Take a Lancaster County Getaway
The Best Things to Do in Intercourse PA
Intercourse, Pennsylvania earns a double take from first-time visitors, and then it earns a second visit. The name draws curiosity, but the things to do in Intercourse PA are what bring people back. This small stretch of Old Philadelphia Pike sits at the center of Lancaster County’s Amish Country, and it packs enough shopping, food, and history into a few blocks to fill an entire afternoon.
How Intercourse PA Got Its Name
The town started out as Cross Keys in 1754, then took its current name in 1814. Historians generally point to its location at a major crossroads, where the Old Kings Highway between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh met the road running to Erie. That intersection, or “intercourse” of routes, is the most credible explanation, though a local legend also ties the name to a nearby racetrack once called Entercourse.
What to Do in Intercourse PA
Kitchen Kettle Village is the town’s main draw, with more than 40 shops and restaurants inside one walkable village. You can pick up locally made candles, soaps, and jams, browse quilts and handmade jewelry, and stop for ice cream or a sandwich without ever getting back in the car. Live music plays most weekends, and seasonal events like the Whoopie Pie Fest bring even bigger crowds.
A few minutes up the road, Barry’s Car Barn opens a private antique car collection to the public with self-guided tours and no reservation required. For something you can taste, Immergut Hand Rolled Soft Pretzels lets you watch your pretzel get rolled, twisted, and baked before it lands in your hands, and their pretzel sandwiches are a local favorite.
If you’d rather shop than snack, the Lancaster Yarn Shop runs beginner knitting classes alongside a full range of supplies, and the town’s furniture makers, including Plain Pine Furniture and Kings Amish Furniture, sell handcrafted pieces ranging from traditional Amish styles to modern farmhouse designs. Dutchland Galleries showcases local artwork, and The Old Candle Barn is one of the most visited gift shops in the area, with a wide selection of candles and country decor. For a classic souvenir, The Old Country Store and Village Handmade both carry Amish quilts made by local artisans.
Nearby Towns Worth Exploring
If you have more than a day, a few nearby towns round out the trip. Bird-in-Hand is minutes away and known for its farmers market and buggy rides through the surrounding farmland. Ronks sits along Route 30 near the Strasburg Railroad, and Paradise offers a mix of dining and small-town charm just east of Intercourse.
Where to Stay for Your Weekend Getaway
After a day spent working through this list, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to land, and the Historic Smithton Inn makes an easy home base. Built in 1763 and set on a hill in nearby Ephrata, this Lancaster Bed and Breakfast features original stone architecture with modern touches like reliable WiFi, an EV charging station, and working fireplaces in every room.
On weekends, Weathered Vineyards, the Lancaster County Bed and Breakfast’s on-site wine bar, pours wine and hosts live music, and the back garden’s fire pit is a good spot to unwind after a day of shopping. The Bed and Breakfast sits close to other Lancaster County staples like the Green Dragon Farmers Market and the charming town of Lititz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Intercourse PA worth visiting?
Yes. Beyond the name, the town is a genuine hub for Amish culture, local shopping, and homemade food, with Kitchen Kettle Village alone offering enough to fill a half day.
How much time should I plan for Intercourse PA?
Most visitors can see the highlights in an afternoon, though pairing it with nearby towns like Bird-in-Hand makes for a full weekend getaway.
What is Intercourse PA known for?
It’s best known for Kitchen Kettle Village, Amish-made furniture and quilts, and its role as a gateway to Lancaster County’s Amish Country.
Where is the best place to stay near Intercourse PA?
The Historic Smithton Inn in nearby Ephrata offers a short drive to all the attractions on this list, with the charm of an 18th century inn and the comfort of modern amenities.
Ready to plan your weekend getaway? Book your stay at the Historic Smithton Inn and make it your home base for exploring Intercourse PA.