Dutch Wonderland – Where to go in Pennsylvania Dutch country?

Where to go in Pennsylvania Dutch country?

I live in Baltimore MD and would like to take a day trip out to Pennsylvania Dutch country. I'd like to visit some good farmer's markets and get some homemade baked goods. I don't know exactly where to go and don't want to waste the day roaming the countryside. Could anybody give me suggestions of good places to visit? I'd like to visit an Amish settlement too. Thanks so much!

If your planning a trip to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, your going to want to get the most out of it. I have been to the area several times and there’s a lot to see and a lot to choose from; of course, what you want to see will depend the type of trip your taking. This list is a mixed list and could work for a couple or a family.

1.  Hershey Park

You’ve seen the commercials, “Get Hershey Park Happy”. Although not in Lancaster county, it’s just an hour north.  There is the amusement park which is quite nice but there is a nice museum which simulates how chocolate is made and best yet, its free!  After the tour there is a store with tins of souvenirs and of course, chocolate.  But beware, because some of the prices for the candy are not always that great.  The park is expensive but if you plan ahead you can find some decent coupons, also its a good idea to take your lunch but you can’t take it into the park; however, there are picnic areas, and transportation to the parking area.

2.  Route 30

This is the main drag through the tourist area in Lancaster and more than likely you will end up on this road, if you are coming from the east or west.  There are plenty of hotels and motels all along this road, its called Old Philadelphia Pike.  If you drive the length of this through Lancaster you will see all kinds of things to do and visit.  If you have the notion, you can take it all the way into Philadelphia.

3.  Dutch Wonderland

This is a nice, smaller amusement park.  If you have younger children this is a better choice.  There is a nice variety of rides but they are a little tamer, even older children, 10 – 13, will probably enjoy this park.  You will probably find this park to be less expensive and it is right on Route 30 so you can do more attractions in the same day, if you have the energy.

4.  Amish Farm House

This is interesting for the whole family, if you have any interest in Amish culture.  Its not run by the Amish now, if it was you wouldn’t see them offering tours but it is an authentic working farm.  The buggy ride costs a little extra but its a fun ride.

5.  Rockvale Square

If you like to shop, you will like this place.  Its a sprawling shopping complex with various outlets, some with good prices, some not so good.  Its actually not far from Dutch Wonderland so you can drop mom off here and dad can take the kids to the amusement park. 

6.  Kettle Kitchen Village

This is a nice little family place.  Its a variety of shops, not really an Amish theme but there is a very interesting place that does canning.  They have demonstrations  and samples.  They have really good kettle corn at the village too..  Also there is a really cool insect vendor, its something to see.  Be sure to let the kids check out the petting zoo.  The village is within walking distance of a lot of crafty type shops. 

7.  Peaceful Valley Furniture

If you are looking for Amish crafted furniture, this place has a large variety with pretty good prices.

8.  Strausburg, PA

This is a railroad town.  It has quaint shops and even miniature golf.  You can take a real train ride too.

David Stewart

Article Source:

http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Stewart

Technorati Tags: Dutch Wonderland

Tags: Dutch Wonderland