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Home to General Edward Hand, one of the key players in the Revolutionary War under the command of George Washington, Rock Ford Plantation is one of Lancaster County’s most historic buildings and the most intact building predating 1800 in the county. The museum offers a unique glimpse into refined country living during the first years of the independent United States which gave it its spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

Upon your visit to Rock Ford Plantation, you will probably notice the architecture first. Standing on the banks of the Conestoga River, the four-story Georgian-style brick mansion, largely unchanged since it was built in 1794, features a wrap-around porch on three sides. Inside, you’ll find the traditional layout of the time with a central hall and staircase and four corner rooms on each floor furnished with a breathtaking collection of period-correct furniture, art, decor, and original Hand family heirlooms.

Visitors are welcome to the 33-acre Rock Ford Plantation for guided tours that will immerse you in the history and heritage of the mansion as well as the Hand family. Click here for more information and plan your visit today!

Rock Ford Plantation
881 Rock Ford Road
Lancaster, PA 17602
717.397.7223

One of the most memorable things about your visit will probably be the magnificent views of the Susquehanna River. The ancient river that is the Chesapeake Bay’s main source of water is one of the oldest, and most beautiful, rivers in the world and an important part of the region’s heritage. In March, 2019, President Trump signed legislation that transformed York and Lancaster counties into the Susquehanna National Heritage Area. To discover some of its secrets, explore its hilly shores, or just enjoy the outdoors along the way, look no further than Susquehanna Heritage.

Through a variety of events, tours, and activities, Susquehanna Heritage allows visitors to connect with the Susquehanna River and appreciate its beauty, significance, and history. Located just a few steps away, the Northwest River Trail is one of Lancaster County’s most scenic trails. Enjoy the Northwest River Trail with a two-hour guided bike tour with a guide from Susquehanna Heritage. Learn about local landmarks as you cycle past important historical sites and features, a 200-year-old canal, Point Rock Tunnel, and the Cenozoic-era Chickie’s Rock Formation. Along the way, take in the breathtaking views of the Susquehanna River.

The Riverlands Trail Festival is another opportunity to experience the Susquehanna River if you find yourself staying with us the weekend of June 1st. The Riverlands Trail Festival invites visitors to the Columbia River Park to kayak the Susquehanna River, hike and bike the Northwest River Trail, and watch a canoe race.  

Join Susquehanna Heritage at the River Room in Wrightsville on June 7th for its most important annual fundraising event, River Experience. Show your support and enjoy wine and food samplings.

For more information on the Susquehanna River and the events held by Susquehanna Heritage, click here and plan your visit today.

Susquehanna Heritage
1706 Long Level Road
Wrightsville, PA 17368
717.252.0229

Since 1985, the Maytown Historical Society has dedicated itself to preserving the rich heritage of its namesake. With a history exceeding 250 years, the Mayfest celebration the first Saturday of May is a celebratory festival that includes music on the square, famous food stands and trucks, a true penny candy store, exhibits, an auction, local car show, vendors, historical demonstrators, a cake walk, and a traditional maypole dance with singing.

The Maytown Historical Society’s museum will also be open for visitors and the specialty gift shop will be stocked full of Maytown souvenirs. Vendors on High and River Streets will be selling anything from cornhusk dolls and handmade furniture to baskets and candles. History buffs can enjoy the World War II Jeep at the car show and demonstrations of living history by a gunmaker, a fur trapper, woodcarver, and blacksmith. The old town bank will also be open for visitors to browse the artifacts and discover the thrilling story of the Maytown bank robbery. Tickets are also available for guided historical walking tours.

Come and celebrate the interesting history and heritage with Maytown at Mayfest this spring and get to know our local area a little more intimately. Maytown’s Mayfest event takes place on May 4th, 2019, 9AM-3PM. Click here for more information

Maytown Historical Society
4 West High Street
Maytown, PA 17550
717.426.1526

The best way to get to know Lancaster County is through the delicious food of its German settlers, the Pennsylvania Dutch. With one of the most recognizable regional food communities in the country, Lancaster is also a highly acclaimed dining destination with dozens of restaurants that will satisfy any food lover. With Lancaster County Food Tours, you’ll be able to explore the tastes and rich history of Lancaster and its surrounding towns.

On the Chef’s Table Tour, explore downtown Lancaster City’s culinary hot spots. Savor the flavors created by award-winning chefs and popular mixologists. On the three hour tour, visit Carr’s Restaurant, Bistro Barberet & Bakery, Penn Square Grille, Pour, and the Pressroom Restaurant and Bar. Tickets are $59 per adult.

The Pub and Grub Tour provides the best way to drink up the flavors of downtown Lancaster’s craft brews, seasonal ciders, and refreshing libations made by award-winning mixologists. The guide will take you to five local pubs as you enjoy local history along the way. This tour is a unique way to start your night out or end a long day of adventures.  Stops include Levengoods, Federal Taphouse, Yorgos, Atlana, and Annie Bailey’s Irish Pub.

Other tours include Come Drink Lititz, Come Eat Lititz, and Market and Beyond. For more information on Lancaster County Food Tours and to purchase your tickets today, click here.

We all love great-tasting food. It’s just part of what makes us human. And truly getting to know a locale, community, or region starts with a plate in front of you and a fork in hand. This fall, Lancaster City Restaurant Week showcases the booming food scene you’ll find in the city and celebrates the foodie within all of us. Lunch to dinner, American, Indian, Irish, and French (and lots more!). There’s a diverse selection of dining options in Lancaster from all around the world--but they do have one important thing in common. They’re all delicious!

At dozens of restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and pubs, you’ll find feature dishes, multiple-course meals, and exclusive cuisine. Deals for the week are available for $10, $20, $30, and $40. At Rachel’s Creperie and Cafe, you’ll be able to choose two crepes and two cups of soup (or side salads) for only $20. At Splits & Giggles, a sandwich, side of soup, and single scoop ice cream cone is $10, while the $20 deal gets you two sandwiches, two sides of soup, and two single scoops of ice cream. Commonwealth on Queen features a $10 lunch with a cup of soup. Federal Taphouse has a lunch special offering any personal size signature pizza for just $10--the $10 dinner special is three courses: your choice of one featured beer, one selected appetizer, and one sandwich. Lancaster Brewing Company features a 2 for $40 dinner deal which will get you one small plate, two entrees, and one dessert. Share an appetizer of caesar salad and then chow down on the chicken risotto. Finish your meal by splitting some sweet bread pudding or creme brulee. If you’re in the mood to add a little something spicy, visit Himalayan Curry and Grill for their $40 dinner for two meal deal. Select any two appetizers, and any two entrees from their select Restaurant Week menu.

For a complete list of all the delicious deals and participants in Lancaster City Restaurant Week, click here.  Lancaster City Restaurant Week will be held September 10th through 16th. Click here for more information and start planning your trip with a stay at the B.F. Hiestand House today!