Philadelphia, PA
- Southcentral Pennsylvania, known as Dutch Country Roads (DCR), is like a beautiful patchwork quilt. Each region is woven together with threads of local color -- especially its culinary treasures, craft beer, and wine offerings. From Chambersburg to Reading, Pa., the growing mix of wineries and breweries provides a perfect opportunity to explore the area's culture and cuisine.
A Traveler's Guide to Pennsylvania's Dutch Country Roads: Wine, Brews, and Homestyle Cuisine
Just a short drive from Philadelphia lies a region of picturesque rolling hills, historic towns, and rich agricultural traditions known as Pennsylvania's Dutch Country. This scenic area, encompassing counties like Lancaster, York, Adams, and Cumberland, offers a perfect road trip destination for those who love to explore local flavors. From award-winning wineries and thriving craft breweries to hearty homestyle cuisine and bustling farmers' markets, a trip along the Dutch Country Roads is a true feast for the senses.
Sip Through Wine Country
The region is home to several fantastic wine trails, showcasing the surprising diversity of Pennsylvania's wine scene.
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Adams County: While new to the industry, Adams County is gaining nationwide attention for its wineries. Tucked into the valleys near the Blue Ridge Mountains, quaint Orrtanna is home to Adams County Winery and Reid's Orchard & Winery, both of which expertly blend the rich fruit flavors of the region into their wines. In nearby Biglerville, Hauser Estate Winery is a local favorite, especially for its stunning countryside views.
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Hershey Harrisburg Wine Country: This trail features a vast selection of artfully handcrafted wines from over 15 award-winning, family-run wineries.
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York County's Mason-Dixon Wine Trail: Explore the best of the region's vineyards by tasting your way along this year-round trail, which features over 20 wineries.
Explore the Craft Brew Scene
Beer lovers will find plenty to discover, with microbreweries and brewpubs scattered throughout the region.
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Cumberland Valley: The Cumberland Valley Beer Trail highlights fine homemade brews at spots like Market Cross Pub & Brewery, Al's of Hampden, and the well-known Appalachian Brewing Company.
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Lancaster & York Counties: Microbreweries also abound in Lancaster County, and York County's Susquehanna Ale Trail features over 13 breweries and a distillery, offering a fantastic tour of the local craft scene.
Savor Authentic Dutch Country Cuisine
A vacation isn't complete without indulging your taste buds, and this region is a true culinary destination.
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Pennsylvania Dutch Staples: From hearty chicken potpies and braised pork medallions in Lancaster to homemade shoofly pie and scrapple, you can find authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking at local eateries and bustling farmers' markets.
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Farm-Fresh Bounty: Family-owned farmers' markets are a hallmark of the area. Franklin County is particularly famous for its roadside stands selling an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables, including the legendary "Chambersburg Peaches." Greater Reading also boasts a sumptuous array of farm-fresh foods and local delicacies.
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Culinary Adventures: For those who want a hands-on experience, travelers in the Cumberland Valley can try their hand at new recipes with a class at a local cooking school like The Kitchen Shoppe & Cooking School or Cornerstone Culinary Kitchen.
Follow the Trails
To make your journey easy and delicious, you can follow one of the area's curated culinary trails:
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Gettysburg Wine & Fruit Trail: This unique trail combines farms, wineries, and markets for a complete taste of Adams County's agricultural bounty.
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Mason-Dixon Wine Trail & Susquehanna Ale Trail: These year-round trails in York County provide a perfect roadmap for sipping and savoring your way through the region.
A road trip along Pennsylvania's Dutch Country Roads is a journey through the heart of the state's agricultural and culinary traditions. With its award-winning wineries, thriving craft breweries, and delicious homestyle food, the region offers a truly authentic and flavorful getaway.
