Discover Lancaster PA History
February 17, 2017
Lancaster PA history goes back to 1709, when German immigrants known as the Pennsylvania Dutch settled in the area. Shaped by over 250 years of history and reflected in its amazingly intact collection of historic architecture and rich culture, Lancaster is a unique and distinctive city that is worth your visit! Come and stay at the Historic Smithton Inn and enjoy an authentic bed and breakfast experience in the heart of Amish country. During your visit, you will get the one-of-a-kind opportunity to discover and embrace local Lancaster PA history.
For more opportunities to explore Lancaster PA history, you can download our free Vacation Guide. It features some of our recommended art galleries, museums, historic sites and more in the area!
Discover Lancaster PA History
Since Lancaster County dates back to the 1700s, it has a rich history that is waiting to be explored during your visit. Discover the heritage of Pennsylvania Dutch Country by touring local historic sites and museums. Amish culture is a particularly historic area, with interactive tours and educational experiences offered across the region. The architecture of local buildings is also a point of interest, including our bed and breakfast. The Historic Smithton Inn dates back to 1763 and still includes some unusual features that you will appreciate during your stay!
Lancaster PA Amish History
If you decided to visit Lancaster County for its Amish history and culture, then a trip to The Amish Experience is in order. At this favorite of Lancaster PA history attractions, you will discover an interpretive center for guided tours of Amish Farmland and more. Board a mini-shuttle to explore the back roads and country lanes of Amish Country. View some gorgeous landscapes as you hear more about Amish lifestyle from your tour guide. You will make a stop at an old Amish school and house as well as a current Amish homestead. Then, top off the tour with some Pennsylvania Dutch cooking at the Plain & Fancy dining room. Here, you will feast on some incredible homestyle cooking, such as made-from-scratch golden fried chicken and Grammy Lapp’s meatloaf. Your dessert will be shoofly pie, apple dumpling, or rice pudding!
Preserving the Past
An important part of recognizing Lancaster PA history is embracing preservation and conservation. The National Register Historic District covers about three square miles and contains over 14,000 buildings. This makes it one of the largest urban historic districts in America. There are also two regulated historic districts that continue to grow while still reflecting a rich past and preserving architectural and cultural values and details.
Stay at the Historic Smithton Inn
When you’re visiting Amish Country, stay with us at Historic Smithton Inn for a unique bed and breakfast experience. Our beautiful rooms feature a picturesque and romantic setting. Embrace our cozy and comfortable feel! Antique and handcrafted pieces decorate our inn, creating a charming lodging accommodation that sets us apart from conventional hotels. From queen-sized handcrafted headboards to working fireplaces and rain showers, you will love our amazing amenities. Our bed and breakfast is another piece of unique Lancaster history, and we hope that you will explore and discover it!