- History
In the 18th century, Lancaster was the largest inland city in America, and the tenth largest city overall. It was even the nation's capital for one day! Fortunately, it didn't keep pace with its big city cousins, and managed to hold on to much of its history.

- Culture
The Lancaster County Heritage flag identifies culturally significant sites throughout Lancaster County, from museums to historic sites to just cool things to do. These are the things that define Lancaster County.

- Amish
Please respect our Amish neighbors. Remember, this is a real community, not a "living history" museum. Do not photograph the Amish without their permission (Buy postcards instead.) Also, please support Amish-owned businesses and buy authentic Amish and Mennonite souvenirs, dolls, quilts, etc.

- Romance
With plenty of fine dining, many quiet diversions, and picture-perfect scenery all year round, it's no wonder Lancaster County is known as "America's Romantic Getaway."

- Family
Lancaster is the perfect family destination -- plenty to do for kids, relaxing enough for adults. Speedwell Forge is also a terrific base camp for day trips to Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and Philadelphia, and Hershey Park is only 30 minutes away. The Summer Kitchen cottage has three beds, cable TV with VCR/DVD, a kitchenette, a fireplace and a whirlpool bath.

- Lititz
Lititz is the quintessential small town: Lots of unique shops, small restaurants, and 250 years of history, all within easy walking distance. Park at Lititz Springs Park and spend the day enjoying all the charm this town has to offer.

- Downtown
Everything is conveniently located around Penn Square. Start your morning at Central Market, take in a couple of museums, and finish at one of the area's excellent restaurants.

- Sunday

- Outdoors
Located along Hammer Creek, between a lake and a natural park, along two major hiking trails, Speedwell Forge is perfect for all types of outdoor recreation. Pennsylvania Dutch Country's gently rolling farmland and backroads are also ideal for biking and in-line skating. (You'll often see Amish on kick scooters.) Pack your own equipment and have fun!

- Golf
"Golf ruins what would otherwise be a pleasant walk in the park." -Mark Twain There are no fewer than 20 public golf courses within a few miles of Speedwell Forge!

- Shopping
With hundreds of unique shops, two outlet malls, and many locally made products, Lancaster is a shopping paradise. Our only advice is to buy Amish products directly from the Amish; retailers will often double the price. Often just driving down the back roads, you will find signs for Amish products. (As an added bonus, in summer you will also find fresh fruit and vegetables for sale at roadside stands.)

- Restaurants
With hundreds of great restaurants in Lancaster county, it would be impossible to list them all. Here are some of our favorites; we highly recommend making reservations on weekends because they are other people's favorites as well. Just make sure you're seated by 9pm--this isn't New York, after all. (Fortunately the prices aren't New York, either.)

- Events

- Day trips