This is a must-see while you're in Lancaster and one of our favorite places! Central Market is open Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and is filled with local vendors selling fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, and all kinds of Lancaster favorites. John and his family are especially fond of the goat cheese from Linden Dale Farms. If you're heading there in the morning, grab a bagel from one of the market vendors and a coffee from Mean Cup. As the longest continuously operating indoor farmers' market in the United States, Lancaster Central Market is a local landmark that's well worth a visit.
Lititz is a charming town just about five miles north of downtown Lancaster and was even voted one of America’s Coolest Small Towns! Founded by Moravian settlers in the 1750s, the town still feels historic and welcoming. You can walk through Lititz Springs Park, grab a sweet at the Wilbur Chocolate Store, stop by the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, and wander in and out of the shops along Main Street. If you have time, it’s definitely worth a walk around!
If you have some free time while you're in Lancaster, we recommend visiting the Demuth Museum. Located in the former home and studio of local artist Charles Demuth, this small but special museum offers a unique look at Lancaster’s artistic history. With rotating exhibits and a courtyard garden, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon exploring downtown.
Near Lancaster Central Market, King, Queen, and Prince Streets are lined with local boutiques, vintage shops, and art galleries. We especially enjoy the 300 block of Queen Street, which has a great mix of independent businesses, including Building Character, an indoor marketplace with dozens of vendor booths. You'll also find a Swedish candy shop nearby that's worth a visit.