When people talk about Lancaster, Pennsylvania, their thoughts often fall on the charm of Amish Country. Lancaster County's quaint small towns and traditional restaurants are some of the Keystone State's best attractions, but the city of Lancaster is quite the attraction in its own right. This city of about 55,000, the eighth largest in Pennsylvania, is the county seat and has evolved into a wonderful cultural and culinary destination. I make at least two trips to the area each year, going to the surrounding area for dining and shopping, and there are so many stops in the city itself that have become a tradition for me. This city is just right, large enough to feel like a diverse and unique city, but without losing any of that small-town charm. Read on to discover why it might just be the best place to visit and live in PA.

Most people come to Lancaster to explore Amish Country, and it is well worth the trip. This is one of the most beautiful spots in Pennsylvania, with rolling farmland, delicious markets featuring fresh-baked goodies, and the most covered bridges in Pennsylvania within a single county.

But I find Lancaster itself is well worth a visit. In fact, it might be my favorite place in Pennsylvania. The town has great historic architecture, a moderate cost of living, and a fantastic cultural and entertainment theme. I attended a concert at the American Music Theater, an old-school music theater where The Oak Ridge Boys performed in 2023. It's such a comfortable way to see a concert, and it's only minutes away from Dutch Wonderland, one of the most charming theme parks in the Northeast.

Lancaster is also home to some great nature, including the best family-friendly park in Pennsylvania. But if there's one area where this town really excels, it's food. There is an extremely diverse dining scene in the area, including some of PA's most acclaimed restaurants - like John J. Jeffries, which is found in a boutique hotel. One place I never skip when I'm in town is the Lancaster Central Market, a massive indoor year-round market with dozens of vendors and food stands.

Of course, one of the best parts of visiting Lancaster is the proximity to the charming Amish towns all around you, where you'll find some of the best farm-fresh shopping in the United States. While you're there, drive less than half an hour to East Earl, where you'll find Shady Maple Smorgasbord - the largest buffet in the United States and home to a massive supermarket and gift shop. It's my must-visit stop every time I'm in town.

What are your favorite things to do in Lancaster, Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! You can learn more about the surrounding area by taking a tour of Amish Country with one of the acclaimed tour companies in the area. If you're planning a stay here, the Lancaster Arts Hotel is a unique and historic inn only minutes from the train station.