We all associate the charming area of things to do in palmyra pa with chocolate bars, exciting roller coasters, and the delicious scent of cocoa wafting through the air. We’re not wrong either; Hershey is an amazing neighbor. But if you only focus on the large-scale attractions, you will definitely miss the calm allure and charming attractions of its sister town, Palmyra.
Think of Palmyra as your ‘intelligent, calm, and collected’ neighbor. The town is perfect for taking a breather, enjoy a delicious local meal uncovering some local treasures. Palmyra is laced with small town stories offering perfect small town respite and access to world-class attractions. Irrespective of the kind of getaway you’re planning, be it a family vacation, a couple’s getaway or a solo trip, you will find plenty of activities in Palmyra PA and in the gorgeous neighboring Lebanon Valley.
Key Takeaways:
Palmyra may be overlooked as a destination, but local parks, antique shops, and friendly small town vibes make it a wonderful getaway.
Palmyra as a jumping off point offers a stunning gateway for discovering the hidden treasures and major attractions of the Lebanon Valley.
To have a fulfilling day, make sure to include some of the best places to visit in Palmyra like having coffee at a cafe, enjoying a game at In The Net, and then venturing to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica for a fun-filled day.
While visiting the area, you should definitely learn about the rich culture that the area offers like the marvelous local historic buildings, the Union Canal Tunnel, and other interesting places.
Find Your Fun: Gav Activities In Palmyra And The Surrounding Area
One of the best things about Palmyra is the family. All ages and particularly kids will enjoy every single activity here, whether it is a day filled with tons of activities or an afternoon that is calm and casual.
Start With Local Hotspots:
Before heading off to the theme parks, make sure to check out what the town has to offer. These activities should definitely be part of every person’s to-do list.
Palmyra Bowling: There is a certain magic associated with the sound of a strike and the fun of friendly competition. Palmyra Bowling has that timeless, friendly, and classic charm. Whether it is a rainy day or a fun family evening, it is not drafty but friendly, clean, and a guaranteed good time.
In The Net Sports Complex: Looking for somewhere for the family to burn off some energy? In The Net Sports Complex located in Palmyra PA offers everything from arcade and Go-Karts to baseball and soccer training. It is a massive complex designed to keep kids of all ages entertained for hours.
Explore Local Parks: The most memorable family moments often come from simple activities. In Palmyra, the parks are both safe and clean, making them ideal for a family picnic or an active afternoon of playing around.
Memorial Park: The town’s main green area contains well-kept playgrounds and walking paths as well as expansive green areas where visitors can spread out a picnic blanket. The area is great to relax after a busy morning.
Campbelltown Park: Located a short drive from town, this park is a great spot to visit as it offers a community feel, ball fields, and playgrounds. It is a great spot for kids and families to have a fun and active day outdoors.
A Short Drive From ‘The Sweetest Place on Earth’
One of the perks of visiting Palmyra is staying close to ‘The Sweetest Place on Earth’ as it is disadvantageous to stay near the park. It is best to stay in Palmyra and enjoy all the fun that Hershey has to offer rather.
Hersheypark: The main focus for most guests is visiting Hersheypark. It is a must-visit. With more than 70 rides, it includes roller coasters, kiddie rides, and a full water park. Practical tip: if you are able to visit on a weekday instead of a weekend, you will find it less crowded and spend less time in line.
ZooAmerica: It can be visited on its own or as an add on to Hersheypark. Having an all year round accessibility makes this a fantastic attraction. It exclusively showcases North America animals which makes it educational as well as entertaining in a beautifully walkable environment. It is a more relaxed antidote to the theme park buzz.
The Hershey Story Museum: The chocolate lab where you can take the class and make your chocolate creations is the most loved part of the visit. The lab is a part of the museum which tells the story of its founder Rather than focusing on ‘boring’ museum exhibits like other places, this place is interactive so rest assured, you will never be bored and will explore deeply engaging things.
Hershey Gardens: Next to roller coasters, these 23 acres of beautiful themed gardens are a breathtaking retreat. The children’s gardens are whimsical and the seasonal displays are stunning. It is a gentle escape, like a world away from the amusement park.
A Flavor of Palmyra: The Best of Palmyra’s Cafés and Dessert Shops
Palmyra’s delightful attractions are bound to keep one engaged and especially hungry. Hershey may have its fair share of eateries but the local Palmyra dinings have pancakes and burgers that are bare bone and are hard to be beaten.
Best local Restaurants And Diners
Lazzaro’s Italian Bistro: Lazzaro’s is one of the best locally known eateries that specialize id Italian Dishes. Family operated, Lazzaro’s serves scrumptious Italian meals that emote one’s grandmother’s warm kitchen. The Lazzaro’s setting is homey and family and couple friendly to have memorable dinners and date experience, restaurant is preferred for family dinners and date nights.
Risser’s Family Restaurant: Risser’s is one of the best America serving Restaurants that is less to no frills and serves American dietary staples. It serves breakfast and lunch along with dinner. Risser’s will always maintain the good old American diner experience.
Ancestor Coffeehouse and Crêperie: Known for serving warm and cold coffee, the diner also serves baked goods and meals. Nutrient dense and affordable food is also a hallmark of the diner with options such as nutella and banana crêpes to crêpes with Ham and cheese. The diner is best for mid-day breaks.
More Home-Cooked Tastes
Babe’s Grill House: Always busy because of they have one of the best burgers in the town.
Filling Station: People come in droves to enjoy their American wings.
The Sinkhole Saloon & Grille: Busy and cheerful atmosphere with decent pub grub.
For Your Sweet Tooth (Other Than Chocolate!)
Palmyra may not have Hershey’s name recognition but offers alternatives itching to show off their home-crafted feel. Visiting the pastry shops and ice cream places feels like you are helping the community and may end up helping discover your new favorites.
For the Treasure Hunters: Antique Store Exploration and the Past
Aside from the dining and entertainment, the Palmyra region has a wealth of history along with other things waiting to be found. You will have ample treasures to pursue if you enjoy searching for things or enjoy learning and hearing stories.
Discover One of a Kind Items in Palmyra’s Antique Shops
If you’re one for antiquing, Palmyra is a very ideal location as the Lebanon Valley is known to be a hotspot where you can find some antiques. These shops are not those dreaded dirty overstuffed shops, they are clean structured and curated and have a variety of unique items.
Schoolhouse Antiques: This multi dealer shop is located in an old building is wonderful to browse in. There is such a large variety of items such as furniture, collectibles, and even vintage jewelry and clothes. there are even clothes. You could easily spend your whole afternoon there.
Black Swan Antiquities: Black Swan is well known for there one of a kind carefully sourced pieces and is a perfect to shop for someone looking something special and out of the ordinary. That special piece that could easily become one of your most loved things.
Step Back in Time: Local and Regional History
Landis Shoe Company Building: While you are not able to go inside, the fact that this building is on the National Register of Historic Places and as you drive past has a wonderful sight makes it worth stopping for. It is an interesting way to connect to the industrial history of Palmyra.
Union Canal Tunnel: Not too far from Palmyra is a true national treasure. It is the oldest existing transportation tunnel in the United States, built in 1827. You are able to take a stroll on the towpath and see the friendly 19th century construction and the calm park that surrounds it. It is one of the most unique and historic things to do in and around Palmyra PA.
Seltzer’s Lebanon Bologna: If you would like to taste history, you can visit Seltzer’s company store Lebanon Bologna. Seltzer’s Lebanon Bologna has been producing this local delicacy with great prowess in Palmyra since 1902. Grabbing a few Lebanon bologna slices brings back so many nostalgic childhood memories for me.
Your Palmyra Itinerary: Plan The Ideal Trip
Overwhelmed with choices? Here a few curated itineraries. Be it a single day or a weekend, there are plans to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
A Family Weekend to Remember (2-Day Plan)
Day 1. Start your day with the thrills at Hersheypark. Once you’ve had your fill of coasters, head back to Palmyra for a chill afternoon at Memorial Park. For dinner, take the family to Lazzaro’s Italian bistro for a delicious meal.
Day 2. Dig into the world of chocolate at The Hershey Story museum where you should definitely try the chocolate lab. Later in, let the kids race at In The Net with Go-Karts, and to wrap the weekend let them enjoy some fun at Palmyra Bowling.
A Relaxing Couple’s Getaway
Look for hidden gems while antique shopping at Schoolhouse Antiques and Black Swan Antiquities. In the afternoon, enjoy a wine tasting at the nearby Cullari Vineyards and Winery. Following that, enjoy a romantic walk through the beautiful Hershey Gardens and have a cozy dinner afterwards.
The Budget Friendly Day Trip
A fun, low-cost day starts with exploring the historic grounds of the Union Canal Tunnel. Bring a delicious picnic lunch to enjoy at Campbelltown Park. In the afternoon, enjoy some window shopping in the antique district, and be sure to stop for a delightful coffee at Ancestor Coffeehouse for an affordable treat.
Helpful Information for Your Trip
These helpful hints will make your traveling smoother and more enjoyable.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months, especially with Hersheypark in full swing, attract the largest crowds. However, autumn is much quieter and arguably the best time to visit. The weather is gorgeous, the fall foliage in the Lebanon Valley is beautiful, and the crowds are much thinner.
Navigating the Region: To fully appreciate Palmyra and the local attractions, a car is a must. It allows access to the town, Hershey attractions, and historical landmarks seamlessly.
Do not Skip the Side Streets: Off the beaten path is where some of the most memorable adventures are. Check local community websites and Facebook groups before going for seasonal farmers markets, festivals, and local community events that are often overlooked by mainstream travel sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Palmyra PA a great town to live in?
It is a great place and is often chalked to be a wonderful community. Safe to live and quiet in feel, this town is endowed with a good school and community. Living here offers the perks of being just a 30 minute drive to Hershey and Harrisburg for more urban amenities.
What to do in Palmyra, PA?
Palmyra has and offers several local parks and antique shops, and it is home to Seltzer’s Lebanon Bologna. Moreover, it is famous for being located just minutes away from all the attractions in the world-renowned Hershey.
What is the average household income in Palmyra PA?
Palmyra’s median household income is approximately $75,000. This number, drawn from the latest U.S. Census data, aligns with the borough’s serene, middle-class community. This number is also due to the fact that the Harrsiburg-Carlisle metropolitan area is located nearby.
Is Palmyra a city in Pennsylvania?
Palmyra is actually not a city. Instead, it is a borough located in Lebanon County. This classification helps the residents and the local government to further manage the close community atmosphere has to offer. Palmyra helps to maintain the small-town charm many seek for.
What movie was filmed in Palmyra, PA?
Palmyra is famous for being the backdrop and filming location of ‘Lucky Numbers’ a 2000 comedy starring John Travolta and Lisa Kudrow. The movie showcased the small-town charm through the main street and local businesses.
Is Palmyra a nice place to live?
Absolutely. Palmyra is considered a very nice place to live because it has friendly residents and focus in bringing the community together with events. The residents take pleasure in the peace and quiet of the town along with easy access to highways for work.
