Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Pennsylvania Dutch Country is best known for the unique old fashioned lifestyle of its locals and the rich fertile farmland where they live. The people who live in the area live much the same today as their ancestors did over a century ago. This slow-paced way of living is quite evident by the way they dress, their work habits and their lifestyle in general, which is Bible-centered. Many do not have electricity or central heating in their homes. The women cook on a woodstove, clean their houses by hand and make all of the families clothing, quilts and other necessities. The men farm the land using horses, build the family’s furniture and take produce and meat to market to help supplement the family’s income.

Amish, Brethern and Mennonite religious communities can be found throughout Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The region is a place in today’s fast-paced world where time literally seems to stand still.

History

Though there are a wide range of religions practiced in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, it is believed that the slow-paced, never-changing lifestyle began with Mennonite sects that came to the region during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. These people were enticed by the fertile farmland of the area and the right of religious freedom. They first settled in Germantown, but later moved to Lancaster County, which today is the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Top Destinations

Carlisle

Carlisle is located in Cumberland County and is the County Seat. Established in 1751, George Washington chose Carlisle for the first arsenal and school for the United States Army. Carlisle has preserved memories of the Victorian Era, and the Civil War, as well as the Carlisle Barracks and the United States Army College. The Carlisle Indian Industrial School, which was the first off-reservation Indian school in the US, is located here. The goal of the School was to help Indian children fit into white society.

There are a wide variety of things to see and do in Carlisle. Visit the art galleries, museums, parks, gardens, markets and theaters. Play a round of golf, go bowling, hike, bike, or take a walking tour A series of special events take place throughout the year. Attend a festival or fair, a car show or bike-fest.

Gettysburg

From July 1st to 3rd 1863, the small town of Gettysburg was under siege. It was here that the Union and Confederate soldiers faced each other in one of the most horrific battle of he Civil War. In November 1863, President Abraham Lincoln visited Gettysburg to dedicate the Gettysburg National Cemetery. At that time he gave his famous Gettysburg Address.

Gettysburg is rich in Civil War history. Visit the National Cemetery, the National Military Park, the War Photography Center and the Civil War Headquarters Museum. History buffs love to visit Gettysburg.

Dwight G. Eisenhower and his wife made Gettysburg their home and the site is open to visitors. The Eisenhower home served as a retreat, welcomed world leaders and served as the President’s retirement home.

Be sure to explore Pennsylvania Dutch Country in the region surrounding Gettysburg. One of the most popular attractions is the Land of Little Horses. The Park was founded in 1971 and consists of 100 acres where friendly miniature horses interact with visitors.

Hershey

Hershey was named after Milton S. Hershey, who made his fortune manufacturing and marketing chocolate. Who hasn’t heard of a Hershey’s Bar or M & Ms? Hershey created a model community in Derry Township. The town is located in the center of the cocoa bean ports and dairy farms, which makes a perfect setting for a chocolate factory. The setting made life very convenient for both Hershey and his employees. The town is rich in history and is home to the Hershey Chocolate Factory and the Milton Hershey School. Hershey Park features thrilling roller coasters, an animal pavilion, themed restaurants, a 3-D movie on the history and evolution of Hershey, rides and interactive displays. At the Hershey Candy Factory you can see how a variety of Hershey products are made and kids can enjoy packing Hershey’s Kisses.

Visitors to Hershey can enjoy museums, aquariums, gardens, theaters, parks, zoos and many other venues in the immediate area surrounding Hershey.

Lancaster

Lancaster is located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Here, visitors will find a mixture of modern attractions and old ways. There are a wide selection of venues to educate visitors on the traditions and culture of the Amish people who live in the region. Be sure to visit the Amish Farm to learn about the daily life of Amish farmers. The Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum has a vast collection of homemade quilts and textiles that date back to the 1870s. To learn more about the lifestyle of the old order, stop by the Mennonite Information Center.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country is well known for its covered bridges and Lancaster has an abundance of them. These old style edifices are becoming rare in the modern world and draw visitors from all over the world. Be sure to bring along your camera to photograph these beautiful structures. They are especially beautiful in the fall with a backdrop of autumn scenery.

Lancaster is rich in the history and culture of the Amish people. Be sure to visit the area’ art galleries, museums, gardens, parks and other venues of interest. There are events throughout the year that will be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Reading

If you’ve every played Monopoly® you’ve probably owned or landed on the Reading Railroad. Reading, PA is home to the Railroad and has been immortalized on the game board. Reading is home to the first Civil War regiment, women’s society and volunteer band.

Reading developed the idea of retail outlet shopping and is known as the Original Outlet Capital of the World. This city is in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country and is a shopper’s paradise. Every year thousands of chartered busses pull into Reading, bringing shoppers who are eager to shop in the City’s six outlet complexes.

Penn Square is the nexus of Reading. Historical buildings, boutiques, shops and a range of community activities make the beautiful, landscaped Square a great place to shop and enjoy a leisurely day.

The area that surrounds Reading is rich in fascinating historical attractions that appeal to people of all ages and from all walks of life. Visit the art galleries, historic sites, gardens, parks museums, and interpretive centers.

Lodging

There are accommodations to fit every budget and taste in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. From working farms to campsites, bed and breakfasts and quaint inns to motels and five star accommodation, the area has thousands of unique lodging opportunities.

Food and Drink

There are a wide range of bistros, cafes, pubs and restaurants in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. From simple and delicious homemade Amish fare to five star dining, there’s food and drink venues to satisfy all budgets and tastes. For a unique dining experience, book a reservation at Stokesay Castle in Reading. Stokesay is a 13th century castle that’s located on the side of a mountain. The venue offers mouthwatering food, and extensive menu and a panoramic view of 20 miles of breathtaking scenery.

If you are seeking a unique vacation experience where you can take a step back in time to explore bygone days, be sure to add Pennsylvania Dutch Country to your destination list. It’s an unforgettable country travel experience.

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