Located in Pennsylvania's Dutch Country, this historic city has deep Amish roots, 18th-century farmers markets, and the oldest operating theater in America.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania's Central Market dates back to 1889 and remains the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the United States. The city's downtown includes the historic Fulton Opera House from the 1850s, Gallery Row with over 40 art venues, and numerous Pennsylvania Dutch food establishments. Just outside the city limits, Amish farms and workshops maintain centuries-old practices of furniture making, quilting, and farming.
Lancaster Central Market Experience
The Lancaster Central Market operates from a brick Romanesque Revival building with two corner towers. Local farmers and vendors sell fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings. Amish and Mennonite families bring products directly from their farms to their market stands. The 19th-century market building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Exploring Amish Country
The Amish community in Lancaster County dates back to the early 18th century. You can visit working farms and one-room schoolhouses through guided tours. Small workshops and stores throughout the countryside sell handmade quilts, wooden furniture, and crafts. Several Amish families welcome visitors to their farms, where you can observe daily life and farming practices without modern technology.
Arts and Culture District
North Prince Street's Gallery Row contains more than 40 art venues within walking distance. At the Demuth Museum, located in modernist painter Charles Demuth's former home, you can view rotating exhibitions of American art. The Lancaster Museum of Art focuses on contemporary works, while the Phillips Museum at Franklin & Marshall College maintains a permanent art collection.
Historic Theater and Performance Venues
The Fulton Opera House on Prince Street opened in 1852. Its Victorian architecture includes ornate ironwork and detailed facade decorations. The National Historic Landmark hosts professional theater productions, concerts, and community performances throughout the year.
Getting Around Lancaster
The city center covers about 7 square miles, with most attractions within walking distance. Red Rose Transit Authority operates 19 bus routes throughout Lancaster and nearby areas. The downtown Amtrak station connects to Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C. Several parking garages offer free parking during evenings and weekends.
Seasonal Events and Activities
Downtown galleries stay open late during monthly First Friday events. Long's Park hosts concerts throughout summer and an art festival in September. Local farms organize harvest events and corn mazes in autumn. In winter, you can ice skate at Clipper Magazine Stadium or visit holiday markets across the city in December.
