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How to Get to Amish Country

How to Get to Amish Country

Amish Country Pennsylvania, USA Travel Guide

Major Airports Serving Amish Country

Regional Access

Harrisburg International Airport (MDT): Approximately 40 miles northwest of Lancaster. It is the closest in distance and smallest of the major regional airports, offering a more relaxed travel experience. It is good if you are flying domestically and prefer a shorter drive to Lancaster.

Airlines and Routes

  • MDT is served by regional carriers that connect to the hubs of major airlines, flights to several U.S. Cities.
  • All major U.S. Airlines serve PHL, BWI, and EWR: Aa, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.
  • Flight prices fluctuate based on demand. Higher prices during peak summer and fall foliage seasons (June-October) and near major holidays.

Major Hubs

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Approximately 65 miles east of Lancaster, PHL is Pennsylvania's largest and busiest airport. It has the widest range of domestic and international flights.

International Options

  • PHL, BWI, and EWR have direct flights from a lot of major global hubs in Europe, Asia, and other continents. This entry is straightforward for international visitors.
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): About 80 miles south of Lancaster. It is useful for travelers arriving from the southern U.S. or international destinations.
  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): About 150 miles northeast of Lancaster, EWR serves the New York City metropolitan area. It is useful if combining an Amish Country visit with time in NYC.

Off-Peak Savings

Traveling during the shoulder or low season often brings more affordable airfare. Find flights with Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities

All listed airports have standard services: vehicle rental firms, ground transportation, dining, retail, restrooms, and ATMs. Arrange your rental vehicle in advance from DiscoverCars.com.

Train Transfers

From PHL, take a SEPTA regional rail line to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station. From BWI, Amtrak trains run to Lancaster, usually with a transfer in Philadelphia. The journey is comfortable and scenic.

Transfer Options to Lancaster/Accommodation

Ground Travel Flexibility

  • Rental Car: The most flexible option for exploring Amish Country. It offers freedom to drive through the pastoral landscape and reach multiple attractions. Rental car counters are available at all major airports.
  • Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and better rates.
  • Shuttle Services: Private shuttle services can be pre-booked from PHL or BWI directly to Lancaster. These offer convenience if you prefer not to drive yourself.
  • Amtrak: From PHL, take a SEPTA regional rail line to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station, then Amtrak to Lancaster. From BWI, Amtrak to Lancaster often transfers in Philadelphia.

Airport Transportation Choices

  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Available at airports for direct travel to your destination.
  • Public Bus Service: While available from major city airports, direct public bus links to Amish Country are limited. Connections usually involve multiple transfers.
  • Check airport websites for the most current ground transportation options and booking information.

Airport Facilities and Services

Basic Needs

Restrooms and ATMs are easily accessible throughout the terminals. Convenience for all travelers.

Food & Shops

A variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops are present for pre-flight needs. Options for quick bites or sit-down meals.

Car & Ride Services

Major car rental companies have counters. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle services are available for ground transportation.

Land Transportation

Train Connections and Services

Lancaster is a well-served stop on Amtrak's train system. The Lancaster Amtrak Station is centrally located, making it convenient for accessing downtown Lancaster.

Amtrak Routes

  • Keystone Service: This route connects Lancaster directly to Philadelphia and Harrisburg, with frequent service throughout the day.
  • Pennsylvanian Route: This route provides service to and from The Big Apple and Pittsburgh, also stopping in Lancaster.
  • Tickets: Purchase online through the Amtrak website, using their mobile app, or directly at the station. Booking in advance for peak travel times is recommended.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Beyond flying, land transportation offers direct and often scenic routes to Pennsylvania Amish Country. No international border crossings are involved when traveling to this region from within the U.S.

Bus Companies

  • Greyhound: Offers bus service to Lancaster from various cities across the U.S.
  • The bus station is located near downtown Lancaster, an economical travel option. Check their website for routes and schedules.
  • Self-Driving: Driving yourself offers the most flexibility for exploring Amish Country's rural roads and scattered attractions.

Self-Driving Considerations

You'll require a valid driver's license. If you are an international visitor, your home country's driver's license is generally acceptable for short visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for licenses not in English.

Driving Rules

  • Car rental companies typically expect renters to be at least 21 years old, with surcharges for drivers under 25. A major credit card in the renter's name is also needed.
  • Road Conditions: Roads in Lancaster County are generally well-maintained. Rural roads in Amish Country can be narrow, winding, and sometimes lack shoulders.
  • Safety Concerns: Sharing roads with horse-drawn Amish buggies and farm equipment requires extra caution and patience.

Buggies and Night Driving

Yield to buggies: Buggies move slowly. Yield to them and give them ample space. Maintain safe following distance. Pass safely: Only pass buggies when it is safe to do so, having obvious visibility and no oncoming traffic.

Driving Etiquette

  • Do not honk your horn or rev your engine, as this can startle horses.
  • Night Driving: Rural roads are often unlit at night, and buggies may be difficult to see. Drive slowly and use high beams when safe.
  • Right-Hand Traffic: Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Cell phone use is restricted while driving.

Comparison Table: Transportation Options to Lancaster

  • Car: Most flexible for exploring, door-to-door. Traffic congestion possible, parking in cities, fuel costs. Estimated Time (from NYC/Philly): 2.5-3 hrs (NYC), 1.5 hrs (Philly). Best for: Independent travelers, exploring rural areas, families.
  • Amtrak Train: Comfortable, scenic, avoids road traffic. Less flexible for checking out the surroundings without a car, can be pricey. Estimated Time: 3 hrs (NYC), 1.5 hrs (Philly). Best for: Travelers without a car, city-to-city convenience.
  • Bus (Greyhound): Budget-friendly. Longer travel times, less comfortable, fewer amenities. Estimated Time: 3.5-4 hrs (NYC), 2 hrs (Philly). Best for: Budget travelers.
  • Flying (to PHL/MDT): Fastest for long distances from other regions. Additional transfer time/cost to Lancaster, airport hassle. Estimated Time: ~1 hr flight + 1-1.5 hr drive. Best for: International or distant domestic travelers.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable for Pennsylvania Amish Country. This region is inland.
  • Speed Limits: Obey displayed speed limits. They are generally lower on country roads.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures and Timing

No specific exit fees for departing from the U.S. As a tourist beyond those typically included in your airline ticket or train fare.

Airport Arrival Times

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled domestic flight. This timeframe allows for check-in (if you have checked luggage), security screening, and reaching your gate.
  • International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled international flight. This extra time accounts for potential longer lines at check-in, more extensive security screening, and U.S. Border control (CBP) procedures prior to boarding.
  • Train Stations (Amtrak): Arrive at the Lancaster Amtrak station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. This provides enough time to find your platform and board your train. Luggage can be checked earlier if needed.

Station Facilities

All major airports (PHL, BWI, EWR, MDT) and the Lancaster Amtrak station have standard facilities for departing travelers.

Departure Services

  • Check-in Counters and Kiosks: For airline or train ticket processing and baggage drop-off.
  • Security Checkpoints: Mandatory for all air travelers.
  • Restrooms: Available throughout the terminals and stations for public use.

Dining Options

A variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops for last-minute purchases or meals before departure.

Baggage Claim

Well-marked areas for retrieving luggage upon arrival, relevant for understanding airport flow.

Lounge Access

Some airports have airline common rooms for eligible passengers, providing a comfortable waiting area.

Important Considerations

Reconfirm Travel Status

Always reconfirm your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station. Check for any delays or gate changes.

Pre-Departure Checkpoints

  • Verify flight or train schedules in advance.
  • Check for notifications regarding delays or gate changes.
  • This practice helps prevent unnecessary waiting at the airport or station.

Travel Document Readiness

Have all necessary identification and travel documents readily available for airport and train security checks.

Smooth Security Process

  • Keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible.
  • Follow all security instructions from airport staff.
  • This step streamlines your departure experience.

Parking at Stations and Airports

Short-Term Parking

Available for quick drop-offs or pick-ups at all airports and train stations. Follow signs for designated areas.

Long-Term Parking

For extended trips, long-term parking lots are available at major airports. Consider booking in advance during peak travel seasons.

Shuttle Services to Lots

Most long-term parking lots at airports have transfer services to transport you towards the terminal buildings.

Smooth Departure

Careful planning for your departure ensures a smooth and stress-free conclusion to your trip.