One of the oldest inland cities in the United States, Lancaster is renowned for its Heritage-listed architecture and vibrant arts scene. The surrounding region is home to large Amish and Mennonite communities whose way of life is vividly displayed in local museums and theatres.
Things to do in Lancaster
Spend an afternoon strolling the historic streets of Lancaster, stopping to admire the late-19th-century Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Fulton Opera House, the oldest opera house in the United States. The former Falk and Rosenbaum Tobacco Warehouse now functions as the Lancaster Arts Hotel and houses a gallery and restaurant serving organic cuisine.
Visit Lancaster’s late-19th-century Central Market, the oldest continually-run farmers’ market in the United States. It occupies a beautiful red brick building where regional food specialties like Pennsylvania Dutch sausage and headcheese are sold, together with local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Lancaster is renowned for its thriving arts scene, which is best explored at the former home and studio of 20th-century artist, Charles Demuth. His original paintings are on display, in addition to works by other artists that reflect a connection to Demuth and Lancaster.
Want to learn about Amish traditions in Lancaster? Visit the Lancaster County Quilts and Textile Museum where hand-sewn quilts by the region’s Amish communities are on show. Join a guided tour of the Amish Farmlands to get first-hand insight into their way of life and visit the heritage-listed Amish House & One-Room School.
Getting around Lancaster
Lancaster Airport is around 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre, with trains making the one-hour journey east to Philadelphia. Buses travel throughout the city and buggies can be hired for transport in the rural surrounds.