Planning your Lancaster Vacation in Pennsylvania!

Visiting Lancaster Pennsylvania

Lancaster is set in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. It is a place where you seem to step back into another era when people were friendlier and life was lived at a slower pace. Lancaster is well known for its rolling hills, fertile farmlands, and Amish farms. The unique tranquil nature of the area makes it a popular vacation destination for U.S. travelers. Beyond the rich history, scenic panoramas and gracious hospitality Lancaster's distinct seasons offers up their own flavor. From the natural beauty of summer crops as they sew a vibrant patchwork quilt across the rolling fields to fall leaves as they paint a brilliant portrait of crimson and gold you will find it all. And depending on the time of year, there are special events that fill each season, like theatrical performances that relive days gone by, harvest festivals, candle-lit Christmas tours, and art shows to name a few. The influence of the Amish and the contribution they have made to the area are an integral part of Lancaster and its rich history. Hundreds of years of tradition have shaped this area into a one of a kind place. Create a day like no other as you take in a round of golf, a buggy ride and a train tour here in Lancaster County. When it comes to shopping, hundreds of years of tradition have created many little shops filled with trinkets from yesteryear. Lancaster County is nationally known for its strong work ethic that permeates the craftsmanship of its goods. Whether you are looking for hand crafted furniture, fresh canned goods, or a bottle of fine wine, produced from the rich harvest of the fertile soil of this area, you won't be disappointed. When it comes to the dining experience in Lancaster County the area exceeds its reputation of superior quality. From decadent desserts in an elegant atmosphere to authentic Pennsylvania Dutch meals served family style overlooking farm fields Lancaster's restaurant offerings are sure to please.

Lancaster Climate

Lancaster County has four distinctive seasons. Temperatures throughout the year run an average in the range of 30 to 80 degrees. Summers are usually humid and the average temperature is 70 degrees. This season is best known for the patchwork quilt look of the rolling farm fields. In the fall night temperatures sometimes drop below 50 bringing a chill to the air. The sun often warms daytime temperatures into the 60s making it pleasant and mild. Winters bring average daytime temperatures in the upper 30s with nighttime averages in the lower 20s. Winters are usually cold and wet and the area gets occasional snow falls. Spring brings warmer weather with a temperature range of 50 to 70 degrees.

Lancaster Covered Bridges

Lancaster County is home to 28 covered bridges and is self proclaimed as "the covered bridge county." Pennsylvania has more covered bridges than any other state in the nation and has been recognized as the birthplace of the covered bridge. In the span of 80 years up until the turn of the century approximately 1,500 bridges were built here. Today only a little over 200 of these beautiful pieces of history still stand in Pennsylvania. Covered bridges are as much of a part of the Lancaster countryside as rolling hills and Amish farms. Covered bridges have been referred to as "kissing bridges" because of the privacy they offer, while the real reason for the covering remains to be the protection of the wood trusses below the roof. Today these beautiful structures remain a rich part of history and are worth the drive. Some are still functional and used by car as well as horse and buggy. Whether the methodical rhythm of horse hooves or the precise hum of car tires one thing is for sure, the sound a traveler makes crossing these magnificent structures is like no other. One might think they were on a romantic journey or an old time Sunday drive as they toured the back country meandering through these magical pieces of history.

Lancaster Travel Tips

The temperate climate of Lancaster allows visitors to enjoy Lancaster year round. The area offers up many events for each season. If you are going to be outdoors it is best to dress in layers since night time temperatures usually drop. Lancaster has a large population of Amish people and it is important to make adjustments that respect their lifestyle. The Amish are a group of people simply trying to live according to their religious beliefs. Do not trespass upon private property just to see how the Amish are conducting their days. There are attractions in the area that present plenty of opportunity for visitors to do this. Never take a snapshot of an Amish person, and do not take any photographs without first asking permission; the Amish believe that photographs violate biblical prohibition against graven images. Drivers should use extreme caution and refrain from using their horns unless absolutely necessary, since it is not unusual for horse-drawn buggies to share the road with motorists in Lancaster County. For the tourist a buggy ride offers a lovely way to see the Amish countryside and drivers can answer questions about Amish customs. Lancaster is a safe place to visit, but it's still a good idea to use traveler's checks instead of cash. Do not to leave valuables in your car.