Category: Lancaster
Enjoy Safe Overnight Stays in Lancaster County
September 17, 2020As the number of coronavirus cases steadily declines, people are starting to travel again. It’s exciting to know Lancaster County tourism continues to emerge from COVID-19 and visitors from surrounding counties and states are once again discovering the beauty of Amish Country.
People are ready to shed their cabin fever: Families coming to Lancaster for the Amish experience or to see shows at American Music Theater or Sight & Sound, couples looking for a romantic getaway, outdoor enthusiasts exploring nearby hiking and biking trails, and so many others.
New Year’s Events In Lancaster County
December 8, 2019
5 Top Reasons to Take a Trip to Amish Country, PA
September 27, 2019
Do you ever just get so tied up at work that you throw your hands up in the air and say, “That’s it. I need a vacation.” Sometimes you need an uninterrupted break from the daily grind, which is why planning a getaway to Amish Country, PA should be on your bucket list. Slow down from the everyday life happenings, relax away from the city, and let your worries fade while staying at AmishView Inn & Suites. Keep reading to find the top 5 reasons as to why your next escape should be to Lancaster, PA.
1. The Atmosphere
The best time to visit Amish Country, PA, is really any time of the year. You’ll quickly find yourself nestled around gorgeous Amish farms, breathtaking landscapes, and quaint shops all around the area. When you physically see how the Amish live, you’ll come to appreciate your time reflecting on life away from technology and the modern-day lifestyle.
2. The Furniture
When shopping in Lancaster, PA, we suggest taking the time to appreciate the Amish furniture. Each piece is truly one-of-a-kind, and the longevity of the furniture far exceeds any mass-produced product. The quality and care put into each piece means that the Amish maker has ensured that the selected pieces of hardwood have matured enough to last from generation to generation.
3. The Food
All around town, you’ll find farm stands, Amish baked goods, and the best restaurants in Lancaster, PA, that use locally grown Amish ingredients. Traditional Amish food is made with fresh ingredients, is deliciously hearty and will not leave you hungry. Get the taste of the Amish Country, PA, ingredients of Lancaster County at Miller’s Smorgasbord.
4. The Buggy Rides
Amish do not drive cars, let alone use transportation that has rubber on the tires as the tractors and buggies are meant to stay close to their farms. Which is why when you visit Lancaster, PA, you’ll find many Amish folks traveling around by buggy. We encourage you to take a tour of their farms and properties by buggy, which will allow you to get a real experience of the Amish traditions along the way.
5. The Amish Products
Not only does the Amish produce high-quality furniture and grow the best quality ingredients around, but they also craft many other products. You’ll find authentic Amish-made clothing, canned goods, quilts, art, candles, leather goods and so much more while shopping in Lancaster, PA. Walk away from your vacation with a gift or keepsake that is one-of-a-kind.
Peaceful Lancaster, PA, Hotels
The Amish take a slower approach to life, and when you visit Lancaster, PA, you’ll get to partake in the experience. Escape from the busy city life and take time to nurture your family connections in Amish Country, PA. During your stay at AmishView Inn & Suites, enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast each morning with the view of an Amish farm just outside the window as you eat breakfast. While we offer a peaceful escape, we also provide modern-day amenities such as free wi-fi and TVs that will keep you connected during your getaway. Please give us a call to book your stay 1-866-735-1600 or book online.
Best Restaurants in Lancaster PA
July 26, 2019One of the best experiences you’ll have when staying at AmishView Inn & Suites is the fantastic food during your stay. Our complimentary breakfast buffet is served fresh each morning so that you’ll be able to start the day off with a full stomach before going about your daily adventures. Many local eateries use authentic Amish-grown ingredients in their dishes, which is why you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Lancaster PA.
Smokehouse BBQ and Brew
During your vacation, plan a night to stop into the Smokehouse BBQ and Brew located just outside the lobby doors of our Lancaster hotel. You’ll love the signature house-made sauce options that are on each table. Order a round of wings or a rack of ribs which are both local favorites and pair it with an artisan brew on draft. Even if you don’t have time to sit and dine, grab an order to go and bring it back to your room to relax after a long day out!
Miller’s Smorgasbord
One of the best buffet restaurants in Lancaster PA is Miller’s Smorgasbord as they serve meals made from scratch. They have been a Lancaster County staple since 1929! They are still locally owned and operated. When you genuinely want to taste the flavor of the Lancaster County dishes, this American fare eatery should be your go-to on Lancaster vacation. The restaurant offers full traditional smorgasbord buffet with house-made baked goods and desserts as well as their lighter Soup and Salad Smorgasbord. We suggest trying the traditional smorgasbord where you’ll have access to everything including homemade soups; carving station with roast beef, ham and turkey; Golden Fried Chicken; Baked Cabbage and more! you’ll have so many options. The restaurant is located at The Shoppes at Miller’s where you can get hand-stitched Amish-made quilts, MIller’s Bakery baked goods and mementos of your trip.
Other Restaurants
There is a wide variety of award-winning locally owned restaurants in Lancaster County especially in downtown Lancaster City. It can be fun to try out the specials in Downtown Lancaster during the annual Restaurant Week. Beer lover? Check out the different craft breweries that offer dining as well. Looking for additional suggestions, ask our front desk but be sure to them know what type of food you are looking for.
Book Your Stay in Lancaster at AmishView
When staying at AmishView, you’ll be able to enjoy the complimentary hearty breakfast buffet, before heading out to explore Amish Country. This buffet features oatmeal, country potatoes, made to order waffles, made to order eggs, and other farm fresh items. No matter which of our gorgeous hotel rooms you choose for your stay in Lancaster, you’ll delight in beautiful views of the Amish farms that surround you while looking out your window or the window in the Great Room. You’ll enjoy an intimate getaway with your loved ones out in the country away from the city. It’s never too early to start planning your getaway to our peaceful town of Lancaster, PA. Give us a call at 1-866-735-1600.
Family-Friendly Lancaster PA Inn
June 30, 2019
After spending the day exploring with your family, come back to our Lancaster inn to kick back and relax. We have an indoor pool where your kids will be able to continue the fun and a whirlpool where you can indulge in a carefree zone! For your kid’s entertainment, and maybe even for an adult with a childlike curiosity, we have an arcade room that’s available 24 hours a day! To view our outstanding hotel amenities visit our breakfast and amenities page online! When you’re ready to plan your stay in Lancaster Amish country give us a call at 1-866-735-1600!
Amish Furniture
December 19, 2017The Amish community is well-known for their high quality furniture. Many are left wondering how they do it, especially without using electricity. The answer is overwhelmingly skill. By employing tremendous woodworking abilities, handed down from generation to generation, the Amish have developed an extraordinary legacy.
First, the craftsmen choose the right wood for the piece. A nice cherry wood for a table, or a maple or mahogany. Depending on the client’s request, any wood is possible. Without particle board, or shortcuts, they build furniture using hand tools and tools that are powered with diesel compressors alone. The process is slow and laborious, but yields fantastic results.
Why Buy Amish Furniture?
Because it’s good. Furniture from the Amish community is generally very sturdy and lasts a lifetime. They utilize a painstaking attention to detail, so pieces are genuinely cared for throughout the process. Each piece is unique and visitors to your home will notice.
They have an expansive inventory potential. The Amish woodworkers are versatile, and will create anything from chairs to cabinets. There are several variations of style and technique that different sects use. For example, the Shaker and Queen Ann styles differ significantly. The Shaker pieces emphasize simplicity while the Queen Ann pieces include engraved ornamentation.
The process is environmentally friendly, and it promotes local business. The Plain community steadfastly refuses to waste supplies so trees are not torn down in vain. They also often own their own businesses, and purchasing goods from an Amish-run store stimulates the local economy.
Local Amish Craftsmen:
If you’re interested in acquiring some authentic Amish furniture pieces during your stay at the AmishView Inn & Suites, here are a few local locations!
Peaceful Valley Furniture
3347 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse 17534
Fisher’s Quality Furniture
3061 W. Newport Road, Ronks, PA 17572
Gish’s Furniture and Amish Heirlooms
2191 E Lincoln Hwy, Lancaster PA
Dutch Selections
793 Lancaster Pk, Quarryville PA 17566
King’s Kountry Korner
101 Centerville Rd, Gordonville, Pa
Carriage House Furnishings
3572 West Newport Rd. Ronks, PA 17572
Harold’s Oak House
412 Newport Avenue, Christiana, PA 17509
Microbreweries in Lancaster County
October 30, 2017Lancaster County has a rich cultural heritage. However, we’re not only known for our historical legacy and Amish tradition, but also our brewmasters! Lancaster County is home to a number of craft breweries whse connections are downright decadent. There’s a reason we’re called the “Little Munich of America”. With more than a dozen in the area, let’s take a look at five local brewpub favorites.
Iron Hill Brewery
What started as two friends using a homebrew kit back in 1990 has become one of the most beloved local brewpubs in Lancaster. They also feature delicious artisan dishes to accompany your drinks. You can check them out at 781 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, Pa.
The most popular drink from Iron Hill is the “Pig Iron Porter”. Described as a “classic porter”, it balances a slight bitter flavor with chocolate and roasted malt.
Iron Hill Brewery is also known for their “Ore House IPA”. This beverage emphasizes its hops with hints of pine and citrus. Along with the citrus aroma, it’s golden hue is a delight to see – making it an all-around home run for the senses.
Wacker Brewing Company
Wacker Brewing Company dates all the way back to 1853! When Joseph Wacker made his purchase, it stayed a family-run business until 1938. After surviving a devastating fire, and prohibition, the Wacker family sold its brewery to John Duschl. He maintained the business until 1956 when midwestern breweries overtook the market. In 2014, Wacker Brewing reopened – surging with creative energy combined with classic recipes. To see this historical landmark, head to 417 West Grant Street in Lancaster.
Their popular light-bodied dark beer, “Little Dutch Dunkel” is among their most popular beverages. A Dunkelweizen (“wheat beer”), this beverage starts with a bready flavor and finishes lighter like a lager.
Another popular beverage is their “Wacker’s German Pale Ale”, or “Kolsch”. This particular item is pale and fruity, with a medium to light bodied flavor.
Lancaster Brewing Company
In 1995, Lancaster Malt Brewing opened in the iconic tobacco warehouse of Lancaster city. Refashioned as a brewpub, this is where Lancaster Brewing Company still stands today. You can see the big brick building for yourself at 302 North Plum St. Lancaster, Pa.
Lancaster Brewing Company features several intriguing beer options, one of which is their “Milk Stout”. Deliciously sweet, this craft beer has hints of malt with overtones of milk chocolate and coffee. It’s a dessert drink for sure, and a nice introduction for newer craft beer aficionados.
The “Hop Hog IPA” is made especially for hop-lovers. This potent brew charges – like a hog – with hop flavor for a dry, yet satisfying, experience.
Spring House Brewing Company
Matt Keasey began the Spring House Brewing Company in 2006 as a tiny operation. However, his concoctions drew admirers from miles around, and he quickly outgrew his barn! His unique style and experimental brews can be experienced at 25 West King Street in Lancaster.
Spring House offers the “Big Gruesome Chocolate Peanut Butter Stout” for its sweet-loving Stout fans. Made with raw cocoa, vanilla beans, and peanut butter, this beverage has a full-bodied, rich taste. The raw cocoa packs a punch, but the peanut butter mellows it out for a truly mighty experience.
“The Astounding She-Monster Mango IPA” is a Spring House specialty. This beverage combines sweet mango with sour citrus for a fruity sensation.
St. Boniface Craft Brewing Company
In 2010, Jon Northup and Mike Price opened a one barrel nanobrewery in Ephrata. After receiving overwhelming community support, they expanded to a three-barrel operation using local Mennonite-crafted metalwork. By 2015, St. Boniface’s rapid growth resulted in a 15-barrel brewery with over 90% of its production sold in-house. St. Boniface has become a local staple, and you can visit its rustic brewpub at 1701 W. Main St. in Ephrata.
St. Boniface developed the “Paideia Pale Ale” to represent the prototypical ideal for all pale ales. It’s single-hop and malt blend are pure, with reduced bitterness.
Their “Libation DIPA” is meant to evoke the gods themselves. Its emphasis on malt, and unique hop blend, showcase a sweetly balanced beer.
So Much Beer, So Little Time
Not enough time to visit all the breweries during your stay at Amishview Inn? Don’t Worry! You can always come back to finish your tour, we would be glad to have you again. If you are looking to try multiple craft brews at one location, don’t forget to check out our friends at Smokehouse BBQ & Brews or Rumspringa Brewing Company!
AMT Christmas Show
October 17, 2017We love when guests come to visit us for the holidays! You can be sure our halls will be decked, and whether you prefer to shop or to be entertained, Lancaster County has something just for you. In fact, within minutes of the AmishView Inn you can experience some of the best holiday shopping, antiquing, and shows for all ages.
We would like to put the spotlight on one of our favorite annual Christmas shows – The Christmas Show at American Music Theatre! It’s truly a spectacle of fun and nostalgia.
Performances To Make You Feel “Home for the Holidays”
With the holiday season on its way, people are prepping for family traditions and festivities. Soon, holiday decorations will adorn homes and shops. Holiday music will delight listeners over the airwaves and cheer will be everywhere. For many, the time of Christmas is filled with wonder and whimsy.
This year, the American Music Theater aims to recreate that wonder for its audiences in The 2024 Christmas Show: Joy to the World. Evoking the revered holiday nostalgia of hometown America, their stage transforms into a small town winter carnival brimming with family, friends, and entertaining elves. Singing, dancing, and music are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. Not just any music, that is, but the outstanding musical arrangements played by the AMT orchestra!
It’s Showtime!
The 2024 Christmas Show will be running from November 5th until December 30th, so don’t miss this spectacular show! Only a few minutes from Amishview Inn, let the talented performers at AMT help you experience the joy of past holidays. Visit American Music Theater’s website for more information.
Let Us Be Your Home For The Holidays
Looking for a winter getaway? Let AmishView Inn be your home during the holidays! Our beautiful views and optional adult-only wing can give you the peaceful retreat that you deserve. Contact us now to get more information or make your reservation today.
Holiday Shopping In Lancaster County
September 28, 2017Looking to do some holiday shopping in Lancaster County? Early birds and last-minute shoppers alike will find that Lancaster is the perfect place to shop this holiday season. Whether you are looking for national brands or local goods from Amish Country, you can find it all. Here are some of our favorite places to finish off that gift list in Lancaster.
Kitchen Kettle Village
If you’re looking for less mainstream gifts, Kitchen Kettle Village offers a variety of local goods. Located in Intercourse, PA, this collection of over 40 shops specializes in rustic and artistic wares. Home-canned jams, handcrafted leather goods, hand-stitched quilts, and more are available at the Village. You can also find specialized gifts at Kitchen Kettle Village, including an assortment of handmade crafts. More information is available on their website. Best of all, it’s located only minutes from AmishView!
Quilt Shop At Miller’s
Hundreds of Handmade Quilts.
Choose from hundreds of handmade quilts, quillows, wall hangings, and exquisite gift items from Amish, Mennonite, and other local artisans. Members of our friendly, knowledgeable sales staff are always available for questions.
3,500 Square Foot, Well-lit Showroom.
Our meticulous Quilt Shop staff selects only the finest examples of craftsmanship to fill our spacious 3,500 square foot, well-lit showroom.
Plain & Fancy Country Store
Shop our 5,000-square-foot store for authentic Amish-made bonnets, dresses, wooden toys, dolls, and crafts to adorn your home. We carry books, DVD’s and souvenirs so you can take a piece of Lancaster County home with you. We have home decor, candles, mugs, and gifts for every occasion. Our store proudly carries an assortment of “Made in the USA” gift items. We feature locally made treats, a large assortment of jams, jellies, and pickled vegetables made from local ingredients, and fresh baked shoofly pie, whoopie pies, and raisin bread.
Tanger Outlets
Located right off of Route 30/Lincoln Highway, this outlet mall houses over 50 individual shops. Tanger’s layout makes it easy to park in one spot and spend the day walking through all of your favorite shops. Clothing, toys, housewares, and everything in between are available from the shops at Tanger Outlets. The outlets make it simple to tackle that shopping list! They keep an updated directory of their shops online for your perusal.
Park City Center
Located at the intersection of Harrisburg Pike and Route 30, Park City Center is the largest enclosed shopping center in Lancaster County. With nearly 1.5 million square feet of space, and over 170 stores, Park City Center is one of the best places to get your holiday shopping done. This mall is divided into 8 wings, with 5 anchor stores, including: Sears, Kohl’s, JCPenney, Boscov’s, and The Bon-Ton. A full listing of their shops can be found here.
Antiques Shopping
Lancaster County is well-known for its antiques shops and what better place to find those nostalgic toys you once owned (or listed on your childhood Christmas Wish List)? TripAdvisor lists numerous antique stores near us, and our guest services staff would be more than happy to help you decide which ones to visit.
Spend this Winter Season Holiday Shopping With Us!
When you stay at Amishview Inn, you put yourself right in the middle of some of the best holiday shopping available. Spending your days shopping, and your nights relaxing in one of our rooms overlooking Amish Country, makes for a great vacation! Don’t forget to mention our Free Shopping Enhancement.
Lancaster County is the perfect destination for those seeking modern amenities and comfort while in pursuit of nostalgic, quaint experiences that can take you back to simpler days for Christmas. Indoor and outdoor holiday events are taking place throughout Lancaster and neighboring counties.
AmishView Inn & Suites, Tripadvisor’s Top Lancaster hotel, is one of the best places to stay, be near it all, and still be able to enjoy quiet, retreat-like accommodations. We even offer adults-only building for those without children.
Book your stay today!
Museums in Lancaster County
August 31, 2017Lancaster County is home to many great museums, ranging from historical to child-friendly. Trains, clocks, art, and more await you in Amish country. Try adding some museums from our list below to your own vacation!
Antique Automobile Club of America Museum (AACA)
The AACA showcases dozens of fascinating motor vehicles. It demonstrates the history of cars in an entertaining, and educational, way.. A must see for car enthusiasts.
161 Museum Dr
Hershey, PA 17033
Demuth Museum
This museum is dedicated to the works of American modernist Charles Demuth. It provides a dazzling array of exhibitions and education opportunities. Fans of the visual arts will love this peek into art history.
120 E King St
Lancaster, PA 17602
Ephrata Cloister
One of America’s earliest religious communities, the Ephrata Cloister became known for its printing styles and unique music. Nearly a dozen buildings from the 18th century still remain on site.
632 W Main St
Ephrata, PA 17522
Hands-on House Children’s Museum
The Hands-on House is dedicated to making learning fun for kids ages 2-10 years old. With a philosophy focused on interactivity, children and adults alike will have a blast participating in their classes, exhibits, and programs.
721 Landis Valley Rd
Lancaster, PA 17601
Hans Herr House and Museum
Regarded as the oldest building in Lancaster County, the Hans Herr House is the oldest Mennonite meeting house in America. This colonial-period dwelling epitomizes the medieval Germanic style common of the time.
1849 Hans Herr Dr
Willow Street, PA 17584
Historic Rock Ford Plantation
Showcasing a unique example of architectural integrity, more than 90% of this house is still intact as originally built.Revolutionary War general Edward Hand called this beauty home. History buffs will love seeing the 18th Century elegance that still lives on at Rock Ford Plantation.
881 Rockford Rd
Lancaster, PA 17602
Lancaster Museum of Art
Housed in a Greek Revival style mansion from 1845, this museum displays contemporary art. Its exhibitions focus on both regional and national artists.
135 N Lime St
Lancaster, PA 17602
National Christmas Center
Showing the history of Christmas in an educational and entertaining way, boasts more than 20,000 square feet of holiday cheer. The center is open year round, but if you are planning to go, do so before their doors close at the end of the 2017 season.
3427 Lincoln Highway
Paradise, PA 17562
National Toy Train Museum
A monument to collecting, building, and operating toy trains, the National Toy Train Museum is an exciting attraction for young and old alike. With models going back to the 1800s, and five interactive train layouts, this museum is a fun activity.In fact, it’s often regarded as the best train museum in America.
300 Paradise Ln
Ronks, PA 17572
National Watch & Clock Museum
Recognized as the most comprehensive horological collection in North America, the National Watch and Clock Museum boasts more than 12,000 items. From large standing clocks to small timepieces, their collection houses all things time.
514 Poplar St
Columbia, PA 17512
North Museum of Natural History & Science
For over 60 years, the North Museum of Natural History & Science has been inspiring curiosity in residents and visitors to Lancaster county. For science lovers of all ages, they host exhibits, events, educational programs, and more.
400 College Ave
Lancaster, PA 17603
President James Buchanan’s Wheatland
Visit President James Buchanan’s estate and explore the story of his presidency. The only United States President from Pennsylvania, Buchanan spent much of his private life at Wheatland.
1120 Marietta Ave
Lancaster, PA 17603
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
This museum is considered world-class when it comes to railroad history. It holds artifacts and locomotives dating back to 1825! In addition to its exhibits, it offers special events, a vast library, and a working restoration shop.
300 Gap Rd
Strasburg, PA 17579