Sweet Escape
Spring in Lancaster is the couples getaway you didn't know you needed
With the weather warming and spring buds emerging, there’s no reason to book a flight and bail on good ol’ PA. You can get away right now, right here. All you need is a tank of gas, an overnight bag and your favorite traveling companion.
While there are dozens of destinations within a short drive, perhaps none are more underestimated than the understated romance of Lancaster County.
A Couple’s Celebration
Winter’s chill is behind us. Spring is in the air. Leave the kids and their many requests at home, and celebrate the adult life for a change. This is not a weekend you’ll want to rush back from, so first, book a night in the adult-only wing of Amish View Inn & Suites in Bird-in-Hand, where you’ll wake to farmland views and a complimentary hot breakfast.
Start your day at the Jam & Relish Kitchen in nearby Intercourse, where they cook up homemade Pennsylvania Dutch treats like strawberry preserves, pies and cookies six days a week. They’re closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly. Looking to spice things up? Try their new line of queso dips or ask for a sample of their famous pepper jelly.
Then head into Lancaster City for an evening to remember, starting at Josephine’s on Main Street, where you’ll enjoy French cuisine inspired by the central Pennsylvania harvest. Toast your weekend and each other with a couple of Hollywood-inspired libations, like the gin-and-pickle-soaked James Dean or the coconut-infused Betty White. Order a plate of the house-made bacon while you weigh your dinner options.
Although glorious accommodations await, don’t let the night end too soon. On your way back, leave time to take in a performance at the American Music Theatre on Lincoln Highway East, also in Lancaster City. This state-of-the-art venue is known for luring national acts like Bonnie Raitt, Trisha Yearwood and the Beach Boys — all coming this spring.
History Lovers
If the past is your passion, then Lancaster County, which was settled in 1720, will have your heart aflutter.
Get up early for Unique Lancaster Experiences’ History & Breakfast Tour. Meet up with your guide, a local historian, at a downtown coffee shop, where you’ll make introductions and enjoy a cup of coffee (or tea) and some Amish-made breakfast sandwiches. Once fortified, you’ll begin a lively walking tour of downtown Lancaster.
Afterward, stay close and explore the town on your own. Make sure to visit the quaint Demuth Museum, showcasing the work of painter Charles Demuth in the backdrop of his King Street home. With your self-guided tour complete and your feet tired, head east to nearby Leola for an unforgettable meal in an unforgettable location.
Leola’s Log Cabin operated as a speakeasy before opening as a fine dining restaurant in 1933 and has earned its reputation as an area favorite over nearly a century of stellar service. Try the Crackling Pork Shank in a Lancaster County root beer BBQ glaze while sipping a signature Chicago Fizz and admiring the selection of historic artwork displayed throughout the restaurant.
Full and floating, end your day in the romantic arms of the Inn at Leola Village. Recognized as a Historic Hotel of Excellence, this elegant inn blends classic charm with modern amenities — like rainfall showers and whirlpool tubs.
In the morning, enjoy breakfast at the La Mattina Caffe before heading out to explore the beautifully restored grounds of this former Amish tobacco farm. Or you may decide to relax with a couples massage at the in-house wellness spa.
An Artisan Escape
If you pride yourself on a life well-crafted — from the clothes in your wardrobe to the food on your table — you’ll want to spend more time in Lancaster City. Head first to Bistro Barberet & Bakery, where renowned Pastry Chef Cedric Barberet is busy baking authentic French delicacies with a modern twist. Keep it simple with a fresh-from-the-oven croissant or indulge with the L’opéra, an almond cake soaked in espresso, layered in coffee buttercream and topped with chocolate ganache. Barberet is the first U.S. eatery designated as a World’s French Restaurant.
Now that you’re sated, head out of town to browse the best of what Amish artisans have to offer. Leave your car at the Lancaster Welcome Center and rent a bike through Bike It Lancaster to take the road less traveled.
Ride past the scenic Lancaster County Central Park and out to the Amish-owned and -operated Countryside Road Stand. Peruse handmade quilts and grab jars of homemade apple butter. Then it’s on to the nearby Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, where you’ll find tons of delicious artisan offerings like meats, cheeses and local candies. Grab a hand-rolled soft pretzel before cycling back.
For dinner, you’ll want to reserve a seat at Lancaster City’s Cafe Passerine, which just happened to be named one of the New York Times’ favorite restaurants in 2024. While this farm-to-table kitchen is BYOB, they have a bottle shop paying homage to the many unique wines of the East Coast — from Vermont’s indigenous grapes to Virginia’s sparkling ciders.
End your day at the romantic Lancaster Arts Hotel. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by more than 250 one-of-a-kind pieces from a variety of local artists. The rustic modern rooms feature exposed brick walls, locally crafted furnishings and inspiration around every corner. Sweet dreams!
Off the Beaten Path
You know Lancaster City. You’ve done the Lancaster Science Factory and have been to Dutch Wonderland more times than you care to count. But do you know Marietta? This Pennsylvania borough of just 2,600 residents is located on the east bank of the Susquehanna River about 30 minutes west of Lancaster City.
If the weather is nice, head over to Chickies Rock County Park and hike to the top of Chickies Rock. This massive tower of quartzite rock launches 100 feet above the river, delivering impressive views of the valley below. If you’re visiting after Memorial Day, plan to spend some time on the river.
Book a tubing adventure through Sickman’s Mill Outfitters. Choose from the “Classic,” a DIY option, or “Guided,” with a knowledgeable tour guide to alert you to local wildlife (heron, eagles, deer) and scenic stops like swimming holes and jumping rocks for the adventurous.
End the day at Jimmy’s Place, where you can enjoy live music and a can of Jimmy Juice, their small-batch cocktail produced and packaged right there by the river.
Back in Marietta, change out of your river clothes and stroll hand-in-hand down quaint Front Street. Pop into a pub or two before landing at the Railroad House Inn for dinner. The steampunk-inspired main dining room with its eggplant walls and pewter scroll work will surely leave an impression. The seasonal menu changes often, but the strip steak with mushrooms is a perennial favorite.
Sunned, loose and sated, you’re ready to let the day fade away as your walk back through this sleepy river town to the B.F. Hiestand House Bed & Breakfast. This Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner will not disappoint with its uniquely styled rooms, each with a private bath, warm hospitality and a hearty breakfast homemade by innkeeper Pam Fritz.
Lancaster may be known for its family-friendly activities, but it has a sweet side too. A place where you can spend the day together … and hold close the whole night through. Now, wouldn’t that be nice?
For more ideas and itineraries, see DiscoverLancaster.com.
Events in Lancaster County
Through July 12
At Mount Hope Mansion. Through Apr. 28, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater; Apr. 26, VolksFest 2025; May 24 & 25, FlavorFest at Mount Hope; June 27–29, Celtic Fling & Highland Games; July 12, 16th Annual Blues & Brews at Mount Hope. 2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim. Times and tickets, PARenFaire.com.
Ongoing
American Music Theatre. Here are just a few—check the website for more: Apr. 5, Melissa Etheridge; Apr. 17, The Temptations & The Four Tops; Apr. 18, Bonnie Raitt; May 3, Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees; May 17, Trisha Yearwood; June 22, Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver. 2425 Lincoln Hwy. E., Lancaster. Times and tickets, AMTShows.com.
April 3–October 18
Bird-in-Hand Stage. Apr. 3–Aug. 2, “The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie’s Biscuits.” Apr. 12–Oct. 18, Ryan & Friends: Lifetime of Laughter. 2760 #A Old Philadelphia Pk., Bird-in-Hand. Times and tickets, 717-768-1568; Bird-In-Hand.com/Stage.
April 5
8th Annual Rails and Ales at The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Annual craft beer tasting event is held among the historic trains, with craft breweries and food trucks. Benefits the Museum. 300 Gap Rd., Strasburg. 5:30 to 9. $15–$50. RailsAndAles.org.
April 11–June 21
Dutch Apple Theatre. Apr. 11–May 17, “Fiddler on the Roof.” May 23–June 21, “We Will Rock You” music of Queen. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Times and tickets, 717-898-1900; DutchApple.com.
April 11–July 20
At The Fulton. Apr. 11–May 11, “Anastasia: The Musical.” June 13–July 20, “Cats.” 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Times and tickets, 717-397-7425; TheFulton.org.
May 9 & 10
Landis Valley Museum Herb & Garden Faire. Find handmade garden decor and accessories, demonstrations and workshops, heirloom plants and live entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. 9 to 5. LandisValleyMuseum.org.
May 16 & 17
Kitchen Kettle Village Rhubarb Festival. Rhubarb is the harbinger of spring in PA Dutch Country, and the festival offers lots of cooking, family activities and more. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pk., Intercourse. Free. KitchenKettle.com.
June 6
Taste of Lititz. Block party to celebrate all the flavors of Lititz from local restaurants with live music. On Main St., Lititz. 5 to 9 pm. LititzPA.com.
June 7 & 8
Lancaster VegFest. Celebrate the plant-based/vegan lifestyle and learn about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. Benefits Lancaster Farm Sanctuary. 901 Buchanan Ave., Lancaster. Noon to 5. Free. PAVegFest.com.
