Corn, tomatoes, beans of all kinds, peaches … Lancaster is known for its farm fresh, locally grown food. It’s part of the allure that draws visitors to Lancaster County!

Central Market

Around here, if someone says they’re “going to market,” we automatically assume they mean Central Market. After 275 years – which qualifies it as the nation’s oldest, continuously operating farmers market – it’s ingrained in our brains. The 120-year-old market house has become the most photographed building in the county, making it an iconic symbol of Lancaster. Standholders have tenure as well; many represent generations who have had a place at market (Stoner Family Vegetables has been a presence at market for more than 100 years). But, credit for Central Market’s longevity can also be chalked up to its ability to adapt to the “tastes” of modern-day consumers. Organic is a natural fit; ethnic ingredients and cuisine add international flair and reflect Lancaster’s diverse population; and the availability of take-home meals makes eating healthy a breeze. Tuesday & Friday, 6 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, 6 a.m.-2 p.m. 23  N. Market St., Lancaster. Details: Call 735-6890 or visit centralmarketlancaster.com.

Corn Crib Main Street Market

Chris Kaley, who operates several roadside stands in western Lancaster County, opened Corn Crib two years ago (it replaced Mount Joy’s open-air market). Vendors offer produce, nuts, dried fruit, sweets, fresh flowers and more. The newest addition is Tug’s BBQ. And, you never know who you may run into: Jon Gosselin (of Jon & Kate Plus 8 fame) paid a visit in April. Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 35 W. Main St., Mount Joy. Details: Follow the market on Facebook.

Ephrata 3rd Saturday Market

Ephrata’s revamped open-air market is now open only on the third Saturday of the month through October. Each Saturday has a theme. Twenty standholders offer an array of fresh produce, baked goods, prepared food, flowers and BBQ (courtesy of the Pioneer Fire Company).  9 a.m.-1 p.m. Whistle Stop Plaza (Main St.), Ephrata. Details: Ephratamerchants.com.

Green Dragon Market

This Ephrata institution opened in 1932 and now boasts 400+ growers, merchants, craftsmen and more. As the saying goes, “If you can’t buy it at the Green Dragon, it chust ain’t for sale.” Open Fridays, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 955 State St., Ephrata. Details: Call 738-1117 or visit greendragonmarket.com.

Kitchen Kettle Village

In 1954 the village’s founder, Pat Burnley, began canning in her garage. Canning led to jams and jellies, which tourists clamored to buy. The rest, as they say, is history. Kitchen Kettle Village boasts 42 shops, two restaurants and lodging. No visit is complete without stopping by the Jam & Relish Kitchen, where you can sample products to your heart’s content, watch them being made and pick up recipe cards. Lapp Valley Farm’s ice cream can satisfy your sweet tooth. Waltz Vineyards just opened a shop/tasting room, and a shop specializing in olive oil is yet to come. Open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Details: Call 768-8261 or visit kitchenkettle.com. 

Lancaster East Side Market

Instilling a sense of community is the goal of this market, which makes its home in Musser Park. The lineup of vendors is impressive and ranges from a CSA to companies making artisanal cheese and bread, plus goodies like cupcakes. Music and kids’ activities round out the offerings. Special events also dot the calendar. Sundays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. (closed July 5). Corner of N. Lime and E. Chestnut streets in Lancaster.  Details: Visit lancastereastsidemarket.com.

Lititz Farmers Market

Now in its 7th season, this open-air market offers a variety of locally grown/made products, musical entertainment, children’s activities, chefs demos and more. Open Saturdays through October, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. N. Water St., Lititz. Details: Visit lititzfarmersmarket.com.

While you’re in Lititz, be sure to visit Zest! (30 E. Main St., zestchef.com) for unique kitchen items, gorgeous linens, herbs and spices, and much more (plus they offer classes/demos). The newly expanded Olio Olive Oils & Balsamics (41 S. Broad St., oliooliveoil.com) is another must-see. Vinegar is imported from Italy, while the oils are sourced the world over. And, don’t miss Wilbur Chocolate’s museum and store (48 N. Broad St., wilburbuds.com), where it’s impossible to leave without buying Wilbur Buds.

Marietta Market

Healthy food, art, entertainment and learning opportunities are offered by this market that is operated by a coalition of volunteers. Vendors offer produce, prepared food, coffee, tea, herbs and goat milk soap. Vital Tree Yoga offers a free, hour-long class for all levels at 8 a.m. Heritage Creek Farm Camp hosts children’s activities the first Saturday of each month (11 a.m.-1 p.m.). Local musicians provide entertainment. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., through October. Flanagan Park (Front/Pine streets). Details: Mariettamarket.org.

Outstanding in the Field

The California-based pop-up restaurant is making its third return to Lancaster on Tuesday, September 22. Once again, the red bus will be heading for Tom Culton’s farm in Silver Spring. There, guest chef Mitch Prensky (from Supper in Philadelphia) will oversee the menu. OITF’s website declares that the farm tour at Culton Organics is “amazingly good” and might just qualify as the “highlight of the year.” Not a bad review, considering the stops OITF makes over the course of a year. Details: Visit outstandinginthefield.com.

Roots Country Market & Auction

If it’s Tuesday, it’s Roots! This indoor/outdoor market that boasts 200+ standholders has been in operation since 1925. You must visit the flea market that’s located in a mill across the street from the market. Hours are 9 a.m.-9 p.m. through October. 705 Greystone Rd., Manheim. Details: Call 898-7811 or visit rootsmarket.com.

blue rock Tomato Festival

Lancaster County’s iconic tomato is celebrated along the banks of the Susquehanna each July. Hosted by Blue Rock Fire Rescue, this year’s dates are July 11 and 18. This will be festival No. 58, making it one of the country’s longest-running tomato festivals (Kendall-Jackson’s renowned festival in California is only 18 years old, while Virginia’s Hanover Tomato Festival is celebrating No. 36). Menu includes tomato sandwiches, chicken corn soup, burgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes, ice cream and more. Entertainment will include music from Border Line (July 11) and Flamin’ Dick & the Hot Rods (July 18). 5-10 p.m. Washington Boro Community Park (Routes 999/441). Details: Call 872-9345 or visit bluerockfire.com.

Wine & Cheese Train

Have dinner plans for Saturday night? Why not do before-dinner drinks aboard the Strasburg Rail Road? Guests can relax in one of the Parlor or Lounge cars as they take in the farmland views along the route and enjoy local wines and cheeses. Trains depart at 7 p.m. on summer Saturdays through August. Details: Call 866-725-9666 or visit strasburgrailroad.com.

Too much grown-up stuff can get monotonous. Thankfully there are plenty of destinations that are entertaining, challenging and just plain fun … for the whole family.

 Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

When Donna and Jack Coleman unveiled their first corn maze 20 years ago, they had no idea they would become leaders in what has come to be called agri-tainment. Of course, the corn maze – this year’s design pays homage to the first maze and takes the shape of a train – continues to be the main draw (and has become one of the longest-running mazes in the country). Visitors can also indulge in all things farm living: from the food (everything from funnel cake to  gluten-free offerings) to attractions such as the Discovery Barn, the Farm Experience Center, Baby Chicks Hatchery and the Barnyard Activity Tent. New this year is Country Pig Races, which is located in its own barn (with seating). There are also amusement-park inspired rides that have a farm twist. And, there’s a quaint shop in case you want to take your décor in a farmhouse-chic direction.  One guest reviewer called  Cherry Crest “the Disney World of corn mazes.”

FYI: The corn maze opens July 4 and operates through Halloween. It goes into high gear in September and October, when the popular Flashlight Maze draws crowds from near and far on Friday and Saturday nights. In July and August, Chery Crest is open Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Weekday hours vary after school resumes. 150 Cherry Hill Rd., Ronks. Details:  Call 687-8143 or visit cherrycrestadventurefarm.com.

The Little Mermaid/Gretna Theatre

Poor Ariel may be playing second fiddle to those sisters from Frozen, but rest assured she still has her fan base.  From July 9-19, Gretna Theatre will be hosting the full Broadway production – with music by Alan Menken – of this beloved story that’s based on the Hans Christian Andersen classic. You could make a day of it and spend the afternoon swimming at Mt. Gretna Lake (mtgretnalake.com) and then have an indulgent dinner at The Jigger Shop (jiggershop.com). Details: Call 964-3627 or visit gretnatheatre.com.

Hands-on House Children’s Museum

“Play and learn together” is the motto of this museum that encourages children and parents to engage in the custom-designed exhibits that offer activities that relate to their themes. There’s also an outdoor garden area to explore. Classes that delve into a wide range of subjects are geared for ages 2 to 10. The museum is open seven days a week during the summer months. 721 Landis Valley Rd., Lancaster. Details: Call 569-KIDS or visit handsonhouse.org.

Dutch Wonderland

Families with small children will love this amusement park that promotes togetherness! There are rides geared strictly to children, while others can accommodate the entire family. New this year is the Bon Voyage Balloon Chase. Duke’s Lagoon is a tropical-island themed play area. And there’s a Dino Dig for budding paleontologists. The always entertaining high divers perform in the Aqua Stadium. Kid-friendly restaurants and snack shops abound, and there’s even a Character Breakfast for tykes. Open daily, 2249 Lincoln Hwy. East, Lancaster. Details: Call 1-866-386-2839 or visit dutchwonderland.com.

Strasburg!

Kids of all ages love all-things railroading. Strasburg is a railroader’s playground. Ride the rails to Paradise aboard the Strasburg Rail Road. Smaller guests will be enthralled by such special events as Thomas the Tank, which visits three times per year. There are also opportunities to ride the rails with Santa and the Easter Bunny as well. For adults, The Great Train Robbery is coming up July 18. Strasburg’s versions of Bonnie and Clyde have hearts of gold: They donate the money they “steal” from passengers to the Clinic for Special Children. Trains roll every day in July and August beginning at 11 a.m. Bring a picnic and enjoy the fresh air: two groves are located along the route. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Details: Call 866-725-9666 or visit strasburgrailroad.com.

Across the road, you’ll find the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, which will be hosting Model Railroading Days on Aug. 22 and 23. Details: Visit rrmuseumpa.org.  Also nearby is the National Toy Train Museum, which offers a wonderful mix of history and the newest technology. Details: Nttmuseum.org. The Choo Choo Barn is also a must-see, offering 1,700 square feet of hand-built, animated figures and vehicles around and through which 22 trains make their way. Details: Choochoobarn.com.

Keep the railroad theme going for lunch or dinner: The décor at Isaac’s (Shops at Traintown) is inspired by a dining car. Details: Isaacsdeli.com. And, for your sweet tooth: Don’t miss the Strasburg Creamery on the Square. Details: Strasburg.com.

Turkey Hill Experience

Part museum, part education, the Turkey Hill Experience is all fun. Learn how Turkey Hill Dairy went from a local company to a global force. Sit in a vintage milk truck, “milk” a mechanical cow, star in your own commercial and, here’s the good part, savor samples of the company’s tea and ice cream. The newest attraction is the Taste Lab, a hands-on exhibit through which you can make your own ice cream flavor (the exhibit has proven so popular that reservations are needed). Open daily, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., through August. 301 Linden St., Columbia. Details: Call 844-847-4884 or visit turkeyhillexperience.com.

North Museum

Since it opened its doors in 1953, the mission of this Lancaster landmark has been to inspire “curiosity, discovery and a lifelong appreciation of nature, science and cultures” through its exhibits, planetarium shows and special events. After being closed for an extended period for remodeling and refurbishing purposes, the North Museum is back and better than ever. Colorful and engaging hands-on exhibits are the new norm. Technology rules. The planetarium is now the SciDome Theatre and boasts the world’s first Spitz-cove-mounted SciDome XD Touch system. The museum is open daily through the end of August. 400 College Ave., Lancaster. Details: Call 291-3941 or visit northmuseum.org.

Hershey Gardens

Known for its fabulous display of roses, Hershey Gardens has increasingly become more family friendly thanks to the addition of The Children’s Garden, a whimsical area that boasts 32 displays and hands-on activities, and the Butterfly House, which is home to as many as 400 butterflies representing nearly 25 North American varieties. 170 Hotel Rd., Hershey. Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily through Labor Day (Butterfly House closes at 5 p.m.). Details: Call 534-3492 or visit hersheygardens.org.

Village Greens Miniature Golf

This Strasburg institution offers two challenging courses that wind their way over 13 acres of gorgeous gardens and water features. A full-service snack bar is also on the premises. The course is open daily through Labor Day. 1444 Village Rd., Strasburg. Details: Call 687-6933 or visit villagegreens.com.

2015 Women’s U.S. Open

In case you haven’t heard, the 2015 Women’s U.S. Open is being contested at Lancaster Country Club, July 6-12. While some levels of tickets are sold out, as of early June, daily tickets for practice rounds, championship rounds, and the 1761 Club Badge, which provides daily admission and other perks, were still available. While we wouldn’t advise it for young children, budding golfers in middle and high school would no doubt enjoy the excitement that only a major championship can provide. Details: 2015uswomensopen.com.

Beau’s Dream Park

Four-legged guests will enjoy an outing to Lancaster’s premier dog park, which is located in Buchanan Park. Soon to celebrate its second birthday, the park was a gift to Lancaster from Angela Bauman and her dog, Beau, who won a contest sponsored by Beneful Dog Food. The park is divided into two sections: one for large dogs and the other for smaller visitors. The sections are divided by a deck-like structure where owners can socialize. The park has received kudos from USA Today (#1) and Destination Travel magazine.  Details: Cityoflancaster.com and Facebook.

 Lancaster Science Factory

This hands-on, interactive tech and science center is geared to children in grades K-8, and features 60+ exhibits that relate to the physical sciences, engineering, technology and math. Open since 2008, it welcomed more than 41,000 visitors last year. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., 12-5 p.m. All that learning will undoubtedly make you hungry. Check out The Baker’s Table in the Cork Factory Complex, which offers breakfast items, salads, sandwiches and sweet indulgences. 454 New Holland Ave., Lancaster. Details: Call 509-6363 or visit lancastersciencefactory.org.

Hayloft Candles

This family-friendly destination offers 4,000 square feet filled with all-things candles, homemade ice cream (with farm-fresh toppings), and a petting zoo whose residents range from the farm variety to the exotic (a kangaroo just joined the menagerie). New this year is a boardwalk that encircles the pond. Bring a picnic and enjoy a day in the country. 99 S. Groffdale Rd., Leola. Details: Call 656-9463 or visit hayloftcandles.com.

Manor Township Enola Low Grade Rail Trail

Here’s your chance to get out and enjoy some fresh air! Just south of Washington Boro, along River Road, you’ll find the Manor Township segment of the Enola Low Grade Rail Trail. Once a railroad bed, the trail has been resurfaced, making it ideal for walking or riding bikes. The scenery is spectacular and includes the Susquehanna River and steep, tree-covered cliffs. Smaller kids will enjoy watching boaters fish and water ski. There’s railroad memorabilia , too, including a restored caboose that provides the perfect backdrop for photos. Don’t forget to take the dog along! Details: Manortwp.org or Facebook.

Speaking of the Susquehanna, there are wonderful places to enjoy the scenery up and down the river. Upstream you’ll find Lancaster’s newest trail: the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail, which includes the much-photographed White Cliffs of Conoy (access the trail off Race Street in Bainbridge). Of course, Chickies Rock always wows visitors. Further downstream you can access the Enola Trail in Conestoga Township. Another popular place to view the river is from the Pinnacle Overlook in Holtwood. And, the views are simply spectacular at Susquehannock State Park in Drumore Township.

Hole in the Wall Puppet Theatre

The 50-seat theater, which opened in 1990, is the creation of Robert Brock, who serves as artistic director. His aim is to educate and entertain his audiences. In addition to the family-friendly shows, the theater offers shows for more grown-up audiences; plus it is home to the John Durang Puppet Musuem, which boasts puppets from around the world, as well as from shows that were staged over the past 25 years. Performances geared toward children run approximately one-half hour, but parents will be equally as entertained. Aladdin & His Magic Lamp runs through August 18. Performances are offered Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m. Details: Call 394-8398 or visit hiwpuppets.org.

 

Museums and historic sites provide vital links to Lancaster’s past. They also serve as the perfect way to introduce visitors – and perhaps even you – to Lancaster County! You know what they say: Our own backyard is the last to be explored.

Hans Herr House & Museum

Built by Christian and Anna Herr in 1719, the Hans Herr House is regarded as the oldest surviving homestead in the county. It’s also the oldest original Mennonite meeting house still standing in the Western Hemisphere! The museum’s mission is to collect, preserve and interpret artifacts that relate to the history, life and faith of Lancaster’s first European settlers. New to the grounds is a replica Native American longhouse that serves to convey the complete story of life in 18th century Lancaster County. The property is open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., through November 30. Tours of the house and longhouse are offered at various times during the day. 1849 Hans Herr Dr., Willow Street. Details: Call 464-4438 or visit hansherr.org.

Ephrata Cloister

The roots of the Cloister can be traced to Conrad Beissel, an émigré from Germany (1720) who developed a religious theology based upon pietism and mysticism. His followers came to live a cloistered life that demanded self-discipline and encouraged creative expression (the cloister’s distinctive art form – Fraktur – flourished, as did its mesmerizing style of music). Printing and book publishing were also fortes of the Cloister. But, it was not to last; death began to take its toll, and the Cloister began its slow decline. In 1941 the property was sold to the state and is now administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission. The property is open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 12-5 p.m. 632 W. Main St., Ephrata. Details: Call 733-6600 or visit ephratacloister.org.

Landis Valley Museum

The premise of the museum – to collect, preserve and interpret the history and material cultures of Pennsylvania German life from 1740-1940 – dates to 1925, when brothers Henry and George Landis began inviting visitors to their homestead to view their varied collections. Today, Landis Valley Museum is comprised of 100 acres on which visitors will find a quant village that pays homage to history, tradition, artisanship and agriculture. The museum is also home to the famous Heirloom Seed Project. On July 18, the museum will host an Old-Fashioned Picnic that will feature food, games, a concert by the New Holland Band and more. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 12-5 p.m., through December. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Details: Call 569-0401 or visit landisvalleymuseum.org.

Lancaster History.org (Campus of History)

The campus includes Wheatland, the home of President James Buchanan, the Louise Arnold Tanger Arboretum and the Lancaster County Historical Society. Wheatland’s décor, grounds and gardens are reflective of the Victorian era in which Buchanan lived. The neighboring arboretum was designed by Gustaf Malmorg, who also designed the grounds/gardens of Masonic Village in Elizabethtown. The historical society is home to research facilities and galleries that are devoted to three centuries of history, art and decorative treasures (the Esprit Quilt Collection). Special exhibits are also on view. 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster. Wheatland is open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The historical society is open Monday-Saturday, with varying hours. The arboretum is open daily, sunrise to sunset. Details: Call 392-4633 or visit lancasterhistory.org.

Lititz Historical Foundation

The Lititz Museum is home to exhibits and artifacts that delve into the history of Lititz, beginning with the Native Americans and continuing with the arrival of Moravian settlers and Lititz’s most famous resident John Sutter. The adjacent Johannes Mueller House is decorated to reflect the lifestyle of a tradesman’s family during the 18th century. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 137-145 E. Main St., Lititz. Details: Call 627-4636 or visit lititzhistoricalfoundation.com.

Columbia Historic Preservation Society

Declared by Smithsonian magazine as a “Top 20 Town to Visit” in 2014, Columbia’s history museum shares the fascinating story of this river town that played a pivotal role in the Civil War: The bridge spanning the Susquehanna was intentionally set afire in order to keep Confederate troops from advancing east. A special art and literary exhibit honoring Columbia native and “America’s Greatest Sonneteer” – Lloyd Mifflin – is on view. Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Fourth Fridays, 5-9 p.m. 19-21 N. Second St., Columbia. Details: Call 684-2894 or visit columbiahistory.net.

National Clock & Watch Museum

Open since 1977, the museum’s initial 1,000 display items have grown to more than 12,000 (the building housing the museum has grown numerous times as well). The museum, which is the headquarters of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors, is home to the largest and most comprehensive horological collection in North America; clocks, tools, watches and other items are from around the world. Special exhibits dot the calendar. On the Clock: Changing the Industrialized World is on display through December. An exhibit dedicated to James Bond’s timepieces recently opened. The National Watch and Clock Museum recently received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award, which honors hospitality excellence for establishments that consistently achieve outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor. Summer hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 12-4 p.m. 514 Poplar St., Columbia. Details: Call 684-8261 or visit nawcc.org.

Robert Fulton Birthplace

Robert Fulton (1765-1815) was born in the Southern End of the county. The birthplace of this painter, engineer and inventor of the first steamboat remained in the family until 1772, at which time it was sold. In 1965 it was acquired by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, which restored and furnished the home to reflect the era in which Fulton lived. Tours are provided by members of the Southern Lancaster County Historical Society Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. through Labor Day. 1932 Robert Fulton Highway (Route 222), Quarryville. Details: Call 548-2679 or visit solancastercountyhistory.org.

Rock Ford Plantation

The home of Revolutionary War General Edward Hand is considered to be one of the most important examples of Georgian domestic architecture to survive in the state, and it is regarded as being the most intact building – predating 1800 – in the county. Beautifully furnished, Rock Ford defines refined country living 18th century style. It is believed that George and Martha Washington enjoyed tea at Rock Ford in 1791. Special events dot the calendar; new this year are Second Sunday events. Hours are Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 881 Rock Ford Rd., Lancaster. Details: Call 392-7223 or visit rockfordplantation.org.  

Historic Lancaster Walking Tour

Downtown Lancaster oozes history, plus its architecture is renowned. The best way to see it all is on foot. Tours, which have been offered since 1976, depart daily at 1 p.m., plus at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, from the lobby of the Penn Square Marriott (look for the costumed guides). Details: Call 392-1776 or visit historiclancasterwalkingtour.com.    

1852 Herr Family Homestead

Originally a 92-acre farm that sat on the edge of Landisville, the homestead was owned by generations of Herrs beginning in 1844. Its first resident was Henry Herr, who is a descendent of Hans Herr. He was succeeded by his son Amos B. Herr. The third and last owner was Amos R. Herr, who took over the farm after his father’s death in 1926. Amos R. not only managed the farm, but he was also an educator and community leader. When Amos R.’s wife, Ethel, died in 1964, her husband donated 55 acres to East Hempfield Township for community use. When he passed away in 1987, the rest of the tract was donated as well, thus paving the way for the creation of Amos Herr Park. The house sat empty until 1990, at which time a committee was formed to find a suitable use for the house (1852) and barn (1850). Committee members deemed the property a perfect example of a Victorian-era farmstead and proposed that it be used as a historic site. Furnishings that are original to the house, donated items, farming implements and volunteer-tended gardens have ensured that the Herr Homestead will continue to educate and entertain visitors. The house and gardens are open Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m., through October. 1756 Nissley Rd., Landisville. Details: Call 898-8822 or visit herrhomestead.org.

Mount Joy Area Historical Society

The organization’s mission is to “seek, preserve and make available” history relating to the Mount Joy area, which was originally settled by the Scots-Irish. Located in the former Macedonia AME Church, the building houses the various collections that relate to the area’s history. The building is open Sundays, 1-4 p.m. 120 Fairview St., Mount Joy. Details: Call 653-4718 or visit mountjoyhistory.com.    

Winters Heritage House Museum

The Elizabethtown area is noted for its treasure trove of log structures, and the museum exemplifies that fact as it makes its home in three log structures that date from 1750 to 1847, as well as a Victorian- era building that dates to 1877. Inside collections and activities (for all ages) ensure that residents will stay connected to the history of the area. The museum is open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 33-47 E. High St., Elizabethtown. Details: Call 367-4672 or visit elizabethtownhistory.org.  

Cocalico Valley Historical Society

The history of northern Lancaster County is on view at the Connell Mansion, which was built in 1868 and is regarded as a fine example of Victorian-Italianate architecture. The historical society grew out of a project launched by the Ephrata Recreation Center in 1957. The museum’s collections were either made in the Cocalico Valley or are representative of items that would have been used by its residents over the centuries. The current exhibit, The Musselmans of Murrell, tells the story of pioneer (1920s) dealers of Pennsylvania German and Early American antiques who counted some of the country’s most famous collectors as their clients. The museum is open Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 237 W. Main St., Ephrata. Details: Call 733-1616 or visit cocalicovalleyhs.org.

Mascot Roller Mills/Ressler Home

Regarded as one of the country’s best preserved flour mills, Mascot Roller Mills’ history extends back to the 1730s, when it was built by Jacob Bear. In 1865 it was taken over by William Ressler. Two more generations of Resslers – Jacob and Franklin – operated the water-powered mill until it closed in 1977. The Ressler home is also open to the public; its décor is reflective of a miller’s house during the 19th century. The Ressler Mill Foundation funded the creation of the nearby William Morton Bird Sanctuary that is perfect for picnics, birdwatching and fishing. It also funds projects that improve Mill Creek and supports various educational institutions/projects in Lancaster County. The property is open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., through October 17. 433 W. Newport Rd., Ronks. Details: Call 656-7616 or visit resslermill.com.        

Conestoga Area Historical Society

Did you know that Pequea (Martic Township) was once home to a nationally renowned hotel – River View – that was dedicated to healthy living and attracted visitors from near and far during the 19th and early 20th centuries? Thanks to the Conestoga Area Historical Society, Pequea’s moment of fame is well documented with photos and memorabilia from the hotel, which offered guests access to 500 acres of woodland and water. Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, the historical society is home to a variety of collections that took root through items that were donated by the area’s generous citizens. The grounds of the historical society are home to seven buildings that serve as living-history museums. The tobacco shed (circa 1800s) is home to the society’s Conestoga Wagon. This year’s exhibit, Threads and Inks, focuses on antique clothing and paper documents from the society’s permanent collections. The property is open Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. 51 Kendig Rd., Conestoga. Details: Call 872-1699 or visit pennmanorhistory.org.