Cumberland Valley is one of the best destinations for family fun. Plan a whole day with the collection of unique experiences and locations the Valley has to offer.
Morning
One way to begin the perfect family day out is at the West Shore Farmers Market (900 Market St., Lemoyne). Kids will love the assortment of stands offering breakfast items. From yummy breakfast sandwiches to delicious mini donuts, any picky eater will find something to devour. While tummies are being filled, take some time to stock up on fresh produce, meats and cheeses.
If your day is beginning in the Carlisle area, head over to Meadowbrooke Gourds (125 Potato Rd., Carlisle). This is the world's largest gourd crafting company and they offer behind the scenes tours that will captivate fans of any age. Plan ahead to attend one of their paint-your-own gourd classes where children and adults can make their own birdhouses, ornaments, bowls and more.
Another way to begin a slightly more relaxing day is at Children's Lake in Boiling Springs (Located off Rte. 74). This scenic lake has a beautiful walk area around it and the clear water literally bubbles from the spring. Outdoor enthusiasts and kids will love boating, fishing and feeding the geese and swans.
Lunch
If you are near the West Shore area of Cumberland Valley, stop by Kristy's Whistle Stop for a quick lunch (600 S. Enola Rd., Enola). This lunch and dinner spot is perfect for a quick cheeseburger and some ice cream. They are open from March to October and the family will enjoy the 50's atmosphere and retro vibe.
Another great lunch spot for the family is Isaac's Restaurant & Deli (Various Cumberland Valley Locations). The inviting, bird-themed restaurant serves up a cool kids menu and great grilled sandwiches, soups and salads for the adults.
Afternoon
If after lunch you find yourself near Mechanicsburg, visit Rakestraw's Ice Cream for sundaes and old-fashioned milkshakes (313 S. Market St., Mechanicsburg).
If the afternoon brings you to downtown Carlisle, get your sugar fix at Georgie Lou's Retro Candy & Gifts (22 N. Pitt St., Carlisle). Adults will enjoy browsing through the nostalgic candy and retro gifts while children will have fun trying to decide between the 475 different varieties of candy.
For a fun and educational afternoon take the family to explore the U.S. Army Heritage & Education Center (950 Soldiers Dr., Carlisle). History buffs and children will appreciate the huge military equipment displays on the mile-long outdoor interactive trail, including Civil War winter encampment cabins, a Huey helicopter and World War II trenches, to name a few.
Outdoorsy families will appreciate the diverse opportunities for scenic fun in the Cumberland Valley. Spend an afternoon kayaking down the Conodoguinet Creek Water Trail, bird watching at Waggoner's Gap Hawk Watch (NW of Carlisle on Rte. 74), horseback riding on the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail (Various Entry Points), relaxing on the beaches at Pine Grove Furnace State Park (1100 Pine Grove Rd., Gardners) and Colonel Denning State Park (1599 Doubling Gap Rd., Newville) or taking a day hike on the famous Appalachian Trial (Various Entry Points & Parking).
Evening
This evening activity may take a little prior planning, but is definitely worth it. Every season the H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center (1871 Old Main Dr.) in Shippensburg includes a children's program or two in their schedule. People of all ages will marvel at the state-of-the-art theatre that brings in Broadway musicals, orchestras, speakers, comedians and more.