Jeremy’s Picks: Day Off Activities
There’s nothing like a whole day off, especially if it’s the weekend. No work, no plans, no commitments—just an entire day to spend how you please! Check out this list of some fun ways to spend your day off in Lancaster County. Give them a read, and let us know which one is your favorite!
Go Shopping
Downtown Lancaster locals know all of the best-kept secrets—from clothing stores like Redux Vintage and Taupe to home goods stores like Festoon and Building Character. Stop by Bellaboo, a shop centered around children’s toys and clothes to outfit your mini-me in the latest kids’ fashion! Furry friend destinations like Basset and Lab will have your pet loving this day off as much as you! They offer some of the best homemade, pet-friendly baked goods around. We guarantee your pet will love you for bringing home a treat or two.
Image provided by Festoon.
When it comes to unique shopping experiences, keep Downtown Lititz at the top of your list. One of Jeremy’s favorites is Zest!, an eclectic shop featuring gourmet food items and kitchenware. While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Wilbur Chocolate and The Savory Gourmet—perfect places for picking up a sweet or savory treat!
From left: The Savory Gourmet and Zest!
Outdoor Activities
Lancaster is home to many beautiful parks, hiking destinations, and rail trails that are only a stone’s throw away from the City. Lancaster County Central Park is one of the best outdoor areas to explore because of its variety of trails and recreational areas. It boasts a skatepark, baseball diamonds, and a pool—ideal for a day off meant for the whole family.
Looking for an adventure or searching for a more strenuous trek? Check out local favorites like Tucquan Glen or Kelly’s Run trails. These trails are challenging workouts, but they end with breathtaking views. Another one of Jeremy’s favorites is the Rail Trail in Marietta where he and his family can enjoy a casual stroll or bike ride. For a full list of trails around Marietta, click here.
Image provided by Tucquan Glen.
First Friday
Art and music lovers, Lancaster City has something for you too! On the first Friday of every month, Downtown Lancaster hosts First Friday, an evening where art galleries and shops have various activities and music performances. Gallery Row on Prince Street houses some popular art galleries who all participate in this community event and show incredible work from local artists, like Frieman Stoltzfus, Christina David, and Red Raven Art Company. Be sure to clear your calendars for the first Friday of each month so you won’t miss all of the art and culture that Lancaster has to offer!
Pieces are from Red Raven Art Company’s featured exhibit by artist Sarah McRae Morton.
Treat Yourself to Tea
Tea rooms are making an appearance all over Lancaster County and are an ideal way to spend a relaxing afternoon. A Tea Affair in Lititz provides a contemporary take on high tea, garden tea, and scones. Be sure to plan this visit as reservations are highly recommended or visit their Tea Shop to explore over 350 different teas. Piccadilly Coffee & Tea House is a great spot for coffee and tea lovers alike as it has an extensive menu including French press coffee, pour-over coffee, and loose leaf teas. We can’t forget about Sugarplums and Teas. Located near the town of Strasburg, this tea room has many fresh-baked goods as well as an assortment of scrumptious sandwiches.
Lunchtime
Sleep in on your day off, and buy yourself a late lunch! Jeremy frequency enjoys lunch at S. Clyde Weaver with his son, Ian. Ian’s go-to meal is an iced cookie and a ‘slamwich’ that consists of meat, cheese, mayo, and red pickled onions. We also recommend Tomato Pie Cafe, which is a popular spot among Lititz locals and out of town visitors alike. They offer an artful menu and a full espresso bar.
From left: Tomato Pie Cafe and Ian at S. Cyde Weaver
Rest and Relax
Having a free day isn’t complete without some relaxation. Looking for a place to get a low impact workout and a calming mind experience? Jeremy recommends Float Yoga! They offer beginner and experienced aerial yoga classes, as well as hot yoga and flow classes. Lancaster County also has wonderful spas, salons, and other places you can relax and pamper yourself. Check out spots like Blossom Med Spa, Mulberry Salon, and Visage Visage for all types of self-care including massages, hair styling, manicures, and much more.
Image provided by Mulberry Salon & Spa
Fun Activities
There are fun activities happening all over the County. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Ronks is a destination for the whole family. Learn about farm life, enjoy hayrides, and adventure into the Amazing Maize Maze. If you have older kids, we recommend Spooky Nook. Between their rock climbing wall and indoor sports arenas, there’s something for the whole family. For the little ones, take a trip to the Hands-On House—a museum designed for 2-10 years old that focuses on learning through fun. For even bigger fun, stop by Tiny Town, a luxury indoor playplace for children.
From left: Image provided by Spooky Nook and Ian at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
The Jeremy Ganse Team loves Lancaster and all it has to offer! These are just a few of Jeremy’s picks, and we’d highly recommend checking out these places during your free time. By visiting some of these wonderful places in Lancaster, you’ll gain insight into why this County is such a great area to live! Have questions? Give us a call at 717-208-4444.