Bird-in-Hand, PA is in the Heart of the Amish Country

Welcome to the Quaint Village Named “Bird-in-Hand”

Welcome to Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, in the heart of the Amish Country. Conveniently located near Sight & Sound, Dutch Wonderland, outlet shopping at Rockvale and Tanger, immediately west of the Village of Intercourse, and next to Ronks and Smoketown. There’s lots to explore in and near Bird-in-Hand, PA:

How Did Bird-in-Hand, PA Get Its Name?

Bird-In-Hand Sign

“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”

Bird-in-Hand probably received its name from the sign on an 18th century inn. As Merriam-Webster defines it, “it is better to hold onto something one has than to risk losing it by trying to get something better.” The inn was named as such because when travelling from Philadelphia (or points east) and making it as far as Bird-in-Hand, you could either find lodging there (a bird in the hand) or continue traveling to find lodging in the larger town of Lancaster (two in the bush). In the 1700s, many travelers and residents in this area spoke different languages. Early inns often took their names from an image they could paint on their sign that would be recognizable in any language, such as a blue ball, a white horse, or a hand holding a bird. Later, the communities that grew around these inns often took on the name of their local inn, such as the villages of Blue Ball, White Horse, and Bird-in-Hand. Note that even though they end up being used interchangeably, technically, the town of Bird-in-Hand and Bird-in-Hand Corporation are separate entities.

 

Amish Buggy In Bird-In-Hand

Amish buggy in Bird-in-Hand

Enjoy Your Visit to Bird-in-Hand!

Bird-in-Hand is surrounded by rolling Amish farmlands. You’ll frequently see the Amish ride through town in their buggies or on scooters. You’ll also encounter them in local shops, at the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, and occasionally at the Bird-in-Hand Restaurant & Smorgasbord. There’s several places in town where you can take a ride on a horse and buggy!

 

Things To Do in Bird-in-HandDining in Bird-in-HandShops in Bird-in-HandLodging in Bird-in-Hand

For visitors to Lancaster County, Bird-in-Hand offers a drastic contrast to the suburban sprawl and congested highways back home. Bird-in-Hand is one Lancaster County village you won’t want to miss! This quiet little crossroads village of shops is located along Route 340 (Old Philadelphia Pike) approximately 7 miles east of Lancaster City and 4 miles west of the village of Intercourse, Pennsylvania. It’s only 1.5 miles north of Route 30 East, so even though you’re in Amish Country, you’re not far from many nearby attractions.

 

Come Enjoy the Town of Bird-in-Hand, PA

Below are many of the businesses you’ll find in Bird-in-Hand, Ronks, Smoketown, and the surrounding countryside.

Smokehouse BBQ and Brews at Plain & Fancy Farm

Smokehouse BBQ and Brews at Plain & Fancy Farm

Authentic BBQ and smoked meat, fried chicken, house-made sauces, sandwiches, sides, salads, local brews & cocktails. Menu also includes Traditional Lancaster County Favorites. Dine-in, take-out and catering available. Buggy rides, Amish homestead tours & shopping on-premises.  Walk-ins welcome.

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Bird-in-Hand Family Inn, Restaurant, Stage, & More

Bird-in-Hand Family Inn, Restaurant, Stage, & More

The Smucker family extends a warm welcome with an array of lodging, dining and entertainment options. Our complimentary bus tours of Amish Country, stage shows and special events offer unique experiences. From our meticulously kept rooms to the farm-to-table goodness on our menus, we make your visit special.

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Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market

Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market

Whether spending the day or just a few hours, be sure to make the farmers market part of your visit to Bird-in-Hand.  We are centrally located and you will shop in comfort in our indoor, air-conditioned farmers market.  Our friendly vendors offer a wide variety of food, snacks and crafts.

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