Central PA Holiday Staycation Destinations

If you’re planning on staying home for the holidays, there’s no need to worry if you’re missing out on the festivities. Each winter, Central PA offers an abundance of seasonal events so you and your loved ones can spend time away while remaining close to home! These events are perfect for families with kids of all ages. So make the most of this holiday season and plan your next Central PA “staycation” at one or more of these festive experiences!

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane 

If you and your loved ones enjoy visits from Santa, holiday rides, and more lights than you can imagine, consider spending the day at the sweetest place on earth–Hershey Park! This candy-themed amusement park transforms each holiday season to include a variety of holiday festivities, sweet treats, and fun events! So make your staycation merry and bright with a visit to Hershey Park! Find more information on tickets and hours via the Hersheypark website.

Holiday Fun at Kitchen Kettle Village 

Saturday mornings are full of the Christmas spirit at Kitchen Kettle Village! With a ticket to “Holiday Fun with Family and Friends,” young visitors are treated to a meal voucher, a homemade cookie, stocking, and an opportunity to meet with Santa and let him know their Christmas wishes. Adults also receive a treasure hunt of offers from shops at Kitchen Kettle Village. Tickets can be purchased online, along with more information to help you plan your visit. 

Christmas Adventures at Refreshing Mountian 

This December, families visiting Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center can choose between various festive adventure courses decorated for the holiday season! Whiz past twinkle lights on ziplines, climb through an enchanting obstacle course, or for families with younger members, there is even a drive-through light display. Discover everything Refreshing Mountain has to offer this Christmas on their website. 

Christmas Spirit Light Show

The Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Stadium is a one-of-a-kind light display that you and your family can enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle! As you drive through the mile-long track, you will enjoy thousands of color-changing lights flickering in harmony with your favorite Christmas tunes. Tickets are available until January 1 through their website.

Christmas trains at Strasburg Rail Road 

ALL ABOARD! Christmas trains are leaving the station! Visit Strasburg Railroad this holiday season for a direct trip to holiday cheer! Strasburg Railroad has various train ride options for all ages, from a Night before Christmas train ride, a Christmas tree trip, or Santa’s Paradise Express. Visit Strasburg Railroad to purchase your tickets today! 

Christmas at The Barnyard Kingdom 

Christmas at the Barnyard Kingdom has it all! Giant slides, firepits, barnyard animals, and Elf Scavenger hunt! If that wasn’t enough, visitors even have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast with Santa! In addition to everything barnyard kingdom offers, participants get to enjoy a delicious breakfast, a meeting with Santa, and a photo. Visit the Barnyard Kingdom website to reserve tickets and check out all of their holiday activities. 

A Dutch Winter Wonderland 

Experience Dutch Wonderland like you have never seen it before! This royal wonderland includes thousands of holiday lights that add enchantment to all of Dutch Wonderland’s rides and attractions. In addition, the Park is offering a craft market on December 18th and 19th for those looking to pick up some locally made holiday gifts! Learn more on their website.

Ice Cream with Santa at the Turkey Hill Experience 

Join Santa Claus at the Turkey Hill Experience for an evening filled with activities, decorations, and plenty of ice cream! On Saturday, December 11, and Saturday, December 18, Visitors will enjoy a Christmas story with Santa, holiday crafts, an ice cream creation, and more! Reservations are required, so don’t forget to reserve your spot in advance. Find tickets and more information about the event on their website.