Spring into family fun!

Spring is one of the most popular seasons of the year. After several months of chilly temperatures in many regions, spring provides a welcome reprieve from the cold.

Moderate temperatures make it much more comfortable and inviting to venture outdoors, particularly for families with children who might not adapt to the cold as well as adults. The following are some family-friendly activities that make the most of spring renewal.

Visit botanical gardens

Southcentral Pennsylvania is home to a number of botanical gardens, and a visit in spring or summer allows families to soak in the beauty of nature during a time when gardens are in peak form. Locally, the Conestoga House and Gardens, which has been under the care of estate manager Larry Wettig for more than 51 years, has been dubbed “the beloved gem of Lancaster.”

“There are plenty of areas to relax, read, have a picnic, or simply stroll the gardens at your leisure,” said Jara Potts, sales and event manager with Ecklin, which owns the property. “So many aspects of the Conestoga House and Gardens offer something so special and unique. Each little pocket has a treasure to be discovered.” Visitors may stop by The Orangery, which features tile from a little chapel in Italy that was installed locally more than a century ago, or wander the rose garden. “The labyrinth aspect has me enjoying each variety of roses,” Potts noted.

Even the house itself is mesmerizing. It served as a tavern inn in the 1800s prior to being purchased by James Hale Steinman and Louise McClure Tinsley Steinman and remodeled by architect Frank J. Everts in 1930. One visitor was Edgar Allan Poe’s great-nephew, who wrote a book about the grounds while visiting. “I often think if the walls could talk, just what (would be) some of the stories (they would share) that date back to the 1700s,” Potts said.

Whether visiting in spring or summer, families will find plenty to delight their eyes. “Early spring, we have some spring flowers out for day guests to enjoy,” Potts shared. “Typically by June 1, we consider ourselves in full bloom, and I would venture to say that any guests would most likely feel like (they’re) lost in an English garden oasis.”

For those who are looking for an additional educational component, the Conestoga House and Gardens offers horticulture programming, presented by its on-site staff. The site also hosts community events, such as date nights, music events on the lawn, and murder mystery dinners. Families may consider the property for photo shoots, as well.

For information on the Conestoga House and Gardens, visit www.conestogahouse. com.

Prepare a home garden

Visiting a garden is one thing; creating one at home is another. “Starting a garden is very easy,” said Kathy Trout, a second-generation owner of Ken’s Gardens, which has locations in Smoketown and Intercourse. “Just start small if you’re a beginner. Ask a lot of questions, and there is so much information on the internet.”

Some families may have yard space for a garden, while others may opt for container, raised-bed, or square-foot gardens to save space. “Container gardens are easier,” Trout noted. “Just dispose of the old soil/plants from last year and add fresh, new soil and you are ready to plant.” She added that container gardens should be watered each day and fertilized weekly or biweekly. “Home gardens take more maintenance,” she shared. “They need to be mulched and weeded, but most of the time Mother Nature takes care of watering.”

Unsure whether to focus on growing produce or growing flowers? Trout recommends planting some of both. “You can intermingle flowers and vegetables in the same garden or container,” she explained. Consider making the task of selecting plants a family experience, with each member of the family picking some. As for what will grow best, Trout shared that plants that can be purchased in local garden centers should grow well in this region. “Keep in mind that our frost date is May 15 in this area,” she noted. “That means we could get frost as late as that date. That doesn’t usually happen, but you need to be aware when planting tender vegetables and annuals.”

Whether you choose vegetables, flowers, or both, and whether you devote a section or your yard to a garden or decide to try container gardening, Trout noted that the hobby offers many benefits, such as increased exercise, stress relief, and improved mood, not to mention the satisfaction of spending time outdoors, attracting butterflies with flowers, and growing your own food. “Gardening can be very rewarding,” she said. “It’s a great hobby.”

Go animal watching

Flowers are not the only thing to keep an eye on in the spring, as families can spend time viewing the animals that visit their yards or local parks.

According to Lisa J. Sanchez, who has been a naturalist with Lancaster County Parks for 30 years, there is no shortage of animals to see locally. “During daytime hours, lots of birds, squirrels, rabbits, and groundhogs can be seen all throughout (Lancaster County Central) Park,” she said. “Pollinating insects can be found in wildflower meadows. Flipping over rocks and logs, you will often find insects and salamanders. Reptiles might be found basking in the sun.”

The weather and the time of day may have an impact on animals’ behavior, Sanchez pointed out. “Rainy days near a pond are a great time to see and hear frogs. The birds are more active when it is not raining,” she explained. “At sunrise and sunset, deer are out and about feeding. Driving on the roads that go through the park at night, you might see eye shines along the road or off in a field of deer, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, skunks, and opossums.” She emphasized that since the park is open from sunrise to sunset, those traveling through at night should drive slowly.

Safety precautions should be a priority during daytime hours, as well. “Remember you are visiting (the animals’) home and habitat,” Sanchez reminded. “Stay on the trails.” She emphasized the importance of keeping a safe distance from wild animals and not attempting to touch them. “Do not take wildlife home with you, be aware of breeding seasons of wildlife, and watch where you step,” she said, adding that people should also not feed wildlife and should not litter.

Adhering to these guidelines can allow families to have wonderful experiences with wildlife. “The quieter (people) are, the more likely they are to see wildlife,” Sanchez noted. “Visit one of our parks that doesn’t get as much human traffic.”

There are numerous public programs offered through Lancaster County Parks that can give families a glimpse of wild animals, including a range of nighttime offerings. For a list of programs, visit www.co.lancaster.pa.us/317/PublicPrograms.

“Physical activity is best when done in nature,” Sanchez said. “It lowers your stress and puts you in a good mood. Looking, listening, touching, and even smelling nature helps you connect and be aware of your surroundings. … The more time you spend in nature, the more you will respect it and take care of it.”

Get out on the water

A bright, warm day is an ideal time to enjoy the open water, and Lancaster County offers numerous options for this activity, whether through kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or boat rides.

“My favorite part of paddling is seeing your surroundings from a new perspective,” said Hope Byers, Susquehanna Natural Heritage Area (SNHA) Columbia Crossing director. “I love paddling (on the Susquehanna River) under the Veterans Memorial Bridge and around the old bridge piers. I also just love looking at the shoreline and landscape.”

“You’re likely to find me putting in my personal watercraft at Falmouth boat launch and heading north to explore the potholes at the foot of Conewago Falls,” noted Megan Salvatore, visitor services representative with SNHA Columbia Crossing. “It’s such a unique river landscape on the Lower Susquehanna.”

For those new to exploring the river, Byers recommends scheduling a trip with an outfitter. “It’s really nice to have a guide on the water,” she noted. “They help you expand your skills and point out highlights while on the tour.” She added that KayakLanCo and Shank’s Mare Outfitters both offer youth paddling opportunities, as well.

Byers encourages families looking for a novice kayak excursion to check out the Conejohela Flats Birding Area, where they are likely to see egrets, herons, eagles, and falcons. Be sure to pick up a copy of the SNHA’s Introductory Birding Guide from the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center!

Of course, fishing is a popular activity on the river, as well. Salvatore pointed out that the region is becoming known for flathead catfish that can weight up to 60 pounds. Kayak fishing equipment may be rented through local outfitters such as Shank’s Mare and Chiques Rock, but Salvatore reminds those age 16 and up to be sure to get a fishing license before taking to the water.

Anyone who wants to try fishing legally before obtaining a license may join SNHA at Columbia Crossing on Pennsylvania Fish-for-Free Days, set for Sunday, May 28, and Tuesday, July 4. Fishing equipment will be available at Columbia Crossing on those days, noted SNHA Columbia Crossing program coordinator Sophia Vayansky.

Families may also experience the river while learning about its history by taking a River Discovery Boat Tour with SNHA on the historic Chief Uncas, with one-hour tours offered from Memorial Day through September. “Guides share the history of the Chief Uncas, stories of Lake Clarke’s special landscape, and the Susquehanna River’s lasting legacy,” said Allison Scholz, SNHA program and education manager.

Parents and kids looking for experiences on the water elsewhere in the county may want to check out locations such as Muddy Run Park, which also offers personal watercraft rentals, hiking trails, a splash pad, and more. “Tubing at Sickman’s Mill on the Pequea Creek is a great experience for families,” Salvatore added, noting that guides are available.

While there is much fun to be had on the water, Salvatore emphasized that safety should be the top priority. “The basics for any on-water trip include a personal flotation device (PFD) with an attached whistle,” she noted. “Make sure you tell someone where you are going. Adventure with a buddy when possible.” In addition to a PFD, other helpful items include a dry bag, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, a hat, and binoculars.

“When planning outdoor adventures, consider where restrooms are located, calculate activities to take longer than expected, and plan for frequent breaks or tired children,” Salvatore advised. “Spend some time looking at good maps or visit Columbia Crossing for maps and guides before you go so you know what to expect.”

Try out some hands-on activities

While the local area has a number of charms families can discover as they explore, there’s also something to be said for enjoying some hands-on fun at home.

Crafts and other projects can offer families with kids of all ages a fun and rewarding experience this spring and summer. Head to a locally owned garden center to purchase a planter or a watering can for the kids to decorate, or swing by a thrift store to pick up materials to make wind chimes. You can even use items you may already have, like old silverware, keys, bottle caps, shells, or bamboo to create the chimes, with a piece of driftwood or a hubcap serving as the base.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to crafts, so let your imagination run wild! If you need a creative nudge, stop by a local arts and crafts store or even a nearby thrift shop and ask for some ideas.

These are just a few activities that families can enjoy this spring. No matter how you decide to spend your family time this spring and summer, be sure to have fun and make memories!

2023 Herb & Garden Faire

May 12-13

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum

2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster www.landisvalleymuseum.org

Lions Prowl Obstacle Course Race & Family Fun Festival

May 13

Lancaster County Christian School

2390 New Holland Pike, Lancaster www.lionsprowlocr.com

4 5

Strawberry Festival

June 10

Lancaster

Central Market

23 N. Market St., Lancaster www.facebook.com/Lancaster

CentralMarket

Family Farm Days

June 13-15

Oregon Dairy

2900 Oregon Pike, Lititz

60th Annual Antique Craft & Collectible Show

1 2 3 8

May 29

High St. and River St., Maytown, PA 717-426-2107

60th Annual Antiques Show

9

June 23-24

Warwick Middle School 401 Maple St., Lititz www.facebook.com/ events/601424995079946

Sweet Corn Festival

July 15

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks www.cherrycrestfarm.com/ festivals

2023 USPA 2Goal Masters Cup

July 1

Lancaster Polo Club 70 Church St., Lititz (Rothsville) www.lancasterpolo.org

Terre Hill Days

6 7 8 10

July 13-17

Terre Hill Community Memorial Park

210 Lancaster Ave., Terre Hill www.terrehilldays.com/communityevents/terre-hill-days

75th Annual Threshermen’s Reunion

August 16-19

Rough & Tumble Museum

4997 Lincoln Highway East, Kinzers www.roughandtumble.org/ viewreference/40/eventschedules

Boulders Miniature Golf

312 Primrose Lane, Mountville

717-285-7007 www.bouldersminigolf.com

Dutch Gardens Miniature Golf Course

4311 Oregon Pike, Ephrata

717-859-1616 www.dutchlanes.com/Mini-Golf

Leisure Lanes Bowling and Golf Center

3440 Columbia Ave., Lancaster 717-392-2121 www.leisurelanespa.com

Lost Treasure Golf

2521 E. Lincoln Highway, Ronks 717-391-8234 www.losttreasuregolf.com/miniature-golf-courses/lancaster-mini-golf-course

Pelvo’s Putt Putt

605 Granite Run Drive, Lancaster

Check in at Stoner Grille for clubs and payment. 717-208-6623 http://stonercommons.com/minigolf

The Shack Restaurant & Mini Golf

662 S. Oak St., Manheim

717-664-2250 www.theshackmanheim.com

Village Green Miniature Golf & Snack

Shoppe

1444 Village Road, Strasburg 717-687-6933 https://villagegreens.com

Waters Edge Mini Golf

230 N. Ronks Road, Bird-in-Hand 717-768-4653 www.watersedgegolf.net