The DeHanas Team - DeHanas Real Estate Services - Places To Go... Wilkum! To Lancaster County

Wilkum! To Lancaster County

After a very busy year, The DeHanas Team decided to take their annual retreat weekend in the peaceful serenity of Lancaster County. An easy three-hour trip from Waldorf brought us to the scenic countryside of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. We found numerous attractions and diversions keep us busy for the long weekend. Shopping, historic sites, museums, and cultural points of interest were just a few ways in which our co-workers and families spent the time in this popular vacation spot.

One of the reasons that Lancaster draws so many tourists is the overall atmosphere of the County and it's individual towns. The area seems to move at a distinctly slower pace and with a relaxed attitude. This is in large part due to the numerous Amish and plain communities there that give this area a whole different ambience. After leaving the main highways and travelling down the quiet country lanes, we seemed to be in a part of America that is more concerned with traditional values than progress. We found beautiful scenery dotted with one-room schoolhouses and wooden covered bridges, modern farm machinery being pulled behind four-and six-mule teams, and, of course, the clip-clop of horses' hooves as we shared the road with Amish buggies.

Despite the relaxed atmosphere, there is no shortage of activities and entertainment for all ages and interests. Tours are available to walk through a restored Amish village and get a taste of this simple life style. There are several companies, which offer authentic buggy rides in the area. The Pennsylvania Dutch Country has a number of different wineries and breweries that offer tours and tastings. Several local theaters offer a wide variety of performances. A favorite attraction in our group was the restored Strasburg Railroad that provides a 45-minute ride through Lancaster County on a steam powered locomotive.

Due to the agricultural productivity of this area, one of the most popular attractions here is the food. The local restaurants and markets offer foods that have that straight from the farm freshness. This is what makes Pennsylvania Dutch cooking so special. Local favorites include chicken potpie and chow chow and, for dessert, don't forget a fresh slice of shoofly pie. Visitors can take home some freshly made pretzels, which were first introduced to America right here in Lancaster County.

Another favorite past time in the area is shopping. From numerous antique stores to distinctly local crafts to over 240 name brand outlets, Lancaster is a veritable Mecca for the shopping enthusiast.

With so much to offer, it is no wonder that Lancaster is one of America's favorite vacation spots. The serene setting and relaxing atmosphere is perfect for a weekend get away. Pennsylvania Dutch Country is waiting to extend to you and your family a hearty "Wilkum."

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