Shrewsbury Travel Guide

Plan a perfect trip to Shrewsbury with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, food scene, hiking/biking routes, hotels, and more.


Introduction to Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury is a small town located in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America. It offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture, while also providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. From hiking and biking to exploring museums and historical places, Shrewsbury has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Shrewsbury

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Steam Into History: Take a ride on a replica Civil War-era steam locomotive and learn about the town’s history during the war.

  • Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site: Explore the remains of a 19th-century ironmaking community and learn about the lives of the Hopewell furnace workers.

  • York County History Center: Visit the museum to learn about the local history of York County.

Natural Attractions of Shrewsbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Redman: Enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking around the scenic lake.

  • Nixon County Park: Hike and bike along the park’s many trails, which meander through forests, fields, and streams.

  • Gifford Pinchot State Park: Go swimming, boating, fishing, or hiking in this 2,338-acre state park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shrewsbury

  • Heritage Rail Trail County Park: Walk, run, or bike the 21-mile trail that leads through farmland, forests, and small towns from York City to the Mason-Dixon Line.

  • Codorus State Park: Hike or bike the lake’s 11-mile trail that provides breathtaking views of the park’s forested hills and the lake.

Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury: Activities and Tours

  • Hopewell Furnace Tour: Take a tour of the historic furnace community and learn about the former iron-making workers’ lifestyle.

  • Steam Into History Tour: Take a ride on the train while enjoying spectacular views of the local area.

  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Shrewsbury and its surrounding countryside from the sky.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shrewsbury

Day Activity
1 Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
2 York County History Center
3 Lake Redman
4 Heritage Rail Trail County Park
5 Nixon County Park
6 Gifford Pinchot State Park
7 Steam Into History Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Shrewsbury

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soft Pretzels: Freshly baked soft pretzels are an absolute must-try when visiting Shrewsbury.

  • Whoopie Pies: Enjoy these sweet treats, which consist of two cookie-like cakes sandwiched together with frosting.

  • Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Pot Pie: This savory dish consists of chunks of chicken and vegetables baked in a savory pie crust.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer: Try the oldest beer made in America, brewed nearby in Pottsville.

  • Apple cider: Enjoy the locally made apple cider, served cold or hot and spiced.

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

  • Hampton Inn Shrewsbury: Located just off Interstate 83, this is a popular hotel chain that offers affordable rates and comfortable rooms.

  • Jackson House Bed & Breakfast: This historic bed-and-breakfast is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion and provides guests with a comfortable and personalized stay.

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

  • Handmade Quilts: Pennsylvania Dutch Country is renowned for its handmade quilts, and Shrewsbury is no exception.

  • Beer and Wine: Take home some Yuengling Beer or locally made wine as a souvenir of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury is steeped in Pennsylvania Dutch culture and traditions, including hex signs, barn raisings, and delicious food.

Best Time to Visit Shrewsbury

The best time to visit Shrewsbury is between the months of April and October when the weather is mild, and outdoor recreation is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shrewsbury

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including pretzels, chicken pot pie, whoopie pies, and apple cider.

  • Explore the town’s museums and historical places.

  • Take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails around the town.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment.

  • Don’t disturb the wildlife.

  • Don’t take photographs of the Amish people without asking for their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury is a safe place for tourists, but it is always wise to take necessary precautions.

Health in Shrewsbury

While in Shrewsbury, visitors should take precautions to stay hydrated and avoid tick bites, as Lyme disease is common in the region.

Getting to Shrewsbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shrewsbury

The nearest airport to Shrewsbury is the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, which is located 45 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Shrewsbury

There are several bus stations serving Shrewsbury, including Greyhound and Trailways.

Other Options

Car rental is also an option for visitors arriving at the airport.

How to Get Around in Shrewsbury

Visitors can get around Shrewsbury by car, bike, and on foot. There is no public transportation available except for buses, which serve nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Shrewsbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gettysburg: Visit the nearby town of Gettysburg and explore the historic battlefield where the Civil War’s Battle of Gettysburg was fought.

  • Harrisburg: Capital of Pennsylvania, there is much to explore in this charming city, from the Pennsylvania State Capitol to the State Museum of Pennsylvania.

Conclusion

Shrewsbury is a charming town that has something to offer every visitor. Plan your trip in advance, and be sure to visit the area’s many natural and cultural attractions. Whether you love hiking, history, or food, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful region of Pennsylvania.