Windsor-Hights Herald
October 2007

A Tale of Many Cities
Visitors spending a long weekend in Pennsylvania Dutch Country have their choice of several charming hamlets. The village of Bird-In-Hand offers the cozy Bird-In-Hand Village Inn & Suites, a grouping of 24 quaint, country style guest rooms spread over four brick buildings; the oldest, built in 1734, holds court on the National Register of Historic Places. Just across the road, a farmers market beckons with aisle after aisle of fresh meats and produce, unique jarred goodies, candies, jewelry, clothing and souvenirs.

The nearby city of Lancaster, the county’s hub, boasts rows of antique shops, art galleries, restaurants, outdoor cafes and the region’s most popular farmers market. Vacationing families should check out Dutch Wonderland, an amusement park featuring more than 30 rides, games and coasters for kids. History buffs can stop by the Landis Valley Museum, the largest authentic Pennsylvania Dutch Country Living History Village, where 19th – century German life, customs and artifacts unfold before you. And if you’re in the mood for an old-fashioned constitutional stroll around the manicured grounds, it’s a real treat on a sunny fall day.

If you’re looking for some upscale charm, spend an afternoon in Lititz, Lancaster County’s own version of New Hope, PA. With its trendy shops and chic restaurants, it promises visitors a little cosmopolitan-meets-old-country charm. Feeling twisted? Stop into the historic Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, America’s first commercial bakery.

Seasonal Availability
Pennsylvania Dutch Country shines during late autumn, when barns, silos, covered bridges and farmland compose the panorama.
Soak it all in with a horse-and-buggy ride; while you’ll cover limited ground, Amish buggy drivers reveal their deep sense of regional pride and knowledge of the countryside.

Another don’t-miss option? The Ride to Paradise on an old-time train departs from Strasburg Rail Road – America’s oldest short-line railroad – and takes guests on a 45-minute jaunt through several miles of farmland. On the return trip, passengers can disembark at a scenic spot to enjoy picnics, hayrides, apple cider, as well as the Amazing Maize Maze in the aptly named township of Paradise. Then, hop another returning train and, upon arriving at the station, visit the Choo Choo Barn and National Toy Train Museum.