What's New in Lancaster County

Despite a year of challenges, new businesses in Lancaster persevered and made it through the storm. It's truly an exciting time to visit Lancaster County. There is something for everyone here and life is  starting to feel normal again. Without further ado, here are just a few new additions to Lancaster to add to your to-do list during your next visit and a warm welcome to them all! 

Barry's Car Barn located in Intercourse, PA, is a car museum that features shiny and swanky cars from the 50s-70s and more. For anyone who has a love for vintage vehicles, this is the place to see. Visit their website www.barryscarbarn.com for hours and admission prices. 

Rich in history and recently reopened, the Columbia Market House is a historic building featuring some of the area's finest vendors offering food, produce, brews, snacks, confections, and more. The market is open Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Check out their website

www.columbiamarkethouse.org for more information.

Gallery Row in downtown Lancaster grew a little more with the addition of Gallery Grow, a unique shop where you can choose plants, succulents, air plants and containers to create the perfect living addition to your home.  No doubt you'll be in awe of this little gem of a store. Find out more about them at www.gallerygrow.com.

After checking all the new additions to Lancaster, you may need a refreshing beverage and a bite to eat. Our Town Brewery opened its doors in 2020 and offers an impressive list of beers, menu, and live entertainment. Check out their website at www.ourtownbrewery.com for details on beers, menu and entertainment. 
And now all you need is a place to stay. We have you covered, all you need to do is visit www.authenticbandb.com and find the perfect inn to relax and unwind. As always, we look forward to seeing you. 

Welcome Back, Friends

It's been over a year since Authentic Bed and Breakfasts posted our last blog. A blog that featured mudsales, quilt shows, and more that unfortunately never happened. However, it's a year later, and although we're not completely back to normal, things are looking promising. All of our inns are committed to safety and taking all necessary precautions for our valued guests. So, whether you are ready to dine out, catch a show, support our amazing small businesses, or spend some time in the great outdoors, we've got you covered. We can't wait to see you again and introduce you to some of Lancaster's finest attractions. 

Belvedere Inn personal igloo

When it comes to dining, Lancaster County restaurants have taken impressive and innovative strides to adapt this past year. Whether you want to dine in your own personal igloo, outside on a cobblestone street, or grab a meal and adult beverage to go, restaurants across the county have you covered. There is also an impressive number of food trucks throughout Lancaster County. Find where they're parked by visiting Food Trucks in Lancaster.

For those who love the theatre, Lancaster is home to some of the best. It might take a bit of planning ahead, but it's worth the extra steps. The Magic and Wonder Show is getting rave reviews for it's exhilarating and edge-of-your-seat performances. Guests can get a good laugh with Ryan & Friends at Bird-in-Hand Theatre. As always, Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre has a great lineup for the season and Sight & Sound Theatre is showing its immaculate show, Queen Esther, through December 23.

Magic and Wonder Show

 Want a getaway, but  aren't ready  for the crowds? Lancaster  County offers some of the best outdoor hiking, walking, and rails to trails. Check out Shenk's Ferry Wildlife Preserve Guide for Wildflowers and their guide to wildflowers along pristine trails to put you in touch with nature. 

Shenk's Ferry Wildlife Preserve

If there is a silver lining to this past year, it's that business owners, innkeepers, breweries, small businesses and more have shown their gumption and love for this county. We know it's not the same, but hats off to those who are working hard to make it feel a little bit normal and safe. We can't wait to welcome you back. As always, find your perfect inn at www.authenticbandb.com.

Spring in Lancaster County

There's a lot of exciting events coming up in the next few months in Lancaster County, making it a great time to visit one of our inns. Check out mudsales, quilt shows, conventions, and more. Book direct at one of our bed and breakfasts at www.authenticbandb.com to complete your visit!

MUDSALES- Named for taking place outside during the muddy spring weather, mudsales are a great way to experience authentic Lancaster County. The auctions benefit local fire departments, who partner with the Amish community to organize the events, which are quickly growing in popularity with visitors. Items for sale include furniture, locally made quilts, farm equipment, plants, and more. Mudsales are also a great place to find Lancaster food staples, like baked goods, homemade soups, and breakfast logs. For a complete list of sales and more information, visit www.discoverlancaster.com/amish/mud-sales.



AQS QUILTWEEK- If you're a quilter, you'll want to be sure to check out QuiltWeek in downtown Lancaster March 25-28. The convention features exhibits, classes, discussions, vendors and some of the most amazing quilts you've ever seen. For details, visit www.quiltweek.com.
LANCASTER QUILT SHOW- Taking place the same week of the AQS Quiltshow (March 25-28), the Lancaster Quilt Show is held at the Doubletree Willow Valley Resort. The show offers free parking and free admission, with over 40 vendors, classes, lectures, onsite food vendors, and more. For more information, visit www.thelancasterquiltshow.com.
AMERICAN MUSIC THEATRE- The American Music Theatre boasts a lineup of shows that never disappoint. In May, they'll feature Broadway's Chicago, The Letterman, Diamond Rio, Restless Heart, and more. For a complete list of upcoming shows and ticket information, visit www.amtshows.com.

FIFTH ANNUAL RAILS AND ALES- Enjoy an evening of local breweries, fine food, and entertainment during the Rails and Ales event at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania on April 4. Tickets are $40 per person. For more information and tickets, visit www.railsandales.org
LONG'S PARK CONCERT SERIES- If you like live music under the night sky, be sure to check out the Long's Park Music Series, held on Sunday evenings beginning in June. Each week, high-energy bands of different genres put on concerts that are free to the public. For more information, visit www.longspark.org.
ZENKAIKON - The 14th annual anime and sci-fi convention is held March 20-22 at the Lancaster County Convention Center and features panels, workshops, anime and live action screenings, video games, vendors, artists, and much more. For ticket pricing and more information, visit www.zenkaikon.com.
We look forward to seeing you in Lancaster soon. Find an inn that suits your needs at www.authenticbandb.com and let the adventure begin!

Guess Who's Coming to Town ...

Lurking just around the corner, dressed in rags, and carrying a switch, the Belsnickle is eager to make his holiday presence known at the Authentic Bed & Breakfasts of Lancaster County's annual Find Your Belsnickle Tour December 7 and 8. If anyone is excited about seeing him, it's the innkeepers, who love celebrating the intriguing folklore of this holiday character and can't wait to introduce him to guests.

A Christmas-like mythical creature, the Belsnickle, originated in Germany and is often celebrated in Pennsylvania Dutch communities, where he is said to throw candy and nuts at good children and switch the naughty ones. During the Find Your Belsnickle Tour, little figurines of the disheveled guy will be placed throughout the inns, giving guests a chance to win prizes.
The Find Your Belsnickle Tour benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation and takes place at participating bed and breakfasts across Lancaster County. Guests can stroll through the inns, savor freshly baked cookies, check out decorations from all eras, and enjoy entertainment at select inns. Guests are entered to win a grand prize valued at $325 each time they find the Belsnickle figurine, so be sure to keep your eyes open for the cranky little guy.

The two-day tour allows guests to travel at their own leisure through the inns. Also included in ticket price is admission to the Choo Choo Barn, which is good for the month of December. Tickets are $20 with proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Tickets purchased prior to November 18 will be mailed to guests. Tickets purchased afterwards will be vouchers to be exchanged at select inns. For more information, click here on Find Your Belsnickle or call Robert at 717-687-3664.

Welcome the holiday season with the Authentic Bed & Breakfasts of Lancaster County's Find Your Belsnickle Tour. Enjoy the scenery of Lancaster as you visit each inn, savor fresh-from-the-oven cookies, entertainment, and enjoy the inns new holiday wardrobe, all while supporting a very worthy cause.

Fun in the Fall in Lancaster County

The activities and events are abundant this autumn in Lancaster, whether it's pumpkin picking or Oktoberfest, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Give one of our Authentic Bed & Breakfast  inns a call and start planning your visit to Lancaster County. The innkeepers are the finest there are when it comes to hosting a visit and they make a top-notch breakfast. Be sure to check out one of these events during your stay (www.authenticbandb.com).

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Lancaster Liederkranz September 20-22 during the traditional festival that commemorates German culture with authentic food, beers, dancing, and more. Tickets are $6 for adults and $2 for children 6-15. To view a full menu and more events, visit www.lancasterliederkranz.com.

Take yourself on an eerie tour alongside Ghost Tours of Lancaster, with locations in Strasburg and downtown Lancaster. Your tour guide will take you on a spooky stroll through town where you'll listened to historic tales that will give you chills and visit haunted locations along the way. For information, visit www.ghosttour.com.

The Veteran's Memorial Bridge transforms into an art show during the Bridge Bust on Oct. 5 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., with over 300 art, craft, antique and food vendors. Guests will also appreciate the breathtaking view of the Susquehanna as they peruse the fair overlooking the river. For up-to-date information and news about Bridge Bust, check out its Facebook page, 31st Annual Bridge Bust.

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum hosts Harvest Days October 12 and 13. You'll enjoy  demonstrations, exhibits, live music, horse-drawn rides and more. Hours are 11-5 p.m. and tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for kids ages 6-11 and free admission for kids five and under. For complete information, visit www.landisvalleymuseum.org.

What better way to take in the scenery of Lancaster County than heading out to a farm for some good-old pumpkin picking? There are plenty of patches peppered throughout the county. From area attractions to wide open fields, you'll find a farm perfect for you and your family. Visit www.discoverlancaster.com for a complete list of pumpkin places. 

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is open now through October 27 and promises to keep guests entertained with live music, dancing, demonstrations, artisan merchants, lots of food, jousting  and much more. Learn more about the Renaissance Faire and purchase tickets at www.parenfaire.com. 

Plan your next visit to Lancaster and explore all the great places throughout the county. Whether you're a country or city person, there is something for everyone. Our innkeepers are professional and welcoming and will accommodate each guest and personalize your visit. And remember - book direct to save. Happy autumn!

More Summer Events in Lancaster County!

As the summer cruises along, the events just keep popping up in Lancaster County and our innkeepers are eager to host your next visit, with top-notch hospitality, impeccable breakfasts and a local flair you can't get anywhere else. Whether you're coming to see The Beach Boys at American Music Theatre, visit a beer festival, or to just to travel through Amish farmlands, be sure to book direct with one of our inns for an unforgettable stay (www.authenticbandb.com).
Weathered Vineyards and Winery in Ephrata offers live music on its grounds every Friday and Saturday from 5-8 p.m. Featuring many different genres of music, guests can enjoy an evening sipping wine, local spirits, beer, and food from vendors. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.weatheredvineyards.com.

Head to Columbia for the Rivertown Hops event at the Columbia Animal Shelter on August 17. The event takes place from 4-8 p.m. and features beer from local brewers, food trucks and more. For tickets and more information on the third annual Rivertown Hops event, visit www.rivertownhops.com.
If you are a fan of model railroads, you won't want to miss Model Railroading Days at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg on August 17 and 18. Regular admission cost gets guests look at all sorts of model trains, admission to the museum and more. For more information, visit www.rrmuseumpa.org.

The Beach Boys are coming to American Music Theatre on August 23 and if you're a fan (and who isn't …) you won't want to miss it. Famous for their harmonious songs like Help Me Rhonda, God Only Knows and Kokomo, everyone's favorite beach band promises to host a great show in Lancaster. For more information and ticket prices, visit www.amtshows.com.

Farm to Fork Fondo is visiting Cherry Crest Adventure Farm August 24 and it's sure to be a biking experience you won't forget. The organized ride is tailored to fit everyone's needs with different distances of biking and stops featuring chef-prepared dishes along the way in scenic Lancaster County. Included with the tickets are a post-ride barbecue, raffles tickets, prizes, souvenirs and more. For more information, visit www.farmforkfondo.com.

Enjoy a cold one on August 24 in downtown Lancaster during the seventh annual Lancaster Craft Beerfest, with dozens of breweries, including local favorites, food vendors and live music. Two sessions take place: noon-3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.lancastercraftbeerfest.com.
There's something for everyone to enjoy in Lancaster County this summer and beyond. Let our innkeepers give you the quality Lancaster County experience you'll truly appreciate. Book now at www.authenticbandb.com.

Summer Happenings in Lancaster County

It's officially summer and things are alive and kicking in Lancaster County for the next few months. Whether it's live music, scooter tours, special events, or antiquing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Grab a room at an inn, explore all that our county offers, and make new memories. And remember, it's always a good idea to book direct and save. Visit www.authenticbandb.com to find a list of our inns and call directly to make reservations.
Antiques Extravaganza kicks off June 28 and continues through September 30. The events take place along seven miles of antique shops, markets, dealers and more in Adamstown, the antiques capital of the United States. The extravaganza includes longer hours, more merchandise and great bargains. For more information, visit www.antiquescapital.com.
Want to get out and explore the most picturesque farmlands and places Strasburg has to offer? Check out Strasburg Scooters, who offer a covered bridge tour, bridges and brunch tour, date night, sunset tour and more.
Tours are lead by an experienced guide on 50cc scooters, including single, double seated, and three-wheeled scoot coupes. For more information or to book a tour, visit www.strasburgscooters.com/strasburg.
Long's Park Summer Concert Series is one of Lancaster's most celebrated outdoor music events and takes place every Sunday at the park through August 25. In its 57th year, the Long's Park concert series are free and feature a handful of food trucks, a large lawn and a line up of amazing performers. For more information, visit www.longspark.org.

Enjoy a baseball game during your next visit and plan an evening with the Barnstormers at Clipper Stadium. The stadium is packed with great amenities, including local food and beverages, a kid's play area and much more. If you're a fan of baseball, be sure to come cheer on our own Barnstormers. For tickets and more information, visit www.lancasterbarnstormers.com

The much-anticipated event Celebrate Lancaster 2019 takes place June 28 from 11:30-10 p.m., featuring over 20 food vendors, two stages of live music, two pub areas and fireworks. Come downtown and help celebrate the culture and diversity of Lancaster. For more information, visit www.visitlancastercity.org.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy Music in the Vineyard at Nissley Vineyards this summer in Lancaster. Taking place Saturday evenings June 29-August 31, the concerts feature talented musicians on the beautiful grounds of the vineyard. Guests are invited to bring their own picnic (wine and other beverages are available for purchase). In its 37th season, Music in the Vineyards is definitely worth a visit. For more information, visit www.nissleywine.com.
Take a few days to relax and enjoy all that Lancaster County has to offer this summer and find an inn that fits your needs. There's no doubt you'll be impressed by the focus and care our innkeepers have for their guests. Visit www.authenticbandb.com now to start your Lancaster County adventure.