Written by Maggie Mull
The arrival of spring is accompanied by an increase in temperatures, which sparks the desire to leave the comfort of home for a pleasant venture into the warmth. Enjoyable ways to spend your time can be found at many unique and historical locations across Lancaster County and its surrounding areas.
Brecknock Orchard – 390 Orchard Road, Mohnton
Throughout the spring season, Brecknock Orchard offers a variety of activities to take part in. Attendants have access to a large range of fruit and vegetable plants from which they can pick their own produce.
Available options are dependent on timing, as the harvest window varies from plant to plant. In April, you can expect to find asparagus and rhubarb. May brings an abundance of lettuce, strawberries and tomatoes. The warmer summer months of June and July promote the growth of other widely loved fruits and vegetables, including blueberries, corn and peaches.
Regardless of the season, many of these items are available in the accompanying Brecknock Orchard farm market. Here, you’ll also find a delectable range of slushies, baked goods, jellies, ciders, baking mixes and more!
On Saturdays April 12 and April 19, consider attending the orchard’s Spring Festival. Purchase tickets to enjoy a wagon ride tour through the newly blossomed fruit trees, complete a spring craft, and churn your own honey butter.
Beginning in April, operating hours are 8am to 5pm daily from Monday to Saturday.
Kitchen Kettle Village – 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse
Kitchen Kettle Village’s origins trace back to 1954, when it first began operation as a jelly business. It has since expanded into a complex containing over 40 shops and businesses, bound to entice any customer.
The village is offering many events in the spring, including the reopening ceremony for the Kling House Restaurant and a Spring Fling Shopping Package. Scavenger hunts and Easter-related events have also been planned for the enjoyment of children.
Their annual Rhubarb Festival is set to run from May 16 to May 17. The event celebrates the vegetable as a local harbinger of the spring season with lively entertainment and a variety of rhubarb-flavored food. They also host a rhubarb dessert contest, with top prizes of $250. Consider using freshly picked rhubarb from Brecknock Orchard in a cobbler or upside-down cake, and submit your creation for a chance to win!
Most shops and restaurants are open from 9am to 5pm daily from Monday to Saturday, with a few staying open until 6pm on the weekend.
Lancaster Central Market – 23 North Market Street, Lancaster
The Lancaster Central Market was first formulated by traders gathering at the location in 1730. These efforts led to King George II’s recognition of Lancaster as a market town in 1742. Its extensive history makes it the oldest continuously operating Farmer’s Market in the United States.
Over 65 vendors work alongside one another in the Market House, which was constructed in 1889. Each stand offers unique food and crafted goods. In the market, you’ll find meats, fresh produce, dairy products, baked goods, and an assortment of other ready-to-eat delicacies. You’ll also find home goods and gifts to pass along to family and friends.
Take a trip to the market on June 14 to celebrate strawberries at the annual Strawberry Festival. Here, you can enjoy assorted complimentary activities, face painting, live music, and a variety of strawberry-themed treats!
The market is open from 6am to 3pm on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. There is wheelchair accessible parking and entrances.
Longwood Gardens – 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square
Longwood Gardens offers an immersive natural experience with over 1,100 acres of florals, agriculture, fountains, and other architectural structures. The land itself has a deep connection to the native Lenni Lenape tribe, who cultivated it for thousands of years. Over the course of the past few hundred years, it has been purchased and reinvented into the establishment it is today.
Alongside breathtaking landscapes, Longwood Gardens also offers a variety of engaging events, including musical and theatrical performances, workshops, informational classes, themed displays, and exhibits. Family Nature Walks are held on Saturdays to promote intergenerational connectivity in a peaceful environment.
The Spring Garden celebration begins on March 28, and continues until May 4. During this time, many new gardens will be opened. This includes the Bonsai Courtyard and the recently redesigned Idea Garden.
As the season progresses, the gardens are open for longer periods of time. Purchase a timed reservation ticket for any day of the week except Tuesdays.
Turkey Hill Experience – 301 Linden Street, Columbia
For a more child-oriented activity, consider spending a day at Turkey Hill Experience, which explores the history of the company’s products in a manner that engages all of the senses. The company was originally formed as a side business during the Great Depression, and has since developed into a recognizable brand.
They offer many interactive experiences, ranging from virtual simulations to hands-on involvement. The Taste Lab provides a two-hour session on the process of ice cream creation and walks participants through crafting their own flavor. Unlimited samples of ice cream and Turkey Hill beverages are offered throughout the building.
Hours vary daily and seasonally. Tickets to attend can be purchased both online and at the door.
Lancaster County has an extensive history that continues to prevail in the form of educational and entertaining locations. These are ideal destinations for spending a spring day with family, friends, or both!