Brief History
German immigrants were the first to settle in the area in 1709. On May 10, 1729, it became the county seat. John Wright, a prominent citizen, gave it the name “Lancaster” after Lancaster, England where he formerly lived.
Lancaster was an important munitions center during the Revolutionary war. It was National Capital of the American colonies on September 27, 1777, when the Continental Congress was fleeing British forces (who had captured Philadelphia). From 1799 to 1812, Lancaster was the capital of Pennsylvania.
For almost 300 years people have been coming together to meet at Market to enjoy the freshest local food, ready-made unique dishes and flavors from all over, and special finds you can only get at Lancaster Central Market.​
Historic Rock Ford, featuring the circa 1794 General Edward Hand Mansion and the John J. Snyder, Jr. Gallery of Early Lancaster County Decorative Arts, is situated on thirty-three acres of gardens, woods and grounds surrounded by Lancaster County Central Park.
Kitchen Kettle Village is a place for sharing laughter, carving out family time, and relishing a Lancaster, PA hospitality experience all rolled into one quaint, walkable village of local cooks, quilters, and shopkeepers looking forward to your visit.
American Music Theatre offers big city entertainment with small town charm. As one of the premier venues in the Mid-Atlantic region, we aim to provide a first-class experience – from ticket purchase to final encore.
The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest continuously operating railroad in the United States and strives to provide a guest experience that is the best example of early 20th-century steam railroading .
​What began with a few slide projectors, a passion for creativity and a desire to serve God has grown into the Sight & Sound we know today — a place where families from all over the world come together to experience the Bible coming to life on stage.
Local Restaurants
Shady Maple Smorgasbord
129 Toddy Dr, East Earl, PA - Amish Food
The number two tourist attraction in Lancaster County and with good reason. Their award-winning smorgasbord (buffet) is the largest of them all.