Welcome!
SUMMER/FALL 2025
On The Cover
The Kurtz Mill Covered Bridge in Lancaster Count y Park is a popular feature and accessible via the Mill Creek Trail, which follows the creek. Photo by Krista Lockwood.
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Goats, cows and ponies, oh my!
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LANCASTER MAP
From downtown to Amish country, use his handy map to plan your visit.
26 The top spots for this craft cocktail
Published
By ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
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SUMMER HIKES
Quiet spots to enjoy nature
22 Our guide to the best local milkshakes FAVORITE MILKSHAKES
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General Manager: Chris Fidler
Editor-in-Chief: Sydney Farrell
Creative Direction: Erica Feltenberger, Amy Rodriguez
Design: Bailey Watro
Production: Maggie Noon, Sally Reynolds
Writers: Kayla Corbin, Scott Kneisley, Krista Lockwood, Maggie Noon
Photographers: Kayla Corbin, Scott Kneisley, Krista Lockwood, Maggie Noon
Spend
dayonthe SusquehannaRiver withour pontoon rentals! Whether youwant to relax or have afun-filled daywithfriendsand family,it’sjustashort trip West of Lancaster.
by Shauna Yorty
Photo by Vinny Tennis
Ask a Local
Favo ri te Pett ing Zo os
When you think of Lancaster Count y, one of the things you probably think of is farm animals. While you can see many cows, horses, and goats as you drive along country roads, you can’t really stop and pet them. Here are some local gems where you can stop to pet, feed, and interact with these beautiful creatures.
Li’l Country Store and Miniature Horse Farm
264 PARADISE LANE, RONKS
LANCASTERMINIHORSES.COM/ACTIVITIES
This working Amish farm is the largest petting zoo in the area , with a very authentic Lancaster County feel You will find a larg e winding path with many animals along the way. We started in the horse barn, where there were about a dozen ponies to feed Then we continued to the first enclosure to see the mini goats and alpacas. Down a winding pathway and over the foot bridge, you’ll find horses, larg er goats, chickens, and even a turkey. The atmosphere is rela xed and peaceful, even with kiddos running to feed their favorite animals. In addition to the free petting areas, you can take a pony ride for just $7 or attend a miniature horse workshop where you’ll care for and help feed the ponies in small groups After you’ve petted all the animals, visit their store for authentic Amish quilts, crafts, and food There is even a picnic area to sit and enjoy. Be sure to check hours before you head over to the countryside. Many Amish owned businesses, including this one, are not open on Sundays and other special holidays like Ascension Day.
Story and Photos By Maggie Noon
Pretzel Hut
2224 FURNACE HILLS PIKE, NEWMANSTOWN
PRETZELHUT.COM
The Pretzel Hut is a popular roadside attraction for many Lancaster Count y locals You can enjoy their grill and ice cream menu, and of course their signature soft pretzels. Tucked away behind the main building, is an lovely wooded clearing with picnic benches and a playground. This is also where you’ll find the petting zoo where you can get up close with their lovable animals. The footing can be uneven, so I’d recommend sneakers for your visit. Their petting zoo is home to different animals depending on the time of the year, but some creatures you might see include goats, bunnies, pig s, turkeys, and peacocks. When I visited, there was a special guest, Amy the Highland Cow, who was especially adorable. The best part about the Pretzel Hut is that aside from the cost of any food, ever ything is free !
Oregon Dairy
2900 OREGON PIKE, LITITZ, OREGONDAIRY.COM/FAMILY-EVENTS/BARNYARD_EXPRESS
When I think Oreg on Dair y, I normally think grocer y store and restaurant, but they also have a lovely ice cream shop, o/playground and an informational out the orig ins of the family ’s farm. the Barnyard Express Train Ride. only $8/person, you’ll hop aboard a 40 minute train tour that takes you throug h the farm fields and cow barn. Along the way, there is a stop where you can feed and pet a baby cow, goats, and chickens. This specific tour runs from mid-May throug h Labor Day, but Oreg on Dair y has an extensive calendar of year-round events. We spent a lovely day playing on the playground, interacting with adorable animals, and enjoying some very delicious ice cream. A wonderful experience for kids and adults alike.
with the Pennsy lvania Guild of Craftsmen
The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen offers an array of classes for adults in a variety of craft mediums. Offered at different skill levels, most workshops are geared towards beginners. Join us for an afternoon or evening and learn a new skill!
Visit our website to see all the different types of workshops we offer!
All are welcome and members get a discount for all classes and workshops, so join today!
pacrafts.org/workshops
Down town Galleries
Freiman Stoltzfus
Ask a Local a Loca
Favori te Milkshakes
Y AND PHO S BY KAYLA CORBIN
One of the most rewarding tr ts to enjoy in the summertime is a milkshake. Whether you prefer a thick, thin, or medium blend of shake, Lancaster is sure to have one for you. All of the spots below are family-owned businesses. Supporting a family business has never been easier! This summer, grab your friends and family and stop by one of my favorites listed below after a day at the pool, as a lunch pick-me-up, or just a sweet treat to stave off the summer heat
Best Ice Cream Alternative
Nikki’s Custard
1831 OREGON PIKE, LANCASTER NIKKISCUSTARD.COM
If you want to tr y something other than traditional ice cream, check out this vibrant spot that dishes out an array of freshly made custard flavors. I decided to tr y June’s milkshake special and it was delicious. A blend of vanilla custard, cold brew coffee, and blueberr y sauce was a combination I did not know I needed. With the carousel of changing flavors and sauces, there’s sure to be a combination to satisf y ever y taste bud. Make sure you check out the insta-worthy mural on the side of the building while you enjoy your custard-y goodness. Nikki’s also offers non-dair y options. Check out their Instagram page for monthly specials and flavor announcements.
Best Classic Maplehofe Dairy
799 ROBERT FULTON HIGHWAY, QUARRYVILLE MAPLEHOFEDAIRY.COM
Nestled in the southern end of Lancaster County, this has been my go -to milkshake spot since I was little. This dair y store serves Leiby’s hand dipped ice cream and mixes their own milk to create milkshakes. Besides regular milk, you can mix their flavored milks into any shake such as orange cream, blueberr y, strawberry, and of course, chocolate. They usually have seasonal options available, such as a fresh strawberry shake in the summer. My personal favorite is mixing Leiby’s chocolate ice cream with Maplehofe’s chocolate milk to create a sugary heaven. You can enjoy your treat on their front porch or at the playset area surrounded by farmland and picturesque views.
Best for Animal Lovers Pine View Dairy
2225 NEW DANVILLE PIKE, LANCASTER PINEVIEWDAIRY.COM
What really makes Pine View Dair y stand out from the others are the baby cows that you can walk right up to and pet at no extra charg e. After ordering my triple dark chocolate milkshake throug h their outside window, I headed over to the row of calves to enjoy their cuteness before settling back into the outdoor area for the dair y farm ambiance. Pine View Dair y’s ice cream is a homemade deliciousness you can also buy in their store. This is definitely the spot for any animal lovers who want to enjoy a sweet treat at the same time You can also check out the farm team milking their cows on the weekends.
Best Ambiance Bonus: 32 Below
BRICKERVILLE LOCATION: 10 E 28TH DIVISION HWY, LITITZ DOWNTOWN LITITZ: 110 E MAIN ST, LITITZ 32BELOWICECREAMSHOP.COM
Located in Bricker Villag e, 32 Below is a cute place to spend some time while enjoying a cooling treat. The outdoor area surrounding the walk-up window is nothing short of summertime bliss. Although they have delicious milkshakes, what stood out to me were their waffle nachos that are served with soft serve ice cream, a side, and a topping. The waffle chips are the perfect amount of crunch to go along with the ice cream, Nutella, and strawberry topping if you choose like I did. This is the perfect place to hang out with your friends and family
Hours: Monday 5-8pm
Tuesday-Saturday5-8:30pm
Lunch Buffet 11:30-1:30pm Closed Sunday
WALNUT ST., 2ND FLOOR, LANCASTER
21 Himalayan Curry & Grill
22 E. ORANGE ST., LANCASTER
22 Historic Lancaster Walking Tour 38 PENN SQUARE, LANCASTER 23 J.A. Sharp
322 N. QUEEN ST., LANCASTER
County
29 Lost Treasure Golf 2521 LINCOLN HWY E., RONKS
30 McCleary’s Pub
130 W FRONT ST., MARIETTA
31 Miller’s Smorgasbord
N. MARKET ST., LANCASTER
28 Long Level Marina
1809 LONG LEVEL RD., WRIGHTSVILLE
Histor ic Hospitality
Discount per person for the entire group. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Must present coupon at the time of purchase and is only good for the first game. CODE: LNP
The
Area ’s Only River View Dini ng
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Step Into Nature
Mill Creek Trail
Lancaster County Central Park
2201 Kiwanis Dr, Lancaster
Just a few minutes south of Lancaster City, Mill Creek Trail is one of the most popular hiking paths in Lancaster Count y Central Park This easy 1.4 mile loop follows the edge of Mill Creek and takes about 30 minutes to complete. Aside from the beginning and end of the trail, most of the hike is flat, though hikers should be prepared for a few hills and the occasional fallen tree.
Along the way, hikers will pass under the Kurtz’s Mill Covered Bridge, a highlight of the trail. There are also several stony clearings where you can step off the trail and dip your feet in the water on hot days, a perfect way to cool off and enjoy the scenery. Dogs are welcome, although be aware that you may encounter some off leash dogs in certain areas of the park . For those looking to extend their hike beyond Mill Creek, this trail connects easily to other popular paths, including the Scout Trail, CTS Trail, and Equestrian Trail, accessible by crossing over the Kurtz’s Mill Bridge. The Mill
Creek trailhead is easy to find, with a convenient parking lot located on Kiwanis Drive.
Lancaster Count y Central Park offers more than just hiking Visitors can enjoy sports facilities, garden plots, a skate park, a public pool, camping, and even the Historic Rock Ford estate
The park also features pavilions for rent, charcoal grills, the Garden of the Five Senses, and the Lancaster Environmental Center, which hosts educational programs year-round. Whether you’re out for a quick wa or a peaceful escape into nature, Mi Creek Trail is the perfect starting po experience all that Lancaster Count Park has to offer
FAVO RITE TRA I LS IN LA N CA ST ER CO UN TY
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KRISTA LOCKWOOD
C OUN
Conservation Trail
Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area 100 Museum Rd, Stevens
Bordering Lancaster and Lebanon counties, Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area spans nearly 6,000 acres and features over 20 miles of connecting trails for hiking , birdwatching , and exploring . Many of the trails are outand-back, but several can be combined for a long er, customizable hiking experience. One of the most popular options is the Conser vation Trail, a 1.4-mile loop that weaves throug h grasslands, forest, and wetlands, offering scenic views of the Middle Creek Lake While the trail takes less than an hour to complete, it’s best enjoyed at a slower pace, giving hikers a chance to observe wildflowers, wildlife, and terrain. Though generally easy, expect some hills. Trail improvements are ongoing, with staff and volunteers building steps and walkways to protect the wetland areas and minimize muddy spots. Dogs are welcome but staff recommends they are on a leash
The Conser vation Trail is easily accessed from the parking lot at the Middle Creek Visitors Center, where guests can pick up maps, learn about upcoming events, like the Wildlife Art
Show, or inquire about seasonal programs, such as their archery program at Willow Point. You can learn more about upcoming events on Middle Creek’s Facebook Page.
For those looking to extend their hike, the Spicebush Trail is a short walk from the Conser vation Trail. This peaceful, forested loop stretches 0.7 miles and follows a stream in some parts. The Spicebush Trail also connects to other paths, making it easy to explore more of Middle Creek’s trail net work Because Middle Creek is owned and operated by the PA Game Commission, hikers must follow safet y regulations during hunting seasons. From November 15 to December 15, all visitors, including hikers, must wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange visible from all angles on the head, chest, or back . For added safet y, it’s recommended to wear orange from September 1 throug h February 1, which covers most of the active hunting seasons
Special thanks to Brant Portner at Middle Creek Visitors Center for sharing insights and recommendations for this article.
La ter
Northwest Lancaster Country River Trail
Columbia Crossing River Trails Center | 41 Walnut St, Columbia
This 14.2 trail isn’t your typical hike, it’s an experience that can easily fill an entire day. Beginning at the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, the Northwest Lancaster Count y River Trail is a mostly paved path that follows the Susquehanna River, stretching throug h Columbia, Marietta , Bainbridge, and ending in Falmouth
It’s perfect for walking, running, biking, and offers plent y of opportunities to take in the incredible views of the Susquehanna. You’ll pass throug h wooded areas, grassy fields, and white cliffs, with interesting
historical markers highlighting canal locks, iron furnaces, and quarry operations along the way.
If you’re starting at the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, grab a coffee at Coffee and Cream, then stop by Columbia River Park to enjoy a scenic view of the Wrig htsville Bridge Here you’ll find plent y of parking , picnic tables by the river, and seasonal kayak, canoe, and bike rentals. Because the trail is so long with multiple access points, it’s a good idea to choose a section that interests you most and plan your outing from there. Here are some trail access locations:
Columbia Crossing River Trails Center (public restrooms)
41 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA
Furnace Road Access (porta potty available)
29 Furnace Rd, Marietta, PA
Decatur Street Access
Decatur St, Marietta, PA
East Donegal Riverfront Park 551 Vinegar Ferry Rd, Marietta, PA
Prescott Road Access (seasonal restrooms) Prescott Rd, Bainbridge, PA
American Legion Koser Park 107 Race St, Bainbridge, PA
Kings Road Parking Kings Rd, Bainbridge, PA
Fisherman’s Wharf
111 Collins Rd, Bainbridge, PA
Wherever you choose to begin, make time to stop for food, drinks, or a sweet treat just off the trail. Local favorites include: McCleary’s Pub, River Trail Brewing, Shenk’s Tavern, The Railroad House Inn, Hell in a Bucket Brewing, and Gigi’s Ice Cream Bar
The trail is wheelcha in many sections, though some undeveloped areas of the path may be gravel. Pets are welcome but must be on a leash. Please be courteous of fellow trail users by staying to the right of the trail and warning when passing.
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Ask a Local
Favorite EspressoMartinis
BY SCOTT KNEISLEY
Lancaster has a fantastic craft cocktail scene, with new and inventive offerings at bars and restaurants all around the count y. But sometimes you don’t want new tastes, sometimes you want a cocktail that is classic and familiar Espresso martinis came on the cocktail scene in the 1980s, with a surg e in popularit y in the early 2020s. Technically they aren’t even a martini since they don’t have gin or vermouth, but they
are served in a martini glass, and the name has become a fixture.
The classic recipe in Difford’s Guide calls for vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur, shaken on ice and strained into the glass. But many variations exist, and some don’t even include real espresso.
Among the many places to grab an espresso martini in Lancaster Count y, these are my favorites:
PHOTOS BY SCOTT KNEISLEY AND MAGGIE NOON
401 Prime
401 N. Prince St, Lancaster | 401primelancaster.com
This espresso martini is great qualit y, and they offer several variants. The Velvet Prelude is their standard version and uses vanilla vodka. The Barreled Bliss uses brown sugar bourbon, which is not my favorite since I’m not a bourbon drinker. The Crimson Leaf uses Five Saints blood orange liqueur which gives it a tast y and unique citrus note. 401 Prime’s bartenders use stencils to create designs in cocoa powder and top it a sugar wafer on the edge of the glass.
Belvedere
402 N. Queen St., Lancaster | Belvederelancaster.com
To me, this is the best tasting, most consistent version in the area . It has been on their menu since before I was 21 (15 years ag o) so it feels like “the orig inal” in Lancaster. It’s what a classic espresso martini should be. The ingredients are Faber vanilla vodka, Mr. Black cold brew liqueur, Jacquin’s crème de cacao, and freshly brewed espresso. The coffee notes are strong , the crème de cacao gives it a slig htly bitter edge, and it’s not too sweet. The garnish is the classic three coffee beans. This is the espresso martini I come back to ag ain and ag ain.
Decades
438 N. Queen St, Lancaster Decadeslancaster.com
This espresso martini is on the sweeter side and is a little creamier than most, but not over the top. Decades’ bartenders use vanilla vodka, Kahlua (which provides that extra sweetness), local Square One espresso, house made cocoa liqueur, and heavy cream The garnish has fun designs in the cream, which gives it a latte look .
New Holland Coffee Co.
51 W. Kleine Lane, Lititz Lancasterbreweries.org/hollander Hollander Brewer y is a microbrewery inside New Holland Coffee’s Lititz location. Ever y ingredient in this martini is made in Pennsylvania : fresh espresso from New Holland Coffee, housemade Irish cream simple syrup, MLH coffee liqueur, and Penn Square vodka. The flavor is on the sweeter side and tastes a little like an Irish Coffee.
Vacation Mode
Convenient, affordable flights from Lancaster, PAtoOrlando, FL
Breeze Airways is making it easier thanevertoflyfrom Lancasterto Orlando over the summer! We’re doubling our weekly flightsbyoffering service Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, andFridays! That means more magic, more adventure, andmore flexibility for your next getaway.
Culinary Celebrations of Life
5
En jo y Eu ro pean inspir ed casual fare in our tren dy and lively, open -air, bistro with lunc hTuesday thr ough Sa tur da y fr om 1 1:30am to 3pm. clvla ncast er.c om
En jo y one of Lanca st er city ’s most unique fine dining ex perienc es immersed in old wo rld charm an d Ho ll yw ood gla mour
josephinesdo wn to wn. co m
