Drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes.
This converted 1809 stone bank barn on 48 acres seamlessly combines original architectural features with antique, period-reproduction and contemporary furnishings. Each of the four guestrooms has its own distinct décor and character, and unique hand-painted accents by a local artists lend a touch of whimsy. For romantic ambiance, book Henry & Anna’s Room, which features a gas fireplace, a whirlpool tub and a private balcony. There are no televisions at Pheasant Run Farm, but if you must keep in touch with the world outside, wireless internet is free. A full breakfast is also included with your overnight stay.
Twists, Tastes and Toasts
Founded in 1861, the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery in downtown Lititz was the first commercial facility of its kind in America. So what better place to throw a huge pretzel party? On May 4, more than 20 local restaurants and retailers will prepare innovative sweet and savory dishes starring the snack—all for sampling.
May 17-18, one of the nation’s most versatile vegetables takes the spotlight when Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse hosts its annual Rhubarb Festival, which is now in its fourth decade. Inspired by Kitchen Kettle’s popular springtime jam, the event celebrates all things rhubarb with whoopie pies, pasta salad, salsa, soup, rhubarb-sausage pretzel dogs, strawberry rhubarb sangria and more. Activities include the world’s only rhubarb race-car derby, the crowning of a Rhubarb King and Queen, and live music and other entertainment.
For Manheim’s Flavorfest May 25-26, you can sip premium varietals and spirits from over 25 wineries and distilleries at Mount Hope Estate.
Discover the Lancaster’s diverse flavors on a guided International Food Tour of several of the downtown area’s dining spots and other food providers. You’ll taste the unique flavors of the Netherlands, Denmark, Cuba, France, Italy, Ukraine, Nepal and West Africa.
Spring is mud-sale season in Lancaster County. These annual fundraisers for local fire companies offer a dizzying array of auctions and sales of Amish-made furniture, crafts, quilts, homemade food and more. Sales happen May 4 in Denver, May 11 in Honey Brook and May 17-18 in New Holland.
If you’re wild about local flora, take a stroll or a hike through Shenk’s Ferry Wildflower Preserve in Conestoga, where you’ll find an estimated 70 varieties of springtime blooms over 70 acres.
May Rates: $169-$239
Pheasant Run Farm Bed & Breakfast
200 Marticville Road, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, (717) 872-0001, pheasantrunfarmbb.com.
Related: These 10 Mountain Getaways Are an Easy Drive from the Philly Suburbs
