Strasburg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more with this comprehensive travel guide to Strasburg, Pennsylvania.


Introduction to Strasburg

Nestled in Lancaster County, heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, lies the charming and historic town of Strasburg. The town is centrally located between Philadelphia and Harrisburg, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. With a rich history, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty, visitors will surely fall in love with Strasburg.

List of Places to Visit in Strasburg

Strasburg has plenty to offer for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts. Here are the top places to visit in Strasburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Strasburg Rail Road: A short ride on the Strasburg Rail Road is a must when in town. The historic steam train offers scenic views of the countryside, and visitors can even take part in a train robbery!
  • Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania: This museum showcases over 100 historic locomotives and railroad cars, and is a great place to learn about the history of the railroad in Pennsylvania.
  • Sight & Sound Theatres: Experience the Bible come to life at this state-of-the-art theatre. With live animals, elaborate sets, and talented actors, visitors will surely be in awe.
  • Amish Village: Learn about the Amish way of life by taking a tour of a model Amish farm or taking a buggy ride through the countryside.
  • Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery: This historic bakery offers tours and hands-on pretzel-making experiences, perfect for families and foodies alike.

Natural Attractions of Strasburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cherry Crest Adventure Farm: With over 50 outdoor activities, including a corn maze and wagon rides, Cherry Crest is the perfect place to spend a day with the family.
  • Strasburg Community Park: This park offers trails, a disc golf course, and even a swimming pool for visitors to enjoy.
  • Lancaster County Central Park: Explore over 400 acres of natural beauty, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a skate park.
  • Wolf Sanctuary of PA: Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary to learn about wolves and their role in the ecosystem.
  • Turkey Hill Experience: This interactive museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of Turkey Hill Dairy and even make their own ice cream!

Hiking/Biking Routes of Strasburg

Strasburg has plenty of options for those who love to explore the outdoors. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail: This 20-mile trail follows the historic Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad, and offers stunning views of the countryside.
  • Conestoga Trail: This trail offers over 60 miles of hiking through the rolling hills and forests of Lancaster County.
  • Lancaster Junction Trail: This 3.3-mile trail takes visitors through the town of Manor and offers beautiful views of the Conestoga River.

Best Things to Do in Strasburg: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling with kids or looking for a unique experience, Strasburg has plenty to offer. Check out these top activities and tours:

  • Ghost Tours of Lancaster: Take a spooky tour of some of Lancaster’s most haunted locations.
  • Strasburg Scooters: Explore the countryside on a scooter rental, with several different tour options available.
  • Balloon Rides Daily: Take a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Amish countryside.
  • Hershey’s Chocolate World: Just a short drive from Strasburg, this interactive museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of chocolate and even make their own candy bars.

Week-Long Itinerary for Strasburg

Day 1: Visit the Strasburg Rail Road and take a ride on the historic steam train. Day 2: Explore the natural beauty of the area with a hike or bike ride. Day 3: Take a tour of the historic Amish Village and learn about their way of life. Day 4: Visit the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania and learn about the history of railroads in the state. Day 5: Spend the day at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, enjoying the outdoor activities. Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Amish countryside. Day 7: End your trip with a day exploring the town of Lancaster and its many shops and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Strasburg

Strasburg boasts a variety of delicious food and drink options, with a focus on traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken pot pie: This classic Pennsylvania Dutch dish features noodles and chicken in a creamy sauce.
  • Scrapple: A breakfast meat made from pork scraps and cornmeal, often served with eggs.
  • Shoofly pie: A molasses and crumb-filled pie that is a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Birch beer: A sweet, non-alcoholic soda made from birch bark.
  • Apple cider: Made from local apples, this refreshing drink is a must-try in the fall.
  • Yuengling beer: Brewed in nearby Pottsville, Yuengling is the oldest operating brewery in America.

Where to Stay in Strasburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Strasburg has plenty of options for accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to check out:

  • Strasburg Village Inn: This historic bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms in the heart of town.
  • Lancaster County Bed & Breakfast: Located just outside of Strasburg, this B&B offers stunning views of the countryside.
  • AmishView Inn & Suites: This luxurious hotel features a saltwater pool, spa, and complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Strasburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Strasburg without taking home some local souvenirs and products! Here are some great options to consider:

  • Quilts and textiles: Lancaster County is famous for its handmade quilts and textiles.
  • Amish-made furniture: Browse the many furniture shops in the area to find high-quality, locally-made pieces.
  • Canned and preserved goods: Stock up on homemade jams, jellies, and relishes.

Local Culture and Customs of Strasburg

Strasburg is located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and visitors can expect to experience the unique culture and customs of the region. The Amish people, in particular, are an integral part of the community here. Visitors should take care to respect their customs, such as dressing modestly and refraining from taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Strasburg

The best time to visit Strasburg is in the summer or fall, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Visitors can also experience the region’s fall foliage during peak season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Strasburg

Do:

  • Take a ride on the Strasburg Rail Road.
  • Try some traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
  • Respect the customs of the Amish community.
  • Take advantage of the many outdoor activities in the area.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of the Amish people without their permission.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting the Amish areas.
  • Visit during the winter, when the weather can be harsh and many outdoor activities are closed.

Safety and Health

Safety in Strasburg

Strasburg is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors should still take precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and locking car doors.

Health in Strasburg

Visitors should be aware that the area is prone to ticks, so it’s a good idea to wear insect repellent and check for ticks after spending time outdoors. There are several pharmacies and urgent care centers in the area in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Strasburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Strasburg

The nearest airports to Strasburg are Lancaster Airport (LNS), Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), all located within a two-hour drive.

Bus Stations Near Strasburg

Greyhound and Bieber Tourways both offer bus service to nearby Lancaster.

Other Options

Many visitors opt to drive to Strasburg, as there are several major highways nearby, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) and Route 30.

How to Get Around in Strasburg

The best way to get around Strasburg is by car, as many of the attractions in the area are spread out. Visitors can also take advantage of the many bike rental options in town to explore the countryside.

Where to Go Next from Strasburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lancaster: Just a short drive from Strasburg, Lancaster offers plenty of shops, museums, and restaurants to explore.
  • Hershey: Known as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is home to Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark.
  • Gettysburg: History buffs will enjoy a trip to Gettysburg, site of the famous Civil War battle.

Conclusion

With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and delicious food, Strasburg is a perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. From riding on the historic steam train to sampling some homemade jams, visitors are sure to have a memorable trip to Strasburg.