Summer in Lancaster County - June 2021

Last weekend we had what we call an “overfill weekend”.  Every room in the Main House was filled, including both bedrooms of our two-room suite, and there was a family of 4 in the Carriage House.   If you count up the number of people, you realize that it totals more bodies than will fit around our dining room table – a very nice problem to have!  So we carried a fresh-made breakfast over to the kitchen in the Carriage House, and as has been our custom since opening after the pandemic, questioned everyone staying in the House if they wanted a private table for breakfast in their room or in the living room.  Each one of the fully vaccinated guests, without hesitation, responded in unison “Oh, no!  We want to eat with everyone else and meet new people.  That’s why we go to a Bed and Breakfast! “.

As I look over our reservation calendar for the coming weekend, I see that yet again we have a completely filled house.  Where are they going?  What are they doing? Honestly, there is so much to do in our Valley in Summer, I have neither the time or space to list them all, but here are  “a few of my favorite things” .

• The Theater - Now with all Covid restrictions easing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, two of our local cultural attractions are open and booming with business.  Many guests are flocking to Sight and Sound in nearby Strasburg to catch the production of Queen Esther.  Comments from our guests are fabulous and while tickets are available, we understand that an early reservation and flexibility are recommended.  Likewise, after remaining dark for 15 months, the American Music theater is again open.   The current schedule includes comedians like Bill Engvall, and golden oldies like the Lettermen.  Check out the link for both venues on our website under “Amish Country”.

• Fresh Produce  -  Is there anyone who does not think of farm-to-table delights when they think of Lancaster County in the summertime?  The bounty is plentiful and delicious already.  Unfortunately, if you are just venturing out this way, you’ve already missed some of the best that Spring has to offer.  Asparagus, sugar peas and strawberries are all gone, although I have secured some in my freezer to serve you when you visit.  Blueberries will be here before you know it, as will watermelons and cantaloupes.  I always tell our guests to just ride up and down the country roads to find a table of fresh offerings by the side of the road with an honor-system bucket or box in which to drop your payment.  I do have my regular more established produce stands that I frequent.  Check out our website under “Amish Country” for a few.

• Ice Cream  -  Sure – everyone has their favorite ice cream, especially when you live as close as we do to Hershey, “the Sweetest Place on Earth”.  But since living here in Lancaster County, I’ve developed the habit that after enjoying the ice cream, I personally thank the cows for their contribution.  We are lucky enough to have two local ice cream shops very nearby where you can do just that.  There is nothing better on a summer afternoon than a trip to Lapp Family Farm or Down on the Farm Creamery to buy a scoop or two, sit outside to enjoy the treat and the view, and wander over to the cow pens to greet the girls.  Information and directions for both are on our website under “Amish Country”.

• Just Sittin’  -  So you’ve shopped till you dropped, you’ve picked up some fresh fruit for home and you enjoyed a great meal.  Now pull up one of our red rocking chairs out on the front lawn and just watch our little piece of Paradise roll by.  In summer we boast beautiful sunsets, and a magical firefly show.  Meet new friends, share stories, and wander upstairs to your room relaxed and ready for rest.  Another day in Dutch Country is ahead!