Without a doubt, Pennsylvania Amish Country has many attractions that consistently draw locals and tourists alike. Those interested in the Amish lifestyle, Amish crafts and, of course, some tasty Amish food flock to the area. But what about when you’re visiting and want to do something outside the world of the Amish. Are there other kinds of activities for tourists? The answer is definitely yes.
Those looking for the best of Amish Country will want to check out these five fun destinations in our article on the very best activities in South Central Pennsylvania.
Best Amish Country Activity Number #1 – The Gretna Theatre
Deemed “Broadway in Your Backyard” the Gretna Theater in Mount Gretna Pennsylvania is a real treat. This historic theater was launched back in 1927. Professional actors put on some impressive shows at the Gretna Theatre. In the past plays such as Neil Simon’s Biloxi Blues and Brighton Beach Memoirs to Cervantes’ Man of La Mancha and more have graced the stage at the Gretna Theatre.
Gretna Theatre has the distinction of being of only a handful of professional theatres in South-Central Pennsylvania. The impressive open-air pavilion-style venue seats over 700. Click here to check out Gretna Theatre’s website.
Best Amish Country Activity Number #2 – Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train
If you are looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience that makes you feel like you’re traveling back in time, then you’ll want to check out the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train. This guided tour takes visitors into a real anthracite coal mine. Cars are pulled via a battery operated mine motor.
The steam train ride features a Henry Clay built steam locomotive that was constructed in 1920. The train ride enjoys many breathtaking views and lasts for approximately 30 minutes. Click here to learn more about Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train.
Best Amish Country Activity #3 – AvalancheXpress Snow Tubing at Heritage Hills Resort
Snow tubing anyone? There are some major benefits to visiting the Pennsylvania Amish country during the winter months. Snow tubing can certainly be a thrilling day spent outdoors. The AvalancheXpress Snow Tubing at Heritage Hills Resort is every bit as fun as it sounds. There are multiple downhill runs which include the “Xtreme” lanes. But if you are not an experienced tuber ready to tackle the “Xtreme” lanes don’t worry as AvalancheXpress Snow Tubing also has slower moving lanes and even lanes designed specifically for children. If you want to enjoy some great outdoor winter fun then check out AvalancheXpress Snow Tubing at Heritage Hills by visiting their website.
Best Amish Country Activity #4-Go ‘N Bananas
For those traveling with children or people just looking to blow off some steam and have a great time, Amish Country has just what you need. Kids across the age spectrum will love Go ‘N Bananas. This attraction is the go-to location in the region for those looking for a wildly diverse array of fun activities. At Go ‘N Bananas, visitors will find many diverse activities. Stating that Go ‘N Bananas is loaded with things to do is a major understatement.
If you are in the mood for bowling, Go ‘N Bananas has you covered with its Mini Bowling lanes. There is also two areas dedicated to laser fun: Laser Tag and Laser Mazes. The Laser Mazes uses lasers, mirrors and haze to challenge visitors to make it from one end of the maze to the other. Go ‘N Bananas’ Laser Tag is a state-of-the-art facility that uses multi colored LED vests and phasers with color laser beams. The 3,800 square feet area is filled with haze, lit with black light and is equipped with an art lighting and sound system. There is fun for up to 24 people on two levels.
Other fun areas include the bumper car Spin zone area, the Game Zone which features such classics as skee-ball and even a Toddler Zone created specifically for safe toddler fun. Learn more about Go ‘N Bananas which is also available for birthday parties by visiting the Go ‘N Bananas website.
Best Amish Country Activity #5-Thistle Finch Distillery
Thistle Finch Distillery is Lancaster County’s only operating distillery. Located in what was the Walter Schnader Tobacco Warehouse, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places. There are tours available and free samples. There is no reservations required to visit the tasting room and distillery.
At Thistle Finch Distillery, you’ll find everything from whiskey by the glass to cocktails and more. You can even buy bottles of award winning White Rye Whisky, Penn Square Vodka and Market Alley Gin. Thistle Finch Distillery’s whiskey is made from locally sourced grained and in small batches. In fact, 90% of Thistle Finch Distillery’s whiskey is made from grains coming from Lancaster and Lebanon counties in Pennsylvania.
Adding further distinction of their whiskey is the fact that their whiskey is a unique grain bill of 60% rye, 30% wheat and 10% malted barley. Additionally, the whiskey is made in a hand-constructed copper pot still. All of these factors add up to help create a truly memorable whiskey. Tours are given on Saturday at 1:00pm, 2:30pm and 4:00 as well as Sunday at 1:00pm. Learn more about this unique distillery by visiting Thistle Finch Distillery’s website.
Amish Country has much to offer. While we have covered five great entertainment and educational options, there are actually many more. The attractions we’ve looked at in this article truly only represent a fraction of what Amish Country has to offer. This is a very beautiful area that will be exciting to explore any time of year.
The simple fact is that Amish County is loaded with so much to do that it is difficult to keep track of all the options. When you visit the Lancaster region of Pennsylvania, you will be impressed by the diversity of the area and the friendliness of its people.