New in Town?

My husband and I were out of town recently and it was a good reminder that when you’re somewhere new, you need to find the best local shops to cover the basics: groceries, a pharmacy, or (much more exciting) shopping! With this in mind, I thought I’d show you around town, and when I say “town,” I mean within a 2-mile radius of The Carriage House at Strasburg. While Lancaster County has endless options when it comes to places to shop for basics and beyond, sometimes you just need some Advil, a quick bite to eat, or a last minute gift for a friend. So grab your wallet and let’s check out the best spots for personal items, groceries, food, and gifts in Strasburg, PA!

The Basics

We’ve all been there: you’re ready for a lovely weekend away when a migraine strikes. Have no fear, Wiley’s Pharmacy is here! You’ll find the staff to be helpful and pleasant, and you might even get distracted by the plethora of fun gifts and local paraphernalia available for sale in this hometown pharmacy. If you’re looking to stock up on groceries or snacks for your stay, Strasburg Market Place has all of the homemade goodies you’d expect from a family grocer. Peruse deli items and baked goods prepared in house, fresh produce, bulk items, handcrafted chocolates, and even local flowers! On your way out, don’t forget to grab a fresh donut or drink at Latte Luv, the in-house coffee bar. Finally, if you’re a health nut (my hand is raised!), you’ve got to pop in to Amish-owned and-operated Woodland Naturals. This store is small but boasts a nice selection of organic foods and produce, raw milk and cheeses, personal care items, and vitamins and supplements. I’ve found many of the clerks (and shoppers!) to be a great source of knowledge whilst checking out a new food or product. An added bonus? The prices are quite affordable compared to other similar purveyors.

A Bite to Eat?

Of course we all know what it’s like to arrive at a destination tired, hungry, and in need of something quick to eat. And while Strasburg may be a small town, it’s not lacking in good food! Located just across the street, Speckled Hen Coffee & Kitchen features craft coffee from local Passenger Coffee Roasters and specializes in artisan foods that are fresh, simple and homemade. Bonus: Our guests receive a voucher to this hot spot for breakfast! RIght down the street, Agapē Cafe & Grille is well-known for its friendly service, hearty portion sizes, and delicious comfort foods with a modern twist (think salted-caramel waffles, grilled cheese and crab cake sandwiches, and smoked brisket salads). Or check out Fireside Tavern for cozy, tavern style dining with all of the traditional pub favorites.

In the mood for something sweet? Both the Strasburg Creamery (within walking distance) and Down on the Farm Creamery (located on a beautiful Amish farm) feature decadent homemade ice cream and waffle cones. Or stop by the Strasburg Bakery for an array of homemade baked goods. Wine connoisseurs and novices alike will want to spend some time perusing the lovely selection of wines at Allegro Winery located in the Strasburg Square. And if you love a good craft beer, check out Bespoke Brewing just across from the Strasburg Railroad and opening this summer!

A Little Something Extra

Don’t let Strasburg’s small size fool you: we’ve got plenty of specialty shops in town where you’re sure to find some treasures. If you’re a lover of natural beauty, you simply must stop by Pollinate, where florist Christine Graham creates beautiful and unique handcrafted arrangements. If jewelry’s your thing, check out the pieces at Wire to Fire Artisans where you’ll find a curated collection of items made with love by Kimberly Jade and other artists from across the United States. And if you’re a lover of pieces which display the patina of time, spend some time at one of the antique shops within walking distance of The Carriage House. Our top pick? Strasburg Antique Market.

Bargain hunters will want to stop by Fashion Cents Consignment, which boasts a huge selection of quality clothing (for children and adults alike), toys, housewares and more! You won’t leave empty handed and you’re sure to be pleased with the bargains you’ll find. We outfit our gang of littles in cute clothes, by and large, thanks to Fashion Cents! Finally, you’ll find the perfect gift for a friend (or yourself) at Beautiful Home Interiors, located adjacent to Agape Cafe. You’ll be inspired by their curated selection of jewelry, specialty gift items, home decor, live plants, inspirational art, books and more!

A Walk Around Town

While you may choose to drive to many of the aforementioned spots, don’t leave Strasburg without a walk around town. One of my favorite things to do for exercise and inspiration is to take a walk around Strasburg. Stroll down Main Street and enjoy the historical homes, many of which boast pretty gardens, quaint porches, and beautiful architectural elements. Take a side road and catch a glimpse of the glorious Lancaster County farm land. Find your own treasures at one of the shops in the square. Getting out on foot also provides a chance to chat with the locals, which means you’ll probably uncover a few more tips about the best places to visit in the area. And of course if you need any additional help we’re always available to point you in the right direction!

Comment below with your favorite spots to shop and eat in Strasburg, PA! What do you love about this small town? And if you’ve never been, why not give us a call and book your stay today!

Off the Beaten Path

Most every Sunday evening, especially in the warmer months, we take a “mini vacation.” We’ll load up the kids in our old VW van, drive to one of our favorite parks, eat a picnic dinner and play. We may choose a spot with a creek, especially on those blistering summer days. Or we might visit a playground where the kids can swing, slide and climb to their hearts’ content. Wherever we end up, there’s lots of greenery, (relative) quiet, and space. These “family dates” refresh our spirits.

Looking for a reset yourself? Check out one of the following options below. I’ve included six of our favorite outdoor locations, each with distinct features that highlight the variety of activities Lancaster County has to offer. This is only a starting place: our area is FULL of gorgeous settings in which to bike, hike, and climb (or…relax). So get going. There are plenty of activities to enjoy off the beaten path, even here in an area that boasts bustling tourist attractions.

For the Younger Set – Amos Herr Park

While this park features basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, baseball and soccer fields, and pavilions for picnicking, our favorite part is the play area for kids. Perfect for kids 12 and under, it boasts a zipline in addition to all of the typical playground accoutrements (like swings and slides). Our little ones love the play structures, which give a nod to Lancaster County farm life and include a barn, schoolhouse, silo and tractor. Trees surround the park, and if you happen to find that golden moment when your kids are playing contentedly, there are an array of benches where parents can sit, all within eyesight of the little ones.

Or Check Out: Daniel’s Den Playground in Lancaster; Jaycee Park or King Swings in Strasburg (just down the road if you’re staying at The Carriage House and need a spot to let the kids run off some steam)

Creek Stompin’ – Wolf’s Hollow County Park

This park is located in Chester County, but it’s not even 20 minutes from The Carriage House at Strasburg, so it’s a great option for our guests. The Octoraro Creek winds through the nearly 600 acres of wooded forest and open meadows. Enjoy 10 miles of hiking trails (from moderate to challenging) lined with Pennsylvania mountain laurel, or sit at one of the picnic tables and have a snack. The shallow creek is just the right size for small explorers (dogs or kids!) to get wet.

Or Check Out: Silver Mine Park in Conestoga; Paradise Community Park in Paradise

Take a Hike – Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve

The Tucquan Glen Loop Trail is a moderately challenging, 2.6 mile hike featuring forested terrain, creeks and even a waterfall. You’ll find an occasional clearing just right for a picnic and catch a glimpse of the Susquehanna River from parts of the trail. It offers a real taste of Pennsylvania beauty, from the native plants below to the hawks flying high above (punctuated by the sound of the creek flowing in the background). But take note, you won’t find a restroom here and parking is limited so your hike may include some extra mileage depending on where you leave your vehicle!

Or Check Out: Turkey Hill Overlook Trail in Conestoga; Mill Creek Falls in York

Ticket to Ride – Northwest Lancaster County River Trail

This 14-mile trail follows the route of the historic Pennsylvania Mainline Canal, connecting Columbia, Marietta, Bainbridge and Falmouth. Though the condition of the trail varies, we appreciate the easily traveled segment near the trailhead at Columbia River Park. The paved path is free from inclines, so the kids can ride easily (and my husband can haul a few little ones in our bike trailer with relative ease). Additionally, various historical remains dot the trail, from old canal locks to the quarry at Billmeyer. Many of these sites include educational plaques, so you can learn about the past while riding, jogging, or walking in the present. Additionally, Marietta is home to several riverside pubs and restaurants, easily accessible from the trail (we recommend the Railroad House Inn or McCleary’s Public House).

Or Check Out: Conewago Recreation Trail; Enola Low Grade Trail

Check out the View – Pinnacle Scenic Overlook

If you’re looking for a spectacular view of the Susquehanna River, this is the spot. Though captivating in any season, we think it’s the perfect place to visit in the fall when the brilliant autumn foliage is on display. The Pinnacle Overlook sits high above the western side of the river, and it’s just a short walk from the parking lot. Though you won’t get much exercise walking to the overlook, there are ample hiking opportunities nearby, including the Mason-Dixon Trail and Mill Creek Falls.

Or Check Out: Chickies Rock Overlook Trail

For the Wildlife Enthusiast – Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area

If you time it right, you can experience the amazing site of an estimated 100,000 snow geese on the lake at Middle Creek, along with tundra swans and other waterfowl. The birds typically migrate late February to early April in the spring and October to early November in the fall. However, it’s best to check the Pennsylvania Game Commission website for information on annual migrating trends (they post frequent updates with approximate numbers of various species during peak season). The walk to the lake isn’t strenuous, and the visitor’s center is top notch so it’s an enjoyable and informative venture for all ages. Make sure to hit up nearby Fox Meadows Creamery on your way home for some of the best homemade ice cream in the area.

Or Check Out: The Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania in Lititz

Travel Tips

Don’t forget your bug spray, sunscreen and drinking water! Beyond that, we’ve found the following to be helpful:

  1. Bring an extra bag for stashing muddy clothes or removing trash
  2. Pack Food, utensils and a picnic blanket (a necessity, if you have a bunch of kids like us)
  3. Throw in towels and/or a change of clothes (especially if you’re planning to get wet)
  4. Do a quick google search of the closest emergency center and keep your phone charged, just in case
  5. Always do a tick-check after spending time outdoors

We hope you enjoy your outdoor adventures this season. Comment below with your favorite parks, trails, and preserves in Lancaster County. We’d love to find some new favorites!

The Hospitality Potluck

Blogging in this season of my life is decidedly a chore. I need to find a quiet moment (which usually means getting a sitter since we have 5 amazing children at home). We’re not tech people, so the computer is never charged and hopelessly out of date. And then I have to quiet my mind enough to write when, really, there are so many more pressing things to do at home and work. However, though I’ve grown up in a generation that chooses what to eat, wear and do depending on whether or not it “sparks joy,” chores are a necessary part of life. Posting monthly-ish on this site is my meager goal, and for now, one that I’ll keep. And while it would have been easier to take a mental pass and simply post about the best things to do or eat or buy in Lancaster, today I felt the Lord asking me to share from my heart.

Hospitality. A word that, quite honestly, stirs up a sense of inadequacy inside of me. The dictionary defines it as “the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors and strangers.” And while I can set a pretty table, prepare a simple spread of food and provide a tidy space for guests to kick up their feet, I often feel tired by the time it comes to the “entertainment” part. Maybe it’s my season of life, my personality, or just the nature of true hospitality, but it’s not always easy to simultaneously connect with and serve people. I want to have good conversation and then, whoops, the chicken is burning and the 2-year-old just knocked over the water pitcher and the baby is crying and…what were we talking about again? I sigh because this wasn’t how I wanted things to look.

Here’s what I’m learning, though. Hospitality doesn’t have to be a one man show, and it’s always more about the heart and less about appearances. If I stop trying to do it all myself, stop trying to make it “look” a certain way, the joy of hospitality is restored. Enter the good old-fashioned potluck where everyone brings something, and suddenly, there’s time and energy left over for the “entertainment” part. If I add in something store bought, skip the fancy tablescape, and loosen up on my expectations, inviting others in to our home becomes a blessing (though I love fancy tablescapes). I can’t control the spilled water or the crying, but I can enjoy the company. And as my mom says, “food that you didn’t make yourself always tastes better.”

When the Lord called my family into the hospitality industry, I was overwhelmed. Purchasing The Carriage House meant we wouldn’t be providing hospitality to just one couple or family, but many! I looked around and saw tasks and projects at every turn and wondered how we would complete them while learning to run a new business and care for our guests. This all felt like too much. But guess what we’ve learned? The potluck concept applies here, too.

Instead of bringing food, we have a team that brings their gifts together to provide a place for our guests to call “home” in Lancaster County. One has a mind for numbers and finances, another has an eye for design. One brings the large scale vision, another focuses on the details. One quietly weeds and prays over the property, another welcomes guests with enthusiasm and warmth. It’s not a one man show, it’s a group effort, and each contribution is necessary and important. And while we still have plenty of visual improvements to make around the property, our guests are greeted with a genuine “friendly and generous reception” when they walk in the door. Here, too, hospitality is more about the heart and less about appearances.

How have you grown in the area of hospitality? What challenges do you experience as you open your home (or business) to serve others? Have you experienced the beauty of a group effort? What hospitality tips do you have to share below?


Foodie Favorites, Part 2

As a follow-up to my last post, which highlighted places to eat in Strasburg, local cafes, and where to get your fill of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking, here are our top picks for ethnic cuisine and fine dining restaurants in the area. We’ll conclude this series in a few weeks with the pubs and breweries we recommend, plus our go-to spots to satisfy your sweet tooth. While we enjoy a meal out, we certainly haven’t explored all of the options available in Lancaster County, so please comment below with YOUR favorites! Of note, each of the restaurants listed in this post are located in nearby Lancaster City.

Ethnic Cuisine

Sprout

Sprout offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine for a casual lunch or dinner. Fresh and tasty!

Citronnelle

A chic and intimate little French BYOB restaurant located in the heart of Downtown Lancaster City. Their dishes are classically prepared yet modern with global influences from Asia and Africa.

The Himalayan Curry and Grill

Offers deliciously authentic Nepalase and Indian Cuisine. Call ahead…the restaurant is SMALL, but well worth making a reservation!

Luca Italian Kitchen

Luca showcases a wood-burning hearth and handmade Neapolitan oven where pizzas, simple roast meats and seafoods are prepared, along with handmade pastas, antipasto and Italian beverages. Call ahead for a reservation here as it’s become a local hotspot!

Fine Dining

Checkers Bistro

With a blend of French, Asian, and American cuisines, the seasonal menu at Checkers showcases dishes that are both deliciously surprising and elegant. The restaurant is well-known for it’s support of local food purveyors and farmers.

John J. Jeffries

The menu at John J. Jeffries changes throughout the season in harmony with the harvest. You’ll always find some variation of grassfed beef, responsibly sourced seafood and organic veggies. An enjoyable experience for both the steak lover and vegetarian alike!

Ma(i)son

An intimate, farm-driven restaurant where everything is homemade with intention. Think local pork, perfectly prepared vegetables and comforting cassoulets and gnocchi. The menu changes weekly to include the finest, freshest foods our county has to offer.

Let us know your favorite ethnic and fine dining restaurants below!


Foodie Favorites

With five little ones at home, Jeremy and I relish the opportunity to get out for a date night. There’s nothing like catching up over a leisurely meal of well-crafted, local food! We’re self-proclaimed foodies, and we rarely eat at the same place twice. Lancaster County boasts an abundance of delicious options for all tastes, stemming from its rich farming background and cultural diversity. Listed below are a few of our favorite spots to eat in Strasburg, the top restaurants to visit for traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods, and a few local cafes and brunch options we recommend. There’s a lot of good food in our area, so this is by no means a comprehensive list! Stay tuned for our next dining post where we’ll highlight our top choices for ethnic cuisine and fine dining in the area.

Dining in Strasburg

Speckled Hen Coffee Shop & Kitchen
Speckled Hen features craft coffee, espresso, tea and a delicious array of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. They specialize in artisan foods that are fresh and simple. Try: the desserts (the lemon cheesecake is a rich treat!), the fair-trade coffee, and handcrafted lattes with house-made syrups

Strasburg Creamery
With over 140 rotating flavors made in house (and homemade waffle cones!!!), you won’t want to miss this local gem. Check out the adjoined gift and candy shoppe for unique souvenirs. Try: The rotating seasonal icecream flavors

Fireside Tavern
Enjoy cozy, tavern style dining with all the traditional pub favorites. Try: the burgers or crabcakes

  • Also located in Strasburg (most within walking distance of The Carriage House) – Strasburg Winery, Pizza City, Smokestack BBQ, Isaac’s Deli

Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch Cooking

To be honest, homestyle Pennsylvania Dutch cooking is not our thing. However, If you love a hearty family-style dinner topped off with homemade pie, check out nearby Millers Smorgasbord, Dienner’s Country Restaurant, or Good ‘N Plenty Restaurant. Perhaps the most “famous” of these family-style eateries is Shady Maple Smorgasbord. If you’re not from the area and you want to try scrapple, ham loaf, apple butter, or shoo-fly pie (and a host of other traditional Dutch foods), it’s a must-visit! With an all-you-can-eat buffet that’s over 200 feet long, you won’t leave hungry.

Cafes and Brunch Spots

Prince Street Cafe (Lancaster, PA)
Open 7 days a week, 6:30 am to 11 pm, Prince Street Cafe is one of the few cafes in Lancaster County with early morning and late night hours. And you’re in luck—their coffee is wonderful (from Passenger Coffee Roasters, which is located just around the corner) and their handcrafted soups, sandwiches and salads are delicious. Try: a scratch-made latte, nutella sandwich cookie, or cali egg wrap

Square One Cafe (Lancaster, PA)
Square One is an award-winning micro-roaster of specialty coffee based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. You won’t find much to eat here, but if you’re a coffee connoisseur, you’re in for a treat!

Goldie’s Bakery (Lancaster, PA)
Goldie’s serves Square One Coffee alongside their amazing, house-made baked goods and breakfast and lunch items. Buy something to go from their bakery on your way out! Try: The “bird nests” (shredded potato nests served with a variety of savory breakfast toppings).

Tomato Pie Cafe (Lititz, PA)
This urban style eatery in the “best small town in America” offers a fresh menu with both sweet and savory options. The owners take pride in seasonal specials and are committed to “flavor excellence”. A great stop for breakfast, dessert, or a sandwich with flair. Try: the tomato pie—just trust us

Slate Cafe (Lititz, PA)
Started by twin sisters with a passion for coffee and community, Slate is the perfect spot for a simple, healthy breakfast. Try: the seasonal scramble and a pastry

  • Other favorites include Zig’s Bakery & Cafe (Lititz–everything is made from scratch with the finest local ingredients), Cafe One Eight (Lancaster City–try the espresso milkshake!), On Orange (Lancaster City — a breakfast favorite), and the nearby Lampeter Cafe (Lampeter–homemade comfort foods at a great price point).

 

Let us know your favorite restaurant in Strasburg, a PA Dutch treat you can’t do without, or a local cafe you enjoy below!