Lancaster, PA, is packed with family-friendly dining spots that turn any meal into an adventure.
Whether your kids want to play in a pretend cafรฉ, burn off some energy on a playground, or dive into fun at an arcade, these fun places to eat in Lancaster PA have it all.
Weโve found the best restaurants where kids can play and parents can actually relax.
From breakfast spots with indoor play areas to lunch joints with mini-golf and trains, these 19 places make dining out in Lancaster an easy win for the whole family.
Kids still full of energy? Lancaster is more than just good eats! Check out The Most Thrilling Things to Do in Lancaster.
Kid-Approved Breakfast Places in Lancaster PA
DJ's Taste of the 50's
Families come for the food but stay for the photo ops at DJ's Taste of the 50s.
Step back in time at DJโs Taste of the 50s, where the whole family can enjoy a retro dining experience.
This classic 1950s-themed diner is filled with fun. From jukebox tunes to classic counter seating, this restaurant is a memorable spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
The menu is packed with kid-friendly options like pancakes, chicken tenders, burgers, and milkshakes, while adults can enjoy delicious diner classics.
What Kids Love
- The cool retro diner vibe with fun dรฉcor and jukebox music.
- Vintage phone booth outside and cutout photo ops for silly pictures.
- Kidโs meals arrive in a cute 3D car plate.
What Adults Love
- Nostalgic 1950s atmosphere thatโs fun for all ages.
- Enjoy delicious diner favorites like fluffy omelets, comforting biscuits and gravy, and mouthwatering burgers!
- Friendly service that makes families feel welcome.
Location and Hours
Address: 2410 Old Philadelphia Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602
Hours:
Tuesday and Wednesday, 7 am โ 3 pm
Thursday to Saturday, 7 am โ 7 pm
Sunday, Closed
Reservations: Not required, but itโs a popular spot, so arrive early!
Speckled Hen Coffee
The indoor mini barista station at the Speckled Hen keeps little ones busy while you enjoy your food.
Speckled Hen Coffee is a go-to breakfast and lunch spot for families, offering a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of fun for kids.
Inside, little ones can play in a dedicated area with a pretend cafรฉ, books, and activities, while outside, theyโll love running around the on-site playground.
Meanwhile, parents can enjoy a fresh, farm-to-table meal, knowing the whole family is having a great time.
Catch a storytime while enjoying a picnic at the playground at Speckled Hen Coffee. (photo credit: Speckled Hen Coffee)
What Kids Love
- The indoor pretend cafรฉ and play area.
- Books, activities, and puzzles to keep them entertained.
- The outdoor playground right on the property for post-meal fun.
What Adults Love
- Delicious, locally sourced breakfast dishes made with fresh ingredients.
- The on-site provisions store is perfect for taking home locally sourced goodies like jams and coffee.
- A relaxed setting where kids can play while parents enjoy their meal.
Location and Hours
Address: 141 E Main St, Strasburg, PA 17579
Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 7 am โ 3 pm
Sunday Brunch, 8 am โ 2 pm
Reservations: Not required, but arriving early on weekends is a good idea. You can even place your order ahead, to save time once you arrive.
Mean Cup
Keeping little hands entertained at the Mean Cup in Lancaster, PA.
Mean Cup in Lancaster, PA, is a hidden gem for families, offering more than just great coffee.
With a small play area featuring kid-sized seating and pretend barista equipment, itโs a fun spot for little ones to play while parents enjoy their morning brew.
The laid-back atmosphere and excellent coffee make this cafรฉ a favorite for families who want a quick, easy breakfast or lunch.
What Kids Love
- The play corner with kid-sized seating and pretend barista equipment.
- Fun, creative space where they can pretend play.
- Simple and tasty grab-and-go kid-friendly snacks.
What Adults Love
- Top-notch coffee and a casual, welcoming vibe.
- The perfect place for a quick coffee stop or an easy breakfast.
- The fun element of watching kids play barista while you relax.
Location and Hours
Address: 398 Harrisburg Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603
Hours:
Daily 7 am to 4 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Where to Have a Fun Lunch in Lancaster PA
Oregon Dairy Restaurant
Oregon Dairy is known for its food, fun, and delicious, fresh ice cream.
Oregon Dairy is a must-visit for families, where the fun goes way beyond the meal.
After you enjoy your lunchโwhether from the ร la carte menu or the extensive buffetโtake the kids to the outdoor playground and let them say hello to the animals at the petting zoo.
And, of course, no visit is complete without stopping by the Milkhouse Ice Cream Shoppe for fresh, homemade ice cream. Itโs the perfect treat to round out a fun family outing!
Want even more family fun on a farm? Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is a must-visit in Lancasterโread our complete guide!
What Kids Love
- The outdoor playground with a variety of fun features and things to explore.
- The petting zoo with friendly farm animals.
- Farm-fresh ice cream to enjoy for dessert.
What Adults Love
- The relaxed atmosphere where kids can safely play outside.
- Farm-to-table ingredients that make each dish stand out.
- The option to grab fresh dairy products from the on-site market to take home.
Location and Hours
Address: 2900 Oregon Pike, Lititz, PA 17543
Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 6 am โ 8 pm
Sunday, 7 am โ 2 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Cafe 1832
Watch the Strasburg trains come and go from Cafรฉ 1832. (photo credit: Cafรฉ 1832)
At Cafรฉ 1832, lunch comes with a side of family fun. Located on the Strasburg Rail Road, this cafรฉ offers front-row views of all the train activity at the station.
Itโs just steps from nearby attractions like the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, Shops at Strasburg and the Choo Choo Barn, making it the perfect stop all in one stop.
The menu features casual, concession-style offerings like burgers, fries and sandwichesโperfect for a quick, easy meal that keeps everyone happy.
What Kids Love
- Watching the vintage steam trains pass by.
- Exploring the Strasburg Depot, General Store and Toy Store
- Hearty, kid-friendly menu options.
What Adults Love
- A unique, scenic setting with great views of Strasburg Rail Road.
- Comfort food with a modern twist thatโs satisfying for the whole family.
- A family-friendly environment that keeps everyone entertained.
Location and Hours
Address: 301 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 9 am โ 3 pm
Friday to Sunday, 9 am โ 6:30 pm
Reservations: First come, first serve table seating
Decades
Bowling, vintage arcade games and elevated bar food can be found at Decades in downtown Lancaster, PA. (photo credit: Decades)
Decades in downtown Lancaster isnโt your average arcade and bowling alleyโitโs a full-on retro experience that makes lunch or dinner an event.
Located in a beautifully restored 1920s armory, Decades offers a vibrant mix of over 40 vintage arcade games like Frogger, skee-ball, and Mario Kart, alongside a boutique six-lane bowling alley.
With a full-service restaurant, their menu is anything but standard arcade foodโexpect elevated pub favorites like shareable apps, creative sandwiches, and even vegan and gluten-free options.
Note: Decades is 21 and over after 8:30 pm
What Kids Love
- The vintage arcade games that have stood the test of time.
- Bowling lanes for a little friendly competition.
- Kid-friendly menu options that go beyond the basics.
What Adults Love
- The nostalgic arcade games that bring back memories.
- An elevated menu with comfort food classics done right.
- A lively, family-friendly vibe where kids can be entertained while parents hang out.
Location and Hours
Address: 438 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Hours:
Wednesday and Thursday, 4 pm โ 12 am
Friday and Saturday, 12 pm โ1 am
Sunday, 12 pm โ 12 am
Reservations: Recommended for bowling but not required for dining.
Where to Play and Eat Dinner in Lancaster PA
Stoner Grille
You can enjoy a round at Pelvo's Putt Putt, only steps away from Stoner Grille.
Stoner Grille offers both cozy indoor seating and a beautiful outdoor patio, making it a versatile choice for family dinners.
Located at Stoner Commons, itโs only steps away from Pelvoโs Putt-Putt mini golf course, where kids can have fun before or after the meal.
With its relaxed atmosphere and a menu offering everything from burgers to more refined daily specials, itโs the perfect spot for a casual family night out with a little extra entertainment on the side.
What Kids Love
- Pelvoโs Putt-Putt mini golf course next door
- Kid-friendly menu options like pizza and burgers.
- A casual laid-back atmosphere where they can relax after playing.
What Adults Love
- A relaxed, family-friendly environment thatโs great for unwinding.
- A diverse menu with fresh, high-quality dishes for adults.
- Enjoying a glass of wine or craft beer while the kids play nearby.
Location and Hours
Address: 605 Granite Run Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601
Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday, 4:30 pm โ 10 pm
Friday, 4 pm- 11 pm
Saturday, 12 pm โ 11 pm
Sunday, 12 pm โ 7 pm
Reservations: Recommended for weekends.
Casey Jones' Restaurant
A one-of-a one-of-a-kind dining experience at Casey Jones' Restaurant. (photo credit: Casey Jones' Restaurant)
For a dining experience unlike any other, hop aboard Casey Jones’ Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal inside an authentic train car!
Located at the Red Caboose Motel, this unique spot is a hit with kids who love the novelty of dining on a real train.
The menu serves up classic American favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and more, making it easy to find something for everyone.
With its fun, nostalgic atmosphere, itโs a memorable stop for families looking for something a little different.
What Kids Love
- Dining on a real train car, which feels like an adventure.
- Kid-friendly menu options like mac and cheese and chicken tenders.
- The novelty of eating inside an old-fashioned train.
What Adults Love
- A unique, memorable dining experience thatโs fun for the whole family.
- Classic American dishes that are filling and familiar.
- The historical charm of the train car setting.
Location and Hours
Address: 312 Paradise Ln, Ronks, PA 17572
Hours:
Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 am โ 8 pm
Friday and Saturday, 7:30 am โ 9 pm
Reservations: Recommended, especially for large groups.
Spring House Brewing Company
The upstairs games loft at Spring House Brewing Company. (photo credit: Spring House Brewing Company0
Spring House Brewing Company is a lively spot with something for the whole family.
While parents can relax with a local craft beer and enjoy hearty pub-style food, the whole family can head up to the upstairs loft together for arcade games and cornhole.
The fun, casual atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Lancaster, with a menu full of crowd-pleasers like burgers, wings, and shareable appetizers.
What Kids Love
- The upstairs arcade with games to keep them entertained.
- Ski-ball, air-hockey, cornhole and more!
- Kid-friendly menu items like burgers and fries.
What Adults Love
- A laid-back brewery atmosphere with a wide selection of local craft beers.
- Hearty, delicious pub food that goes beyond the basics.
- The chance to relax while the kids have fun.
Location and Hours
Address: 209 Hazel Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 11:30 am โ 10 pm
Sunday, 11:30 pm โ 8 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Freshly Greek
Hang out awhile and let the kids play at Freshly Greek in Lancaster, PA. (photo credit: Freshly Greek)
Freshly Greek might be tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, but this spot is all about fresh, locally sourced Mediterranean dishes.
Younger kids will love the cozy play area with a couch and pretend kitchen, keeping them entertained while parents dig into flavorful gyros, souvlaki, and other house-made favorites.
And for the little ones, the pita pizza is always a winner!
What Kids Love
- The cozy kidโs corner with a couch and pretend kitchen for fun play.
- Kid-friendly portions of Greek favorites like pita and hummus.
- A casual, relaxed vibe that makes dining out easy for families.
What Adults Love
- Fresh, flavorful Greek dishes that are both healthy and delicious.
- The relaxing atmosphere where kids can play and adults can unwind.
- A diverse menu with plenty of vegetarian and healthy options.
Location and Hours
Address: 2355 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, PA, 17601
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 11 am โ 2 pm, 4 pm- 8 pm
Friday, 11 am โ 2 pm, 4 pm โ 9 pm
Saturday, 11 am โ 9 pm
Sunday, 11 am- 8 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater
Enjoy dinner and a show at Magic and Wonder Dinner Theater.
Looking for a fun family night out in Lancaster? Magic & Wonder Dinner Theater is a great pick!
The meal is buffet-style, with local classics like ham, green beans, salad, and potatoes, but if your kids want something different, they can order from a dedicated kids’ menu.
Wine, beer, and cocktails are available for grown-ups to purchase.
You can choose the dinner and show combo or just grab tickets for the performance, which changes seasonally and is packed with illusions, comedy, and music.
Itโs a fun mix of food and entertainment, keeping everyoneโs attention from start to finish.
What Kids Love
- The magic show filled with illusions, tricks, and surprises.
- A fun, interactive experience that makes dinner an adventure.
- Kid-friendly menu options and themed entertainment.
What Adults Love
- The blend of entertainment and dinner, making it a unique night out.
- A family-friendly atmosphere that keeps everyone engaged.
- A hassle-free way to enjoy dinner and a show in one place.
Location and Hours
Address: 3065 Lincoln Hwy E, Paradise, PA 17562
Hours: Showtimes vary, check the website for schedule.
Reservations: Required in advance.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Lancaster
Rolled Cold Creamery
Try a new way to eat ice cream at Rolled Cold Creamery in downtown Lancaster.
At Rolled Cold Creamery in downtown Lancaster, kids get to watch their ice cream made fresh right in front of them!
The liquid base is spread on an icy cold pan, mixed with fun toppings like cookies or fruit, and then rolled into perfect spirals.
With flavors like cookies and cream or seasonal specials, plus toppings like sprinkles and gummy bears, the whole family will enjoy both a treat and a fun experience.
What Kids Love
- Watching their ice cream get rolled up right before their eyes.
- The fun toppings and unique flavors to choose from.
- The interactive experience of seeing their treat created from start to finish.
What Adults Love
- All of the ice cream is 99% lactose-free.
- A great variety of creative flavor combinations.
- The novelty of rolled ice cream makes it a fun stop for the whole family.
Location and Hours
Address: 24 East Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17602
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 11 am โ 10 pm
Friday to Saturday, 11 am โ 11 pm
Sunday, Closed
Reservations: Not required.
Rachelโs Cafe and Creperie
Kids go crazy for the mouth-watering crepes at Rachel's Cafe and Creperie.
Rachelโs Cafรฉ and Creperie is a cozy, local Lancaster favorite offering a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes. With choices like Nutella-filled crepes or savory ham and cheese, thereโs something for everyone.
The casual, welcoming vibe makes it an excellent option for families, and during the warmer months, the outdoor seating is perfect for parents with kids who need a little extra space to move around while you enjoy your meal.
What Kids Love
- Sweet crepes packed with chocolate, fruit, and other delicious toppings.
- The fun variety of flavors makes choosing a treat exciting.
- The friendly, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families.
What Adults Love
- Both sweet and savory crepes make it easy to find something everyone likes.
- The laid-back homey vibe is perfect for a relaxed stop in the middle of the day.
- The quality of the ingredients makes each crepe fresh and flavorful.
Location and Hours
Address: 201 W. Walnut Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday, 8 am โ 3 pm
Friday, 8 am โ 8 pm
Saturday and Sunday, 8 am โ 3 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Lancaster Sweet Shoppe
Visit Lancaster Sweet Shoppe for an old-fashioned candy shopping experience. (photo credit: Lancaster Sweet Shoppe)
For those with a sweet tooth, Lancaster Sweet Shoppe in downtown Lancaster is a must-visit.
Specializing in homemade chocolates, fudge, ice cream and Stroopies (Dutch caramel waffle cookies), this local shop is a great spot to grab a sweet treat.
Kids will love picking out candies and trying fresh Stroopies, while adults appreciate the local craftsmanship and variety of sweets.
What Kids Love
- The wide selection of homemade chocolates, candies and ice cream to choose from.
- Watching Stroopies being made in the shop.
- The chance to try unique local treats they canโt find anywhere else.
What Adults Love
- High-quality, handmade chocolates, ice cream and sweet treats.
- The unique local products like Stroopies, perfect for gifts or take-home treats.
- A charming, small-town vintage feel with a focus on craftsmanship.
Location and Hours
Address: 141 N Duke St, Lancaster, PA 17602
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 9 am โ 9 pm
Friday and Saturday, 9 am โ 10 pm
Sunday, 1 pm โ 9 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Lancaster Cupcake
Lancaster Cupcake is known for its flavors and cupcake creations. (photo credit: Lancaster Cupcake)
Lancaster Cupcake is a must-stop for cupcake lovers of all ages, offering a fun, gourmet experience.
Known for their creative and over-the-top designs, these cupcakes arenโt just tastyโtheyโre a visual treat, too!
Kids love picking out their favorite flavors and toppings, while parents appreciate each cupcake’s high quality and freshness.
What Kids Love
- The wide range of cupcake flavors and themes with fun toppings like sprinkles and candy.
- The colorful, eye-catching designs of each cupcake.
- The excitement of choosing their own cupcake from so many choices.
What Adults Love
- The creative flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients.
- A fun, easy stop for a sweet treat thatโs perfect for any occasion.
- The option to take cupcakes home for later or as a gift.
Location and Hours
Address: 24 W Orange St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Address: 260 Granite Run Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601
Hours: (Orange St)
Monday to Thursday, 9 am โ 8 pm
Friday, 9 am โ 10 pm
Saturday, 9 am โ 9 pm
Sunday, 12 pm โ 6 pm
Hours: (Granite Run)
Monday to Saturday, 9 am โ 8 pm
Sunday, 12 pm โ 6 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Splits and Giggles
Year-round, delicious ice cream at Splits and Giggles in Lancaster, PA. (photo credit: Splits and Giggles)
Splits and Giggles is a charming little ice cream parlor with indoor and outdoor seating perfect for a casual stop after a long day.
The fun, retro atmosphere and friendly service make it a hit with kids, while the variety of ice cream flavors and fun sundaes will please everyone. Itโs a great place to end your Lancaster day on a sweet note.
What Kids Love
- The wide variety of ice cream flavors to choose from.
- Fun sundaes piled high with toppings.
- The playful, old-fashioned ice cream shop atmosphere.
What Adults Love
- Nostalgic vibes and classic ice cream treats that never go out of style.
- Generous portion sizes and delicious flavors.
- The heated outdoor seating during the colder months.
Location and Hours
Address: 500 W Lemon St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Hours:
Daily, 2 pm โ 9 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Visit the Best Places to Eat in Lancaster PA to Play
Dining out in Lancaster with kids isnโt just about grabbing a mealโitโs about making family memories.
Whether your little ones are pretending to be baristas at Mean Cup, burning off energy on Oregon Dairyโs playground, or watching their ice cream get rolled up at Rolled Cold Creamery, Lancasterโs dining spots offer more than just great food.
From playful breakfast cafรฉs to dinner shows and sweet treats, these kid-approved, parent-loved restaurants are the perfect way to add fun to your familyโs Lancaster adventure.
Spending a few days in town?
Our 4-day Lancaster Itinerary is full of family fun you’ll want to know about!
