Imagine Lancaster
VLPA editors hand pick the best Things To Do in Lancaster

A Guide to Lancaster Pride Fest

An Interview with Tammy Lorch

Tammy Lorch is an avid photographer of Lancaster County. She has won several awards for her pictures, including three from our own VLPA photo tour of Strasburg PA. She has also participated in other photo walks and Hot Air Balloon Rides along with VLPA. Learn more about how she addresses her art and view some of her work of the local area.

An Interview with Osmyn Oree

We had a chat with Osmyn Oree whose interest in photography began when he was a teenager. Osmyn explained his preference for film over digital, as well as candid over edited shots. His goal as a photographer is to present real subjects to the world in their most natural form. Read on to learn more about Osmyn!

An Interview with Joseph Mobley

Joseph Mobley took some time to chat with us about his extensive musical background, his desire to be a well-rounded individual, and his work with children at the Mix At Arbor Place. Read on to learn more about Joseph, and how he became interested in photography.

An Interview with Jodie Cruse

We had a chat with Jodie Cruse, a tooth-sculpting dental assistant who also happens to be an aspiring photographer. Jodie prefers impromptu photo ops, but is also interested in venturing more into portrait photography. Read on to learn more about her!

An Interview with Jennifer Strouse

We took some time to chat with Jennifer Strouse about the evolution of her photography skills which came about shooting street scenes on long Lancaster walks. We also learned that her creativity is expressed through her love for knitting and baking. Read on to discover more about her!

An Interview with Zach Satko

Our first interview of 2017 is with Zach Satko, whose interest in photography started in college, and bloomed over the years as he traveled around the globe. Soon, Zach will delve into the world of newborn photography as he and his wife welcome a son. Read on to learn more about Zach!

An Interview with Michele Quigley

Lancaster native, Michele Quigley, took time to chat with us about the importance of women leaving their legacy in photo form, regardless of their age. She also explained how her photography endeavors have become a family affair. Read on to learn more about Michele!

An Interview with Chad Harnish

This week we interviewed the founder of Visit Lancaster PA, Chad Harnish, and learned more about what makes him equal parts techie and artist. Read on to discover more about the man behind the VLPA machine.

An Interview with Maejean Vintage

Laura, Amanda, and Dahlia of Maejean Vintage took some time to tell us how they turned a hobby into a thriving and successful business starting with one black jumper. Read on to learn more about these fabulous gals and their skills for spotting the gems.

An Interview with Ivan Reiff

Ivan Reiff took some time to explain his addiction to taking countless pictures and hoarding them forever. We also learned about his propensity to filter and edit in a way that brings out the best in the scenes he captures. Read on to discover more about Ivan!

An Interview with Kathy Frey

Kathy Frey, owner of Festoon, took some time to tell us about her artistic evolution through the years, and how it's come full-circle. Read on to learn more about her!

An Interview with Tana Reiff

Accomplished writer and photographer, Tana Reiff, took time to reveal her creative evolution over the years, as well as to tell us about her love for wildflowers, and her reverence and respect for the Amish. Read on to learn more about her!

An Interview with Diana Shaffer

Diana Shaffer, took some time to tell us about her rapid success as an emerging local photographer, and explained her love of finding and capturing beauty and light in the dark, desolate, and abandoned. Read on to learn more about her!

An Interview with Tim Nies

Lancaster County has a diverse small business community, but few entrepreneurs have a story as fascinating as Tim Nies, the owner of Barebones Bicycle & Fitness in Strasburg. We sat down with Tim at his bike shop to talk about his history of racing and building, his artistic passions, and his thriving bike shop. Be sure to check it out!

Photography Tip: Daytime Long Exposure Using Welding Glass

Shooting photos in Lancaster just got a bit more interesting here at Visit Lancaster PA.

After reading an article online about daytime long exposure, we went out with a few bucks to gather some supplies to try it out.

Read on to see how it went for us.

An Interview with Brian Wilson

Brian, and his daughter, Maegan, sat down with us at the Strasburg Rail Road, to discuss his lifelong passion for trains, as well as his nomadic spirit. Read on to learn more about Brian (and Maegan)!

An Interview with Missy Herr

Missy Herr sat down with us to discuss her love of shooting nature scenes, her teenage daughter, and anything else that happens to inspire her. Read on to learn more about Missy!!

A Guide To Community Fairs in Lancaster County for 2016

One of the unique aspects of Lancaster County’s still thriving agricultural influence is the concept of a community fair. Community fairs allow farmers – mostly youth – to showcase the livestock they have raised over the preceding year, businesses the chance to advertise in tents, and the community to come together to celebrate agriculture by eating delicious food, including milkshakes, funnel cakes, and more delectable delights.

The 2016 fair season is just around the corner, and as always, Imagine Lancaster has you covered.

An Interview with Victoria Gertenbach

The multi-talented Victoria Gertenbach spent some time with us to tell us about her passion for the textile arts, and in particular, quilting. She explained how she's inspired by the geometric shapes and shabby finishes of the old barns of Lancaster county, and how she incorporates those flashes of inspiration into her beautiful quilts. Read on to learn more about Victoria!

An Interview with Jackie Sabol Andress

We spoke with Jackie Sabol Andress about her lifelong love of photography, as well as the challenges of trying to capture angsty teenagers on film, and her passion for shooting the abandoned and the decayed. Read on to learn more about Jackie!

An Interview with Adam Hoke

Adam Hoke took time out of his busy schedule to tell us about his favorite cameras, lenses, and subjects to photograph. He also explained how stars on maps symbolize his dreams for future exploration. Read on to learn more about Adam!

An Interview with Whitney Monaghan

We took some time to chat with Whitney Monaghan about her love of communicating her art through a dreamy, fantasy, otherworldly look. She also explains her love of post-session editing and serendipitous moments caught on film. Read on to learn more about her!

An Interview With Michelle Fritz

Local photographer, Michelle Fritz, graciously spent time with us to discuss her love of capturing the minute details of flowers, insects, and other elements of nature. She also told us more about her famous "frozen bubble" photos that recently got exposure around the globe.

An Interview with Tyler Deiter

We took some time to chat with Tyler Deiter. Landscaper. Photowalker. Oldest sibling of twelve brothers and sisters! Tyler's love of nature and big machinery is perfectly captured in his stunning photographs. Read on to learn more about him!

An Interview with Seth Dochter

We sat down with Seth on a pleasant March afternoon to discuss his love of photography. We learned about his passion for bringing the Lancaster community of photographers together through his photowalks as well as his penchant for preserving the history of our area through pictures. Read on to learn more about the man behind the Amish Road Show.

An Interview With Steve Barrall

We sat down with the very-mustached Steve Barrall, Stationmaster of the Strasburg Rail Road, to discuss everything from rockets to rail cars, and discovered the meaning of the term "putzing" along the way. Read on to learn more about the man who keeps everything on the right track at the Strasburg Rail Road!

An Interview with Michelle Johnsen

On a cold February Afternoon, we met up with local Lancaster photographer, Michelle Johnsen, and chatted about her work. Michelle has a free spirit that reflects in her art. From nature to the city, she photographs it all with her unique style and fine tuned eye.

She tells us about her creative process and how she saves every picture she takes! Her passion for her family, friends, and art radiates in everything she does as shown in this interview.

An Interview with local shop owner, Rose Nutter

We sat down with local proprietor, Rose Nutter, to discuss her vintage store called Black Kat Kollectibles. Rose gave us insight into what inspires her and compels her to make buying decisions when selecting inventory for her shop.

She shows us some of her more unique items and explains them all. With her sweet and bubbly personality and her charming 50's style, Rose is one Lancaster character you don't want to miss. Her shop reflects that as well!

Read on to learn more about this cool spot, located in Bird-in-Hand, and visit soon to find a treasure of your own!

An Interview with Lancaster Photographer, Jennifer Macneill

We sat down with local photographer, Jennifer Macneill, on a cold December evening at The Landis Valley Farm and Museum. Jen gave us insight into what inspires her and compels her to document the world around her through photography.

The Cold Hot Air Balloon Ride

A hot air balloon ride over Lancaster County following a snow fall. This ride will provide one of a kind photographic opportunities.

An Interview with Lancaster Photographer, Dave Berk

We sat down with local photographer, Dave Berk, on a cold December evening at Tellus 360. Dave gave us insight into what inspires him and compels him to document the world around him through photography.

A Night Out With the Girls

Hanging out with friends of both sexes is definitely fun, but sometimes a lady needs her girl time. Gather up your best gal pals and hit the town for some feminine fun. Here are some suggestions of places to visit in Lancaster County that will make your girls night out a night to remember!

Paul Anater, The Man Behind #lancastergram

We sat down with local photographer, Paul Anater, on an overcast December morning at the Lancaster Train Station. He gave us insight into what inspires him and compels him to document the world around him through photography.

Holiday Gift Ideas in Lancaster for the Whole Family

Some are easier to shop for than others are, but in the diverse marketplace that is Lancaster County, you are sure to find something for everyone. Read on for great gift suggestions in Lancaster County for each family member.

The Strasburg Photography Tour Fall 2015

A Look Beyond the Nook
Things To Do and Places To Eat Near Spooky Nook

Spooky Nook is cool, it’s big, it’s impressive, and it’s a great draw for Lancaster. But there really are things to do in Lancaster not at Spooky Nook. For all of you travel team parents, bored younger siblings, and other visitors to Lancaster County spending time at “the Nook”, this guide is for you: these are some of our favorite things to do and places to eat near Spooky Nook.

Fair Fun in Lancaster County

One of the unique aspects of Lancaster County’s still thriving agricultural influence is the concept of a community fair. Community fairs allow farmers – predominantly youth – to showcase the livestock they have raised over the preceding year, businesses the chance to advertise in tents, and the community to come together to celebrate agriculture by eating delicious food, including milkshakes, funnel cakes, and more delectable delights.

The 2015 fair season is just around the corner, and like always, Imagine Lancaster has you covered.

Fun Things To Do With Kids In Lancaster County

There are an abundance of things to do in Lancaster County, but what about fun activities aimed specifically at kids? Whether your interests lie in eating or activity, opportunities abound. And the opportunities here in Lancaster are unique - you won't find them anywhere else. Read on for a great list of fun things for kids to do in Lancaster County.

Al Fresco Dining in Lancaster County PA

The seasons have shifted in full force, and the warmer months are beginning call for grill-sets and patio furniture, for mid-day trips to the park and extensive gardening, and for fine outdoor dining. In Lancaster County, the opportunities for Al Fresco and café style eateries are many and varied.

Adamstown, Pennsylvania: Antiques Capital, USA

If you love remnants of a bygone era, then Adamstown, Pennsylvania is your antiques destination. Affectionately known as "Antiques Capital, USA", Adamstown boasts one of the largest collections of vintage treasures for miles around. Step back in time and soak up the beauty of days past in Adamstown, Pennsylvania.

Kelly’s Run Pinnacle Trail System

Listed consistently as one of the top hikes in all of Pennsylvania, the Kelly’s Run trail is predominately a four mile loop. This scenic, and challenging, trail is perfect for the seasoned hiker, or anyone looking for a new spot to take a walk. Bring your canine companion along and soak up the beauty of the Kelly's Run trail!

Easter in Lancaster

From breakfasts and brunches to eggs hunts and choir performances – No community keeps to Easter Tradition like Lancaster County PA. The celebratory Holiday is fast approaching, and the schedules are filling up. Check out some of the family-centered festivities Lancaster has to offer:

Eagles and Eaglets

Even if this is the first you’ve heard of Liberty and Freedom – the two Pennsylvania Bald Eagles that have become a global phenomenon – it’s a good time to join in on the running saga. Their nest near Hanover PA’s Codorus state park – closely observed by a trained camera (courtesy of the Pennsylvania Gaming Commission) – has become the object of worldwide attention – with hundreds of thousands of viewers watching from more than 140 countries throughout the season. And as of Tuesday, March 24th, the Great Birds are now the proud parents of two young Eaglets.

A Random Sample of Lancaster Instagram Photographers

view the full list of recommended Lancaster Instagrammers

Mike McMonagle @mickelobultra

Yolanda Negron @yjn64joy

Mud Sales in Lancaster PA

Volunteer firefighters in Pennsylvania save local municipalities and the Commonwealth around $6 billion annually in avoided costs. Much of this comes because they do their own fundraising. The predominant fundraiser for volunteer fire companies in Lancaster County is the mud sale, a unique concept conceived in the 1960s that has continued ever since. They are cultural events fittingly named for the muddy ground that usually manifests itself around the time of year in which they occur. Read on for details of the fun at Lancaster County mud sales.

Winter Fun in Lancaster PA

Winter weather in Lancaster County can be unpredictable. At times we're pummeled with snow - sometimes up to a foot or more - but we also have days where the temperature spikes into the 40s and 50s. Luckily, there's a wide range of bucolic activities available that foster fun no matter what the weather decides to do. Check out a few of VLPA’s favorites!

Build a Handcrafted Gift Basket

A list of some of our favorite locally crafted products that would be great for building your own hand crafted gift baskets.

By shopping here, you’re not only supporting those local to Lancaster brick & mortar establishments, but also supporting regional growers, cottage industry crafters and related small businesses. These types of items would make great “Lancaster Handcrafted” gift baskets too!

Editor's Pick: Strasburg Shoppes anchor the town

Perhaps you've been interested in participating in a wine tasting. Or, maybe you've been craving a delicious sticky bun, hand-dipped ice cream, or a slab of scrumptious fudge. Ever wanted to spend the night in a historic inn? Well, look no further, you can find all of these tasty treats right in the heart of Strasburg. Read on for more information on some of the best food, shopping, and lodging in Strasburg, Lancaster County.

Free Things To Do In Lancaster County

There are many free things to do in Lancaster County that are just as much fun, if not more fun, than those things for which you have to pay. Read on for a great compilation of free fun in Lancaster!

Editor’s Pick: Cherry Crest Farm offers fall family fun in Lancaster County

One such fun thing to do in Lancaster County is the Corn Maze at Cherry Crest Farm. Cherry Crest Farm is a family-owned business located just south of Strasburg, in Ronks. Rooted in strong Christian values, they are on the cutting edge of “agri-tainment” – agricultural entertainment!

Welcome to the VisitLancasterPA Blog!

This is the inaugural post of the VisitLancasterPA.net blog titled Imagine Lancaster.

In future posts, we will highlight fun things to do in Lancaster County, community news and events, and Lancaster County culture in an effort to be the most comprehensive Lancaster County resource around. Additionally, each section of listings on our website will have "editors' picks" - completely unbiased selections from our editors about their favorite businesses from each category. We aim to give you, the reader, a better idea of what locals say about Lancaster! Check back often, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus for any and all updates from Imagine Lancaster.