The people of Lancaster are fortunate, indeed, in having a wealth of cultural activities at their fingertips.

Groups such as the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, Lancaster Opera Workshop, Actors' Company of Pennsylvania, Lancaster Summer Arts Festival, the Long's Park Amphitheater Foundation and others in the performing arts, provide the community with a host of performances each year. Many of them are held at the historic Fulton Opera House, a completely restored 130 year-old theater. During the summer there are many outdoor concerts and events, providing a refreshing way to spend a spectacular evening.

There are fine art galleries, including the Lancaster Community Gallery, the Lancaster County Art Association and collegiate galleries, as well as numerous commercial galleries. Also there are over 16 museums throughout the county featuring everything from railroads to watches and clocks.

Lancaster's proximity to Harrisburg, Hershey, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., makes it convenient to travel to those locations for additional cultural events.

Further information concerning cultural events is always available in the Lancaster newspapers or by phone at: (717) 293-ARTS.

Whether it's a movie or play, an amusement park or a visit to a museum, you will find plenty of entertainment for the entire family. Lancaster residents enjoy the countless tourist attractions which draw visitors from all over the world. Approximately a half hour drive from Lancaster is Hershey Park, one of the East Coast's best amusement parks, and one of Bill's favorites. Tourists also enjoy numerous educational attractions focusing on the area's Amish population.

Night spots are readily in the area, with many establishments featuring “live” music and comedy clubs highlighting local talent as well as big name comedians.

Good food is also a specialty available in the area, with a broad variety of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. The restaurants range from the quick food variety to fine gourmet dining. Lancaster County is recognized for it's Pennsylvania Dutch cooking, and you will find many restaurants that serve the food in the traditional family style setting.

Information about many of the attractions of Lancaster County is available from: Pennsylvania Dutch Visitors & Convention Bureau, 501 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, PA 17601. Phone (717)299-8901.

Regardless of your religious preferences, you will probably find the church of your choice in Lancaster.

There are approximately 480 Protestant churches in the county, 19 Catholic congregations, and 3 synagogues.

Lancaster County has the largest population of the so called “Plain People,” including various Mennonite sects. The area is also well-known for its Amish community. It is interesting to note that the Lancaster County Amish people are “house Amish”. This means they worship in each others' homes and do not construct church buildings.

A guide to the locations of churches and houses of worship is available from:

There's plenty for everyone to do in the way of recreation in Lancaster.

Many campgrounds, as well as community, city, and county parks, provide outdoor fun for all. Plenty of state game lands provide trails for hiking, hunting, and horseback riding. In addition to the numerous tennis courts and health clubs there are 4 private golf clubs and over 12 public golf courses. Major league sports of all varieties are within easy driving distance of Lancaster County. Lancaster County offers minor league baseball ( Lancaster Barnstormers) in the new Clipper Stadium in Lancaster City. The Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay offer opportunities for sailing, boating, fishing (small mouth bass in the Susquehanna ... is "the best!") and "American Bald Eagle Watching" in the warmer months, while several ski areas are within easy driving distance of Lancaster in the wintertime.

For information about recreational facilities contact: