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The town of Lancaster, in southeast Pennsylvania, lies at the heart of a thriving Amish and Mennonite community.
This is one of North America's oldest inland cities and the Central Market is still the bustling center of the town. From the Native Americans and European immigrants, including the Amish, Pennsylvania Deutsche, Scots, Irish and English, Lancaster and its surrounding county is a melting pot of people and cultures.
With traditions dating back centuries, Lancaster County is home to the oldest group of the Old Order Amish, the "Plain People" who settled in the 1720s, fleeing religious persecution. Although called Pennsylvania Dutch, the Amish are not Dutch at all; the word was shortened from the German Deutsch. Even though the strongest bond of the Amish is German heritage, there are also those who have Swiss, French, English, Welsh and Scottish ancestors. Holding traditional values dear, they stress humility, family, community and separation from the world.
The best way to explore the city is on a self-guided walking tour starting at the Discover Lancaster History Museum which features 32 life-size, in-depth exhibits that recreate 400 years of Lancaster’s heritage. You will relive events such as the French, Indian, Revolutionary and Civil wars and explore the variety of cultures represented in central Pennsylvania. You will also find Amish and Mennonite culture interpreted at the People’s Place.
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Places near Lancaster
- Gettysburg 52 miles away
- Baltimore 55 miles away
- Philadelphia 61 miles away
- Annapolis 74 miles away
- St. Michaels 87 miles away
- Washington D.C. 88 miles away
- Front Royal 128 miles away
- New York 132 miles away
- Ithaca 167 miles away
- Charlottesville 182 miles away
- Richmond 184 miles away
- Virginia 202 miles away
- New York State 203 miles away
- Stockbridge 220 miles away
- Virginia Beach 221 miles away
- Albany 225 miles away
- Lenox 225 miles away
- Rochester 227 miles away
- Buffalo 238 miles away
- Saratoga Springs 248 miles away
- Niagara Falls 255 miles away
- Sturbridge 263 miles away
- Lake George 270 miles away
- Manchester 274 miles away
- Roanoke 275 miles away
- Newport, Rhode Island 281 miles away
Photos of Lancaster
Accommodation choices for Lancaster
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Lancaster. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Lancaster Arts Hotel
Lancaster
Ideas for experiencing Lancaster
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Lancaster, and which use the best local guides.
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Amish Farmlands Tour Amish Farmlands Tour
Amish Farmlands Tour
This fascinating tour takes you deep into the heart of the oldest Amish community in the world, which is situated amidst beautiful farmland.
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