Lancaster, PA, Eight Days of Pennsylvania Charm

Pennsylvania

April 2025

The Lancaster to Lancaster Drive

The drive from downtown Lancaster, Ohio, to downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was quite a trip. We enjoyed the scenery as we continued our drive through Ohio, crossing the state lines of West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Each state has its own character. Ohio shows expansive fields, West Virginia has rugged, forested Appalachian mountains, and Maryland and Pennsylvania show waving hills.

From Parking Problem to Park Stroll

Staying in this beautiful downtown Lancaster house had its benefits, with everything conveniently located within walking distance. However, the lack of private parking presented a challenge. Street parking was not an option because of its two-hour limit. Hence, we parked in the nearby parking garage and only used our car for longer trips to avoid additional expenses.

Interestingly, the parking discomfort led to a positive change in our exercise routine. We also enjoyed a few additional strolls to and from Lancaster County Central Park before starting our runs on the excellent tracks there.

Capturing Lancaster's Downtown Charm!

After almost a week in Lancaster City, I finally made it downtown with my camera. Lancaster has a fascinating history. It has been the county seat of Lancaster County since 1730. It was the National Capital for only one day for the Continental Congress that had fled British-occupied Philadelphia. And for just over a decade, Lancaster was also Pennsylvania’s capital before it moved to Harrisburg due to its preferred central location.

On this first warm spring evening, many Lancastrians sat outside or strolled around, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. I was glad I had chosen this evening to photograph downtown and say good-bye to Lancaster’s vibrant charm.

Leaving Only Footprints, Taking Only Memories

Before we knew it, it was time to check out this lovely Airbnb in vibrant downtown Lancaster, PA! Despite being in the heart of a lively city, this classic late 1800s townhouse provided a perfect quiet haven during our stay.

At around 10:30 AM, we locked the door and started our travels again, but not after saying goodbye to our home away from home, Lancaster, and Pennsylvania’s beautiful landscapes, diverse culture, and history.