want extra zen, there’s goat yoga and hands-on farm fun that kids and grownups actually enjoy.”

From the Lancaster newsletter, August 11, 2026