Ou rc on te mp or ar yt ak eo nt he cl as si cA me ri ca nS te ak ho us e, an dt he ci ty ’s mo st po pu la r ha pp yh ou rn ig ht ly fr om 4p m to 6p mi no ur lo un ge
La nc as te rC it y’sp re em in en t di ni ng an de nt er ta in me nt la nd ma rk wi th li ve ja zz up st ai rs on Fr id ay sa nd Sa tu rd ay s. 40
On The Cover Spring colors glow on the Garden in the Light mural at 21 Locust St, Lancaster city.
Photo by Vinny Tennis
06
Our favorite spots for breakfast.
22
Get your nerd on at a board game café.
30
Published By
12
Cozy and unique bookstores.
26
Glorious greenhouses for all your spring planting needs.
Spend the dayonthe SusquehannaRiver withour pontoon rentals! Whether youwant to relax or have afun-filled daywithfriendsand family,it’sjustashort trip West of Lancaster.
Lancaster County is many things. Of course, it’s the home of the Amish, a place where you can see horse-drawn buggies rolling through bucolic farmland.
But the county also contains a bustling city, with quirky shops, galleries, nightclubs and nationally renowned restaurants.
Lancaster was once known as the “Munich of America” and has recently seen that brewing heritage revived in the thriving craft beer scene.
And shoppers have plenty to do here, whether they’re interested in outlet malls or antiques dealers.
For families or foodies, art lovers or histor y buffs, shoppers or live music fans, Lancaster County is a great place to visit.
General Manager: Chris Fidler
Editor-in-Chief: Lindsey McCallum
Creative Direction: Erica Feltenberger, Amy Rodriguez
Design & Illustration: Bailey Watro
Production: Maggie Noon, Sally Reynolds
Writers: Krista Lockwood, Maggie Noon, Sally Reynolds
Photographers: Krista Lockwood, Maggie Noon, Sally Reynolds, Vinny Tennis
Spring events across the county AMISH GREENHOUSES SPRING EVENTS For feature stor y ideas, email advertising@lnpnews.com For advertising opportunities, call 717-291-8711
BY SALLYREYNOLDS| ILLUSTRATIONSBYBAILEY WATRO
lik are Amani he l
1398 Columbia Ave, Lancaster |Thebreadpedaler.com
Open 8-2, closed Mondays nu includes hard-to-findbreakfast sandwiches like theCroque ddledegg ,ham,and mornay sauce) andthe MonteCristo( ham, entaldippedinegg ,and griddled ). My favorite is thebreakfast ortillas stuffedwithscrambledegg s, bacon, pico de gallo, queso antrolimesauce, plus Iadd afew shakes of Cholula. Ialsoreally enedict becauseofthe homemade hollandaise sauce.They have lmenuwithbrunch favorites, mimosasand Bloody Marys. There or vegetarians, vegans,and those whoeat gluten free.Thevibeis convivialand neig hborhood-y.
Amanitacafe.com| Open 8-2, sevendaysa week aCafé uses ingredientsfromlocal farmsand bakeries, alongwith nctures that canbeadded to your drinks.Irecentlyenjoyed ahot ad AboutSaffronwhich is frankincensesmoked whitetea with ronthreads, mushroom mood tincture, andaslice of grapefruit. ig orating, refreshing, and delicious. The menu includes ahearty nd an eleg antsmokedsalmontartine, both usinglocal eg gs with lks. The tartinefeaturessourdough breadfromlocal FrontPorch edrink selectionisexpansive with smoothies, coffees,lattesand armacy herbal teablends.You canadd reishi powder,hempCBD rtonics to your drinks.Veg etarians, vegans,and gluten free diners ere. The vibe is hipsterand healthoriented. Currentlylocated at lnut St.inLancasterbut moving this year just twoblocksawayto 223 W. Walnut St., check thelocationbefore you go
264W.MainSt, Leola |Gracieslancaster.com
Open 8–8 Tuesday– Saturday and8-2 Sunday andMonday Gracie’s is huge butconstantlybusysobepreparedtowaitfor atable. The menu is also huge with asection dedicatedsolely to bacon(sweetg arlicchili bacon,pepperbacon,Irish bacon, caramelized bacon… to name afew). A fewofmyfavoriteitems include IrishBacon(similartoCanadian bacon), huevos rancheros, and thespic yhashwithhomemade chorizo.I also love theirhomemadejams. Gracie’s offersg lutenfreebread and they cancook theirhomefries in oilfor vegetariansbut,thatsaid, this is notthe best place forveg ans. The interior is alot of fun, with colorful chalkart on almostevery wall.Thecrowd is also fun; you’ll sometimes spot atable of young Amish men enjoying aheart ybreakfast.Thevibeisfriendlyand casual
to get breakfast e narrowing that em o
bagels,breads, pastries, Achenbach’s donuts(aLancasterdel afullmenuofcoffees, lattes, andteas. Gluten free bread is av thereisahummussandwich forveg ans. The vibe is welcomi
108W.OrangeSt, Lancaster|Onorange.wordpress
Open 8-1onFriday, Saturdayand Sunday
Housed in an historic building, On Orange hasamaindin brig ht windows, andabasementlevel that is funand funky. In thereisacuteback patiofor alfresco dining .Thereisoftenal service is quick, so you won’thavetowaitlong. My favorite breakfasti theSwedish pancakes, which areincrediblymoist and unlike anypancak you’veeverhad.They aremade with oats and served with stewed apples Ialsolikethe chilaquiles(spic y),the Indian omelet (alsospic y),and th homemade granola .They offerveg an sausag e, gluten free bread,and nu milks, so ever yone should be happyeatinghere. The vibe is low-keyand co
Some additional excellentbreakfastoptions:
•Botanical Creperie in NewHolland –For all your crepe desires.
•HudsonBotanical in Smoketown–Amazing Aussie-influenced breakfasts.
•CaféOne Eight in Lancaster–Homey and comforting.
•PrinceStreet Café in Lancaster–The OG across from TheFulton Theatre.
•New Holland CoffeeinLancaster, NewHolland, and Lititz– Excellent coffeewith your breakfast.
•MissCalee’sEats&TreatsinLandisville– Old school eggs, pancakes and waffles. s e e t y
Experience Dispensing Co., wherethe locals eat.Adjacent to the Historic Central Farmers Market....an easy walk from the Marriott Hotel and Convention Center
We have alarge selection of appetizers and we serveonly the freshest soupsand salads.We offer an extensive TexMex menu and delicious overstuffed sandwiches.Try one of our famousburgers! We have somethingfor ever yone...at affordable prices.
Enjoy adrink from our diverse collection of local, nationaland inter national beer with many available on draft!
•Casual Atmosphere
•Kid Friendly
•Non-Smoking
Lancaster County is home to a vibrantcollection of independent bookstores, each offering its ownunique charm and treasures
From nooksfilled with well-loved classics to bright, welcoming spaces showcasing local artists, these shops are more than justplaces to buybooks, they’re communityhubsfor readers andcreatives alike.
Dogstarbooks.com| 401W.Lemon St,Lancaster
Tucked into Lancaster City’s Chestnut Hill neig hborhood,DogStar Books is ahaven forbookloversseeking something unique.Theirselection, sourced from estates, privatecollections,and specializedlibraries,spans literar yfiction, scholarly works, children’sstories,and vintag efinds. With towering shelvesand arolling ladder, thespacefeels like you’ve steppedintoapersonallibrary.Whether you’researching fora rare gem or athoughtful gift, DogStarencourag es you to explore,support alocal business, and shopsustainably.
Facebook.com/MoyersBookBarn| 1419 VillageRd, Strasburg Off awinding country road in Strasburg, Moyer’sBookBarnisa hidden gem. Thistwo -story barnis packedtothe rafters with old books, the shelvesmarkedbyhandwritten labels that guideyou throug hhistory, Lancasterlore, and classic literature.Therusticatmosphere invitesvisitors to lose themselvesamong theshelves,eachcontainingatreasurewaiting to be discovered.While you won’tfind thelatestbestsellers here,it’sthe perfect spot to uncover aforgotten classic or enjoya nostalg ic browsing experience. Open only Fridaysand Saturdays, be sure to bringcashor acheck—justlikethe books, theexperience hereisdelig htfullyoldfashioned.
Aaronsbooks.com| 35 E. Main St,Lititz LocatedonMainStreetinLititz,Aaron’s Booksisacornerstoneofthe localcommunity.Theirmotto,“Family Owned. Fiercely Independent. Communit yMinded.”comes to life in theireng ag ingshopoffering a wonderful variet yofliteratureand afriendlystaffeag er to assist. Creative bookrecommendations, like picksbased on your astrology sign and“Blind Date with aBook”,makebrowsingfun.Beyondbooks,you’llfind tarot cards, boardg ames, and engaging events,includingbookclubs, stor ytimes, and metaphysical gatherings
Nooks.gallery.com |112 N. PrinceSt, Lancaster
Brig ht and inviting ,Nooks sparks curiosit yand imag ination. Orig inally a children’s bookstore, it expanded in May2024 into aspacious, charming oasisoffering beautifullyillustrated children’s books andtoys, as well as fictionand nonfictionfor adults.Thestore featuresthree welcoming rooms, includingacozychildren’s area wherelittlereaders cansettlein and explore.Located on Galler yRow in downtown Lancaster, Nooks also showcases localartwork,addingacreativetouch to ever yvisit. Check theirwebsitefor upcoming events,fromstory times andbookclubs to workshopsand author talks.
717-768-3512 |275 OldLeacockRd, Gordonville
ThisAmish-run bookstoreoffers aretreat forthose seekingfaith-based literature,educational materials, and Amishculture.You’llfind Amish fiction, Bibles,prayerbooks,inspirational works, cookbooks, and children’s stories.Theirshelvesare stockedwithhomeschool materials, puzzles, games, and office and craft supplies.Ifyou’relooking fora meaning fulread or family-friendly activities,Gordonville Booksprovides a quiet,welcoming space fordiscover y.
Readrosebooks.com|23N.PrinceSt, Lancaster
Ever yshelfatRead Rose Booksholds astory waitingtobe rediscovered.Adowntownstaple, this quaint bookstore offers an eclectic mixofused, vintag e, classic,and firsteditionbooks.Whetheryou’researching forRussian literature,poetr y, or historical fiction,there’s abookhere with yourname on it. You’ll also findfairtrade goods, like bags,scarves, blankets,and artworkbylocal creators, making it aspace that celebrates both literature and craftsmanship.Visit theirwebsitefor details abouttheir bookclubs and readingretreats, whereyou canconnect with otherbooklovers. Stop by to pick up anew favorite and settleinatPrince Street Café with ag oodreadand a fresh brewed coffee.
Bookshelfian.com|2 N. MarketSt, Elizabethtown
In thequietborough of Elizabethtown, this indie bookstore is packedwithheart, charm, and greatreads. With theowner devouringover200 booksayear,you cantrust theshelvesare stockedwithhig h-qualit ypicks spanning allg enres, includingmanytrendingtitles.A whimsically decoratedkids’room, completewithcozy ottomans,invites readers to sitand discovertheirnew favorite book. You’ll also findlocally sourcedg ifts, reflectingtheirdeepcommitmenttosupportinglocal businesses.Fromgrippingnovels to meaning fulg ifts, or simply acozyplace to browse,Bookshelf Shenanig ans offerssomething specialfor ever yvisitor
Pocketbooksshop.com
903Wheatland Ave, Lancaster
In acharmingtwo -story home on Lancaster’swestside, you’llfind Pocket Books, an eclectic feminist bookstore bursting with character.Thestore’s cozy atmosphere makesyou feel rightathome, with shelvesbrimmingwith curatedtitles forevery reader, spanning fantasy, romance, memoirs, histor y, socialchang e, and children’s stories. Have funbrowsing theplayful stationery,quirkypuzzles, unique stickers, and brandedmerchandise throug hout the store. More than just abookstore,PocketBooks fosters communit ythrough bookclubs,story times,and thoughtprovokingevents, encouraging deeper exploration of diverse topics.Duringcheckout,besuretoask abouttheir rewardsprogram, then unwind on thewraparoundporch anddiveintoyournextliterar yadventure
Experience expertly curated, extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar on tap for you to taste and savor.
We invite you to join us as we explore, discover, and find inspiration for your next recipes or gift ideas.
13 Henrietta Heisler Interiors Inc. 217W WALNUT ST., 2NDFLOOR, LANCASTER 717-295-0324
PRINCE ST.BETWEEN ORANGE AND CHESTNUTST., LANCASTER
15 Himalayan Curry &Grill
22 E. ORANGE ST., LANCASTER 717-393-2330
16 HistoricLancaster WalkingTour 38 PENN SQUARE, LANCASTER 717-392-1776
17 J.A. Sharp
322N.QUEEN ST., LANCASTER 717-295-9661
18 John Wright Restaurant
234 NFRONT ST., WRIGHTSVILLE 717-252-0416
19 Josephine’s Downtown
50 W. GRANT ST., LANCASTER 717-299-7090
20 Kindred Collections
452LOCUSTST., COLUMBIA 717-449-5476
21 Lancaster DispensingCo. 33 N. MARKETST., LANCASTER 717-299-4602
22 Long LevelMarina 1809 LONG LEVEL RD., WRIGHTSVILLE 717-252-1589
23 LostTreasureGolf
2521 LINCOLN HWYE., RONKS 717-391-8234
24 McCleary’sPub
130WFRONT ST., MARIETTA 717-426-2225
25 Miller’sSmorgasbord
2811LINCOLNHIGHWAY E., RONKS 800-669-3568
26 National ToyTrain Museum
300 PARADISE LN., RONKS 717-687-8976
27 Oregon Dairy Farmstead 1289 CREEK RD., LITITZ 717-742-7727
28 Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen
335N.QUEEN ST., LANCASTER 717-431-8706
29 TheBarn at Paradise Station 312PARADISE LN., RONKS 717-687-5000
30 PerDiem
50 ROCKLITITZBLVD., LITITZ 717-500-3436
31 Puff‘NStuff 121E.CHESTNUT ST., LANCASTER 717-393-9772
32 TheRailroad HouseInn 280 WFRONT ST MARIETTA 717-426-4141
33 Scoops IceCream &Grille 312PRIMROSELN., MOUNTVILLE 717-285-2055
34 SeasonsOlive Oil & Vinegar Taproom Lancaster
36 W. KING ST., LANCASTER 717-396-1380
35 TheSpice &Tea Exchange 20 W. ORANGE ST., LANCASTER 717-394-4328
36 TFB Catering
50 ROCK LITITZBLVD., LITITZ 717-333-8623
37 Wolf Sanctuary of PA
465 SPEEDWELL FORGE RD., LITITZ 717-626-4617
38 Yorgos 66 N. QUEEN ST., LANCASTER 717-394-6977
39 Zanzibar 21 W. KINGST., LANCASTER 717-390-2868
For24years,HenriettaHeisler InteriorsInc has created timeless designs, both functional and uniquely individual. Henriettaleads herteam of professional,award-winning designerswho take thetime to understand your goals and tailor theirapproach to fit your needs. Their extensiveportfolio of both residential and commercialprojects highlights adiverse range of experience and style.Theyare experts in reimagining and remodeling homes, especially the extensively used kitchen and bath. Whatever your style, We arecommitted to transformingspaces for abetterlife.
Lancaster boasts four dedicatedboard game spotstoplaywith large or small groups. Games, merchandise,toys, crafts,and comicsare alsoavailablefor purchase.Boardgames area blast foranafternoon or evening of in-person fun thatisalcohol and smokefree. Theworld needs more places likethese!
250 Manor Ave, Millersville Owlcentralgames.com
Open 2-10 Tuesday –Friday, 10-6 Saturday andSunday, 12-6 Monday
Near Millersville University,Owl Centralisalittledifferentthanthe rest ;itdoesnot have acafé, nordoesitofferrentalg ames (although this is ag oalfor thefuture). Instead, OwlCentral offersnearconstantevents, tournaments, leagueplay, andopenplay sessions.Gameplayoccurs in twospaciousbackrooms andincludes Magic: The Gathering ,Pokémon Leag ue, Yu-Gi- Oh!, Disney Lorcana, Star Wars,miniature warg aming, AzuriteSea ,and many more.Thefront of OwlCentral is theirretailstore,selling cards and games to satisf yeventhe most nicheofg amers.
44 N. Christian St,Lancaster Farboco.com/pages/the-midnight-oil
Open 5-12 Thurs and Fri, 12-12Saturday, and12-8 Sunday
Thisisa welcomingspotwitha home-grown andpleasinglycluttered aesthetic featuring party lights,a comf ysofa, andtablesthatare speciallydesignedfor boardg ame play(raisededg es so that nothingfalls off ). The crowdisdiverse with allagesrepresented,fromtattooed20-somethings to retirees.After selectingyourg ame, you canorder atasty coffee, teaor soda ,and nosh on a selectionofpackagedJapanesesnacks. Youare also welcome to BYOfood. The Midnig ht Oil encourag es funthroughoutthe year with specialeventslike aNew Year ’s Eveparty,beg inners Dung eons andDragons,movie nights,and craftingsessions
The table rental feeis$10 forthe day, with unlimitedaccesstotheirhug eg ame andaccessory librar y. The Midnig ht Oilissober andLGBTQ friendly.Itis ownedbythe same folks whorun FARB OCo(nerdyg amingsupplies) and LancasterTroll Market (nerdyfantasy supplies)
5360 LincolnHwy East,Gap Sixfeetundergames.com
Open 11-9Tuesday –Saturday, 12-5Sunday
Thisisa huge space (7,100 square feet) with tons of games andg amingspace for90people. Theyhavea rental game librar yinthe back,and you canplayfor free foraslong as you want.Six Feet Underspecializes in old and outof printg ames,and hosts many events like PokémonLeague Play,Commander Casual Play,KeyForg eOpenPlay, and more.Thespace is open andbright. SixFeetUnder sells ahug earray of boardg ames,cardg ames, miniatures, accessories, toys, andart supplies.Thereisnocafé, but thereare some snacksavailable forpurchase.
102W.King St,Lancaster |Mayhemscafe.com
Open9-9 Monday–Thursday, 9-10 Friday, 10-10Saturday, and 10-7Sunday
The newest boardg ame café in thearea, Mayhem’s is in an airy space downtown,justa short walk to otherattractions andrestaurants. Mayhem’soffers asolid collection of comicbooks,manga ,and graphic novels forsale, alongwitha wide range of gamestoplay. The price for aday of unlimitedplayis$5. Mayhem’s sells tea, coffee, soda ,and hasa refrig erated case forpastries. Events offered throug hout theyearinclude bing o, easy-to-play-game-days, andchess tournaments. Allagesare welcome, and there’sevenalittlenookwithsometoysand distractions for youngerkids
Ask a Local
I didn’t always have a green thumb, but ever since I went all in on being a plant parent in 2020, I have loved visiting our local greenhouses. Most of the greenhouses in the area carry similar varieties of plants, after all most of Lancaster County is in Plant Zone 7a, but each greenhouse has a different vibe and features that set them apart. Here are some of the local greenhouses that I personally enjoy visiting.
546A E 28th Division Hwy, Lititz | Monday – Saturday from 9 am - 5 pm | Esbenshades.com
Additional locations in Mohnton & Fleetwood
This large nurser y is the perfect destination for gardeners and plant parents alike. They offer ever ything from seasonal home décor and outdoor furniture, to houseplants, shrubs, trees and seeds. They have ever ything you could possibly need – soils, fertilizers, planters, pop-up greenhouses, watering cans, you name it. This is your one stop shop for all things gardening. The staff is also very friendly and knowledgeable, they can help you find the correct soil for your succulents or choose the perfect bush for the side of your house that doesn’t get sun.
434 Newport Rd, Ronks | Monday – Saturday from 7:30 am - 5 pm Sunnyspotnursery.com
This Amish owned nurser y is a true hidden gem in Lancaster County. They are very helpful and friendly, welcoming you when you enter and thanking you when you leave. In addition to their variety of houseplants, succulents, annuals and perennials, they stock hanging baskets, pots, birding supplies, fertilizers, and other plant accessories. Some of my favorite things about Sunny Spot are their bargain table for discounted plants and a place outside where you can feed their goats. Visit their website to see a list of their upcoming events.
2467 Old Philadelphia Pike, Lancaster | Monday – Saturday from 9 am - 5 pm | Kensgardens.com
Additional locations in Intercourse and Downtown Lancaster (Gallery Grow)
This cozy nurser y is perfect for the aesthetically inclined, with some gorgeous photo-worthy moments. In addition to typical houseplants and garden varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, Ken’s has vegetable plants, seeds, birding supplies, and home decor Their self-ser vice potting bar is the perfect feature for someone visiting from out of town. Grab your plant and pot, then get to work potting your plant right there – no need to wait until you’re home. Ken’s also offers workshops which can be registered for online.
Pick up acopyofLNP|LancasterOnline on Wednesday, April 16 forour spring issue of Balance Magazine. Thesummer issuewill be available WednesdayJune 18! ummer issue will Wednesday, Jun In this edition: Kitchentrends, juice cleanses,furniturerestoration andmore!
April 11-May23
Lititz Art Association
SquareFoot Show
Lititz Shirt Factory
The membersofthe LAAwillbepresentingtheir orig inal fineart forsale, allmeasuring asquarefoot. Lititzartassociation.com
April 12,13, 18 &19
Breakfastwiththe Easter Bunny/BunnyVillage andEgg Hunts Country Barn
Enjoya bountifulbuffet breakfast, getphotos takenwiththe Easter Bunny, andparticipate in funfilledactivities includingcoloring contests,egg hunts, andexclusive accesstoBunny Villag e. Countrybarnmarket.com/collections/events
April12
SpringThawBeer Fest
Kissel Valley Farm
Starting at 2:00 PM enjoylocal brews, tast yfood, live music, yard gamesand radvibes.Comedressed to impressin your favorite 80’sinspiredoutfit while listeningtocover song sfromthe decade. $45 forGeneral Admission. $10 fordesignateddriver.
April13
English Country Dance
Historic Rock Ford
Acenturies-old dance form stillpopular worldwide, no experience necessar y. 3:00-6:00PM, ag es 12 and Up -$5, ag es 12 and underfree. Historicrockford.org/special-events/ social-dance
April23-27
Spring Antiques Extravaganza Dozens of antiqueshops,includingoutdoor markets, thousandsofdealers Antiquescapital.com
April24-27
Launch MusicConference
Lancaster County Convention Center Panels, seminars,parties,eventsand performances$30-$75
Launchmusicconference.com
May24
Bird-in-Hand FireCompany Chicken BBQFundraiser
10:30AM-6:00PM(or untilsold out) –Take-out only.HalfBBQ chicken w/ Meadowcreekseasoning , applesauce,chips, pickles, roll/butter, drink& homemade whoopie pie, $13.
May31
Lancaster’sBestFood Truck Competition 521Greenfield Rd 11:00AM–4:00PM- 40+ food truckscompete for Lancaster’sBest. There will be aMaker ’s Mart,beerg arden, inflatables forthe kids, aliveDJ, food voting and much more.
May3-4
Spring Artwalk
Lancaster City Galleries, studios, andopen-air exhibitscomealive with creativity. Lancastercityart.com/index.php/ art-walk
May9
Sheep shearing demonstration
AmishFarmand House
Sheep will be shorn aboutevery 30 minutesbetween 10:00-3:00pm on Fridayand Saturday.Therewill be lots of fun, farm activities.$14 (adults),$11 (children ag es 5-11), free fortoddlers. Amishfarmandhouse.com/blog/ sheep-shearing
May9-10
Herb &Garden Faire
LandisValleyFarm
Village &FarmMuseum
Browse awide selection of heirloom plants, perennials,and gardening tools, attend expert-led workshops, andenjoy demonstrations on historic gardeningtechniques. Landisvalleymuseum.org
May27
Memorial DayWeekend Celebration TangerOutlets
Enjoylocal food trucks, live music, FREE face painting ,g ames, meet and greetwithour superherofriends, free balloontwists, andmore. Tanger.com/lancaster
May27
Wine by theVine Summer Music Series GrandviewVineyard
Hang outonthe deck and enjoylivemusic,wine, beer,and cocktailsatGrandviewVineyard. Grandviewwines.com
May27-28
FlavorFest
MountHope Estate
Enjoysamplingwithover25wineries anddistilleries, alongwithsales of theirproducts. Mounthope.estate
En jo yo ne of Lanc ast er city ’s most un ique fine dining ex perienc es im me rs ed in old wo rld ch arm an dH oll yw ood gl am our
5
En jo yE ur o pean inspir ed casua lf are in our tren dy and lively,o pen -air,b ist ro with lu nch Tu esday thr o ug h Sa tur da yf ro m1 1:3 0a mt o3 pm clvla nc ast er.c om joseph in esdo wn to wn. co m