722 E. Market St. Marietta, PA 17547Phone: (717)426-8415
News from Lancaster County
We hope you will enjoy reading about the great things to see and do here in Lancaster County. Please check event websites for updated dates and times before you travel to Lancaster. We look forward to hosting your stay at the B.F. Hiestand House.
Full steam ahead to the Strasburg Rail Road and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania! Whether you’re a train enthusiast, history buff, or looking to learn a little more about the railroads that connected our nation, these two attractions are...
Post date: 11/21/2024 - 11:15
Fall is the perfect time to explore Lancaster County’s covered bridges. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, these charming wooden structures blend into the autumn landscape, offering breathtaking views around every...
Post date: 10/31/2024 - 10:12
Come take a look around Amish Country and tell us what you see. Rolling hills, lush farmland, century-old farmhouses, one-room schoolhouses, covered bridges and roadside farm stands — all visible reminders of a simpler way of life. Nothing is...
Post date: 10/16/2024 - 15:04
Fall is the perfect time of year to paddle the Susquehanna River Water Trail, which weaves through New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland for over 400 miles. As the leaves change to vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, the river transforms into a...
Post date: 10/01/2024 - 10:49
Picture this: You step under a giant tent, the air filled with the smell of sizzling bratwurst and fresh-baked pretzels. Lively German folk music plays as people in lederhosen and dirndls dance and sing. Laughter mixes with the clinking of steins as...
Post date: 09/13/2024 - 14:08
If you're looking for a slice of Lancaster County's scenic splendor with a side of history, Chickies Rock County Park is where you want to be. Located between Marietta and Columbia—and less than two miles from B.F. Hiestand House Bed...
Post date: 09/04/2024 - 10:44
Elizabethtown, or Etown as the locals like to call it, is a charming small town in western Lancaster County brimming with things to see and do. A short 15-minute drive north of B.F. Hiestand House, Elizabethtown makes a great day-trip destination...
Post date: 08/12/2024 - 17:02
Here in Lancaster County, the sight of Amish horse and buggies is almost ubiquitous. You can even take a ride in one and experience a piece of this charming culture. But what if you want to take the reins yourself and embark on a horseback trail...
Post date: 07/26/2024 - 09:32
If you're visiting Lancaster County and staying at our charming B.F. Hiestand House this summer, you won't want to miss the unique Christmas in July events happening throughout the area. These festive celebrations are perfect for getting a...
Post date: 07/02/2024 - 15:40
With summer's longer days, warmer temperatures and more sunshine, it's the perfect season to hit the links. Golf is a great way to enjoy time together, take in some fresh air and get a little exercise. If playing a round or two is on your...
Post date: 06/24/2024 - 10:48
Lancaster County is home to the oldest and largest Amish settlement in the United States. The quiet, simple lifestyle of the Amish people is fascinating to visitors who come from all over the world wanting to learn about Amish culture, traditions...
Post date: 06/10/2024 - 17:28
Each year, on the third Saturday in June, the charming town of Columbia, Pennsylvania, transforms into a vibrant hub of nostalgia and excitement. The Thunder on the River Car Show invites car enthusiasts to take a walk down memory lane, surrounded...
Post date: 06/05/2024 - 16:32
South-central Pennsylvania is dotted with so many fascinating cities and towns that we encourage our guests at B.F. Hiestand House to explore beyond our charming Marietta when they stay with us. Drive just 20 minutes southwest of our historic inn...
Post date: 05/13/2024 - 07:17
Not many businesses can say they've been around for more than 130 years. But Hinkle's Restaurant in Columbia has withstood the test of time. With a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, this beloved establishment has been serving up...
Post date: 04/29/2024 - 08:57
Mention cherry blossoms and visions of Washington, D.C., at springtime immediately come to mind. However, you don’t need to travel to the nation’s capital to see stunning clouds of pink blossoms. Front Street in Marietta, along the banks...
Post date: 03/27/2024 - 09:52
In the early days of spring when the air is crisp and the cherry blossoms are beginning to bloom, the streets and parks of Marietta, Pennsylvania, are transformed into an open-air art studio during River Towns Plein Air. Sponsored by Marietta Art...
Post date: 03/11/2024 - 07:56
You don't have to travel to New York City to see Broadway-caliber shows — just plan a getaway to Lancaster County. The Fulton Theatre is Central Pennsylvania's premier regional theater that first opened its doors in 1852. (It is...
Post date: 02/26/2024 - 10:53
Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is a unique blend of German and American cooking styles that have been passed down through generations in Lancaster County. Hearty and flavorful, popular dishes like chicken corn soup, schnitz un knepp, shoofly pie and...
Post date: 02/05/2024 - 11:53
Every year, visitors from all over flock to the charming Lancaster County town of Lititz for its annual Fire & Ice Festival. Held on Main and Broad streets and in Lititz Springs Park, this 10-day winter wonderland celebration is one of the most...
Post date: 01/30/2024 - 13:37
Whether you like to swoosh down double black diamonds or prefer a leisurely glide down the bunny hills, you'll find the perfect terrain for your skill level at Roundtop Mountain Resort. This premier Central Pennsylvania ski and snowboard...
Post date: 01/09/2024 - 19:14
Pigs and goats and sheep, oh my! Every January, the Pennsylvania Farm Show transforms the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg into a vibrant hub of agricultural excellence. In its 108 years, the Farm Show has grown to become...
Post date: 01/02/2024 - 12:33
Central Pennsylvania embraces the holiday season with open arms, offering both walk-thru and drive-thru Christmas light experiences that enchant and delight. These festive displays not only brighten up the winter nights but also serve as a testament...
Post date: 12/07/2023 - 10:19
The historic riverside town of Marietta in western Lancaster County comes alive each year with the warm glow of flickering candles, welcoming visitors to embark on a journey through time during the Marietta Candlelight Tour of Homes. This enchanting...
Post date: 11/22/2023 - 12:50
Pennsylvania has a rich and storied history deeply intertwined with the iron industry. From the early 18th century to the late 19th century, the Keystone State played a pivotal role in the development of the American iron and steel industry. This...
Post date: 11/08/2023 - 12:58
The holiday season is just around the corner, and in Lancaster County, it's not just the twinkling lights and cozy festivities that make the end of each year a magical time to visit. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the region...
Post date: 10/28/2023 - 12:30
How brave are you? Do you love a good scare or are you frightened of demons, ghouls and ghosts that go bump in the night? You can test your courage this Halloween when you head to Haunted Marietta for an evening of spine-tingling fun at the Union...
Post date: 10/08/2023 - 10:31
Several times throughout the year, downtown Marietta, Pennsylvania, comes alive with street fairs and seasonal events that celebrate our historic rivertown's spirit of community. From the springtime Cherry Blossom Festival and Marietta Day to...
Post date: 10/02/2023 - 16:05
Pennsylvania's State Capitol just might be one of the most beautiful in the nation. It's a priceless architectural and artistic treasure that serves as a symbol of democracy and freedom. Situated on the Susquehanna River, the capital city of...
Post date: 09/07/2023 - 09:54
It's a festival with a funny-sounding name but an important connection to Marietta's industrial past — the Pig Iron Festival. The annual fall event stands as a testament to the once thriving anthracite iron industry that shaped this...
Post date: 08/28/2023 - 09:09
Historic communities along the Susquehanna River give visitors a unique glimpse of an earlier era in more ways than one. Not only have these idyllic towns preserved their original heritage and charm, they are also home to vibrant antiques shops and...
Post date: 08/07/2023 - 09:27
There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of a creamy, cold scoop of ice cream on a warm day — it's one of summertime's best indulgences! Here in Lancaster County, we produce more farm-fresh milk than anywhere else in...
Post date: 07/31/2023 - 07:48
Situated along the hilly banks of the Conoy Creek in western Lancaster County, Nissley Vineyards has produced distinctive wines since 1977. Today, this family-run winery encompasses 30 acres of fertile vineyards, where 14 varieties of grapes are...
Post date: 07/03/2023 - 17:04
If you have a sweet tooth for adventure, then spending a day or two at Hersheypark should be at the top of your summer bucket list. Located in Hershey, just 30 minutes north of B.F. Hiestand House, this world-renowned amusement park offers a...
Post date: 06/26/2023 - 12:41
Let's start with a bit of local Civil War history...
In June 1863, Confederate forces were advancing through southern Pennsylvania, en route to take the state capital of Harrisburg. To do that, they would need to cross the Susquehanna River via...
Post date: 06/05/2023 - 09:07
Every year for about the last 12 years, homes, farms, churches and businesses throughout Marietta have opened their garden gates to guests for the annual Marietta Garden Tour. It's an opportunity to peek at some of our historic river town's...
Post date: 05/22/2023 - 17:42
Nothing celebrates the spirit of our historic Susquehanna River town quite like Marietta Day. First held in 1979 by the Marietta Restoration Associates to promote community awareness and spirit, Marietta Day has been going strong for four decades....
Post date: 05/04/2023 - 10:50
A visit to Maytown, Pennsylvania, will take you back in time to a quieter existence. Settled by German and Scots-Irish immigrants in 1760, this quaint community maintains so much of its historical character even today, some 263 years later. From its...
Post date: 04/25/2023 - 16:12
Since 1869, the Columbia Market House has played an important role for this Susquehanna riverfront community. It was built as a bustling marketplace where farmers could sell their produce and goods and continued to connect farmers and consumers for...
Post date: 04/04/2023 - 15:22
Here in Pennsylvania we know a little something about beer. German immigrants who settled here brought with them a love of good beer, and Pennsylvania already had six breweries pre-Prohibition, more than any other state. Today, that legacy is...
Post date: 03/29/2023 - 07:35
Religious freedom is one of America's founding tenets, and the earliest settlers came to this new country to escape persecution for their faith. The Ephrata Cloister is one example of a thriving religious community born out of distrust for...
Post date: 03/06/2023 - 16:52
When you plan your next getaway trip to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, make time for a special night out with dinner and a show in downtown Marietta. Whether you’re into classic plays or contemporary musicals, Susquehanna Stage has it all...
Post date: 02/24/2023 - 17:47
The fascinating culture of the Old Order Amish community is a major draw for tourists who choose Lancaster County as a vacation destination. One way to catch a glimpse of authentic Amish living is by attending a mud sale. What is a mud sale, you ask...
Post date: 02/01/2023 - 17:26
Dinner and a show doesn’t have to mean pizza and Netflix – especially not when you're enjoying a fabulous getaway in Lancaster County. When you plan your next stay with us at B.F. Hiestand House, be sure to grab...
Post date: 01/23/2023 - 10:02
Lancaster County is home to some amazing small businesses, and we love sharing with our guests all that our neighbors have to offer. Here in Marietta, our quaint restaurants, shops and service providers are really the heart of what draws visitors to...
Post date: 01/05/2023 - 14:27
There's something nostalgic and even a little magical about open-air ice skating – lacing up a pair of skates and gliding around on the glassy surface while you're bundled up for the crisp winter weather. It's exhilarating! When...
Post date: 12/27/2022 - 09:19
Where can you go to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your Christmas list – all in one place? At the Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse, Pennsylvania! This shopping village of more than 40 specialty stores is one of Lancaster County...
Post date: 12/05/2022 - 10:34
One of Lancaster's most joyous of holiday traditions is back for another year – the American Music Theatre's acclaimed Christmas show. Get your tickets today for a nostalgic musical celebration of the joys of spending the holidays with...
Post date: 12/01/2022 - 09:04
Mount Hope Estate in Manheim is beautiful to visit any time of year, with its stately mansion, formal gardens, Victorian wine shop and expansive grounds. But during the holiday season, this palatial estate that once belonged to an iron baron and his...
Post date: 11/07/2022 - 10:10
There’s no better way to lose yourself in the wonder of fall than to meander through tall stalks of corn that have been carefully constructed into a challenging maze. Corn mazes are a growing attraction for the agritourism industry. After...
Post date: 10/27/2022 - 15:25
All along the mighty Susquehanna River are dozens of historic small towns that have withstood the test of time. In their earliest days, these charming river towns grew and prospered thanks to industries such as timber and iron smelting and the river...
Post date: 10/04/2022 - 12:41
Halloween isn't just a day, it's a season! If you're a thrill-seeker getting ready for a month-long celebration of all things scary, Lancaster County has what you're looking for. When you stay with us at B.F. Hiestand House, you'...
Post date: 09/26/2022 - 16:01
Rolling hills, flowing rivers and streams, lush farmland, dense forests, wildflower meadows. Take a look around Pennsylvania Dutch Country and you'll experience all the beauty nature has to offer – at least above ground. Deep beneath the...
Post date: 09/06/2022 - 07:30
Pennsylvania is home to nearly 300 wineries, both large and small, that produce a combined 2 million gallons of wine annually. That's a lot of vino! In fact, it makes the Keystone State fifth in the nation in wine production. When you stay with...
Post date: 08/26/2022 - 08:22
One of the best ways to discover the beautiful rolling landscapes of Amish Country is from high above, as you float through the clouds. This September, you can get a bird's-eye view of the picturesque countryside during the Lancaster Hot Balloon...
Post date: 08/05/2022 - 10:06
You won't find another community in Pennsylvania quite like Mount Gretna: It is as charming as it is unique. From B.F. Hiestand House, Mount Gretna is a 30-minute drive north into neighboring Lebanon County. There, nestled in the woods by...
Post date: 07/22/2022 - 09:11
During your next visit to Lancaster County, see the Amish countryside in a whole new way: on a scooter! We can't think of a more adventurous way to take in the fresh air and experience the beautiful rural landscape. Strasburg Scooter Tours...
Post date: 07/05/2022 - 11:01
The Susquehanna National Heritage Area is committed to supporting the collective river areas of York and Lancaster counties as a national destination for outdoor fun and cultural discovery. One way they're helping residents and visitors alike...
Post date: 06/30/2022 - 14:05
When selecting furniture for your home, you not only want it to look beautiful, but you also want it to withstand years of use. This is just one of the reasons people are drawn to Amish-made furniture. Built from solid hardwood, the craftsmanship...
Post date: 06/01/2022 - 16:06
You don't have to travel to New York City to see outstanding Broadway-style performances with high-caliber actors, music, sets and costumes. The Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster has wowed audiences for 36 years with great entertainment at...
Post date: 05/31/2022 - 14:08
Charcuterie is one of the hottest trends in food right now. If you're not familiar, charcuterie is cured meats often accompanied by cheese, dried fruits, nuts, spreads and other accoutrements, artistically displayed on wooden boards. A...
Post date: 05/02/2022 - 07:54
As the longest river on the East Coast of the United States, the Susquehanna River is an important resource for economic growth, transportation, cultural discovery and outdoor adventure. Here in Lancaster County, you can discover our scenic...
Post date: 04/19/2022 - 08:01
The peace and tranquility of a well-maintained garden or arboretum can be renewing for your spirit. This spring, as the earth begins to awaken, check out Pennsylvania's Best Buds: A Garden Trail, highlighting the state's finest flora.
Best...
Post date: 03/30/2022 - 13:41
People from all over world flock to Gettysburg to learn about the American Civil War. It's where the Battle of Gettysburg took place and where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous address. But it's not the only place here in south-...
Post date: 03/25/2022 - 12:51
The Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster has been bringing the Bible to life on stage for 40 years. From humble beginnings as a simple slide show of scenic landscape photographs, Sight & Sound has grown into a majestic theatre with a team...
Post date: 02/28/2022 - 09:33
If the Winter Olympics got you thinking about hitting the slopes, but you're lacking the skill and coordination needed for skiing or snowboarding, you might want to give snow tubing a try. Snow tubing is a lot like sledding, but without the long...
Post date: 02/24/2022 - 09:39
If the way to your special someone's heart is through their stomach, then planning a romantic dining experience is surely at the top of your Valentine's to-do list. Here at BF Hiestand House, we're surrounded by delicious dining...
Post date: 01/31/2022 - 18:43
If you're an avid hiker, you know there's never an off-season for your sport. A winter hike in the cold air gets your heart pumping, and the exercise helps you beat the winter blues. Plus, the peaceful, snowy surroundings of hiking trails in...
Post date: 01/25/2022 - 09:53
The rich history of Lancaster County, dating to the earliest Colonial times, is on display at many area museums. No matter your age or interests, there is something (and someplace) everyone can enjoy. Following are just a few of the area's...
Post date: 12/17/2021 - 16:40
No matter how low the temperature dips in December, guests at the B.F. Hiestand House can enjoy the warmth of some two million LED lights this holiday season from the comfort of their car at Hershey Sweet Lights. Located just down the road from...
Post date: 12/06/2021 - 12:42
Whether you’re a fan of the classic 1947 movie version of Miracle on 34th Street starring Edmund Gwenn, Maureen O’Hara and a young Natalie Wood, or prefer the 1994 remake, this classic holiday tale of a young girl’s belief...
Post date: 11/05/2021 - 09:58
You don’t have to be a railroad enthusiast to enjoy the many attractions and adventures at the Strasburg Rail Road. Just a short 30-minute drive from the B.F. Hiestand House, the Strasburg Rail Road is a heritage railroad offering excursion...
Post date: 10/22/2021 - 09:19
Lancaster County’s Germanic roots date back some 300 years when a small group of immigrants from southwest Germany seeking religious freedom settled in the area. A century and a half later, in the 1870s, when a wave of young German brewers...
Post date: 10/11/2021 - 13:28
Grab your Halloween costume and get ready for the run of your life! The Haunted Half Marathon and 5K in Marietta takes place bright and early on Halloween morning, Oct. 31. Both races start and finish at Marietta's River Front Park, and run...
Post date: 09/13/2021 - 13:08
Did you know the Susquehanna River is the longest river on the East Coast? It's northern branch stretches from Otsego Lake in New York, meets up with the western branch in Northumberland, then empties into the Chesapeake Bay beyond Baltimore. At...
Post date: 08/17/2021 - 08:44
Knights and jesters and minstrels... oh my! Come experience medieval merriment at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. Located on the beautiful grounds of the Mount Hope Estate in Manheim, the annual festival begins in late August and runs for...
Post date: 08/07/2021 - 13:53
Baseball is back, baby! Bring on the peanuts and Cracker Jacks! When you stay with us at BF Hiestand House, professional baseball is right in your backyard. The Minor League's Harrisburg Senators and the Atlantic League's York Revolution and...
Post date: 07/26/2021 - 09:47
Picture this: A Sunday evening filled with sensational music, a beautiful outdoor venue and your favorite person by your side. What could be better? When you stay at BF Hiestand House this summer, you’ll be able to experience this every Sunday...
Post date: 07/12/2021 - 12:57
Founded in 1765, the York State Fair is a 10-day, fun-filled event that continues to delight, educate and amaze visitors of all ages year after year. Feast on mouth-watering fair food as you explore livestock exhibits, live entertainment, carnival...
Post date: 06/28/2021 - 13:49
This summer, celebrate outdoors with music in the vineyard, delicious wine, and food. Nissley Vineyards will host 18 live concerts throughout July and August from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Grab your lawn chairs, blanket, and wine glasses and plan your...
Post date: 06/18/2021 - 08:34
This open-faced apple-pie recipe came from my childhood friend, Ken’s, Mom. Esther Long and my Mom, Lois, were incredibly involved in our school activities and PTA and often exchanged recipes. This has been a family favorite for over 50 years...
Post date: 04/24/2020 - 13:31
Hello dear friends,
It’s been a while since we have posted a blog. We hope you are all doing well and keeping clear of the COVID-19 virus. These are unprecedented times we are living in. While we can stay open, as an essential business,...
Post date: 04/23/2020 - 14:54
While you’re in town, visit a true American treasure and one of the country’s most iconic examples of Gothic Revival craftsmanship and architecture at Stone Gables Estate. Experience the fully restored 1877 Star Barn including its...
Post date: 01/10/2020 - 11:45
One of the area’s best events of the entire year makes for the perfect weekend out in Lititz. Back for its 14th year in a row, the Fire & Ice festival transforms the quaint streets of Lititz into a winter wonderland. View impressive ice...
Post date: 01/10/2020 - 11:32
During your trip to Lancaster County, get some of that holiday list crossed off by shopping local in the many specialty shops, markets, and family-owned businesses found throughout every part of the area. These thoughtful (and 100% Lancaster) gift...
Post date: 11/08/2019 - 13:58
More than a dozen breweries and distilleries make up the Susquehanna Ale Trail in York County. Part of Good Libations Trails, alongside the Mason Dixon Wine Trail and Keystone Craft Spirits Trail, the taste buds of any food enthusiast are guaranteed...
Post date: 11/08/2019 - 13:54
While you can enjoy its steep slopes and scenic views all year long, Roundtop Mountain Resort in Lewisberry officially opens its trails for the winter sport season on November 2nd. With 20 trails, nine lifts, a snow tubing park, and one of the...
Post date: 10/22/2019 - 17:24
Kick off your holiday shopping season with the Landis Valley Village Farm and Museum’s Holiday Open House. The event falls on Small Business Saturday on November 30th which is a national movement supporting local artisans and businesses....
Post date: 10/22/2019 - 17:22
Get to know the dark side of Lancaster County this fall on a guided tour with Strasburg Scooters. Stay close to your special someone as this spine-tingling, bone-chilling tour takes you to some of the region’s scariest and best-loved haunting...
Post date: 09/13/2019 - 10:03
Lancaster County is a big place to explore with wide open pastures and hills rolling off into the horizon. Dotting the scenic landscape and crossing the streams that snake through it are dozens of historic covered bridges. This fall, visit Lancaster...
Post date: 09/13/2019 - 10:01
Annually held on the famous Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge between the respective boroughs on opposite banks of the Susquehanna River, the Bridge Bust is one of the area’s most unique art festivals. The single-day event shuts down the entirety...
Post date: 08/17/2019 - 09:53
Visit the Sweetest Place on Earth while the weather is still warm to experience of the country’s most exciting theme parks. In Hershey, the very air smells of chocolate and the towers from the theme park’s fourteen roller coasters fill...
Post date: 08/17/2019 - 09:50
Experience the scenic landscape of Lancaster County on horseback with Nookside Stables. The horseback riding adventure and obstacle course takes you through 47 acres of Amish country with an experienced guide. Take a vintage tractor ride to your...
Post date: 07/18/2019 - 20:26
It may be hard to believe, but the Susquehanna River, in full view of our bed and breakfast, is one of the oldest rivers on the planet. Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, the Susquehanna was around when the dinosaurs walked the Earth. Today,...
Post date: 07/18/2019 - 20:24
Lancaster’s Minor League Baseball Team is a summer favorite at Clipper Magazine Stadium for the whole city. Besides setting off fireworks after games, Clipper Magazine Stadium has plenty of things to do and enjoy.
Enjoy food from two main...
Post date: 06/16/2019 - 12:56
Home to General Edward Hand, one of the key players in the Revolutionary War under the command of George Washington, Rock Ford Plantation is one of Lancaster County’s most historic buildings and the most intact building predating 1800 in the...
Post date: 06/16/2019 - 12:53
It’s just like the saying goes: Every day is delicious in Lititz. The vibrant food scene of Lititz is just as strong as its artistic one. You’ll find four-star ambiance, casual outdoor and sidewalk seating, unique cafes and pastry shops...
Post date: 05/18/2019 - 09:50
One of the most memorable things about your visit will probably be the magnificent views of the Susquehanna River. The ancient river that is the Chesapeake Bay’s main source of water is one of the oldest, and most beautiful, rivers in the...
Post date: 05/18/2019 - 09:48
Now known as the largest buffet in Lancaster County, Shady Maple Smorgasbord (that’s Lancaster talk for buffet) features 200 feet of your favorite PA Dutch cooking prepared by some of the region’s finest cooks. Daily dinner specials...
Post date: 04/25/2019 - 07:50
Since 1985, the Maytown Historical Society has dedicated itself to preserving the rich heritage of its namesake. With a history exceeding 250 years, the Mayfest celebration the first Saturday of May is a celebratory festival that includes music on...
Post date: 04/25/2019 - 07:38
Pennsylvania Dutch Country, with its wide expanses of farmland from horizon to horizon, may seem like it’s best explored on a driving tour, but a long hike will get you the up-close-and-personal experience you’re truly craving. On the...
Post date: 03/15/2019 - 08:29
The best way to get to know Lancaster County is through the delicious food of its German settlers, the Pennsylvania Dutch. With one of the most recognizable regional food communities in the country, Lancaster is also a highly acclaimed dining...
Post date: 03/15/2019 - 08:27
One of Lancaster County’s trademarks is the world-famous quilts often carefully stitched by Amish and Mennonite women and other members of the area’s talented artisan communities. What originally began as a practical object within the...
Post date: 02/19/2019 - 10:01
We all love great-tasting food. It’s just part of what makes us human. And truly getting to know a locale, community, or region starts with a plate in front of you and a fork in hand. This fall, Lancaster City Restaurant Week showcases the...
Post date: 08/23/2018 - 12:45
Held the first Friday after Labor Day, the York Fair has been celebrating the county with live concerts, delicious fair food, kid-friendly rides, and livestock exhibits since 1765. Eleven years older than the United States, the York Fair has been...
Post date: 08/22/2018 - 17:15
Mount Gretna is a wonderful place to visit during the spring and summer. Verdant trees shelter you in a tranquil setting in central PA that feels untouched by human hands. The community is friendly and you can tell that everyone here is basking in...
Post date: 07/24/2018 - 16:14
Pennsylvania is well-known for our infinite forests and rivers. The Susquehanna River, besides being one of the most ancient rivers in the world, provides a cool and scenic venue for recreation during the sweltering Pennsylvania summers. When...
Post date: 06/27/2018 - 11:01
York County, PA is famous for its factories and farms; it's why travelers from around the world visit the Factory Tour Capital of the World to learn about the homemade processes of their favorite snacks or get a behind-the-scenes look into the...
Post date: 05/21/2018 - 11:07
Are you a longtime believer in the supernatural, in the spirits of those that have faced death yet continue to walk the earth? Maybe you’re a dead-set nonbeliever (the pun is intended) or a simple skeptic seeking answers. Whatever the case may...
Post date: 04/10/2018 - 17:37
While the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in the region, the historic Mount Hope Mansion also hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the spring and summer months that will keep you busy and coming back...
Post date: 03/14/2018 - 14:12
Happy New Year! Honestly, the older I get the faster time passes by. It’s hard to believe it is the end of January already. Our whole family just enjoyed a week’s vacation in Walt Disney...
Post date: 01/31/2018 - 12:11
We hear this alot – ”So many books, so little time.” We’d like to invite you to curl up right here in the cozy quarters of B.F. Hiestand House Bed & Breakfast. Bring with you one or two of the books you’ve...
Post date: 01/04/2017 - 15:55
Feeling restless? Ready for a change of scenery? Come visit! Enjoy winter in a new wonderful way. Here are six ways to shake off even the most persistent feelings of cabin fever.
`1. Take in Downtown Lancaster
Historic Downtown Lancaster is...
Post date: 01/04/2017 - 15:51
The spirit of the season is in our hearts and displayed on our Lancaster County shirt sleeves. If you are looking for things to do this time of year, come visit us! We are located in an area where you’ll find both rich Christmas history and...
Post date: 11/25/2016 - 13:10
Our guess is that when you think of the holiday season “rest and relaxation” is not the first thing that comes to mind. At B.F. Hiestand House B&B, we never forget the importance of renewal that comes from the experience of getting...
Post date: 11/25/2016 - 13:01
The first weekend of December come play with us for the second annual Find Your Belsnickle Tour of Inns. In Lancaster County, we embrace the mischievous Christmas tradition of Belsnickle.
Who is Belsnickle?
During the 18th and 19th...
Post date: 11/15/2016 - 14:15
If you’re in the mood for a bike ride through rolling farmland, past covered bridges from years past, one-room schoolhouses, and a possible encounter with a modern-day working horse and buggy, then riding the backroads of Lancaster County is...
Post date: 09/19/2016 - 11:02
Getting to Know York Fair
Known as the first fair in America, the York Fair was first held in the historic old town of York in 1765, eleven years before the nation was founded. A charter to hold that fair was granted to the people of York by Thomas...
Post date: 09/08/2016 - 14:37
At B.F Hiestand House Bed and Breakfast we have watched our faire (fare) share of Lords and Ladies get dressed as their favorite Renaissance personas. They then run off and play along with olde world villagers and merrymakers at the Pennsylvania...
Post date: 08/16/2016 - 20:53
It’s August. You know what that means. Harvesting of Summer produce is in full swing. Farmers' markets are displaying brilliant colors and overflowing baskets. Take part in the harvest yourself and pick your own fruit straight from...
Post date: 08/16/2016 - 14:26
Summer weekends are another kind of special around here. The air fills with the happy sounds of outdoor music festivals and concerts. You’ll find romantic settings for an intimate concert with a picnic to larger venues hosting all-day...
Post date: 08/11/2016 - 01:11
Summer baseball season is in full swing in Central Pennsylvania. Fans from all over are arriving to take in a live baseball game! The small-town feel of the home-team stadiums on a warm July night, coupled with the big-game players (there’s no...
Post date: 07/11/2016 - 22:05
A Little Bit of Trail History
Northwest Lancaster County River Trail stretches nearly 14 miles along the east bank of the Susquehanna River between Falmouth (near the Dauphin County line) and Columbia, Pennsylvania. Along the way, you can stop to...
Post date: 06/20/2016 - 09:44
March was such a warm month here, and we were so excited to get outside to start cleaning up our flower and raised vegetable beds. Dallas started growing pansies, spinach, and lettuce in the basement under the grow lights. He has since started...
Post date: 04/15/2016 - 11:06
During the 19th century, Magic Lanterns were the most popular form of entertainment in America. A Magic Lantern holds a hand-painted glass lens that is projected onto a screen. Usually, the paintings are of widely recognized stories....
Post date: 12/18/2015 - 10:14
The Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre is a year-round dining and entertainment venue. Decorated in beautiful rich colors, the 370-seat theatre offers unobstructed views of the stage. Each show performed is a top-quality production attracting performers...
Post date: 10/11/2015 - 13:36
As summer ends and the leaves begin to change in color, September is always a nice month for a quiet and peaceful paddle along the Susquehanna River. Just across the river, you’ll find Shank’s Mare Outfitters in Wrightsville....
Post date: 09/11/2015 - 17:17
The Wilton Armetale Factory Store is located in Mount Joy in an old turn of the century tobacco leaf-drying barn. Shop for beautiful first quality pieces or save up to 60% off select seconds, discontinued and closeout items.
Not familiar with...
Post date: 08/18/2015 - 17:18
Take a break from the summer heat with a tour of Indian Echo Caverns where the temperature is a consistent 52 degrees year-round. This 440 million years old limestone cave is an amazing natural wonder. Guided tours are offered that last about...
Post date: 07/23/2015 - 09:08
Looking for furniture that is still made the old-fashion way? At George’s Furniture, each piece is handmade by master craftsmen, signed and dated. These beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture are carved from solid cherry, oak, maple or...
Post date: 07/03/2015 - 15:03
There are lots of factory tours in York City and the surrounding area. Experience true American craftsmanship. York County offers everything from a working dairy farm to crafting violins and everything in between. One of the best factory tours...
Post date: 06/04/2015 - 13:25
Free admission! Free Parking! Free wine sampling!
It doesn’t get any better than that. Experience the annual FlavorFest this May 23-24, 2015 at the Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim from 11am to 5pm. Complimentary wine samples,...
Post date: 05/14/2015 - 15:56
At the May 8 & 9 Herb & Garden Faire, you’ll find heirlooms, natives and other hard-to-find varieties. Over 80 vendors showcase plants, herbal skin products, garden art, and jewelry. Held annually at the Landis Valley Village &...
Post date: 04/06/2015 - 16:08
Pennsylvania has the most things dropped or raised in the country on New Year's Eve. This year ring in the New Year by joining the festivities at one of our local communities. All within close proximity to the B.F. Hiestand House Bed and...
Post date: 12/15/2014 - 20:39
This holiday season; rejoice in the spirit of the season at one of our many local dinner theatres. All offer quality performances with top-notch professional actors and serve a delicious meal prior to the show. Each theatre offers a unique dinner...
Post date: 11/07/2014 - 13:51
One of the oldest, continuous, holiday tours in Pennsylvania, the 49th Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes will be held on December 7 from 11am to 7pm. Spend the day visiting eight private homes located in the small town of Marietta along the...
Post date: 10/16/2014 - 20:03
Getting lost was never so much fun. It’s a giggle-fest as you wind your way through the twists and turns of the giant walk-through corn mazes. Whether you are 7 or 70, a corn maze offers the opportunity for a family fun adventure that often...
Post date: 09/11/2014 - 23:07
The York Fair, held annually, is one of the country’s oldest fairs, with the first fair held in 1765, eleven years before our nation was born. William Penn’s son, Thomas, presented the people of York with a charter to have the Fair. In...
Post date: 08/12/2014 - 13:57
Looking for a unique way to experience the beautiful and peaceful Amish Countryside of Lancaster County? An adventure awaits with a Hot Air Balloon Ride that offers the best birds-eye view of south-central Pennsylvania. A whole new perspective...
Post date: 07/22/2014 - 14:34
Nestled along the bank of the Susquehanna River and just three miles from B. F. Hiestand House, you’ll find the quaint river town of Columbia that played a big part in the building of America herself. From the frontier days to the Revolution,...
Post date: 04/10/2014 - 20:44
What is a Mud Sale? They are annual Amish auctions/sales to benefit local fire companies in Lancaster County. You’ll need to wear your boots because they are held in the fields that are often muddy from the early spring thawing....
Post date: 03/05/2014 - 14:58
Located 7.5 miles from the BF Hiestand House, The Vineyard at Grandview's tasting room awaits you. The view is phenomenal! It overlooks the 5 acres of meticulously groomed vines, which were planted in 2009. The beautiful oak and...
Post date: 03/18/2013 - 17:22
