Intercourse, PA – An Amish Country Treasure

Welcome to the Village of Intercourse, Pennsylvania

Many people consider Intercourse, PA to be the heart of the Amish Country in Lancaster County. Intercourse (formerly known as “Cross Keys”) is a business hub for both Amish and local folks. Beautiful Amish farms surround the village, which help make it one of the top tourist destinations for visitors to Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Take a walk around this small country town and you’ll discover intriguing specialty shops, museums, art galleries, other attractions, and local restaurants.

And there are many more shops and attractions in Lancaster County.

An Image Representing Intercourse, Pa - An Amish Country Treasure In Lancaster County, PaWhere is Intercourse, PA? It’s located along Old Philadelphia Pike (Route 340) in Eastern Lancaster County. Intercourse is just east of Bird-in-Hand and north of Paradise, and is close to many Lancaster County attractions. Intercourse, PA is roughly 10 miles east of downtown Lancaster, PA (about a 20 minute drive). Intercourse, PA is only 50 miles west of Philadelphia (depending on traffic, it’s about a 1hr 15min drive from Philly) and 80 miles northeast of Baltimore (about a 1.5 hour drive).

The village is a reminder of our traditional American heritage and of a simpler way of life.

Intercourse, PA – A Center of Amish Activity

Amish Buggy In Intercourse, Pa

Amish buggy in Intercourse, PA

One of the biggest attractions of Intercourse is the Amish people themselves. Intercourse is a center in Lancaster County where many Amish come to shop, bank, and conduct their business. And many of the shops in town sell Amish quilts, furniture, toys, crafts, and other Amish products that have been handmade by their Amish neighbors.

Some of the scenes from the Paramount motion picture “Witness”, starring Harrison Ford, were filmed right here in Intercourse!

How Intercourse, PA Got Its Name

Formerly known as “Cross Keys”, this village was founded in 1754. The name was changed to “Intercourse” in 1814. There are several explanations concerning the origin of the name of Intercourse, but none can be fully substantiated:

An Image Representing Intercourse, Pa - An Amish Country Treasure In Lancaster County, PaThe first centers on an old race track which existed just east of town along the Old Philadelphia Pike. The entrance to the race course was known as “Entercourse”. Some suggest that “Entercourse” gradually evolved into “Intercourse”.

Another theory is based on the fact that two major roads crossed here: Old King’s Highway, which ran from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh (now called the Old Philadelphia Pike, route 340), and the road from Wilmington, Delaware to Erie, Pennsylvania. The intersection of these roads was thought to be the basis for calling the town “Cross Keys”, or, eventually, “Intercourse”.

A final idea comes from English used in the early 1800’s. The word “intercourse” would have been a reference to the fellowship, social interaction and friendship that was so much a part of the culture in an agricultural village. These roots mark the community of faith to this day, still experienced by those who care to dig a bit more deeply while visiting the area.

Come & Enjoy Your Visit to Intercourse, PA

Intercourse is a fascinating village full of delightful treasures, friendly shopkeepers, and quality food and merchandise, nestled in the scenic Amish Country. For visitors of any age, there’s plenty to do (check out these upcoming events in Intercourse, PA). You can even stay overnight in Intercourse, PA. Enjoy your visit!

Don't Miss These Popular Points of Interest Near Intercourse, PA:

Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village – Romantic Boutique Hotel

Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village – Romantic Boutique Hotel

Enjoy a peaceful visit at the Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village; Lancaster County's premier destination for shopping, exploring and getting to know the Amish. Our select property, offering the finest of amenities and an unparalleled breakfast, is just steps away from it all.

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Kitchen Kettle Village

Kitchen Kettle Village

Create memories when you discover a Village of 40+ unique shops, restaurants & lodging built around one of Lancaster County’s most famous kitchens. Sample freshly made salsa and pickles, see fudge being poured, and taste award winning wines. Open Monday - Saturday.  Closed Sundays.

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The Old Country Store – Quilts & Fabrics in Intercourse, PA

The Old Country Store – Quilts & Fabrics in Intercourse, PA

Historic store offering Lancaster County’s finest, locally handmade quilts and crafts. We proudly sell “Made in USA.” Also favored for our exceptional customer service, extensive selection of quilting fabric and sewing notions, innovative kitchen gadgets, novelty wares, and old-fashioned toys.

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Peaceful Valley Furniture – Amish Handcrafted Furniture

Peaceful Valley Furniture – Amish Handcrafted Furniture

Large selection of fine furniture handcrafted by Amish and Mennonite artisans. Wide variety of desks, cabinets, chests, tables, chairs (including the popular glider rockers), and more. Plus, bird houses, rocking horses, wishing wells, mailboxes, Amish crafts, and gifts. Closed Sundays.

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Snyder’s Furniture

Snyder’s Furniture

A local landmark for almost 20 years, Snyder's is located just outside of Intercourse, PA. Watch the Amish country sunset while enjoying our expansive display of local handcrafted outdoor furniture or enjoy Dutch food samplers every Saturday. Amish tables, beds, cribs, rockers and more!

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Village of Intercourse Merchants Association

Village of Intercourse Merchants Association

Welcome to the unique village of Intercourse. Here you can shop and dine side-by-side with the Amish while you enjoy unusual things to do, diverse dining, unique shopping, and a variety of lodging options. Create memories during the day, then go to sleep hearing the clickety-clack of horse hooves on our streets.

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Barry’s Car Barn

Barry’s Car Barn

Take a trip down memory lane with Barry's collection of American muscle cars and memorabilia from the 50s, 60s, and 70s (along with a few others).  Visit our website for hours and admission rates.

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Learn more about Intercourse, PA -

Things To Do in Intercourse · Intercourse Restaurants ·  Shops in Intercourse · Where to Stay in Intercourse

Other nearby areas that might also interest you include:

Bird-in-Hand · Paradise · Eastern Lancaster County

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FAQs About Intercourse, PA

Why is intercourse PA named intercourse?

The town was originally named Cross Keys after a local tavern. The name changed in 1814 when the name Intercourse became official because the town exists at the junction of two main roads.

What are some fun things to do in Intercourse, PA

There is a vibrant community in Intercourse, PA and you can always find something new to explore. Including:

  • Amish Home & Farms
  • Amish One Room School Houses
  • Buggy Rides
  • Museums
  • …and much more!

Where are the best places to stay near Intercourse, PA

There are a variety of hotels, campgrounds, and bed and breakfasts in Intercourse, PA. Click here for a full list of options.

Where is Intercourse, PA

Intercourse, PA is a small village in the eastern part of Lancaster County. It is known for its strong Amish community, beautiful country setting, and interesting name.

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