Lancaster Pennsylvania

Lancaster Pennsylvania is located in the southern part of the state of Pennsylvania and is one of the larger cities in Pennsylvania, after Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Although it may not have the historical attraction of such Pennsylvania cities as Gettysburg, Lancaster Pennsylvania is still a popular vacation spot for tourists traveling to Pennsylvania. Lancaster Pennsylvania also has its own airport, making a flight Lancaster a common way to get into Pennsylvania.

The city of Lancaster, like Philadelphia, was planned according to a grid before it was built. The original build-grid can still be toured and walked today, and in fact the original plan has continued to aid the downtown area of Lancaster in remaining a pleasant and organized place to tour. The town was planned in 1734 and was actually incorporated as a city in 1818. A number of historical buildings are found in the downtown core which can be fun stops on a Lancaster vacation, including the oldest building in town which is the Trinity Lutheran Church started in 1729. Throughout the development of the United States, Lancaster has been a hub for some important historical figures. Lewis and Clark consulted here before setting out on the soon-to-be Lewis and Clark expedition, and Milton Hershey founded the Lancaster Caramel Company here before building the Hershey Chocolate Factory.

Today, Lancaster vacation packages for Lancaster vacations will often include trips to some of the best things to do in Lancaster, as well as a flight Lancaster into the Lancaster airport. One popular choice for something to do on a Lancaster vacation is a trip to an Amish Farm and House. This replica of Amish life from the 19th century shows the waterwheels and handmade furniture that characterizes Amish life and showcases some items that are more than 200 years old. A 25-acre farm includes a blacksmith shop, a windmill and a cow for milking. Nearby, the People's Place further celebrates Amish life through continued handmade goods such as furniture, quilts and pottery.

Another fun historical stop in Lancaster is the Historic Rock Ford Plantation, of which the main mansion still exists for touring. Constructed in 1974, the Rock Ford Plantation offers guests a glimpse into what life was like just after the American Revolution but before the Civil War, and tourists will see original furniture and construction when touring the home.

Lancaster vacation packages for travelers hoping to spend time in Lancaster can include a flight Lancaster and a stay at one of the many cozy Lancaster hotels. Thanks to the strong Amish and Mennonite history in the area, Lancaster vacation packages can also include stays at some historical homes which have been converted to bed and breakfasts, or stays at larger hotels downtown. The downtown core of Lancaster is easy to enjoy on foot by walking. If you want to visit some of the farms, plantations and other spots you may consider bringing or renting a car as they are generally too far away from downtown to walk to.