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.
Where 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.
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!
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:
The 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.
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!
Tripadvisor’s #1 Lancaster County Hotel. Trivago’s #1 National 3-star Hotel. Just 1 mile west of Intercourse on Rt 340, an AAA Scenic Byway. Complimentary breakfast buffet and amazing Amish farmland views. Indoor pool, spa, fitness center. Separate adult-only and family-friendly buildings make AmishView perfect for an intimate getaway or family vacation.
at Plain & Fancy Farm
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.
Peaceful Valley Furniture – Amish Handcrafted Furniture
3347 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. 340), Intercourse 17534, 717-768-0216
A local landmark for over 40 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!
3709 E. Newport Rd. (Rt. 772)
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.
One of the biggest challenges with any landscape rake is that you always end up with SOME dirt in your bucket. Now, you can order a Rockaway with a rock screening bucket to sift out a lot of that extra dirt when your bucket is full.
10 S. New Holland Rd
Create the outdoor space you’ve been dreaming of. Keystone Outdoor Oasis specializes in custom hardscapes, detailed 3D designs, and expert installation backed by a 5-year warranty. Schedule your free consultation today!
3360 Harvest Drive
Create memories at Kitchen Kettle Village with 40+ unique shops, restaurants, and lodging. Sample fresh salsa, pickles, and wine, watch fudge being made, and explore one of Lancaster’s most famous kitchens. Open Monday–Saturday, closed Sundays.
3529 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. 340)
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.
The Old Country Store – Quilts & Fabrics in Intercourse, PA
3510 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. 340)Reach thousands of travelers planning their next trip.
Promote your business – 1 million visits and over 1.7 million pageviews on this website in the last year, plus 800,000 clicks to our 350+ customers.
Ride like the Amish with a Horse and Buggy. Visit working Amish farms. Several ride options available, including Private Rides!
Visit WebsiteOnly officially designated “Heritage Site” Amish house tour and school.
Visit WebsiteTour Package Savings on Amish Farmlands tour, “Jacob’s Choice” show, and Amish house & school tour.
Visit WebsitePersonally meet Amish at milking time, at work, at home.
Visit WebsiteAmish Experience is a complete interpretive center focusing on Amish culture and heritage.
Visit WebsiteAmos’ Place features a lineup of delicious meal options. A favorite of both locals and tourists!
Visit WebsiteVisit memory lane with Barry’s collection of American muscle cars and memorabilia from the 50’s – 70’s.
Visit WebsiteStay at a working Amish dairy farm in the Amish Country.
Visit WebsiteAmish solar panel installation company. Solar system designs: grid-tied, solar with battery backup, and off-grid.
Visit WebsiteNew expansion, new rooms, suites, indoor pool, right in Intercourse.
Visit WebsiteThe Furniture Showroom for local craftsman for more than 20 years.
Visit WebsiteFeatures gear and gifts for your outdoor adventures. Find sweatshirts, backpacks, and more.
Visit WebsiteDelicious homemade soups, juicy burgers, french fries, roasted turkey and chicken salad sandwiches, fresh salads, and more.
Visit WebsiteDiscover what it means to be Amish in unique theater.
Visit WebsiteAmish Made Furniture, Built for Life, Made for Memories
Visit WebsiteEscape to the timeless charm of a 1766 limestone mansion minutes from Intercourse Village.
Visit WebsitePremiere carries an extensive inventory of premium quality windows, doors, siding, stone, and other products.
Visit WebsiteWe offer customized massages for individuals and couples, with hot stone, sports, and prenatal massage options available. By appointment only.
Visit WebsiteAward-winning PA Dutch-Style meats and a wide range of local foods. Our restaurant serves delicious meals.
Visit WebsiteThe Bake Shop offers fresh cookies, whoopie pies, and shoofly pies—follow the delicious aroma of Kitchen Kettle Village!
Visit WebsiteVisit our taproom to sample premium olive oils and balsamic vinegar and explore our new line of spices, sugars, and salts.
Visit WebsiteLocally made, freshly brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, fruit smoothies, and tasty desserts.
Visit WebsiteClean comfortable bed. Continental Plus breakfast. Watch the Amish buggies.
Visit WebsiteShop and dine side-by-side with the Amish. Unique attractions. Lodging.
Visit WebsiteExplore one of our newest shops filled with locally made soaps, bath bombs, hair bars, and more!
Visit WebsiteThe 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.
There is a vibrant community in Intercourse, PA and you can always find something new to explore. Including:
There are a variety of hotels, campgrounds, and bed and breakfasts in Intercourse, PA. Click here for a full list of options.
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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