Step away from the rush of modern life and immerse yourself in a simpler, slower-paced way of life on this unique day trip from Philadelphia. As you journey through Lancaster County’s rolling farmlands, you’ll witness horse-drawn buggies share the road with cars, a tangible sign of the community’s dedication to tradition. A visit to the Amish Village Museum provides deeper insights into the daily life and beliefs of the Amish—from their meticulous craftsmanship to their intentional rejection of modern conveniences. You’ll also have the chance to shop for handmade quilts, enjoy homemade pies, and perhaps even chat with a local farmer as they tend to their fields.

This small museum is housed in a building long associated with Christopher Columbus, who is believed to have lived here after marrying Filipa de Moniz, the daughter of Porto Santo’s first captain. Step inside to explore exhibits on Columbus and his family, the age of Atlantic exploration, and the Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch maritime empires. Highlights include a surviving 16th-century stone wall with Gothic windows, offering a glimpse into the house’s earliest days.

Enjoy a piece of true nature at the Minnehaha Falls. Located close to the center, it marks a point of relaxation and pure beauty. There are several recreation areas for kids to play and sometimes you might even catch a live performance.