Our recent family trip to Lancaster, PA, was filled with exciting activities, delicious food, and wonderful memories. Staying at the Marriott at Penn Square, located conveniently in downtown Lancaster, was the perfect choice for our family. Being within walking distance to top-rated restaurants and bars made our stay even more enjoyable.
Dining at Plough
Our first stop upon arrival was Plough, conveniently located in our hotel. The warm and welcoming ambiance immediately made us feel at home, and our waitress, Jenny, was extremely friendly and accommodating. We began our meal with the Housemade Focaccia, served with sea salt, olive oil, and a delightful strawberry & rosemary butter. This delicious starter set the tone for an amazing dining experience.
For our entrees, we chose the Rock Shrimp & Sausage Spaghetti with pea pesto, golden raisins, lemon, chili oil, and breadcrumbs. The flavors were vibrant and perfectly balanced, and the presentation was beautiful. We also enjoyed the Garlic Gnocchi, which was a hit with the kids. To complement our meal, we had the Queen Bee cocktail, made with Nolet’s gin, Luxardo Maraschino liqueur, local honey, fresh-squeezed lemon, orange bitters, and Luxardo cherry juice. The drink was refreshing and perfectly mixed.
The kids had their own delicious meals, with options like chicken fingers, fresh pasta, and grilled cheese. The exposed kitchen added a touch of entertainment for the kids while they (patiently) waited for their food.
Touring the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Factory
Our next adventure took us to the historic Julius Sturgis Pretzel Factory in Lititz, PA. Stepping into one of the oldest pretzel factories was like taking a step back in time. We embarked on a fascinating tour that revealed the rich history of pretzel-making and the origins of this beloved snack. The experience was not only educational but also interactive, as we got hands-on experience rolling and twisting our own pretzels.
The tour showcased the original ovens and extrusion machines used to make pretzels, giving us a glimpse into the traditional methods of pretzel production. It was intriguing to see how much care and craftsmanship went into each pretzel, and our guide shared many interesting facts about the history and cultural significance of pretzels.
Of course, the highlight of the tour was tasting the pretzels. We had the opportunity to try both the bagged hard pretzels and the delicious soft pretzels at the end of the tour. The soft pretzels were a particular hit with our family, and we all agreed that we could easily eat more of them!
Lunch with a View at The Exchange
One of the highlights of our trip was enjoying lunch at The Exchange, a fantastic spot located on the 12th-story rooftop of our hotel. The panoramic views of Lancaster from this vantage point were absolutely breathtaking, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the scenery while enjoying a delicious meal.
We decided to split a Black Pepper Bacon, Egg, & Cheese Pizza, which was topped with provolone, mozzarella, parmesan, and everything spice. The combination of flavors was delightful and made for a unique and satisfying lunch option.
To complement our meal, we sampled a variety of their creative and refreshing drinks. The Porch Swing Sipper was a standout with its light and refreshing notes of honeydew melon and lemongrass tea. The Espresso Martini provided a rich and robust coffee flavor that was perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up. For a non-alcoholic option, we enjoyed the NO-ijto, which featured a refreshing blend of cucumber, mint, and lime. Each drink was expertly crafted and added a special touch to our dining experience.
While we were there, the kids were thrilled to see Jenny again, who they remembered from Plough. She immediately served the kiddos chocolate milk, making them feel right at home. Her warm welcome and attentiveness added an extra layer of enjoyment to our meal.
Sweet Treats at Fox Meadow Creamery
Our next delightful stop was Fox Meadow Creamery at 2475 W Main Street, Ephrata, PA. As we arrived, we noticed the line wrapping around the building, a clear sign that this creamery is a beloved hotspot for both locals and visitors. The anticipation built as we approached the counter, ready to indulge in some of the best ice cream Lancaster County has to offer.
We decided to try a variety of flavors, including raspberry cheesecake, chocolate, vanilla, and s’mores. Each scoop was creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor, making it a memorable treat for everyone in our family. The creamery also boasted a beautiful outdoor seating area with a charming wrap-around porch, providing plenty of space to enjoy our ice cream while soaking in the scenic views.
The kids were thrilled to discover a playground and a wooden tractor overlooking the farm. It was the perfect setting for them to play and explore while we savored our sweet treats. The picturesque landscape added to the overall experience, making it a relaxing and enjoyable visit.
Before leaving, we made sure to pick out our favorite flavors to bring home and share with the rest of our family. Fox Meadow Creamery not only satisfied our sweet tooth but also provided a lovely backdrop for some quality family time. If you’re ever in the area, this creamery is a must-visit for an unforgettable ice cream experience.
A Magical Day at Dutch Wonderland
One of the most anticipated parts of our trip for the kids was our visit to Dutch Wonderland, a charming theme park perfectly suited for our children’s ages (1, 2, 3, and 5). The excitement was palpable as we arrived, with the kids buzzing about the fun activities ahead.
The park didn’t disappoint. The kids absolutely loved the train ride that toured the entire park, offering a wonderful overview of all the attractions. The tea cups and rocket ships were a big hit as well, with lots of giggles and squeals of delight as they spun and soared. These rides were just thrilling enough to keep our little ones entertained without being overwhelming.
A highlight of our visit was the walk-through dinosaur exhibit, which was an instant favorite for our oldest, who has a deep fascination with dinosaurs. The lifelike models and interactive displays captured his imagination, making it an educational and fun experience.
Since it was an extremely hot day, we decided to cool down with some refreshing treats from Rita’s Water Ice. The cold, fruity flavors were a perfect way to beat the heat and gave us a nice break before heading back to the hotel.
🎟️ Ticket prices for Dutch Wonderland vary, and the great news for parents is that children 2 and under get in for free, making it an affordable family outing.
Our day at Dutch Wonderland was everything we had hoped for and more. It provided the perfect blend of excitement, learning, and family fun, creating memories that we’ll cherish for years to come.
Unwinding at Drift Spa: The Perfect End to a Family Weekend
After a whirlwind of family fun, it was finally time for mom to unwind and refresh at the Drift Spa located within the Marriott. The relaxing facial I received was the perfect way to rejuvenate after our busy adventures. The serene environment and expert care left me feeling completely refreshed and on cloud nine, ready to take on whatever family fun came next.
A Perfect Family Getaway
Overall, our family had an amazing time in Lancaster, PA. From delicious meals and fascinating tours to fun-filled amusement park visits and serene spa experiences, Lancaster proved to be an ideal spot for a long weekend. Both adults and kids alike enjoyed every moment, and we highly recommend it to any family looking for a memorable and enjoyable getaway.