It seems fitting that a beautiful red rose is the symbol of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. A county steeped in history with breath-taking scenery and a humid continental climate, it has earned its right as a popular tourist destination.
Originally called Hickory Town, the city adopted its name and symbol from the English town Lancaster and is famous for its Amish community and warm hospitality.
Located in South Central Pennsylvania and 87 miles (140km) northeast of the capital Washington, D.C, Lancaster PA is one of the older non-coastal towns in the United States spanning 7.4 square miles (19km2) with a population of approximately 60,000.
Travel to Lancaster County by Amtrak Rail or drive Route 30, which was once the Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike, the first paved road in the United States. There are also two airports locally: Lancaster and Harrisburg International.
The world is your oyster when it comes to accommodation so choosing a hotel in Lancaster PA is a matter of budget, location and personal taste. With many convenient hotels, charming bed and breakfasts and first class resorts available, finding a suitable lodging in Lancaster PA is an easy search engine task. If you are searching for accommodation, be sure to search for Lancaster Pennsylvania hotels so you don’t end up in Lancaster, England!
There’s plenty to do, see and explore here with over 90 art venues, historic architecture and many cultural and entertainment attractions for all ages. Many galleries and museums offer a vast learning experience from the past 3 centuries. You can even tour a working microbrewery or be creative in a craft workshop.
If shopping is your thing, Lancaster boasts the largest enclosed shopping center in South Central Pennsylvania called Park City Center containing almost 200 stores. If you love a bargain then a trip to the factory outlet centers clustered together along Route 30 is essential. Hundreds of stores feature brand name clothing, household items and more at rock bottom prices. Downtown Lancaster offers a huge selection of boutiques and antique shops selling unique vintage items. Foodie heaven is situated at Central Market, the country’s oldest farmers’ market. Sample regional food specialities such as Pennsylvania Dutch sausage, scrapple (a breakfast meat made from pork and oatmeal) or one of the many preserves including chowchow.
An eclectic selection of cuisine can be enjoyed at the numerous places to eat ranging from fine dining, international restaurants, quaint cafes where you can tuck into some local whoopie pie. Satisfy a sweet tooth by visiting local bakeries for treats such as shoofy pie and apple dumplings.
No visit to Lancaster would be complete without a visit to The Amish Village, which is open to visitors and provides an authentic look at today’s Amish lifestyle. A guided tour is available to show a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, smoke market and the grounds of the community.
From the warm welcome you will receive at your hotel in Lancaster PA to the abundance of culture, history and activities, your trip will be as delightful as a beautiful red rose.
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