Lancaster

Lancaster is a city of around 59,000 people in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and one of the oldest inland towns in the United States. Founded in 1729, Lancaster served as the nation's capital for a single day on September 27, 1777, when the founding fathers fled the British. It was also Pennsylvania's capital from 1799 until Harrisburg was named the capital in 1812. The city has evolved from a hub and market town into a diverse, cosmopolitan destination with first-rate dining, shopping, architecture, and arts.

Lancaster is the center of an area inhabited by many members of the Amish community, who maintain their traditional lifestyle and provide the region with handmade goods, fresh produce, and a unique cultural experience. The city itself features beautiful historic architecture, a thriving arts scene, and numerous museums that tell the story of both the Amish culture and American history. The surrounding countryside offers scenic farmland, covered bridges, and farmer's markets.

The city's walkable downtown features Central Market, the oldest continuously operating farmer's market in the United States, and Penn Square, the historic center. Franklin and Marshall College adds a youthful energy to the city, while the surrounding Amish Country provides a stark contrast with its pastoral landscapes and horse-drawn buggies.

By Plane

Lancaster Airport (LNS IATA) has non-stop service to Pittsburgh and Baltimore/Washington DC airports via Southern Airways Express. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL IATA) and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT IATA) offer more extensive flight options and are about an hour away.

By Train

Lancaster Station at 53 E McGovern Ave, near downtown, is served by Amtrak. The Keystone line operates multiple daily trips between Harrisburg and New York City with stops in Lancaster. The Pennsylvanian operates daily between Pittsburgh and New York City, also stopping in Lancaster. Book early for best fares.

By Car / Road

Lancaster is easily accessible via multiple highways: I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) with exit at Lancaster; US-222 from the Philadelphia area; Route 30 running east-west through the county; and I-78 connecting to New Jersey and New York City. The drive from Philadelphia takes about 1.5 hours, from New York City about 2.5 hours, and from Harrisburg about 45 minutes.

Lancaster city is quite walkable, with most attractions within a mile of the center. The Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA) provides bus service throughout the city and to nearby towns like Lititz, with fares of $1.80. Bikes are increasingly welcome with dedicated lanes and a bike share program available. Amish buggies are infrequent in the city proper but common in the surrounding county; treat them like any other vehicle and give a wide berth when passing. A car is essential for exploring the broader Lancaster County area.

• Central Market - The oldest continuously operating farmer's market in the United States, located in a beautiful 1889 building. Features local produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods. Open Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.

• Lancaster County Amish Country - Experience Amish culture through guided tours, farm visits, and buggy rides in surrounding villages like Bird-In-Hand and Intercourse.

• Mennonite Information Center - Learn about Amish and Mennonite life and faith, with guided tours and a Biblical Tabernacle reproduction. Monday-Saturday 9AM-4PM. Admission free.

• The Amish Farm and House - Historic farm with picnic area, playground, and activities on 2395 Covered Bridge Dr. 9AM-5PM.

• Amish Village - Educational guided tour through an 1840s Amish farmhouse with barn, smokehouse, and blacksmith shop. Friday-Sunday 9AM-4PM. Tours from $12 per adult.

• Lancaster County Historical Museum - Exhibits on local history including the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and Amish heritage.

• Amish Buggy Rides - Traditional horse-drawn buggy tours through Amish farmland, available through various operators in Bird-In-Hand and Intercourse.

• Farmer's Market Shopping - Visit Central Market and roadside stands for fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

• Covered Bridge Tour - Lancaster County has 29 covered bridges, perfect for scenic drives and photography.

• Lancaster Arts Scene - Galleries, theaters, and live music venues throughout downtown, including the Lancaster Opera House and various independent galleries.

• Winery and Brewery Tours - Several local wineries and craft breweries offer tastings and tours in the surrounding countryside.

• Good 'N Plenty - Family-style restaurant serving traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine including fried chicken, roast beef, and shoofly pie. $15-25 per person.
• Lancaster Brewing Company - Craft brewery and restaurant with local beers and American fare. $12-20 per entrée.
• Citronnelle - French-inspired bistro with seasonal menu in a charming downtown setting. $20-35 per entrée.
• Issei Noodle - Popular ramen and Asian fusion restaurant. $12-18 per entrée.
• Fenz Restaurant - Upscale European cuisine with extensive wine list. $25-45 per entrée.

• Lancaster Brewing Company - Craft brewery with tasting room and pub fare.
• Wolfe Street Brewpub - Local brewery with creative beers and casual atmosphere.
• Passenger Coffee - Popular coffee roaster and café with specialty drinks.
• Local wineries - Several wineries in Lancaster County offer tastings and tours.

• Budget: Comfort Inn Lancaster - Rates from $80-120/night, includes breakfast and pool. Convenient to outlets and attractions.
• Mid-range: Lancaster Arts Hotel - Boutique hotel in a converted factory with art-themed rooms. Rates from $150-250/night.
• Upscale/Heritage: The Inn at Leola Village - Elegant bed and breakfast in a restored 1890s complex. Rates from $200-350/night. Eden Resort & Suites - Full-service resort with spa and golf. Rates from $180-300/night.

• Central Market - Local produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and artisanal products from Amish and Mennonite vendors.
• Lancaster County Roadside Stands - Fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts sold directly by Amish families.
• Downtown Lancaster Boutiques - Unique shops along Queen Street and Penn Square featuring antiques, clothing, and gifts.
• Rockvale Outlets and Tanger Outlets - Discount shopping at brand-name stores in the outlet shopping district.

• Hershey (25 miles, 30 minutes) - Chocolate-themed attraction with Hersheypark and Hershey's Chocolate World.
• Philadelphia (70 miles, 1.5 hours) - Major metropolitan destination with historic sites and cultural attractions.
• Gettysburg (35 miles, 45 minutes) - Historic Civil War battlefield and charming town.
• Lancaster County Countryside - Scenic drives through Amish farmland with roadside stands and covered bridges.
• Harrisburg (35 miles, 45 minutes) - State capital with museums and riverfront parks.