While you’re in Lancaster County, visit the Kitchen Kettle Village, a quaint local attraction that grew from a family’s backyard in the 1950s. Today, it comprises a community of boutiques and restaurants set against a bucolic backdrop of undulating farmland. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and chat with the shopkeepers, quilters and cooks about the three generations of the Burnley family that set up the village.
Admire the charming stable-like architecture of the various shops, with gabled roofs and elegant pediments. Stroll between the trees and rest in the shade, soaking up the pleasant atmosphere.
With its homemade Dutch canned and baked products, the Jam & Relish Kitchen is the cultural core of the village. Watch the staff cook and bake, try the Game Day Meatballs and sample the Cranberry Orange Pecan Brie. Pickles, crackers and flavored butters are among the other delicacies you’ll find here.
Browse the various Dutch Lancaster County souvenirs and crafts in the shops. Take home some of the hanging and potted plants and flowers. Other highlights include a leather shop, a fudge shop and varied specialty stores.
Bring your little ones on the buggy ride and look for the costumed Gingerbread Man mascot. Stay overnight at The Inn at Kitchen Kettle Village and go on a morning hike over the rolling hills.
The village began as a backyard neighborhood tradition in 1954. Pat and Bob Burnley used to invite locals for family entertainment and traditional food. Attend one of the events set up in this community, including tastings and picnics.
The Kitchen Kettle Village is in the center of the town of Intercourse, in Lancaster County. From the Lancaster train station, drive east for 12 miles (19 kilometers) to get here in about 20 minutes.
Travel through the area to see some of the surrounding sights, including the Strasburg Rail Road, the Amish Village and the American Military Edged Weaponry Museum.