Intercourse Travel Guide
Discover Intercourse, a quaint town located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. This comprehensive travel guide includes all the information needed for planning a perfect trip to Intercourse, including thing to do, where to stay, and where to eat.
- Introduction to Intercourse
- List of Places to Visit in Intercourse
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Intercourse
- Best Things to Do in Intercourse: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Intercourse
- Food and Drink Scene of Intercourse
- Where to Stay in Intercourse: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Intercourse: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Intercourse
- Best Time to Visit Intercourse
- Do’s and Don’ts of Intercourse
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Intercourse: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Intercourse
- Where to Go Next from Intercourse: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Intercourse
Intercourse, located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in Mid-Atlantic region of the United States is a small, quaint town situated in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque landscapes, Amish heritage, and a laid-back lifestyle.
The town is surrounded by beautiful farmlands where visitors can explore and experience the farming culture, ride in horse-drawn buggies, and enjoy local cuisine.
This Intercourse travel guide will provide everything you need to know to plan the perfect vacation to this charming town, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat.
List of Places to Visit in Intercourse
Intercourse has many attractions that you can visit to experience the unique culture and heritage of the area. Here are some of the most popular places to visit:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Amish Village - An authentic Amish experience where visitors can learn about Amish traditions, clothing, and ride in a horse-drawn carriage.
- The Amish Farm and House - A 200-year-old Amish farm where visitors can tour the house, learn about the Amish lifestyle, and explore the farm.
- People’s Place Quilt Museum - A museum featuring more than 100 quilts, including Amish and Mennonite quilts.
Natural Attractions of Intercourse: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Rainbow’s Comedy Playhouse - A theatre which produces hilarious Broadway-style comedies and musical shows throughout the year.
- Kitchen Kettle Village - A picturesque shopping village full of unique shops, a bakery, and homemade jams and jellies.
- Old Village Store - A historic store that used to serve as a place of business for the Amish community. It has now been turned into a gift shop where visitors can purchase authentic Amish souvenirs.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Intercourse
Intercourse has a lot to offer in terms of outdoor adventure. Exploring the countryside on foot or by bike is a great way to experience the area. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:
- The Conestoga Trail - A 63-mile hiking trail that runs from the Susquehanna River to Ridge Road.
- Lancaster Junction Trail - A 1.6-mile trail that runs through farmland and woodlands.
- Mill Creek Trail - A scenic 2.2-mile hiking trail that runs through the countryside and farmland.
Best Things to Do in Intercourse: Activities and Tours
- Amish Buggy Rides - Take a ride in a horse-drawn buggy to experience the Amish way of life.
- Amish Experience at Plain and Fancy Farms - A guided tour through an Amish farmhouse, schoolhouse, and a visit to a carriage factory.
- Balloons over Lancaster - A breathtaking hot air balloon ride that offers a bird’s eye view of the beautiful countryside.
Week-Long Itinerary for Intercourse
If you’re planning a week-long trip to Intercourse, here is an itinerary to help you get the most out of your time:
Day | Activities |
---|---|
Day 1 | Tour the Amish village and visit the People’s Place Quilt Museum |
Day 2 | Hike in Mill Creek Trail and visit Rainbow’s Comedy Playhouse |
Day 3 | Visit the Amish Farm and House and take a buggy ride |
Day 4 | Explore Kitchen Kettle Village and go hot air ballooning with Balloons over Lancaster |
Day 5 | Attend a show at Sight and Sound Theatre |
Day 6 | Tour the Old Village Store and take a guided tour of Plain and Fancy Farms |
Day 7 | Take a day trip to Hershey, PA and visit Hersheypark |
Food and Drink Scene of Intercourse
Intercourse has a variety of dining options that offer traditional Amish cuisine, home-cooked meals, and farm-to-table dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Shoo-fly Pie - A classic Amish dessert made with molasses and crumb topping.
- Chicken Pot Pie - A traditional Amish dish made with chunks of chicken, vegetables, and gravy baked in a flaky crust.
- Whoopie Pie - A soft and creamy dessert filled with sweet cream.
Local Beverages
- Birch Beer - A traditional Amish drink made with wintergreen flavoring and sweetened with molasses.
- Apple Cider - A seasonal favorite made with fresh apples.
Where to Stay in Intercourse: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Intercourse has plenty of accommodation options for visitors. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, there is something for everyone. Here are some popular places to stay:
- The Inn at Kitchen Kettle Village - A charming bed and breakfast with country-style rooms and views of the farmland.
- Best Western Plus Intercourse Village Inn - A modern hotel with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- Amish View Inn and Suites - A luxurious hotel with spacious suites, an indoor pool, and scenic views of the countryside.
What to Buy in Intercourse: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Intercourse has several unique shops and stores that provide visitors with the opportunity to buy souvenirs and locally made products. Here are some must-buy souvenirs:
- Amish Quilts - Beautiful and intricate handmade quilts from the local Amish community.
- Homemade Jellies and Jams - Delicious homemade jellies and jams made from locally grown fruits.
- Handmade Wooden Products - Locally crafted wooden products including toys, bowls, and decorations.
Local Culture and Customs of Intercourse
Intercourse is home to a thriving Amish community, and it is essential to be sensitive to their culture and customs. Visitors should dress modestly, respect their traditions and beliefs, and avoid taking pictures of individuals without permission. Many stores and attractions are closed on Sundays, and visitors should plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit Intercourse
The best time to visit Intercourse is during the shoulder season, which is from April to May or September to November. The weather is mild, and the prices are relatively low, making it the perfect time to enjoy the attractions and outdoor activities in the area.
Do’s and Don’ts of Intercourse
Do:
- Dress modestly when visiting the Amish community.
- Respect Amish customs and traditions.
- Purchase local products and support local businesses.
Don’t:
- Take pictures of the Amish community without their permission.
- Disrupt Amish life and activity by taking part in activities contrary to their beliefs.
- Assume that all Amish communities are the same.
Safety and Health
Safety in Intercourse
Intercourse is a small, safe town; visitors need not worry about their safety. However, it’s essential to follow standard precautions such as keeping valuable items safe and using common sense when traveling around.
Health in Intercourse
Intercourse has several medical facilities available to visitors. However, it’s always wise to bring your first aid kit and medications when you travel.
Getting to Intercourse: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Intercourse
The closest airport to Intercourse is Philadelphia International Airport, which is approximately 80 miles east of the town. Other airports within close proximity include Baltimore/Washington International Airport and Harrisburg International Airport.
Bus Stations Near Intercourse
Intercourse is not directly connected by bus, and visitors can take a bus to Lancaster, PA, and take a taxi or rent a car from their terminals.
Other Options
Visitors can rent a car or drive to Intercourse using their vehicle.
How to Get Around in Intercourse
Intercourse is a small town, and many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. Visitors can also take a horse-drawn carriage to experience the Amish lifestyle. For longer distances, renting a bike or car is recommended.
Where to Go Next from Intercourse: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Intercourse is situated between several interesting and vibrant destinations that visitors can explore. Some popular nearby excursions include:
- Hershey, PA - A picturesque town famous for Hersheypark, chocolate factory tours, and Hershey Gardens.
- Gettysburg, PA - A historic town famous for the Gettysburg National Military Park, cyclorama, and Museum and visitor center.
- Philadelphia, PA - A vibrant city with a rich history, world-famous landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall
Conclusion
Intercourse is a place like no other; its unique Amish heritage, beautiful countryside, and laid-back lifestyle make it a perfect vacation destination. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, delicious cuisine, and locally made products, there is something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan the perfect trip to Intercourse, Pennsylvania, and create unforgettable memories.