Lancaster, PA, Guide and Information

Lancaster, PA, not only offers picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage but also presents a delightful shopping experience. From quaint boutiques to bustling markets, the city boasts a diverse retail scene that caters to all tastes. Join us as we explore the best places to shop in Lancaster, where you can uncover unique treasures, locally made goods, and one-of-a-kind finds.

No shopping excursion in Lancaster is complete without a visit to Central Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the United States. This vibrant market, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, showcases a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, handmade crafts, and much more. Stroll through the bustling aisles, engage with friendly vendors, and sample local flavors. The market provides a true taste of Lancaster's culinary and artistic offerings, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

In the heart of Pennsylvania's picturesque countryside, Lancaster is a charming destination that caters to both humans and their furry companions. Known for its rich history, Amish culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this inviting city offers a myriad of pet-friendly activities that are sure to delight every member of the family. Join us on an unforgettable journey as we uncover the pet-friendly wonders of Lancaster, PA.

Lancaster County is a haven for nature enthusiasts and their four-legged friends. Start your adventure by exploring the magnificent trails at Lancaster County Central Park. With over 544 acres of lush greenery, it provides ample space for your pup to frolic and play. For a more scenic experience, head to the picturesque Susquehannock State Park, where hiking trails wind through dense forests and offer breathtaking vistas of the Susquehanna River.

Lancaster, PA, is not only renowned for its scenic landscapes and rich history but also for its vibrant food scene. From traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine to globally inspired dishes, the city offers a diverse range of dining options to please every palate. Join us as we explore the best places to eat and drink in Lancaster, guaranteeing a delectable culinary experience in this charming destination.

Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies, a delightful fusion of German and American flavors, encompass iconic dishes like scrapple, shoofly pie, and chicken pot pie. You can explore the culinary heritage of this unique culture through three businesses: Dutch Haven, renowned for its shoofly pie and other delectable baked goods, Miller's Smorgasbord, where you can relish a hearty Pennsylvania Dutch buffet, and Stoltzfus Meats, your destination to discover scrapple and premium-quality meats.

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster, PA, offers a charming blend of rich history, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial. From quaint bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, Lancaster provides a range of lodging options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Join us as we explore the diverse accommodations available in Lancaster, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Lancaster is renowned for its charming historic inns and bed and breakfasts, offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich past. The Amethyst Inn, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, welcomes guests with its elegant rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and warm hospitality. The King's Cottage Bed & Breakfast, with its cozy rooms and lush gardens, provides a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. These accommodations offer an intimate and personalized experience, combining modern comforts with a touch of old-world charm.

The Dutch in Pennsylvania Dutch refers to Deutsch or Deitsch as in the people from Germany and their language. Indeed many from southern Germany, Austria and even parts of Switzerland settled in this part of Pennsylvania during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Fleeing religious intolerance at home, these Germanic people were free to practice their beliefs as they wished in Pennsylvania. German “colonies” were also established in other states such as Wisconsin, Ohio and the Dakotas, although Pennsylvania saw the greatest number of settlers.

By the time World War I seized the nation, these people were encouraged to assimilate more. Then with the onslaught of World War II, speaking the German language and practicing German traditions on American soil became increasingly verboten. Today the Amish, a specific religious denomination within the Pennsylvania Dutch people, are among the few to speak Pennsylfanisch Deitsch on a more regular basis, a language that you can hear being spoken when you pass or encounter some of these folks in and around Lancaster County. As for all the wonderful traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch, many have thankfully been preserved, which is largely what makes Lancaster County, the city of Lancaster and its jumble of small towns and villages so charming to visitors and locals alike.