Intercourse

Intercourse, Pennsylvania, is a small village in Lancaster County, instantly recognizable for its unique name and its deep roots in Amish culture. It serves as a bustling hub where Amish and non-Amish residents conduct business and socialize, creating a distinctive atmosphere. The village is encircled by picturesque Amish farms, making it a prime destination for visitors seeking a glimpse into a simpler way of life.

Beyond the initial chuckle its name often elicits, Intercourse offers a genuine and immersive experience of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors can explore intriguing specialty shops, local restaurants, and attractions that highlight the area's enduring heritage. The rhythmic clip-clop of horse hooves on the streets is a common sound, underscoring the steadfast presence of the Amish community and their traditional practices.

## From Cross Keys to Intercourse Intercourse was founded in 1754, initially bearing the name "Cross Keys" after a local tavern. This early name likely reflected its location as a significant crossroads. The village officially became known as Intercourse in 1814.

## Theories Behind the Name The origin of the name "Intercourse" has several popular theories, none definitively validated but all adding to the village's mystique. One theory suggests it evolved from "Entercourse," referring to the entrance of an old race track that once lay just east of town along the Old Philadelphia Pike. Another widely accepted explanation points to the intersection of two significant roads: the Old King's Highway (now Old Philadelphia Pike, Route 340), which connected Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, and a road running from Wilmington, Delaware, to Erie, Pennsylvania. The joining of these "courses" is thought to be the basis for the name.

A third theory delves into the historical usage of the word itself. In early English, "intercourse" commonly referred to fellowship, social interaction, and mutual support within a community of faith. This interpretation resonates with the village's enduring spirit of community and its role as a gathering place for both locals and visitors.

## A Center of Amish Life Throughout its history, Intercourse has remained a vital center for the Amish community in Lancaster County. It's a place where many Amish come to shop, bank, and conduct their business. This daily interaction between Amish and non-Amish residents contributes to the village's unique cultural fabric and provides visitors with authentic insights into Amish life. The slow, steady pace of change in Intercourse, as noted by locals, suggests that the things that grow slowest often endure the longest, preserving its traditional charm.

Intercourse offers a variety of attractions that immerse visitors in the local Amish culture and heritage. A recommended activity is a buggy ride through the scenic Amish countryside, providing an authentic way to experience the rural landscape and observe Amish farms. For a deeper understanding of Amish life, consider visiting the Amish Experience, which includes a guided farmhouse tour, a visit to a one-room schoolhouse, and a bus tour of the countryside. Here, you can learn about Amish customs, including why they live without electricity.

Kitchen Kettle Village is a popular destination featuring over 40 shops, where you can find local foods, handcrafted items, and observe Amish women canning jams and jellies. For those interested in unique American automobiles, Barry's Car Barn showcases American muscle cars from the 1950s to the 1970s. The village also has numerous specialty shops selling Amish quilts, furniture, and other handcrafted items. Do sample local Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies, such as shoofly pie and hand-rolled pretzels.

The best time to visit Intercourse for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to late September, when temperatures are comfortable and many outdoor attractions are in full swing. Autumn, from September to November, is particularly popular for its comfortable temperatures, vivid foliage, and harvest festivals, often with smaller crowds than the peak summer season. Spring, from March to May, brings blooming flowers and the opening of seasonal attractions, though the weather can be unpredictable. While winter is cold and snowy, it offers a quieter experience for those interested in holiday events and fewer crowds.

Intercourse is located in eastern Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, approximately 10 miles east of downtown Lancaster along Pennsylvania Route 340. It's about a 20-minute drive from Lancaster and roughly an hour and fifteen minutes from Philadelphia. While many attractions are walkable within the village, exploring the wider Amish countryside often requires a car or a guided buggy/bus tour. Accommodations range from hotels and bed and breakfasts to campgrounds. Most shops and attractions typically close around 5 p.m., with some exceptions like a local coffeeshop. Remember that Amish farms are private property, and visitors are welcomed as guests, not as an exhibit.