Taking a Break from History

Visiting Gettysburg is by no means a one-day affair. The town has
done a fine job of developing its tourism by not only showcasing American
history in so many different ways but also by featuring the other fine
attributes of the region. The countryside surrounding Gettysburg proper lends
itself to all kinds of outings. It’s sweet, bucolic and full of down-home
goodness to experience and in many cases, eat and drink.

“A” is for Arendtsville and it’s also for apple, of which you
will find many in this borough northwest of Gettysburg (as well as in the whole
region). They even have an apple festival in the fall. Just driving through
this rural part of Pennsylvania is a delight although reserve time to stop at
the many farm stands and markets where you can buy not only apples but all
kinds of other produce, prepared foods, baked goods and gift items. At the
McDannell’s Fruit Farm & Market you might find some of the best apple cider
donuts in the region.

Biglerville is also apple central. They even have a National
Apple Museum. Go here to learn about the importance of apples and apple trees
throughout early America. Johnny Appleseed is not a myth. The Historic Round
Barn & Farm Market is one of the most beautiful places of all in the area.
Built in 1914, this structure is one of only a few round barns that still
exists today. Set within the orchard, it provides a lovely setting for shopping
or just breathing in the beautiful nature within this picturesque countryside.

If you’re into organic, go to Oyler’s. And for Dutch Valley and
McCutcheon products along with a cornucopia of produce, stop in at Sandoe’s
Fruit Market.

At Hollabaugh Bros., Inc. and Boyer Nurseries & Orchards,
also in Biglerville, you can even pick your own fruit, which is such a fun
outing for all. They cater to kids and outdoor fun at both establishments with
a variety of events and animations, including an evergreen maze at Boyer’s. The
over 21 crowd can also revel in lots of delicious nips at their wine and hard
cider tasting room.

More wine tasting and shopping may be enjoyed at Halbrendt
Vineyard & Winery and Adams County Winery & Wine Shop. Clearly the land
surrounding Gettysburg is both sacred and fertile. Know that you can typically
find a bushel-full of fun gift ideas at the wineries and farm stands.

Beer drinkers will find their pleasure at Thirsty Farmer Brew
Works, also in Biglerville. Go here and enjoy a light bite with a rich ale or a
hard cider. There’s nothing like relaxing in the middle of beautiful
countryside with a cold and frosty. Over at Battlefield Brew Works &
Distillery, you can find everything it takes to really unwind from the
heaviness of history.

Do you like elephants? What about candy? In many cultures, the elephant
is the symbol of happiness and well being. And doesn’t candy create happiness
and well being? If you like both or one or the other, Mister Ed’s Elephant
Museum & Candy Emporium is for you (and of course the kiddos). Here you’ll
find one of the largest collections of elephant memorabilia in the world–it’s
really quite extraordinary. The same goes for the candy, hundreds of different
types of sweets sure to elevate your day. They also have roasted peanuts that
they have been roasting in an antique peanut roaster since 1975. You’ll find
almonds, cashews and other tasty nuts here, too. You’ll surely love the old
fashioned time you can have at Mr. Ed’s.

Retail therapy is known to ease stress. At The Outlet Shoppes at
Gettysburg you can do that in spades and also find some killer (pardon the pun)
bargains at big-name brands such as Coach, Michael Kors and Under Armour.

But there’s nothing like ticking down the tracks in an old
historic train to lull you into a more relaxed state. You can ease into that mode
on a Civil War-themed heritage train at Steam into History, located in Freedom,
Pennsylvania, about thirty miles from Gettysburg. As the whistle blows on this
steam train and it chugs down the tracks, you’ll feel like you’re headed out on
a new adventure. You won’t be escaping history on this train but you will be
able to experience it in a fun, relaxed manner. All aboard!