Intercourse PA Things to Do
July 5, 2022
We get it, the name makes you giggle and you wonder if Intercourse, PA is really worth visiting or does the town just have a silly name. The answer yes! YES... the name is a bit 'uncomfortable'? And resounding YES, Intercourse PA is definitely worth visiting.
Maybe it'll help to know a bit about how the town got its name. In 1754, the small village was named Cross Keys. In 1814 the name was changed to Intercourse. There are two theories for the name change. One theory was that it's based on the name of a local race track named "Entercourse" and that "Intercourse" is simply an evolution of that. The second, and probably more accepted version, is that the name is based on the major roads that crossed here. Old Kings Highway, the road that runs from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh (now Rt 340, Philadelphia Pike), and the route that ran from Philadelphia to Erie, intersected here... making it a major "Intercourse".
Nowadays, Intercourse is a hub for Amish attractions and activity, making it a favorite destination for visitors to Lancaster County. You can definitely spend a wonderful day visiting the shops, attractions and restaurants in and around Intercourse! This list of things to do in Intercourse will help you make the most of your trip!!
This Blog is All About Intercourse PA Things to Do
Best Things to Do in and Near Intercourse PA
1: Shop ‘til You Drop at Kitchen Kettle Village
3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA | Website
- Open Monday – Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-6
- There are 40+ Unique Shops & Restaurants https://www.kitchenkettle.com/our-village/the-shops.asp
- Special Events: Live music on weekends, plus special events like the Whoopie Pie Fest
Kitchen Kettle Village has a name that seems a bit difficult for guests to say (think: Sally Sells Sea Shells...), but the fact that it's home to some of the most adorable small gift shops in Lancaster PA makes it one of the top destinations in the county. You can buy locally made gifts (candles, soaps, home decor), local foods (ice cream, meats, cheeses, candies) and local art (paintings and more). Plus many other assorted shops like yarn, quilts, specialty gifts, jewelry and more! And not to worry, if you get hungry or thirsty, there are local restaurants plus a local winery's tasting room for you to enjoy!
2: Tour Barry’s Car Barn Antique Car Museum
3504 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
What do you get when a private antique car collector decides to open up his collection for the public to enjoy? Well, Barry's Car Barn of course! The focus of this collection is muscle cars from the 50s to 70s, but there's so much more than that to see including antique cars, motorcycles and car memorabilia. The tours are self-guided, no reservations required.
3: Try Authentic (famous) PA Dutch Soft Pretzels at Immergut Hand-Rolled Soft Pretzels
3537 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
Any list of the best soft pretzels in Lancaster County is certain to include Immergut Hand-Rolled Soft Pretzels! And as if the soft pretzel itself isn't amazing enough, imagine having a sandwich made from one... HEAVENLY!!! You can watch the staff roll, twist and bake your pretzel right there in front of you too. If you're wondering how these pretzels compare to the well know Aunt Annie's offering, it's no contest... Immergut's are WAY better. Try for yourself and let us know if they lived up to the hype!
4 - 5: Take an Amish Buggy Ride
Buggy rides are a fun way to see the sights and sounds of Lancaster's gorgeous countryside. You'll be transported back in time while experiencing travel as the Amish to do it every day! Buggy guides can answer your questions about Amish beliefs, lifestyle and traditions.
- AAA Buggy | 3461 Old Philadelphia Pike, Ronks | Website
- Aaron & Jessica’s | 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand | Website
6: Check out the Amish Experience
3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand | Website
The Amish Experience is a great way to learn about the Amish Community in Lancaster County, while touring our lovely countryside. You'll board a 14-passenger shuttle van to tour the Amish country, including stops at an Amish school & house. The guides are friendly and super-knowledgeable, so come prepared with all your questions about our unique neighbors.
7 - 13: Fortify Yourself at these great locally owned restaurants
There are a number of delicious places to grab a bite to eat while you tour all the shops and attractions in Intercourse PA. From sandwich shops & smorgasbords to sit down restaurants, you can find the perfect spot to rest your weary feet & refuel for the rest of your day in Amish Country.
- Kling House (TEMPORARLY CLOSED) | 3575 W Newport Rd, Gordonville | Website
- Harvest Café | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike Intercourse | Website
- Olde Mill Restaurant | 9 Queen Rd, Intercourse | Website
- Amos’ Place | 14 Center St, Intercourse | Website
- Historic Revere Tavern | 3063 Lincoln Hwy, Paradise | Website
- Dieners | 2855 Lincoln Hwy, Ronks | Website
- Miller’s Smorgasbord | 2811 E Lincoln Hwy, Ronks | Website
14: Experience the Magic and Wonder Theater
3065 Lincoln State Rte, Paradise | Website
- Magic & Wonder Mystery Show: In this totally NEW variety magic show, illusionist Brett Myers and his cast explore mysterious worlds such as "Atlantis," the magic of never growing old in “Neverland,” and the excitement of the “Roaring 1920’s.” You'll also dive into other worlds that keep you guessing such as the mysteries behind a “Masquerade Ball” and the daring escapades of a “Secret Agent.” Join Brett and his cast as they captivate with more large illusions and more dynamic circus arts than ever before.
- Jukebox Jive: Jukebox Jive is a music variety show that celebrates the greatest jukebox hits of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Travel back in time to experience your favorite hits from the era of school days, drive in movies, prom, summertime, disco, and The King! With thrilling arrangements, top notch vocals, variety acts, comedy, magic, dazzling new technical elements, and more, you’ll be singing, dancing, and entertained from start to finish!
15: Support Small Business at the Lancaster Yarn Shop
3519 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
Quaint small businesses are a mainstay in Intercourse and the Lancaster Yarn Shop is one of our favorites! In addition to selling supplies, these folks offer classes and special events as well. So if you've always wanted to learn how to knit, sign up to take one of their 2 hour FREE Workshop--Absolute Beginner's Knitting!!!
16 - 23: Do Some Amish & Hand-Crafted Furniture Shopping in and Around Intercourse:
Looking for a special piece of handcrafted furniture? There's a fantastic concentration of furniture shops in and near Intercourse that you have to check out! From Amish-made pieces to modern farmhouse furniture crafted by local artisans, we think you'll love the options, selection and pricing you find at Intercourse furniture shops!
- Plain Pine Furniture | 3471 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
- Kings Amish Furniture | 13 Center St, Intercourse | Website
- Peaceful Valley Furniture | 421 Hartman Bridge Rd, Strasburg | Website
- Carriage House Furnishings | 3572 W Newport Rd, Ronks | Website
- The Treasure Place at Smucker Village | 3526 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
- Snyders | 3709 E Newport Rd, Gordonville | Website
- Carriage House Furnishings | 3572 W Newport Rd, Ronks | Website
- Braun Farm Tables | 3172 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand | Website
24 - 25: Bring Home an Amish Quilt!
Amish handsewn quilts are the perfect souvenir from your visit to Lancaster County. If you're looking for a handcrafted gift to bring home with you, be sure to visit these shops where you'll find all kinds of cute gifts and accessories.
- The Old Country Store | 3510 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
- Village Handmade | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
26: Check out the Military Edged Weaponry Museum
3562 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
History buffs love this unique, 'kitschy' museum located in the heart of Intercourse PA. While their hours are VERY limited, that's because it's the owners who staff the museum. They're very knowledgeable and eager to share their passion for the items in the collection. The broad scope of the collection is remarkable and covers almost all United states engagements from the Revolutionary War up until the modern era.
27: Visit the Old Candle Barn
3551 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
For many visitors to Lancaster PA, the Old Candle Barn is hands-down their favorite gift shop! There's plenty of parking and they have a HUGE selection of products in addition to candles. If you like candles and country décor, I challenge you to shop here and leave empty handed!
28 - 29: Do Some Wine Tastings
We highly recommend you take a break from shopping and touring to visit one of these wine shops in (and near) Intercourse. Both offer tastings in addition to wine related gifts. Take home a few bottles to enjoy down the road!
- Tasting at Waltz Vineyard Wine Shop | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gordonville | Website
- Mount Hope Wine Gallery | 3174 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand | Website
30: Sample Some Great Craft Beers at Rumspringa Craft Beer Company
3174 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand | Website
If you're more of a beer-drinker, then Rumspringa is the place to visit! Located in an old historic barn, the vibe is as wonderful as the beers they have on tap. Try a beer sample flight, or choose your favorite to kick back and enjoy as you talk about all the wonderful things you've seen in Intercourse & chart your plans for the rest of the day.
31 - 33: Take in Some Covered Bridges
Lancaster County has 28 Covered Bridges and we highly recommend driving around our backroads to see at least some of them. As you're enjoying all the Things to Do in Intercourse, here are a few nearby bridges for you to visit:
- Willow Hill Covered Bridge: [Address: 2409-2415 E Lincoln Hwy, Lancaster, PA 17602] This is probably the most “seen” covered bridge in the county because of its location right in front of American Music Theater on Route 30. Built in 1962 by Roy Zimmerman as a reconstruction using parts of the Miller’s Farm Covered Bridge, built in 1871 by Elias McMellen, and Good’s Fording Covered Bridge, built in 1855.
- Eshelman’s Mill / Leaman Bridge: [Address: 2V6R+WR Gordonville, Pennsylvania] Also known as Leaman’s Place Covered Bridge. It spans the Pequea Creek and has a single span, wooden, double Burr arch trusses design; constructed by James Carpenter in 1845.
- Make it a tour: If you want to include a tour of ALL or more of our covered bridges, take a look at this blog where we've put together some "loops" to make it easy for you. Lancaster County Covered Bridge Drives
34: Stay at the Historic Smithton Inn!!
900 W. Main Street, Ephrata PA | www.HistoricSmithtonInn.com
Click here to check availability and book your visit today!
This blog is all about Intercourse PA Things to Do
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