Date Night Ideas in Lancaster, PA: Over 50 Fun, Romantic & Unique Things to Do
Use this list to start planning the perfect date night in Lancaster, PA. Whether you're wooing someone new or celebrating years of love, consider this your go-to date idea list! From artsy adventures to outdoor thrills and candlelit dinners, these ideas will help you make the most of your time together. If you like this list, follow me on Instagram @Uniquetravelgirl and on Facebook at Unique Lancaster Experiences
Conestoga Gardens BYOB Picnic
There are TWO ways to enjoy the gardens for date night or with someone special. Conestoga Gardens hosts a special Thursday date night picnic series—bring your own bottle and a cozy blanket. For just $10 admission per couple, you can spread out a picnic at twilight among lush plantings and soothing pond views. You can come on another date when they are open if Thursday doesn’t work for you. Get general admission tickets here or explore becoming a member for classes and more!
2. International Food Tour - For Foodie Couples!
Spice up date night with a culinary adventure through Lancaster’s diverse food scene. On an International Food Tour, you and your partner will sample generous portions from 6 culturally rich restaurants, meet chefs, and hear the stories behind the dishes. From savory Middle Eastern wraps to fragrant Himalayan specialties, it’s a shared experience that’s flavorful, fun, and perfect for couples who love trying new things.
3. Lancaster City Scavenger Hunt
Turn date night into an adventure! Explore hidden corners of downtown Lancaster with a Scavenger Hunt designed to challenge your teamwork and sense of fun. Follow clever clues, discover local landmarks, and compete for bragging rights. It’s the perfect way to laugh, bond, and see the city from a whole new perspective—ideal for couples who love playful competition.
4. Games at Mayhem Bookstore & Café + Dinner at Norbu
For a cozy, low-pressure date, start the evening at Mayhem Bookstore & Café, where you can grab a drink, browse books, and dive into their extensive library of board games. After a few rounds of friendly competition, head to Norbu, a local Nepali and Bhutanese restaurant, for comforting momos (dumplings) and aromatic curries. It’s the kind of date that feels relaxed, intimate, and full of personality.
5. Lancaster Tours and Experiences
Still searching for the right way to spend an evening with the person you love, family, or friends. Check out these options below. You can always book now and pay later. Plus, these are HIGHLY reviewed activities and tours in Lancaster, PA!
6. Outdoorsy Dates
Couples who sweat together stay together, right? Enjoy forested paths, river views, and the bonding that comes with outdoor adventure.
Lancaster is home to stunning trails like:
Lancaster Electric Bicycle Tour (May - September)
Rent an E-bike in Manhiem from Let's Roll and ride the Squahanna River Trail
Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve
Enola Low Grade Trail
Scooter Tour at Strasburg Scooters
Hop on a 50cc scooter and zoom through the countryside. Their Date Night Tour includes scenic back roads, covered bridges, and plenty of Instagram-worthy stops.
Date with the Amish Community
Spending a day exploring the Amish Countryside can make for a fun date. Visit the Kauffman Farm Stand and grab fresh produce, apple cider, and whoopie pies. Get tickets to have dinner with the Amish. Visit a family-owned farm and talk to the Amish directly, and learn about their lifestyle. Visit quaint villages like Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse.
Book a Couples Photo Shoot
Capture the moment and make lasting memories. Book a mini session with a local photographer like Eric Rodriguez. Choose from 5 romantic backdrops, including Amish Country or downtown. Customized to your interests and personality. The Creative Spaces studio even offers styled sets.
Visit the Wolf Sanctuary at Night
Yes, Lancaster has a Wolf Sanctuary! Their full moon events and guided tours are intimate, educational, and perfect for animal lovers.
11. Ziplining & Obstacle Courses at Refreshing Mountain
Get your adrenaline pumping with ziplines, a giant swing, or an aerial obstacle course. Refreshing Mountain offers couples packages that are both fun and a little daring.
12. Indoor Date Ideas Lancaster, PA
Live theater option in Lancaster County! Choose from:
Fulton Theatre (historic, Broadway-style
Prima Theatre (modern and intimate downtown Lancaster)
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre (dinner and a show in Lancaster County, PA)
Sight & Sound (faith-based high-quality productions)
13. Explore Local Museums
Spend quality time learning history and enjoying local art in a downtown Lancaster museum. Make it an interactive date night by gamifying your museum visits. Each museum boasts stunning architecture. Afterward, choose one of the great spots below to grab some great food.
Demuth Museum
Lancaster Art Museum
Stevens and Smith House
Phillips Art Museum (at Franklin and Marshall)
14. Romantic Restaurants for Date Night in Lancaster, PA
The Log Cabin Restaurant – Classic and cozy
Norbu– Authentic Nepali BOY favorite bottle
401 Prime – Modern steakhouse
Bistro Barberet – Upscale French
Proof of Lancaster – Wine, whiskey, and small plates
Casual Yet Fun:
Decades – Retro bowling + cocktails
Southern Market – Food hall with global flavors
The Exchange – Rooftop bar vibes
HIFI –Korean BBQ + Intimate Vinyl
Sign up for the Breakfast and History Tour. Hold hands, eat breakfast, and learn Lancaster’s History!
Escape Room Lancaster
Put your problem-solving (and communication!) to the test in an exciting 60-minute mission. Great for double dates, too. There are two Escape rooms located downtown in Lancaster.
Flowers + Bookstore = Cozy Afternoon
Stroll through Central Market Flowers and grab a fresh bouquet. Buy a unique gift for your special someone. Then head to a local bookstore downtown, such as Pocket Books, newly opened on Price Street.
Picnic at Columbia River Park
Pack a basket and head to Columbia Crossings River Trail Center. Watch boats, walk the trail, or just sit by the water.
Tour a Pretzel Bakery
Yes, Lancaster has the original Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. Twist your own pretzel and taste the difference. Salty date idea = sweet memories.
Bowling + Beers at Decades
A six-lane boutique bowling alley and retro arcade in downtown Lancaster? Yes, please. Decades is a date night home run. They occasionally offer a special menu with tacos or themed specialty drinks. Decades has a new outdoor bar with tasty cocktails.
Mini Golf Options
Water’s Edge offers two 18-hole courses — “Nature Course” and “Boat Course” — winding through waterfalls, ponds, gardens, and streams.
Village Greens features two scenic courses spread over 10+ acres, with landscaping, natural obstacles, and walking charm.
Why it’s great for a date: Romantic lighting + the sound of flowing water + lush landscaping = a serene, memorable evening. Also ideal if you want a charming, relaxing setting.
