Welcome to Lancaster County.
Miles of picturesque farmland, friendly salt-of-the-earth folks, limitless natural beauty and almost three centuries of American history: Lancaster County is like nowhere else in the country, or maybe even the world. Though it boasts all the modern metropolitan conveniences, including major retail chains, restaurants, a regional airport and even prized outlet malls, this fabled home of the Amish is a place where the simple life still exists. Boroughs from Elizabethtown to Strasburg offer picturesque Main Streets lined with family-run businesses, antique shops and architectural treasures. Parks, fields and farmland stretch in every direction, revealing postcard-worthy views during every commute. And everybody knows their neighbors, whether you've been in the community for generations or you've just arrived from out of town.
Want an authentic Lancaster County experience? Try one of these classic outings:
Date Night Downtown
Feast on locally raised lamb chops and French pinot at Carr's, followed by a play at the beautifully preserved Fulton Opera House. Still raring to go? Head across the street for loose-leaf tea and conversation at the Prince Street Café, or take in live music and a nightcap at The Dispensing Company, Harrison Ford's favorite haunt while filming Witness.
Saturday Morning at Central Market
Whet your appetite with a cinnamon bun from an Amish family bakery stand, then head down the aisles for fresh produce, meats, dairy and handcrafts. A few highlights: wild wineberry jam from Dan and Rachel Stoltsfus, sweet bologna from S. Clyde Weaver, and pesticide-free fruits and veg from Green Circle Organics.
A Little Spring Chicken
Take the kids to Long's Park for a visit to the petting zoo or a day of fishing on the spring-fed lake. Then head for a picnic lunch at the park's 54th annual World's Largest Chicken Barbeque (set for May 17, 2007). If barbeque isn't your thing, wait a month and bring your lawn chairs to the amphitheater for free music, theater and fireworks during the Summer Entertainment Series.
Sunday Morning at the Altar of Antiques
Sundays are quiet in Lancaster County, with the exception of Adamstown, the Antiques Capital of the USA. If you're interested in quilts, furniture and other vintage relics of Pennsylvania Dutch culture, head north on Route 222 until you see the signs. Stoudt's Black Angus and Renninger's are two of the most popular outposts.
