Category: Lancaster PA Best Communities to Live In

Charming & Cool

What are the first words that come to mind when you think of a small town? Is it charming and cool? Well it should be, especially if you are talking about Lititz Pennsylvania, voted the Coolest Small Town in America. It is a borough within Lancaster County of just about 9 miles packed with things to do, places to see, rich history and days of fun! 

Lititz was founded in the 1700’s when Count Nicholas Ludwig von Zinzendorf arrived from Germany, a bishop within the Moravian Church. During the Revolutionary War Lititz Pennsylvania became a space to provide medical attention and quarter sick or wounded soldiers, it is said that this was an order from George Washington during his time as the General. The soldiers worked with members of the Moravian Church because during that time that is who was still settled in Lititz. With such an interesting history the town of Lititz works to keep sharing this background through their annual Fourth of July celebrations. Talk about keeping history alive! Annually Lititz is known for their wonderful Fourth of July festivities, due to COVID this year was virtual but they were still able to bring pride, excitement and fun to the residents in Lititz. Hosting house decorating contests, baby parades, a national bell ringing with the mayor, Queen of Candles pageant, decorations, music, games and fireworks are just a few examples. This event is always a crowd pleaser and a wonderful way to see community within Lititz. 

While the history is magnificent in itself that is not the only reason Lititz won coolest town in America. In 2013, Lititz was voted the Coolest Small Town in America by Budget Travel readers. While their small town charm and history help them stand out, it is the day to day life that truly made them the easy vote. With wonderful restaurants, shops and events the winner couldn’t have been clearer. Let’s dive into some reasons why! 

Do you enjoy fine dining, quiet evenings, intimacy, music, and fun nights out with friends? That is a mix of atmospheres and venues but don’t worry, downtown Lititz provides all of this and you could find a restaurant to enjoy no matter your mood. Craving something sweet? You must check out Dosie Dough Bakery for a pastry, bread or other homemade baked goods. When you arrive you can’t help but have your mouth water. It smells like heaven! This is also a wonderful place to meet up with friends for a cup of coffee or a quick lunch, the perfect spot for a nice chat or to enjoy a book and some serenity on your own. After something sweet you always need something salty to even it out. Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery is the perfect spot to do that. Founded in 1861 as the first commercial pretzel bakery in America, it allows you to take a tour while enjoying a soft pretzel, hard pretzel, or one covered in chocolate! This is a fun way to spend your afternoon learning about the deep history of Lititz while enjoying a salty snack! Fine dining, brewing companies, and pubs as well as a wonderful farmers market are nestled in Lititz. As the months get colder you can continue to support locals by ordering take out from one of the many spots to find out which might be your favorite! 

While the dining could keep you busy during your time in Lititz there are wonderful shops and stores to meet your every need from jewelers to framers, book stores, antique shops and clothing boutiques. Aaron’s Books is a wonderful shop with new and used books to enjoy. The Mustard Seed Boutique has all locally made clothing and home goods – a wonderful way to buy thoughtful gifts for someone you care about. The town of Lititz offers wonderful ways to support local businesses and enjoy an array of cuisines and events that bring the community together. It may give you the itch to want to be a part of the community! 

Lititz Pennsylvania puts on multiple events each month and throughout the year aside from the Fourth of July festivities. A few of my favorites are Lititz Fire & Ice and Lititz Second Fridays. Second Fridays are literally just that, the second Friday of each month from 5:00pm until 9:00pm when you are given time to explore the town. Store owners and local merchants stay open later so you can enjoy the shops, art work, food, drinks and more! There is entertainment up and down the streets as well as inside and outside of shops. Sometimes you will see dancers or hear musicians! This is a great way to support local businesses and maybe get some Christmas shopping done in the beginning of December so be sure to mark your calendar! The Fire & Ice event is an annual free event over the course of 4 days in February. Throughout the four days you can participate in a chili cook-off, view breathtaking ice sculptures, witness ice-carving, view a fire show, enjoy music and a carnival! This is like a long weekend out of a Hallmark film, truly a way to stay in the holiday spirit and enjoy the end of the winter months (this year will be the 16th annual)! To stay up to date on all Lititz events follow Lititz Pennsylvania’s site.  

The small town charm you feel within Lititz is one of a kind. Full of great places to eat, wonderful events within the community and a rich history, Lititz is a place you will definitely want to add to your bucket list! Just over an hour outside of Philadelphia, it could be a day or weekend trip for you! Love your visit so much you want to experience the coolest town every day? Homes are for sale in and around Lititz – consider checking them out! Truly the Coolest Town in America!

 Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties that could bring you to experience the Coolest Town in America every day out your backdoor. You will love it here!
For more information on wonderful homes call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com

No Work & All Play

Are you starting to plan for your retirement, have you recently retired, or are you in the midst of those great years looking for something new? Deciding to retire or where to move can be daunting especially after years in one home or if you are someone that has moved around a bunch. Finding that perfect forever home for the wonderful years of retirement does not have to be, especially if you can live in a community that brings you everything you can ask for; from a lively downtown to roaring hills and privacy Lancaster County is calling your name! 

Ranked number three of best places to retire by Dave Ramsey, after interviewing people across the country and looking into cost of living David Ramsey created a list of top ten places to retire within the United States. Focusing on quality of life and cost of living there are four things Ramsey says you should focus on when looking for a place to retire and those are tax rates, housing costs, quality of healthcare, and overall happiness of residents. Lancaster excelled in all four! 

Lancaster County provides a true variety of things to do, places to live, and a quality of life where you will enjoy every day. When you retire you are provided so much time to do things you enjoy, the options of how you spend your retirement are endless but Lancaster County has a few things that might interest you. With restaurants, food, shops, local activities, part time jobs and multiple terrains Lancaster County provides ample opportunities to enjoy your retirement years. 

Lancaster County meets all of your dining pallets from restaurants focused on international cuisine to peaceful cafes. One of my favorite things to do is try out the restaurants that use locally grown produce, farm to table is a great way to enjoy the local community while also learning about it! If you are passionate about cooking there are a handful of farmers markets for you for fresh baked goods, local produce and so much more. The farmers markets within Lancaster County provide a sense of serenity with the beautiful array of produce, the perfumed pleasures of baked goods and breathtaking flowers. While there are plenty of markets to pick from one of my favorites is right downtown, Lancaster Central Market, a true piece of history that was established in 1730!

Supporting local businesses is a great way to get ready for the holiday season. Lancaster County has great shops full of wonderful finds from clothing, to home decor, books and antiques you could find the best gifts for all your loved ones while showing them a piece of your new home town. If art is an interest of yours you will not want to miss First Friday. This is one of the best ways to see and buy artwork within the city of Lancaster. The first friday of every month from 5:00pm-9:00pm you can explore true creativity! 

While shopping, art and dining are great ways to spend your time Lancaster County offers so much more! Lancaster is a wonderful space to build community and get to know your neighbors. A great way to do this is by getting involved in the local community through joining programs, groups, or memberships. 

Lancaster Recreation Commission provides ambles of activities for individuals to sign up for and enjoy. This is a great way to meet new people, or those with like interests, get active and involved within the community. From exercise classes, clubs and discussion groups there is something for everyone. Lancaster Recreation Commission provides weekly activities to get individuals involved within the community in a fun and interactive way to continue a life of wellness. Lancaster Rec Senior Center is within this commission located at 525 Fairview Avenue, Lancaster PA. It provides adults a computer center, full size gym, kitchen, dance room and more. This is a great center to become a member if you are interested in building a community where you have a space to meet and try new things.  

Spooky Nook is known for sports tournaments, it is the largest indoor sports complex in North America but it is not just for high school athletes. Spook Nook Sports has programming for adults 50+ with a variety of classes from circuits, spin, pickleball, dance classes and more you will find a way to get active in a fun way! It is open every day from 9:00am-12:00pm for adult activities. 

After a week of exercise you may want to relax or if you have the travel bug a great idea would be getting to know your new home by visiting Lancaster! Lancaster County has multiple regions each providing you a mix of terrain and great weekend getaways! You can enjoy the countryside, small towns or city feels all at your backdoor and a quick drive. Each provides you beautiful views, fun ways to spend your days and a wonderful way to absorb your new home. Truly make it a weekend away by staying in one of the many hotels within Lancaster giving you a night away in the country, camping under the stars or an adventure within one of the top tourist attractions.   

When it comes time to pick a place to retire many individuals consider moving into retirement communities. Three of the best communities that come to mind are:

Willow Valley Community is an award winning 55+ living community offering an array of living options from apartments to one-story villas, two-story town homes and more with the ability to work with their complementary interior design service to truly make this space your forever home. Not only does Willow Valley have a variety of homes to pick from they also have plenty of amenities that you will surely find yourself busy and enjoying your days. From multiple dining locations and services you are definitely able to enjoy meals with your friends, loved ones and for special occasions. Offering a large fitness center as well as many smaller ones across the community you will be able to work out every day in many ways from swimming, walking, to weights you are sure to mix up your routine while having fun! If you are new to the community a great way to meet others is to join in on a club or the travel that Willow Valley offers its residents!

Another great community within Lancaster County for retired residents is the Moravian Manor Community. With two campuses prospect residents have the opportunity to pick a style of home they would like to live in as well as amenities like laundry, patios, car garages, bedrooms, and different floor plans. The Moravian Manor also offers opportunities to get involved within the community to make friends, continue a passion, learn something new, or just have fun! 

The last retirement community is Brethren Village, also a space that offers a variety of living options as well as personal care, memory support or 24-hour nursing care should someone need it. Brethren Village too provides individuals the opportunity to get involved in their community, make friends and live independent lifestyles with wonderful amenities at their back door. With social activities and dining services residents can build their own sense of community while enjoying things they always have at a pace best for them.

All three of these communities truly emulate relaxing while enjoying life and all at different prices there is a fit for everyone’s budget! If a retirement community is not for you, do not be discouraged Lancaster County offers a variety of homes to meet everyone’s needs and wants! 

Whether you are new to retirement or you have been retired for some time Lancaster County provides you the peace of mind of a retirement where your money is well spent, your health is a priority and there are numerous ways to enjoy your time. Look no further than Lancaster County where should you choose you do not need to work and you can always play (or enjoy your days)!

 Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties that emulate your own piece of paradise as you look to take the next step towards retirement. You will love it here!

For more information on wonderful homes like: 5253 Summerfield Drive, Mount Joy PA 17552 call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com

Trails of Fun!

Have you ever been for a bike ride, with your friends, family or on your own? Lancaster has wonderful trails across the county where you can see the leaves changing colors, ride through scenic routes and take in the terrain. Enjoy the peace of waterways, preserved nature lands, majestic overlooks of the river and the beauty of the landscape.

Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is one of my favorites. This is a trail created in 2003 where you can bike, walk or run that is 14 miles long following the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal. Created over more than 20 years ago this trail is a great example of the prosperous community all of the boroughs within Lancaster County emulate. This is a great trail to see some history within Northwestern Lancaster County. The canal era started in the late 1700’s within Pennsylvania to move people plus materials and to improve water transport within the state from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Miles of different canals along the state range from 10 miles to over 100 miles long! When riding along the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail you will see parts of the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal including original towpaths and parts of the quarry at Billmeyer, it’s like a ride through some history! You can start the trail at multiple locations like at Koser Park but if you start the trail by Columbia River Park there are boats, kayaks, bike rentals, shuttle services, picnic areas and historical markers for educational information about the local community, terrain and culture over the years.

A few must sees during your time on the Northwest River Trail:

  • Chickies Rock County Park- you get to go through Point Rock tunnel which is an abandoned railroad path cut through rock!
  • White Cliffs of Conoy- just minutes off the trail and truly breathtaking!
  • Marietta- a borough within Lancaster County full of historic buildings to wander around and learn about!
  • Conoy- a township within Lancaster County, when you get to this point of the trail you will get to go under the Shocks Mill Railroad Bridge!

While the trail is 14 miles long you do not need to do the whole thing in one day. Consider breaking up the trail along multiple weekends or months giving you the opportunity to absorb and soak in all the beauty within the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail. The trail is continuing to be added to so consider using the trail map on their website to map out your outdoor adventure, they are currently working to expand the trail another 4.5 miles.

 A few things to consider before you take on the trail for the day: the trail is open year round conditions permitting from sunrise until sunset. If you want to bring your family dog on the trail be sure you have them on a leash and clean up after them as well as yourselves. This trail is a carry out trail, there are great places to enjoy lunch or a snack across the trail so be sure to bring a bag to collect your trash. The trail is ADA accessible, wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices are permitted. There are sections of this trail that go over bridges, roads, and railways that are active so cross with caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Packing Suggestions:

  • Windbreaker/Sweatshirt if you are going in the colder months
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Lunch or snacks (though there are great places right off the trial where you can stop off and enjoy a new restaurant for lunch)
  • Plenty of water 
  • Small first aid kit, if you are trying out biking for the first time or just taking a leisure walk this can always come in handy for yourself or someone you may pass on the trail
  • Map of the trail 
  • Your phone fully charged
  • Gator or mask 

If you enjoy the trail along the river consider checking out one of the many water trails by boat, there is recreational fishing, boat marinas and more. Going by boat is another wonderful way to see the beauty of the river. If you are planning to go by a rented boat or bike be sure to look up the hours of the Columbia Crossing River Trail Center, though the trails are open year round the trail center has set visiting hours. 

Lancaster is full of great trails, places to walk, hike and bike. Another gem within Lancaster County is the Enola Low Grade Trail . This trail is off of the Pennsylvania Railroad and over 28 miles long! While on this trail you will see beautiful scenery, parts of the river, bridges and more. To reach the start of the trail you will have to go to Manor Township and you can find parking at Turkey Hill Nature Preserve. If you decide to take the day and hike this trail be sure to bring a backpack with water, snacks and sunscreen! You may recognize this trail as Atglen-Susquehanna Trail, this was the name it used to be called. While the trail is in Lancaster County it is also in Chester County. It goes through many townships!

After a day outside on the water or on land you will have experienced stunning landscapes and plenty of wildlife. One of my favorite things to do after time on the trail is for my family and I to share fun memories, laughs, and favorite parts over dinner. It is the best way to end the day! While the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is one of my favorites it is not the only trail in Lancaster County you should check out, there is an abundance of trails to check out and experience: Conewago Recreation Trail, Conestoga Greenway Trail, Lancaster Junction Recreation Trail, Enola Low Grade Rail Trail and Turkey Hill Trail & Natural Preserve, these are a few more trails that I really enjoy on nice days. Getting outside and walking, hiking or biking on trails is a great way to get active and mix up your day, Susquehanna River Lands gives great information on a handful of trails and all the ways to enjoy the outdoors within Lancaster! 

Whether you have been an avid biker, leisure biker, or want to try something new, the trails across Lancaster County will provide you a peaceful afternoon and great exercise. If biking isn’t for you the River Trail is great for hiking, walking, or running too especially since it is smooth, flat and paved. Consider trying one of the trails out during this upcoming beautiful weekend!

A day in the beauty of Lancaster’s outdoors making you think of moving to the County? Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties that are immersed within the rich history, beauty, and prosperous community. You will love it here!

For more information on wonderful homes like: 115 Market Street, Bainbridge PA 17502 just minutes off of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail as well as those beautiful White Cliffs.  Call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com

Fall in Love with Lancaster

Fall in love with Lancaster County’s rich history, local produce, and charm! As summer comes to an end and we enter a new season many people may be on the lookout for fun outdoor activities to get into the festive spirit. With the changing colors and colder weather finding places to see all the fall harvest can put a smile on anyone’s face. Located on an Amish Farm, Stoltzfus Gourd and Pumpkin Farm is one of the hidden fall gems in Lancaster County. The perfect location for picking out your fall decorations, with a variety of pumpkins, corn, mums, gourds, and more there is something for everyone! The farm provides individuals and families the opportunity to explore all the different kinds of pumpkins and gourds that can be created; size, shape and color. This is a great stop for the family before carving pumpkins, or to gather materials to make your own fall decor. With many years of being run, Stoltzfus is the perfect example of a place that amplifies a sense of supporting the local community, traditions, and the beauty of Lancaster. Stoltzfus is family owned and operated, located at 1151 Landisville Road, Manheim Pennsylvania, 17545 this is a roadside market you won’t want to miss! 

Hoping to continue your day of fall activities after collecting fall decor? Look no further than Corn Cob Acres for an afternoon of fun! This farm has over 50 different activities for the whole family to enjoy from hayrides, live shows, games, farm animals, photo spots, corn field trails and more you could enjoy your whole day outside with one another laughing and having fun. Each area of activities is a different theme; Farmland Area, Pumpkin Ally, Pasture Playland, Wild West Area, Barnyard, and Hidden Acres. Within each of these themed areas there are multiple attractions, activities and games to participate in. After spending time at all the different attractions Corn Cob Acres is a great spot to enjoy a meal with one another from pizza, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches to Auntie Anne’s pretzels everyone is able to meet their craving. The Farmhouse Grill is full of tasty meals and there is space around the farm to enjoy lunch with one another.

 A few things to consider when you are at Corn Cob Acres are participating in the other activities available at an additional cost from the ticket; Gem Mining, Pumpkin picking with painting, a Corn Cannon Blaster,, flying squirrel bungee trampolines and the souvenir shop to remember your day! After a day full of fun your older children or you and your friends might want to come back to Corn Cob Acres to experience the Field of Screams, a haunted attraction with a hayride, woods, and two haunted houses. The Field of Screams happens at night and this is a great way for you to get your Halloween scares in. If you enjoy Corn Cob Acres consider renting a party space out, each of the two spaces come with different amenities but both are great opportunities to have a birthday celebration or fall outing with friends. 

With updates and changes Corn Cob Acres continues to offer new activities to the individuals and families who come to enjoy the fun! This year they have a new 42’ corn bin full of shelled corn for children to play with.  With so much to do, guests can map out their day to ensure they hit all the attractions they are hoping for or consider buying a seasonal pass, giving unlimited access throughout the fall. Be sure to check out their special events calendar for this year. You won’t want to miss trick-or-treating, magic shows, or a chance to meet Phillie Phanatic.

Corn Cob Acres is active within the local community as well, they have opportunities for field trips for students to come and enjoy the acres while learning about how we cultivate pumpkins, pollination and more. This is a great way for the local community to have their students engage in hands-on learning outside of the classroom. Not only are they involved with education but Corn Cob Acres actively helps benefit many local charities and non-profits giving to the community around them, emphasizing the importance of helping those around you, and emulating the sense of community that has been built within Lancaster County. 

Corn Cob Acres is another great example of tradition within Lancaster County, the owners of the farm created the Field of Screams in 1993 and throughout the years have continued to add to the fall fun from creating a non-scary hayride for children, Little Screamers’ Hayride. The owners have done an incredible job at making this farm a place for everyone to make memories, laugh, and enjoy all that Lancaster has to offer during the fall. 

The farm is open every weekend Friday through Sunday until the first of November. They are open 10am-5pm every Friday and Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays. Located at 191 College Avenue, Mountville Pennsylvania 17554 it is a must do for your fall family fun.  Be sure to purchase your tickets online for unlimited access to all they have to offer. If you join their mailing list you are able to potentially receive exclusive coupons to enjoy! Corn Cob Acres is taking all the proper precautions to ensure guests are safe during these uncertain times, to learn more about all they are doing check on their website at corncobacres.com/covid-19 as they continue to revise and change their protocol when needed. 

As we enter into the season of Fall look no further than Lancaster County to see the seasons change and enjoy time with loved ones. There are activities for the whole family to enjoy across the county with outdoor spaces, food, decorations, and more these are just a few of the ones I have enjoyed over the years with my family and friends. The rich sense of community within Lancaster can be felt by so many and fall is one of the best ways to jump in and experience it for yourself!

If you are thinking about making the move to Lancaster, there are many outstanding locations to choose. Beautiful terrain, rich history and wonderful communities. Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes or properties today! 

For more information on wonderful homes like: 605 Bent Creek Drive, Lititz Pennsylvania take note that Bent Creek is the only gated community in Lancaster County, a great amenity for added safety.

Call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at WolfandWebb.com

Bent Creek Golf Community Lititz PA | Lancaster Area Luxury Homes

Bent Creek golf community home for sale

Bent Creek gated golf community consists of luxury single family homes and villas. Bent Creek is close to restaurants, schools and access to the major highways.

Lancaster is a 15 minute drive from Bent Creek community. Bent Creek is in the Manheim Township school district, a highly rated public school system.

Bent Creek golf community Lititz Pennsylvania

Bent Creek country club features a Jay Morrish Championship designed golf course. The setting of rolling hills, lakes and a creek in the Pennsylvania country side is a beautiful and easy to walk the course. Membership to the country club includes golf, tennis and heated 6 lane pool.

Are you looking to leave New York City, Philadelphia or other cities for a a safe community, with transportation to the major cities, great school district and country style living?

Transportation to New York

Amtrak operates train service from Lancaster to New York Penn Station every 3 hours.

Amtrak trips generally are 2 hours 45 minutes to New York City (may vary due to time of day and covid-19 rescheduling)

Lancaster bus service direct to NYC once a day is a 3 hour 50 minute trip.

If you prefer to drive, the distance between Lancaster and New York is 152 miles with approximately 2 hours 55 minutes.

Bent Creek luxury home coming soon!

Lancaster Commuting to Philadelphia

Thinking of relocating from the Philadelphia area?

Lancaster and Manheim Township offer country style living, a safe environment, transportation to Philadelphia and lots of adventures in the area!

What about travelling to work in Philadelphia?

That’s the most important concern, right? There are Amtrak services to Philadelphia , Baltimore, New York and beyond.

Lancaster Amtrak Train Station

Your new post Covid-19 work schedule may be telecommuting and a couple of days in the office, or you might resume a regular work week schedule.

There are trains to meet your schedule from Lancaster to Philadelphia, Baltimore, New York City and beyond.

The average trip from Lancaster to Philadelphia is 1 hour 13 minutes. Sit back, read your emails, or just relax before your day in the office or adventures in Philly.

A second location, the Mount Joy train station 13 miles northwest of Lancaster and was renovated in 2019. The station reflects the architectural style of downtown Mount Joy. Shops and restaurants just one block from the train station. Amtrak does not provide ticketing or baggage services at this station.

After your day in the office, return to the rolling hills countryside of Lancaster. Breathe fresh air, take a walk in one of the community parks, visit a local restaurant or a walk along a creek.

Your weekends are full of adventure with Amish country nearby, festivals, farmers markets, museums, sports and so much more!

Driving from Lancaster to Philadelphia

Prefer to drive in to Philly from Lancaster?

Lancaster to Philly by car is about 80 miles, using Interstate 76 and the turnpike route. On average, an hour and a half trip from Lancaster to Philadelphia.

The two main places to park your vehicle in Philadelphia are public garages or parking lots.

The Philadelphia Parking Authority garages average $18.50 for 12 hours or $20.50 all day (prices may change).

Monthly parking may be an option you might want to consider. Costs can range between $140 and $500 per month. There are many choices and locations. Click on the Monthly Parking Link to find good tips and info .

If you are thinking about making the move to Lancaster, there are many outstanding locations to choose. Great schools, safe environment, subdivisions, luxury homes and so much more are available.

Ready to look at homes or property?

Call Mary Sue Wolf at 717-333-9653