Lancaster, PA is one of those rare places that truly gets families… and their dining scene is proof of that.
Most towns and areas have a handful of kid-friendly restaurants. Lancaster has an entire lineup of fun places to eat that go way beyond a basic kids menu.
Restaurants with playgrounds, retro arcades, train cars, magic shows, duck ponds, and ice cream rolled right in front of you.
This list gives you 19+ fun places to eat in Lancaster PA… you might need to add a day to your trip just to try them all!
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.
Your kids will be excited before you even walk through the door at DJ’s Taste of the 50s.
Outside there are fun photo cutouts and an old school telephone booth they’ll want to stop at immediately.
Inside the retro diner vibe is the real deal… jukebox music, classic counter seating, and kids’ meals served in cute little car cutouts.
It’s mostly breakfast and lunch but dinner is served Thursday through Saturday.
What Kids Love
- The cool retro diner vibe with fun décor and jukebox music.
- Vintage phone booth outside and cutout photo ops for silly pictures.
- Kid’s meals arrive in a cute 3D car plate.
What Adults Love
- Nostalgic 1950s vibe that’s fun for all ages.
- Enjoy classic diner favorites like giant omelets, fresh biscuits and gravy, and classic burgers!
- Friendly service that makes families feel welcome.
Location and Hours
Address: 2410 Old Philadelphia Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602
Hours:
Tuesday + Wednesday, 8 am- 2 pm
Thursday + Friday, 8 am – 7 pm
Saturday, 11 am – 5 pm
Closed: Sunday/Monday
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 one of the best breakfast stops in the Lancaster area for families.
The coffee is delicious and the menu is as locally sourced as possible, which you can actually taste.
Inside this Strasburg, PA gem, there’s a kids’ nook with a pretend barista station, books and activities to keep little ones busy while you eat.
Head outside and across the parking lot and there’s a large playground with a big grassy area where kids can run around after. It checks every box for a family meal.
Restaurants with playgrounds like this make the day feel easy… now you can fill the rest of the day with some cool things to do in Lancaster PA.
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 barista station, books and activities
- The outdoor playground right on the property for post-meal fun.
- Storytime events throughout the year
What Adults Love
- Delicious, locally sourced 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 you enjoy your meal.
Location and Hours
Address: 141 E Main St, Strasburg, PA 17579
Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 7 am – 3 pm
Sunday Brunch, 8 am – 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 laid-back Lancaster coffee shop with a small play corner that keeps little ones busy while you grab breakfast or lunch.
Kids can sit at a tiny table and play pretend barista while you actually enjoy your coffee… which honestly is a win for everyone.
What Kids Love
- The play corner with kid-sized seating and pretend barista equipment.
- Simple and tasty grab-and-go kid-friendly snacks.
What Adults Love
- Great coffee and a casual, welcoming vibe.
- The perfect place for a quick coffee stop or an easy breakfast.
Location and Hours
Address: 398 Harrisburg Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603
Hours:
Monday to Friday, 7 am to 4 pm
Saturday + Sunday 7 am – 2 pm
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 more than just a somewhere to stop for a meal… it’s a full afternoon out.
The restaurant itself has a model train running along the ceiling, which kids notice the second they walk in.
Outside there’s a farm-themed playground and a small animal farm where kids can get up close with animals.
On weekends they often have seasonal train rides too!
The food is classic Pennsylvania comfort food done well, and the Milkhouse ice cream is the obvious way to end the visit. This is a working dairy farm so the ingredients are as fresh as it gets.
Want even more family fun on a farm? Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is a must-visit in Lancaster, read our guide… Cherry Crest Adventure Farm Guide
What Kids Love
- The outdoor playground with farm themed structures and tunnels to explore.
- The petting zoo with friendly farm animals.
- Farm-fresh homemade ice cream for dessert.
What Adults Love
- The relaxed atmosphere where kids can safely play outside.
- Farm-to-table ingredients at budget friendly prices.
- The option to grab fresh meat and dairy products from the on-site market to take home.
Location and Hours
Address: 2900 Oregon Pike, Lititz, PA 17543
Hours: Daily, 7 am – 9 pm
Cafe 1832
Watch the Strasburg trains come and go from Café 1832. (photo credit: Café 1832)
Café 1832 is located right at the Strasburg Rail Road station, and for train-loving kids it doesn’t get much better.
There are a few seats inside with views straight out over the train yard where your kids will be glued to the window watching for the trains pulling out.
The food is simple, sandwiches and basic lunch fare, but that’s not why you’re here.
Right behind the cafe there’s a small themed train playground, and it is walkable to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
What Kids Love
- Watching the vintage steam trains pulling in.
- Exploring the Strasburg Depot, General Store and Toy Store
- The easy kid-friendly menu options.
What Adults Love
- A unique, historic setting with great views of the Strasburg Rail Road.
- Easy comfort food with a modern twist that’s satisfying for the whole family.
- Walkable to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Location and Hours
Address: 301 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 9 am – 2 pm
Friday, 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday, 11 am – 6 pm
Sunday, 11 am – 4 pm
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 is one of the most fun places to eat in Lancaster PA!
Half vintage bowling alley, half retro arcade, all inside a beautifully restored 1920s armory downtown.
The arcade has over 40 vintage games and most only cost a quarter or two, so $5 goes a surprisingly long way. The bowling is boutique six lanes and worth booking ahead.
During nice weather they open up an outdoor games area that gets busy on weekends.
The food and cocktails at Decades go way beyond your standard arcade fare so come hungry.
Note: Decades is 21 and over after 8:30 pm
What Kids Love
- A cool mix of vintage arcade and video games
- Bowling lanes for a little friendly competition.
- Kid-friendly menu options that go beyond the basics.
What Adults Love
- The classic arcade games that bring back memories.
- An elevated menu that goes beyond the basics.
- 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 + Thursday, 4 pm – 12 am
Friday + Saturday, 12 pm – 1 am
Sunday, 12 pm – 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 is a solid family dinner spot with indoor and outdoor seating, but the real draw is what’s right next door… Pelvo’s Putt-Putt mini golf course.
Grab dinner then let the kids play a round, or do it the other way around. The menu has burgers, daily specials, and a good drinks list for adults.
What Kids Love
- Pelvo’s 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 that’s 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 – 10 pm
Friday, 4 pm – 11 pm
Saturday, 12 pm – 11 pm
Sunday, 12 pm – 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)
Casey Jones’ is a must visit for train lovers in the Lancaster area and a dining experience unlike any other.
Hop aboard Casey Jones’ Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal inside an authentic train car!
The menu serves up classic American favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and more, making it easy to find something for everyone.
Outside the restaurant there are animals to feed and pet, and Amish buggy rides leave right from the parking lot.
The restaurant sits on the property at the Red Caboose Motel, which is worth walking around even if you’re just stopping for a meal… rows of real cabooses converted into guest rooms, a themed gift shop, and a vibe that makes the whole stop feel like an experience.
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 train theme gift shop and animals to feed outside.
What Adults Love
- A unique, memorable dining experience that’s 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 – 8 pm
Friday and Saturday, 7:30 am – 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 great family dinner option with a relaxed brewery downstairs and a games loft upstairs the whole family can enjoy together.
Think arcade games, skee-ball, air hockey and cornhole while you enjoy a cold craft beer.
The food is solid… wings, burgers, shareable apps.
What Kids Love
- The upstairs loft 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 Thursday, 11:30 am – 10 pm
Friday + Saturday, 11:30 – 11 pm
Sunday, 11:30 pm – 9 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 may be tucked into a strip mall but don’t let that fool you… the food is fresh, flavorful and made in house.
Little kids will love the cozy play corner with a couch and pretend kitchen while you work through gyros, souvlaki and hummus. The pita pizza is always a hit with kids.
What Kids Love
- The cozy kid’s 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 – 2 pm, 4 pm – 8 pm
Friday, 11 am – 2 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm
Saturday, 11 am – 9 pm
Sunday, 11 am – 8 pm
Reservations: Not required.
Want to turn your evening in into an overnight? Your kids will go crazy for the Cartoon Network Hotel in Lancaster, PA.
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!
Magic & Wonder is a full dinner show… magic, comedy and music all wrapped into one.
You can do the dinner and show combo or just buy tickets for the performance, which changes seasonally.
If you go the dinner route, know that you arrive early before the show for a classic PA buffet … ham, green beans, mashed potatoes.
If your kids have shorter attention spans, show-only tickets might be the smarter call. The show itself is entertaining for all ages.
What Kids Love
- The magic show filled with illusions, tricks, jokes and surprises.
- A fun, interactive experience that makes dinner an adventure.
- Kid-friendly menu options beyond the buffet.
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.
If you like doing unusual things with your family, you’ll love this list of Thrilling Things to Do in the Lancaster Area.
Huckleberry's Restaurant at the Fulton Steamboat Inn
Dinner with a side of mutiny...
The Fulton Steamboat Inn is one of the coolest places to stay in Lancaster.
Imagine a Victorian steamboat you can actually sleep in… but you don’t have to be a guest to eat here.
Huckleberry’s Restaurant located inside the hotel serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and the whole theme is easy and cheesy for kids.
Outside there’s a large ship playground and a duck and koi pond where kids can feed the ducks… grab duck food from the gift shop on your way in.
Mini golf at Lost Treasure Golf is right across the street, making this an easy dinner-and-activity combo.
On Friday and Saturday evenings from March through December there’s live music, and kids 12 and under get a free ice cream sundae when wearing the Jr. First Mate’s hat with an adult meal purchase.
What Kids Love
- The large ship playground right on the property
- Feeding the ducks and koi at the pond… grab duck food from the gift shop
- Free ice cream sundae with the Jr. First Mate’s hat (kids 12 and under)
- Mini golf at Lost Treasure Golf right across the street
What Adults Love
- Farm-to-table Lancaster County ingredients on a classic American menu
- Live music Friday and Saturday evenings March through December
- The Victorian steamboat theme makes it fun for the whole table
Location and Hours
Address: 1 Hartman Bridge Rd, Lancaster, PA 17602
Hours: Daily, 7:30 am – 9 pm
Reservations: Required suggested during peak times
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Lancaster
Rolled Cold Creamery
Try a new way to eat ice cream at Rolled Cold Creamery in downtown Lancaster.
Watching your ice cream get made at Rolled Cold Creamery is honestly as fun as eating it.
They spread the (99% lactose-free) liquid base on a freezing cold pan, mix in your toppings, and roll it into perfect spirals right in front of you!
The new location on Route 30 is about three times bigger than the old downtown spot with way more seating, and they’ve added coffee, sandwiches and salads so it works as more than just a dessert stop.
What Kids Love
- Watching their ice cream get made and 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: 2495 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12 – 10 pm
Sunday, Closed
Rachel’s Cafe and Creperie
Kids go crazy for the mouth-watering crepes at Rachel's Cafe and Creperie.
Rachel’s Café 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, there’s 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 Saturday, 8 am – 3 pm
Closed Sundays
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 (and you) will love watching Stroopies being made right in the shop.
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 can’t 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 – 9 pm
Friday + Saturday, 9 am – 10 pm
Sunday, 1 pm – 9 pm
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 aren’t just tasty—they’re 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 that’s 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 – 8 pm
Friday + Saturday, 9 am – 9 pm
Sunday, 12 pm – 6 pm
Hours: (Granite Run)
Monday to Saturday, 9 am – 8 pm
Sunday, 12 pm – 6 pm
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. It’s 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:
Monday to Friday, 2 – 9 pm
Saturday + Sunday, 12 – 9 pm
Visit the Best Places to Eat in Lancaster PA to Play
There’s no shortage of fun places to eat in Lancaster PA with kids… from watching ice cream get rolled at Rolled Cold Creamery, feeding ducks before dinner at Huckleberry’s, or letting the kids bowl while you order cocktails at Decades.
The food is just part of the fun here.
Spending a few days in town?
Our 4-day Lancaster Itinerary is full of family fun you’ll want to know about!
