Discover Lebanon: Nature, Culture, and Regional Trails

Lebanon combines expansive landscapes, water-based activities, regional history, and enjoyable discoveries. The Lebanon Valley lies in central Pennsylvania between Dauphin County and Lancaster County. For trip planning, this means you can tailor your stay to nature, culture, active pursuits, or culinary experiences and choose the right vacation rental in Lebanon based on your preferred focus.

Lakes, Forests, and Wetlands

A notable natural attraction is Memorial Lake State Park. The 230-acre area lies at the foot of Blue Mountain in East Hanover Township in Lebanon County. At Memorial Lake, fishing is possible from the shore, while wading, and from a boat; an accessible fishing pier is also available. Those who enjoy spending time by the water can mark this spot as a focus for their daily itinerary.

Swatara State Park showcases a different side of the landscape. Rolling fields and forests stretch across 3,520 acres in the Swatara Valley, while Swatara Creek runs through forests and wetlands. At the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, you will find an interactive visitor center, a seasonal wildlife driving tour, and more than 20 miles of hiking trails across nearly 6,000 acres. The area is also one of six Pennsylvania landscapes recognized as a globally significant bird area. These differences can help shape your itinerary: At Memorial Lake, the focus is on the water, while at Swatara and Middle Creek, it is on the combination of landscapes, trails, and wildlife viewing.

Exploring on Foot, by Bike, or on the Water

At Swatara State Park, the Bear Hole Trail is a wide, rolling route for hiking and cycling. Horseback riding is permitted on part of the route. For paddlecraft, Swatara Watershed Park has a concrete ramp and an EZ Dock for launching. A mowed footpath and gravel trails make year-round recreation possible there. This allows you to plan active and more relaxed days in different ways without structuring your entire stay around just one type of outing.

The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail is a multi-use green corridor that combines outdoor recreation with the region’s social and industrial history. A special addition is the Ice Cream Spur: Between mile markers 6 and 7, it connects the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail with Mt. Gretna. When choosing your accommodation, consider whether you primarily want to include trails and bike rides, water activities, or a variety of destinations in your trip planning.

Industrial History and Regional Culture

Cornwall Iron Furnace offers a striking glimpse into industrial history. It is the only surviving, fully intact charcoal cold-blast furnace in the Western Hemisphere. The five-acre site includes the Furnace Building, the Wagon Master and Blacksmith Shop buildings, the Abattoir, and a Charcoal Barn that has been converted into a visitor center.

Pennsylvania German craftsmanship is the focus at the Stoy Museum. Exhibits include furniture, quilts, woven works, Fraktur, and redware, among other items. Historic shops and a one-room schoolhouse are also part of the museum experience. Historic Schaefferstown complements this cultural side with educational programs, tours of buildings and collections, as well as festivals and special events. The Union Canal Tunnel is the oldest surviving water transportation tunnel in the United States and is located in a 110-acre recreational area. Weather permitting, canal tours are offered there from June through October on the first two Sundays of each month.

Flavors of the Lebanon Valley

Roadside farm stands, local markets, and pick-your-own options contribute to the regional atmosphere. There, you can find fruit, vegetables, flowers, pumpkins, preserved products, and baked goods. The self-guided Lebanon Valley Libations Trail leads to brewpubs, restaurants, historic breweries, and neighborhood pubs serving local craft beers.

Choosing a Location for Your Trip

Lebanon suits a variety of travel preferences: Nature lovers can choose among lakes, forests, wetlands, and birdwatching; active visitors can focus on hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and paddling opportunities; and travelers interested in culture can explore industrial history, craftsmanship, and historic buildings. For additional orientation within the area, Palmyra, Lebanon, Jonestown, Myerstown, Annville, Campbelltown, and Sand Hill are also available as options. For another regional selection, see Schuylkill County.

For the broader trip overview: Pennsylvania.