Now’s the time to really experience Lancaster County, PA

Three new experiential opportunities on offer

(Lancaster, PA)  Have you ever wanted to milk a cow, chat with an Amish farmer over a cup of coffee, or make a batch of your own homemade jam? Now you can, as three new offerings let visitors experience Lancaster like never before.

Today’s travelers demand more from their excursions than in days past. They want to actually do something out of the ordinary, an experience with “bragging rights” that sets their visit here apart from other trips. And these new experiential opportunities in Lancaster County are set to deliver, encouraging visitors to dive right in and be part of the action.

“These programs immerse visitors, so they can experience the true essence of life in Pennsylvania Dutch Country,” stated Chris Barrett, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention and Visitors Bureau. “They provide hands-on access that engages all five senses and offers a fantastic opportunity to enhance our guests’ stay.”

Visitors to Lancaster can “take part” in one (or all) of three new ways:

(1)  The Amish VIP (Visit in Person) Tour is a new offering from the Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm in Bird-in-Hand that’s built around intimate, small-group interaction with Amish farmers, craftsmen, and families. Participants in the three-hour tour visit a farm at milking time, an Amish cottage industry – such as a weaving shop – and an Amish home, where the family hosts guests for an evening chat. This is the type of authentic and personal experience that many travelers hope to have with the Amish, but are rarely able to accomplish in a short visit.

(2)  Go “back to basics” and explore the land by taking part in the Farmer’s Apprentice program at Verdant View Farm Bed & Breakfast in Paradise. Day-trippers and overnight guests can help milk cows, gather eggs, make preserves, feed calves, or assist with planting or harvest activities, depending on the season. This is one Lancaster County farm stay that really brings the “farm to table” concept home to folks with regard to their food, and all the work that lies behind it.

(3)  Cannin’ and Jammin’ at Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse allows visitors to head into its famous Jam & Relish Kitchen, roll up their sleeves, and work alongside local farm women employed at the Village in using their own hands to make some jam to take home (and learn about the art of canning in Lancaster County in the process). This hour-long experience is open to visitors ages 18 and older.

The Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau is dedicated to promoting Lancaster County as an ideal vacation destination, with its Amish heritage, scenic back roads, opportunities for family fun, and all that make the area a special and memorable place to stay.  For more information, visit www.discoverlancasterpa.com.

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