Travel Planner: Lancaster, PA

Founded more than 175 years ago to honor Benjamin Franklin, this science museum is as clever as its namesake, thanks to an abundance of dazzling hands-on exhibits. To make the best use of your time, study the floor plan before exploring. You can sit in the cockpit of a T-33 jet trainer, trace the route of a corpuscle through the world's largest artificial heart (15,000 times life size), and ride to nowhere on a 350-ton Baldwin steam locomotive. You'll also be able to explore Sir Isaac's Loft,

which combines lessons in art and science, delve into the mechanics of more than two-dozen mechanical devices in

and see Franklin's famous lightning rod. One don't-miss: the 30-foot-tall statue of Franklin.

The Franklin Air Show

celebrates powered flight with the Wright Model B Flyer.

conveys the physics, physiology, and material science behind your favorite sport by simulating surfing, climbing a rock wall, and comparing your sneakers to Shaquille O'Neal's size 22s. The

—which has a state-of-the-art aluminum dome, lighting and sound systems, and a related astronomy exhibit, "Space Command"—has shows about the stars, space exploration, comets, and other phenomena.

is a venue for 3-D films. The

includes the Tuttleman IMAX Theater, with a 79-foot domed screen and a 56-speaker sound system; recent movies include

and

.

Run by the Franklin Institute, the Kids Science Park

presents interactive displays in an outdoor setting—which means children get a chance to run around and play while they learn. Swings demonstrate the laws of gravity and energy, and golf illustrates physics in motion. 21st St. between Winter and Race Sts., 19103. Admission: Free with admission to Franklin Institute or Please Touch Museum. Hours: May-Sept., daily 10-3. www.fi.edu. Admission: $14.75-$22.25. Hours: Daily 9:30-5.

Smorgasbord meals, large rooms, a duck pond, and indoor pools make this large, stylish resort a great family place. Rooms are spread out over three buildings; those in the Atrium Building surround a striking skylighted lobby. The extensive Sunday brunch in the Palm Court is a favored feast. Since the resort is Mennonite-owned, liquor is not permitted on the premises. Pros:

indoor pools; fresh baked goods; central location.

restaurant gets mixed reviews; no alcohol served. www.willowvalley.com. 342 rooms, 50 suites. In-hotel: restaurants, golf course, pools, tennis courts, gym. Credit cards accepted.

This sprawling family resort is in the heart of the busy Pennsylvania Dutch tourist area and features cherrywood furnishings. You can jog or rent a bike and ride around the beautifully landscaped golf course and grounds. Pros:

knowledgeable staff; indoor pool; plenty of activities.

some dingy hallways; gym needs upgrading; smell of manure from nearby fields. www.lancasterhost.com. 330 rooms, 8 suites. In-room: Internet. In-hotel: restaurants, bar, golf course, pools, tennis courts. Credit cards accepted.

The grande dame of Hershey, this gracious Mediterranean villa-style hotel is a sophisticated resort with plenty of options for recreation, starting with the golf course that wraps around the hotel. Inspired by the fine European hotels Milton S. Hershey encountered in his travels, elegant touches abound, from the mosaic-tile lobby to rooms with maple armoires, paintings by local artists, and tile baths. The Spa at the Hotel Hershey has body treatments that include chocolate bean polish, cocoa butter scrub, chocolate fondue wrap, and a whipped cocoa bath. Outdoor activities include carriage rides, a ropes course, and nature trails, while newer amenities include an ice-skating rink and wing of boutique-style shops. Pros:

gourmet dining; swimming pool and lush grounds; attentive service.

some guest rooms are small; front desk not helpful; overcrowded spa. www.thehotelhershey.com. 234 rooms, 20 suites. In-hotel: restaurants, bar, golf courses, pools, tennis courts, gym, spa. Credit cards accepted.