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Famous Landmarks in Amish Country

Famous Landmarks in Amish Country

Amish Country Pennsylvania, USA Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

The Amish Village

This place features a preserved Amish farm and house, providing a structured way to learn about Amish life. It includes an one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and barn with animals. Guided tours offer historical and cultural context.

Visitor hours vary seasonally; generally 9 AM to 5 PM. Check their website to check current schedules. Admission applies for the farm and house tour. Buggy journeys are often available separately for an additional fee. Arrive early, especially during peak season, for a relaxed tour.

Strasburg Railroad

  • America's oldest continuously operating railroad. Authentic steam train rides through scenic Amish countryside.
  • Hours vary greatly by season; consult their official schedule online.
  • Ticket prices vary by class and events. Booking in advance is recommended.
  • For best views, sit on the right side of the train. Combine with Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.

Family Fun & Grand Productions

Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park

  • A family-friendly amusement park with rides and shows for younger children.
  • Over 30 rides, a water play area (Duke's Lagoon), and various entertainment.
  • Operates seasonally, mostly from spring through fall. Check website for hours.
  • Daily admission applies. Purchase tickets online for cost-saving possibilities and quicker entry.
  • Visit on a weekday during summer to avoid larger weekend crowds.
  • The park provides a fun, active day, especially for families with younger kids.

Sight & Sound Theatres

  • Known for elaborate live stage productions of Bible stories.
  • Features massive, panoramic sets that surround the audience, special effects, and live animals.
  • Show times vary; book tickets well in advance, as popular shows often sell out months ahead.
  • Ticket prices vary by seat location and show. Arrive early to permit time for parking and seating.

The productions are grand, immersive, and align with the area's religious heritage.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Lancaster Central Market: Oldest continuously operating farmers market in the U.S., a significant cultural institution.
  • Demuth Museum: Dedicated to Charles Demuth, a pioneering American modernist painter native to Lancaster.
  • Lancaster History: Displays about local history, including the Amish, Native Americans, and industrial development.
  • National Watch and Clock Museum (Columbia): A significant collection of timepieces from all over the world.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

  • Location:

    Directly across from the Strasburg Railroad.

  • Collection:

    Extensive historic railroad equipment, including steam locomotives, passenger, and freight cars.

  • Historical Insight:

    A detailed look into Pennsylvania's rich railroad history.

  • Complementary Visit:

    Pairs well with a ride on the Strasburg Railroad for a full experience.

  • Educational Value:

    Has insights into a part of American industrial development.

Historical Sites

The area is rich in history, from early American settlements to industrial heritage.

Explore Local History

  • Historic Downtown Lancaster

    Explore preserved architecture, historic churches, and repurposed industrial buildings. Self-guided walking tours are available.

  • Ephrata Cloister (Ephrata)

    A National Historic Landmark, this site used to be a colonial German religious community from 1732. Guided tours offer insight into their unique lifestyle.

  • Hans Herr House AND A museum (Willow Street)

    The oldest existing building in Lancaster County and the oldest Mennonite meetinghouse in America (built 1719). Insight into early Mennonite settlement.

  • Architectural Periods

    Downtown showcases variou's architectural style styles from different historical eras.

  • Religious Communities

    Discover the unique communal living and beliefs of the Ephrata Cloister settlers.

  • Early Settlement History

    Learn about the Anabaptist heritage and pioneering spirit at the Hans Herr House.

Urban Exploration

Downtown Lancaster's historic core has a walkable urban setting with shops, galleries, and dining.

Communal Living

Ephrata Cloister offers a window into the unique communal and spiritual life of an 18th-century religious community.

Early Settlements

The Hans Herr House explains the beginnings of Mennonite and Anabaptist being in the county.

Historic Downtown Exploration

Stroll through the streets of historic downtown Lancaster. Admire the preserved architecture from different periods, visit historic churches, and see former industrial buildings now housing shops and galleries.

  • Self-guided walking tours are available.
  • Discover unique shops and art galleries.
  • Experience the vibrancy of a revitalized city center.

Natural Attractions

Pennsylvania Amish Country features gentle natural beauty, ideal for quiet observation plus fun.

Experience the serene landscapes through various outdoor activities.

Parks and Wildlife

Lancaster County provides serene green spaces and wildlife observation areas.

Locations

  • Lancaster County Central Park: The largest park, over 500 acres with perambulation trails, recreational facilities, and playgrounds.
  • Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area (Stevens): Significant for birdwatchers, especially for migratory waterfowl in late winter and the beginning of spring.
  • Observation areas and trails are available for wildlife viewing.

Scenic Drives and Views

Explore the picturesque countryside through dedicated routes and overlooks.

Driving Routes

  • Scenic Byways: Drive along Old Philadelphia Pike (Route 340) and Newport Road (Route 772).
  • Views of rolling farmlands, passing buggies, and traditional farmhouses are common.
  • Susquehanna River Overlooks: A short drive west of Lancaster, the river offers scenic overlooks like Turkey Hill Overlook.

Outdoor Activities

The county offers trails and access to the river for recreational pursuits.

Trail Options

  • Walking Trails: Various trails for different skill levels in Lancaster County Central Park.
  • Northwest Lancaster County River Trail: A paved path along the Susquehanna River, suitable for walking and cycling.
  • River Recreation: Opportunities for angling or boating on the Susquehanna River.
  • These routes offer picturesque photo opportunities and a nostalgic journey.

Environmental Preservation

Efforts are made to maintain the natural integrity of the region's habitats.

Conservation Focus

  • Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area supports migratory bird populations.
  • Local parks work to preserve green spaces within developed areas.
  • The Susquehanna River is a natural resource with ongoing protection efforts.

Hidden Gems

Unique Local Discoveries

  • Roadside Farm Stands: Unmarked stands offering fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts directly from Amish families.
  • Look for "Honest Stand" signs for unmanned, honor-system payment options (cash).
  • Covered Bridges: Over 25 historic covered bridges from the 19th century, offering picturesque photo opportunities.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

  • Lititz Springs Park: A beautiful public park in Lititz, ideal for peaceful strolls and picnicking.
  • Wolf Sanctuary of PA (Lititz): A non-profit dedicated to wolf rescue, offering educational tours.
  • North Museum of Nature and Science (Lancaster): Planetarium, live animals, and natural history exhibits.

Hidden Gems Cont.

Beyond the main attractions, explore these lesser-known spots for unique experiences.

Farm Stands

Discover fresh produce and local crafts directly from Amish families at unmanned roadside stands, operating on an honor system.

Covered Bridges

Journey through over 25 historic covered bridges, going back to the 19th century, for picturesque photo opportunities and a nostalgic experience.

Lititz Springs Park

A beautiful public park in the heart of Lititz, known for its natural spring and peaceful setting for picnics and strolls.

Specialty Attractions

Wolf Sanctuary of PA

A unique non-profit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of wolves and wolf-dogs. Educational tours allow visitors to see wolves in a natural habitat.

Visit the Wolf Sanctuary

North Museum of Nature and Science

Located on the Franklin & Marshall College campus, this institution features a planetarium, live animal exhibits, and displays on natural history.

Explore the North Museum

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

A season-based attraction offering more than just a corn maze; an interactive farm experience with over 50 attractions, including farm animals and educational exhibits.

Discover Cherry Crest Farm

Amish Village

This site features a protected Amish farm and house, providing a structured way to learn about Amish life.

Learn more

Strasburg Railroad

America's oldest continuously operating railroad. It offers authentic steam train rides through the scenic Amish countryside.

Board the train

Art and Culture Venues

Explore artistic and cultural institutions in and around Lancaster.

Cultural Highlights

  • Demuth Museum showcases American modernist art.
  • Lancaster History provides extensive local historical exhibits.
  • National Watch and Clock Museum details timekeeping history.

Historical Pathways

Explore the rich historical background of the area through preserved sites.

Historical Sites

  • Historic Downtown Lancaster for architecture and repurposed buildings.
  • Ephrata Cloister, a colonial German religious community.
  • Hans Herr House, the oldest existing building in Lancaster County.
  • Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, featuring historic railroad equipment.

Visiting Tips

When going TO amish-owned businesses or rural areas, don't forget to respect privacy.

Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals.

Hidden Gems Continued

Beyond the popular attractions, there are hidden spots for special encounters.

Rural Charms

Discover the simple commerce and scenic beauty of the countryside.

Countryside Exploration

  • Roadside farm stalls offer fresh produce and crafts.
  • "Honest Stand" signs point to unmanned stands operating on trust.
  • Explore over 25 historic covered bridges for photo opportunities.

Town Retreats

Find peaceful spots and one-of-a-kind attractions inside the towns.

Urban Oases

  • Lititz Springs Park provides a tranquil setting for leisurely walks.
  • Wolf Sanctuary of PA offers educational tours of rescued wolves.
  • North Museum of Nature and Science exhibits on natural history and science.

Interactive Farm Experiences

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm provides an engaging farm visit.

Farm Activities

  • Over 50 attractions for all ages.
  • Interactions with farm animals.
  • Educational exhibits about farm life.

This seasonal attraction provides more than only a corn maze, a full interactive farm experience.

Museum Exploration

Dive into the local culture through specialized museums.

Museum Offerings

  • National Watch and Clock Museum dedicated to timekeeping history.
  • Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania for rail history.

These institutions provide a detailed look into specialized aspects of Pennsylvania's heritage.

Amish Village Experiences

A structured way to learn about Amish traditions.

Village Features

  • Preserved Amish farm and house.
  • One-room schoolhouse and blacksmith shop.
  • Buggy rides often available separately.

Guided tours offer historical and cultural context for a understanding of Amish daily life.

Visitor Guidelines

Respect Privacy

When visiting Amish-owned businesses or interacting in rural areas, remember to respect their privacy.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially Amish people, to show courtesy.

Support Local

Consider purchasing goods directly from local businesses to contribute to the community's livelihood.

Additional Information

Maps of covered bridge tours are available at visitor centers, making it easier to locate these charming structures.