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Wile Philadelphia has so much to offer – museums, concerts, sports and art events – sometimes a break from fast-paced city living is in order. Two hours past the city limits lies historical Lancaster County with an array of events in a relaxed atmosphere the entire family can enjoy.
As the weekends warm up, the recently remodeled Willow Valley Resort can serve as a perfect family retreat. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the facility has become known as one of the premiere resorts in Eastern Pennsylvania, according to church board member Harry Weldon.
Over the years, the spot has expanded to include everyday amenities, as well as luxurious facilities, such as cultural centers and an indoor water playground. Willow Valley also works in conjunction with the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, Sights and Sound Theatre and the American Music Theatre for packages and discounts. (For performers coming to the American Music Theatre, see "Live performances" in What’s Happening.)
"We have golf, tennis, hiking, activities for the children and a game room," Weldon said. "It’s a great place to visit with the entire family."
Located at 2416 Willow St., Willow Valley lies in the heart of Amish country. The resort, known for its award-winning Sunday brunch, also features Pennsylvania Dutch-style cooking, sweets and breads, which are available at the Willow Valley Market, The Family Restaurant and the Terrace Smorgasbord.
SINCE LANCASTER HAS become well-known for its food, smorgasbords and family dining, establishments such as The Plain and Fancy Farm Restaurant and The Historic Revere Tavern are worth visiting. Another local favorite is the 50-year-old Kitchen Kettle Village, which is just 10 miles east of Lancaster in Intercourse. The family-owned establishment is known throughout the county for its flavor-packed jellies and relishes.
Besides these treats, one of the best reasons to visit is to experience the Amish lifestyle.
"Since we’re in the heart of Amish country, we provide free bus tours to meet the Amish and see their way of life," Weldon said.
Known as the oldest group of Old Order Amish in the country, the "Plain People" of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country live without modern-day fixtures, such as electricity. Visitors can experience this unique culture firsthand by sitting in an authentic schoolhouse at The Amish Farm and House, navigating through a corn maze, watching quilts being made in local shops, riding in horse-drawn buggies or by attending an annual festival or railroad event.
For a unique rural country stay laden with 19th-century charm, many guests prefer beginning their visit at one of the quaint bed and breakfasts or country inns interspersed throughout the area. Beautifully restored from historic homes and farmhouses, these places are a perfect choice for a romantic getaway.
But, no matter where your adventures lie, one of the most relaxing and memorable aspects for visitors is exploring the landscape. According to Krisitin Barnett, Willow Valley’s reservations and marketing manager, their community tour is more than just a bus ride.
"The tour guide, who is Mennonite, explains the Amish culture while stopping off at three locations along the road to see the area," Barnett said.
The free tour usually stops at shops founded and operated by the Amish. There, visitors have the opportunity to purchase handmade quilts and other items.
Lancaster and the surrounding area have something to keep everyone in the family satisfied, from the littlest tyke to the adolescent shopaholic to the history buff.
Not only can children enjoy nearby Hershey Park, but the thrills and fun of Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park and Strasburg Railroad are also close by. After learning about the battles of the Civil War at Gettysburg National Park – about 90 minutes from Lancaster – and reliving the past at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Fair, which is about 15 miles north of Lancaster, visitors can relax and browse through Bath & Body Works or the Banana Republic Outlet Store at the Tanger Outlets at 311 Stanley K. Tanger Blvd.
When city life becomes too hectic, Lancaster County can serve as an oasis – and it’s just a short car ride away.
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For more information, visit www.padutchcountry.com or www.800padutch.com.
