Like the dual highway circling its city and the vintage covered bridges straddling rural byways, Lancaster County's fusion of historic and contemporary showcase a tri-centennial trip through time. 

  Visitors reap a triple treat this year as “Lancaster Roots 300” celebrates three centuries of history implanted in an outpost settled by a handful of Swiss-German immigrant families seeking religious freedom. Once regarded as “a 984-square-mile wild British settlement” this enduringly unique area is now home to half a million people. Recognized as “the garden spot of America” since the 1800s, despite growth and development, Lancaster has managed to hold fast to some of the richest farmland while remaining synonymous with peace, prosperity and traditional values.

  Familiar for their “Plain People” (old order Amish and Mennonites), traditional farming and uniquely named towns (Bird-in-Hand, Intercourse, Paradise), Lancaster smoothly melds their rural foundation with an uptown downtown that lures five million visitors each year. Tripling their lavish sights and sounds, this distinctive celebratory year offers guests an exceptional value destination, promising something extraordinary for all ages, interests and budgets.

Tours Galore

  Retracing the route of early colonial dwellers is a breeze for visitors opting to track yesteryear by Segway. Easy to operate, these self-driving vehicles permit excursionists to tirelessly tour the town. Through a variety of routes, Red Rose Segway Tours guide guests to historic city sites and buildings, panoramic river valley art tours and ghost and graveyard explorations, sharing eerie stories to curl your hair. (Practice time for novice riders before the tours.) 877-393-8345; RedRoseSegTours.com.

  Marking Lancaster’s significant birthday, dedicated history buffs may opt to begin at the Hans Herr House. Built three centuries ago by permanent settlers, it’s the oldest original Mennonite dwelling in the western hemisphere. There’s no charge to explore the lush gardens and orchards, though there’s an entrance fee to tour the exquisitely restored home. Field trips slated for May 6-7 follow the immigrant route. For schedule, call 717-464-4438; Hans Herr.org.

  Dual delights welcome visitors who tour the Lancaster Museum of Art, displaying a wellspring of regional, national and international treasures housed within the Grubb Family Mansion. An exquisite work of art on its own, the mansion is recognized as one of the finest examples of mid-1800s architecture in the country. Worth a visit. Free. 135 N. Lime St. 717-394-3497; LMAPA.org/about.html.

  Amish V.I.P Tours bring visitors closest to the heart of Lancaster, allowing a glimpse into the oldest Amish settlement in the world. Tour farmlands and homes, and learn of the struggles to preserve community and traditions in an ever more modern environment. For the participatory tour-goer, Farmers Apprentice Tours in Paradise invite guests to roll up their sleeves, milk cows, feed animals and take a tractor tour through a working farm. For reservations, 888-321-8119; Farmland Fun.com.

Arts, Crafts And Science

  Nestled in the center of the oldest store in the village of Intercourse, People’s Place Quilts lures browsers and shoppers from around the world with 6,000 bolts of fabric to please the pickiest quilter. Recognized as a “visual feast of imagination and expression,” the traditional craft is beautifully displayed in this historic store. Non-quilters are invited to snag a snack, play a game of checkers, or just relax and enjoy the view. 800-828-3538; PPQuiltMuseum.com.

  Fine art connoisseurs will revel in Pennsylvania Arts Experience, tracking an Artist Trail along the scenic river valley where 60 museums and numerous artist studios are open to the public. It’s a bonanza of extraordinary works by painters, weavers, potters, glassblowers and other craftsmen. 717-299-9496; PAArtsExperience.com.

  Underscoring the importance of the printed word, Lancaster’s fascinating Newseum introduces visitors a 200-year evolution of local newspapers. With no admission charge, this engrossing self-guided tour is open 24 hours a day! 28 S. Queen St. 717-291-8600.

  Save one afternoon to explore the universe, run with dinosaurs, visit other planets and immerse yourself in surround-sound video that brings each experience to life at the North Museum of Natural History & Science Museum Planetarium. Following a cosmic makeover, this remarkable planetarium’s 41-foot dome offers extraordinary entertainment. 400 College Ave. 717-291-3941; NorthMuseum.org.

Just The Ticket

  Magic comes alive at the Sight and Sound Theatre when Joseph takes wing in his ever-colorful dreamcoat. An extraordinary production for the whole family, this classic “eye for an eye/forgiveness” tale dazzles. Performances run through October 30. 300 Hartman Bridge Rd., Strasburg. For reservations phone 800-377-1227; Sight-Sound.com.

  And for drama buffs who can’t get enough of Tennessee Williams’ work, “Cat On A Hot Tin Roof” sizzles at The Fulton Theatre from April 22 to May 9. 12 N. Prince St. Phone 717-397-7425; TheFulton.org.

Food, Wine and Flavor

  No visit to Lancaster is complete without a visit to Central Market, where you can savor a scrumptious slice of history at America’s oldest farm market building. This extraordinary indoor market has been supplying “locally grown fruits and vegetables, meats, bread, desserts, flowers and fine conversation since the 1700s.”It’s the place to “fill your basket and your heart” year round. Tuesday and Friday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 6 to 2. 23 N. Market St. Phone 717-291-4723, or visit CentralMarketLancaster.com.

  If touring has you working up a thirst, springtime is sensational at Nissley Vineyards, just one of Lancaster County’s wine producers. A family-owned winery estate where guests feel at home, they invite you to bring a picnic, enjoy summer “Music in the Vineyards” and sample nectar of the gods. Like being in Italy, only closer to home. Open seven days a week year round. 800-522-2387; NissleyWine.com.

  Memorial Day weekend offers a veritable feast for the senses, when food, drink and frolic reign at The Great Pennsylvania FlavorFest’s double jamboree (May 29-30) at Mount Hope Estate and Winery on the Renaissance Fairgrounds. Relish tastings of the state’s signature cuisine, wine and beer. Enjoy cooking demonstrations by master chefs, live music, artisan crafts and entertainment for children. Free. 717-665-7021 x 149; PaRenFaire.com.

  Introducing the epitome of indoor/outdoor dining, Loxley’s Restaurant at Heritage Hotel offers cozy cottage-like rooms and equally sumptuous supping in the most elegant tree house ever built. Rising from the indoor bar, this graceful tree becomes a unique centerpiece for delightful deck dining. More than just fine food, Loxley’s is an edible experience. 800-223-8963;
HeritageLancaster.com/dining.html.

More Music

  Top talent performs throughout downtown Lancaster at the annual Launch Music Conference 2010, April 15-18. Designed to guide aspiring musicians seeking stardom, top professionals will be on hand to offer advice, and 150 outstanding musical acts of every genre forecast entertainment throughout the four-day extravaganza. For information or to register to attend, LaunchMusicConference.com.

  Fittingly “America’s music” is proudly highlighted at Rosa Rosa Late Jazz, a special venue within the city’s Rosa Rosa Ristorante Italiano. Sweet harmony reigns at the city’s newest and hippest jazz club Friday and Saturday evenings from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. Look for the Tim Winfield Quartet, Don Johnson Project and Gadjo Playboys on the schedule. For information, 717-509-3970; RosaLateJazz.com.

Small Fry Festivities

  Hop over to the Strasburg Railroad April 2-4 where “train conductor” Peter Cottontail waits with a special surprise for each young passenger boarding the Easter Bunny Train. Call 717-687-8421 for reservations.

  And the rabbit rules on April 3 at Kitchen Kettle Village, where younglings join the Easter Bunny and his pal Yummy at 9 a.m. for breakfast, before hippity hopping down the treasure trail in search of decorated eggs at 10:30 a.m., followed by a full day of entertainment. Phone 800-732-3538; kitchenkettle.com. -CL-

  Before you go: Check 800-723-8824 or PADutchCountry.com for information on coupons, free events, activities, attractions and vacation packages to suit every interest and pocketbook. For Lancaster Roots 300, 717-393-9745; Web site.

Places to Staycation

    An exquisitely detailed restoration transformed a long-shuttered cork factory into an award-winning luxury hotel and fine dining facility. The Cork Factory Hotel is for visitors seeking luxurious pampering. 480 New Holland Ave. 717-735-2075; UrbanPlaceLancaster.com.

  Charm, hospitality and luxury await at The Inn at Leola Village. Historic houses and tobacco barns were converted to AAA’s 4 Diamond award-winners. Restaurant Mazzi, Destinations Spa on the grounds. 717-656- 7002.

  For tranquility and renewal, choose The Inn and Spa at Intercourse Village. Victorian mansion and country suites, all designed for romance and relaxation, with a full service day spa next door. A top 10 Romantic Inn. 717-768-2626.

  A boutique hotel in a historic tobacco warehouse, Lancaster Arts Hotel offers 21st-century luxury in 63 rooms and suites filled with original works of art, many by PA artists. Bar, restaurant and fitness facility. 717-299-3000; LancasterArtsHotel.

  For over 200 years, General Sutter Inn has welcomed visitors to Lititz. Its 15 rooms and suites, decorated in antique country and Victorian style, 1764 Restaurant, and historic courtyard are perfect spots to relax and meet friends. Phone 717-626-2115; GeneralSutter.com.

Upcoming Events in Lancaster County

American Music Theatre
Ongoing
A wide variety of shows and performers. Check their website for a complete listing. American Music Theatre, 2425 Lincoln Hwy. E. (Rt. 30), Lancaster. 800-648-4102; Web site.

Gardens of the Susquehanna Tour
Through October
Benefits the preservation of historic buildings and  grounds at Wheatland estate. With the purchase of a $20 Garden Tour Book, visitors may customize excursions to over 50 gardens, based on dates when gardens are open. 717-392-8721; Web site.

Lancaster Roots 300
Through December
Events throughout the year include concerts, Heritage Trail bike rides and walks, historic site and town tours, folk art exhibits and more. Web site.

Central Market
Ongoing
The country’s oldest farmers’ market, in the heart of Amish country occupies a beautiful 120 year old red brick building at 23 N. Market St., Lancaster. Tues, Fri, 6 am to 4 pm; Sat, 6 am to 2 pm. 717-735-6890; Web site.

First Friday in Lancaster City
Ongoing
Walk around and explore the 70+ arts venues showcasing new exhibitions, live music, theatrical performances, artist receptions, and surprises. The urban center is also home to unique boutiques and outstanding restaurants. 717-509-ARTS; Web site.

Lancaster Symphony Orchestra
April 9-11, May14-16
Apr. 9-11, “Masterworks of Shostakovich & Lalo,” and Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3. May 14-16, “Rhapsody and the New World.” The Fulton Opera House, 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 3 & 8 pm; Sun, 7:30. $25-$62. 717-397-7425; Web site.

Mud Sales
April 3-June 26
Catch a glimpse of some local color and enjoy a sampling of traditional Lancaster County farm fare. You can find everything from crafts, to groceries, to building materials, horses, lawn equipment — the list goes on. For a complete list visit their Web site.

Lancaster County’s Best Kept Secrets Tour
April 9-24
Off-the-beaten-path businesses have created a shopping adventure, offering free special events and surprises. You’ll be delighted by the stores tucked in the countryside and thoroughly enjoy this day of browsing Lancaster County’s treasures. $6. 717-721-1750; Facebook page.

2nd Garden Spot Village Marathon
April 10
This Boston Marathon Qualifier is a beautiful course through Lancaster County farmlands. Some roads will be closed; traffic is expected to be minimal. Race begins at Garden Spot Village, 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland. 8 am. 717-355-6000; Web site.

14th Annual Taste of Lancaster County
April 11
Sample from the area’s finest food and beverage purveyors. Live music, a silent auction and raffle. Benefits the Central PA Food Bank. Lancaster Convention Center, 3 E. Vine St., Lancaster. $25-$65. 717-564-1700; Web site.

Launch Music Conference
April 15-18
Music industry professionals speak, mentor and provide advice to upcoming and established musicians about working in all aspects of the music industry. More than 150 music acts from every genre will perform throughout downtown Lancaster. Lancaster Convention Center, 3 E. Vine St., Lancaster. Web site.

Lancaster County Flower Show
April 15-18
Garden events, an art show, afternoon tea and entertainment. New Holland Rec. Center, 123 N. Shirk Rd., New Holland. Thurs-Fri, 9 to 8; Sat, 9 to 7; Sun, noon to 4. $8. 717-354-4747; Web site.

26th Annual Lancaster Spring ArtWalk
April 17
Artists open their studios and galleries for the weekend and invite the public to stroll around downtown and visit with them. Downtown Lancaster, 120 North Duke St. 717-431-7332; Web site.

“Cat On a Hot Tin Roof”
April 22-May 9
Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning classic. Fulton Opera House, 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Tues-Thurs, 7:30; Fri-Sat, 8; Sat-Sun, 2 pm. $20-$55. 717-397-7425; Web site.

Spring Benefit Auction
April 24
An old-fashioned live and silent auction with heirloom quality crafts donated by local artisans. Benefits Landis Valley Museum, 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Preview, 4:30 pm, live auction 5:30. 717-569-0401; Web site.

25th Annual Landis Valley Museum Herb & Garden Faire
May 7-8
Enjoy walking through the stands of over 70 vendors of heirloom plants and art for the garden. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Fri-Sat, 9 to 5. $8. Benefits the Heirloom Seed Project at Landis. 717-569-0401; Web site.

BrewFest at Mount Hope
May 15
This festival will be comprised of two sessions: 11 am to 3 pm and 4:30 to 8:30 pm, and will feature at least 40 breweries from up and down the East Coast and beyond. Mount Hope Estate & Winery, 83 Mansion House Road, Rt. 72 & PA Tpk. Exit 20, Manheim. $40 in advance; $45 at the gate. 717-665-7021; Web site.

2nd Annual Lancaster County Community Auction
May 15
Auction, children’s activities, delicious food. Benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central PA, Hershey. Breakfast 6 to 10, auction begins at 8. The Family Center of Gap, 835 Houston Run Rd., Gap. 717-533-4001; Web site.

Historic East Berlin Antiques Show
May 20-22
The “great country show” featuring Americana dealers. There will be a preview on Thurs. evening, 5 to 8:30;  $12. Community Ctr., 405 North Ave., E. Berlin. Show hours: Fri, 1 to 7; Sat, 9 to 3. $6. 717-259-9866.

The Greater York Antiques Show & Sale
May 21-22
Quality dealers featuring a variety of Americana, participate. Memorial Hall East, York Expo Center 334 Carlisle Ave., York. Fri, 11 to 7; Sat, 11  to 5. $10. 717-872-2778; Web site.

The Great Pennsylvania FlavorFest
May 29-30
A showcase of Pennsylvania’s unique cuisines, artisan crafts, cooking demos, live music and workshops. Mt. Hope Estate & Winery, 83 Mansion House Rd., Rt. 72 & PA Tpk. Exit 20, Manheim. 11 to 5. Free. 717-665-7021; Web site.

“Phantom.”
June 3-July 4
Gaston Leroux’s epic, sweeping tale of murder, intrigue and romance. Fulton Opera House, 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Tues-Thurs, 7:30; Fri-Sat, 8; Sat-Sun, 2 pm. $20-$55. 717-397-7425; Web site.

Long’s Park Summer Music Series
June 6-August 29
Check their website for concert schedule. Long’s Park Amphitheater, 1441 Harrisburg Pike at Route 30, Lancaster. Sundays, 7:30 pm. Free. 717-735-8883; Web site.

27th Annual Demuth House Garden Tour & Gala
June 11-13
This year’s tour features several exclusive Lancaster locations, offering a variety of creative urban gardens and unique home interiors. Demuth Garden Gala on June 11, 6 to 9 pm. Tour on Sat-Sun, 10 to 5. $15-$18. 717-299-9940; Web site.

New Oxford Annual Antiques Market
June 19
Over 30,000 come to the borough for this outdoor market. On the Streets of New Oxford. Free. Rain or shine, 8 to 4. 717-624-7787; Web site.

Lititz Historical Foundation’s 48th Annual Antiques Show & Sale
June 25-26
More than 40 dealers from several states offer a wide variety of antiques. Ticket includes free pass to the Lititz Mueller House and Museum. John R. Bonfield Elementary School, Front & Oak Sts., Lititz. Fri, 10 to 6; Sat, 10 to 4. $4-$5. 717-626-7059; Web site.

Celtic Fling and Highland Games
June 25-27
Hundreds of musicians, dancers, craftsmen, Scottish clans, Irish societies and rugged athletes gather for the Celtic Fling. Kick off concert June 25 with the Young Dubliners and Enter The Haggis, 6 pm. Mount Hope Estate & Winery, 2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim. $9.95-$25.95. 11 am to 10 pm. 717-665-7021; Web site.

3rd Annual Battle of the Brewery Bands
July 24
Local bands get to show off their talents in a musical fight for the “golden keg” and donate proceeds to their favorite charity. Sampling of hand-crafted beers, good food and music. Stoudt’s Black Angus Restaurant & Brew Pub, 2800 N. Reading Rd., Adamstown. 6 to 10 pm. $25. 717-484-4386; Web site. -CL-