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's role in transportation. Today, these communities are vibrant destinations for outdoor fun, culture, history, shopping and good eats. B.F. Hiestand House is proud to call one of these river towns home – Marietta – but we encourage you to explore other great towns and activities along the Susquehanna.
If you have time to visit just one other river town during your next getaway to Lancaster County, then follow the winding path of the Susquehanna River about 4 miles southeast of Marietta to Columbia. Established in 1726, Columbia was originally known as Wright's Ferry, named for founder John Wright's thriving ferry business. A visit to Wright's Ferry Mansion offers a look at colonial-era life in an English Quaker home. Learn more about the town's history with the Columbia Walking Tour, which tells the story of the town's significant people and places, making stops at various historical sites including the Columbia Market House.
You'll also want to make time to visit the National Watch and Clock Museum. Home to more than 13,000 timepieces from every stage of human history, it's the largest and most comprehensive horological collection in North America. You'll learn about the art, science and history of timekeeping – from sundials to atomic and radio-controlled clocks – as you move among the museum's 20 themed galleries.
Columbia offers plenty of active outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, rock-climbing, canoeing and kayaking. The best place to start is the Columbia Crossing River Trail Center, which provides visitor information and educational programs focusing on the river’s historic, scenic and recreational stories. It also sits at the foot of the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge (officially the Veterans Memorial Bridge) with its iconic reinforced concrete arches.
Do a little shopping while you're in Columbia, and be sure to check out its antique shops that draw visitors from all over the East Coast. Burning Bridge Antiques Market, Rivertowne Antique Center and Bootleg Antiques are just a few of the eclectic shops you won't want to miss. After all that shopping, you'll need a place to refuel and have a cold craft beer. Among Columbia's many top-notch restaurants, you can't go wrong at places like Columbia Kettle Works, Bully's Restaurant and Pub, and Hinkle's Restaurant.
See for yourself why Columbia is one of our favorite river towns. We think you'll agree that it's worth the short trek from B.F. Hiestand House to spend a day exploring all of the historical, cultural and recreational offerings that make Columbia such a special place to visit.
