Located in the heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Kitchen Kettle Village is one of the most charming and unique shopping destinations in the state. It offers visitors an authentic taste of Pennsylvania Dutch culture, with its blend of quaint shops, local craftsmen, delicious homemade foods, and engaging activities. Whether you’re a local looking for a day trip or a visitor from out of town, Kitchen Kettle Village offers an experience that showcases the rich traditions and heritage of the Amish community, all while giving you the chance to shop, eat, and explore to your heart’s content.
A Brief History of Kitchen Kettle Village
Before we delve into the exciting attractions and unique features of Kitchen Kettle Village, it’s essential to understand its humble beginnings. The story of Kitchen Kettle Village began in 1954 when Bob and Pat Burnley decided to turn their small kitchen canning operation into something much more. With just a stove, some locally grown fruits, and a passion for homemade jams and jellies, the Burnleys started selling their products directly to neighbors and passersby. Little did they know that their small business would grow into a bustling village of shops and attractions that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
What began as a simple kitchen kettle boiling up batches of fruit preserves has expanded into a destination that celebrates not only food but also craftsmanship, culture, and the Pennsylvania Dutch way of life. Today, Kitchen Kettle Village spans over 40 unique shops, restaurants, and attractions, and it’s become a staple of Lancaster County’s tourism scene.
Why Visit Kitchen Kettle Village?
Kitchen Kettle Village isn’t just a shopping destination—it’s an experience that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in local foods, handcrafted goods, or cultural activities, there’s plenty to explore.
1. A Taste of Pennsylvania Dutch Cooking
One of the biggest draws of Kitchen Kettle Village is its selection of delicious homemade foods. The village is famous for its jams, jellies, pickles, and relishes, all of which are made on-site using time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, savory, or spicy, there’s something here for every palate.
Visitors can even watch the canning process in action at the Jam & Relish Kitchen, where you’ll see how these beloved products are made from scratch. It’s a unique experience to see the ingredients being transformed into the jars of goodies that visitors can take home. Don’t forget to sample the array of flavors—some of the most popular varieties include apple butter, strawberry preserves, and the iconic corn relish.
2. Artisanal Crafts and Handmade Goods
If you appreciate handmade, one-of-a-kind items, Kitchen Kettle Village will not disappoint. The village is home to a variety of artisan shops that feature everything from handmade quilts and pottery to leather goods and fine jewelry. Many of these shops are run by local craftspeople who take great pride in their work, and you’ll often have the opportunity to watch them at their craft.
For example, Village Quilts is a store dedicated to the art of traditional quilting. You’ll find beautifully crafted quilts in various patterns, sizes, and colors, many of which reflect the rich heritage of Lancaster’s Amish and Mennonite communities. Other notable shops include Deerskin Leather Shop, known for its high-quality leather goods, and The Pottery Barn, where handcrafted pottery pieces are displayed in an array of vibrant colors.
3. Live Demonstrations and Workshops
One of the most exciting features of Kitchen Kettle Village is the chance to participate in live demonstrations and workshops. These experiences allow visitors to engage directly with the cultural traditions of Lancaster County. For instance, The Bake Shop offers bread-baking demonstrations, where you can see how traditional whoopie pies and shoofly pies are made.
There are also workshops and classes where visitors can learn skills like jam making, cheese crafting, or even creating your own pottery. These hands-on experiences are perfect for families and give you a real taste of Pennsylvania Dutch life.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Kitchen Kettle Village is a family-friendly destination that welcomes visitors of all ages. Kids will love the chance to visit The Barnyard, where they can meet friendly farm animals like goats, llamas, and chickens. There’s also a horse-drawn carriage ride that takes you on a scenic journey through the nearby countryside, providing a unique glimpse into Amish farmlands and daily life.
For families looking for some interactive fun, there’s Yummie’s Candy Shop, a sweet haven where kids can fill up on homemade fudge, chocolate-covered pretzels, and other delightful confections. The shop’s mascot, Yummie, makes regular appearances throughout the day, adding to the excitement for younger visitors.
What to Do at Kitchen Kettle Village
Now that you know a bit about the history and what makes Kitchen Kettle Village so special, let’s take a closer look at the top things to do during your visit.
1. Explore the Shops
Shopping at Kitchen Kettle Village is unlike your typical mall experience. Instead of big-box stores, the village offers a collection of boutique-style shops filled with locally made and carefully curated products. Whether you’re in the market for handmade clothing, unique home decor, or even gourmet food items, you’ll find it all here.
Some of the standout shops include:
- The Olive Basin: This store specializes in a wide selection of infused olive oils and vinegars, perfect for the home chef looking to elevate their cooking.
- By Candle Light: A boutique offering hand-poured candles in a variety of scents, made from natural ingredients.
- Girls Day Out: A fun and trendy shop that offers jewelry, accessories, and unique clothing pieces for women.
You can easily spend hours wandering through the different shops, discovering new treasures and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the village.
2. Enjoy Local Cuisine
No visit to Kitchen Kettle Village is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare to modern interpretations of classic dishes, there’s plenty to choose from when it comes to dining.
The Kling House Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a hearty, homemade meal. Offering breakfast and lunch, the restaurant features dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Visitors rave about their Dutch-style pancakes, pot roast sandwiches, and homemade pies.
If you’re in the mood for a quick snack, stop by The Pretzel Haus for a fresh, hot soft pretzel served with mustard or cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, Pepper Lane Fudge & Sweets is the place to go for creamy fudge and delicious baked goods.
3. Participate in a Food Tasting Tour
One of the best ways to experience the flavors of Lancaster County is by taking a food tasting tour at Kitchen Kettle Village. These tours allow you to sample a variety of locally made products, from jams and relishes to cheeses and baked goods. Many of the shops offer free samples, but a guided tour gives you insider access to some of the village’s best-kept secrets.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the history behind the recipes, the process of making each product, and how the village supports local farmers and artisans.
4. Take a Carriage Ride
For a truly immersive experience, hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the beautiful countryside surrounding Kitchen Kettle Village. These carriage rides provide a unique opportunity to slow down and take in the picturesque scenery of Lancaster County, including working Amish farms, rolling hills, and rustic barns.
The guides are knowledgeable about the local culture and are happy to answer any questions you might have about the Amish way of life. It’s a peaceful and relaxing way to cap off your visit to the village
Seasonal Events at Kitchen Kettle Village
One of the things that makes Kitchen Kettle Village such a popular destination is its lively calendar of seasonal events. Whether you’re visiting in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, there’s always something happening that adds an extra layer of fun to your trip.
1. Rhubarb Festival (May)
Every May, Kitchen Kettle Village hosts the Rhubarb Festival, a celebration of the tangy and versatile vegetable that is a staple in many Pennsylvania Dutch recipes. During the festival, visitors can enjoy rhubarb pie contests, live music, and a variety of food stands serving up creative rhubarb-inspired dishes.
The festival is family-friendly and includes activities like rhubarb-themed games, a Rhubarb Race Car Derby, and even a best-dressed rhubarb contest!
2. Tailgate Festival (October)
As autumn arrives, Kitchen Kettle Village hosts its annual Tailgate Festival, a two-day event celebrating all things fall. The festival includes cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to sample local foods. Highlights of the event include the whoopie pie eating contest, a favorite among visitors.
Families will love the fall-themed activities like pumpkin painting, hayrides, and visiting the farm animals at The Barnyard. The Tailgate Festival is the perfect way to embrace the season’s harvest and get a taste of Lancaster County’s fall traditions.
3. Christmas in the Village (November-December)
Kitchen Kettle Village is transformed into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed events. Christmas in the Village offers visitors a chance to shop for unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats like hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies, and even meet Santa Claus.
The village also hosts special holiday events, such as cookie decorating workshops, live holiday music, and candlelight shopping evenings. The cozy, festive atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for getting into the holiday spirit.
Planning Your Visit
1. Location and Hours
Kitchen Kettle Village is located at 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA, in the heart of Amish Country. The village is open year-round, though hours of operation may vary depending on the season.
2. Parking and Accessibility
The village offers plenty of free parking, making it easy to visit even on busy weekends. The entire village is designed to be accessible for all visitors, with ramps and wide pathways for strollers and wheelchairs.
3. Lodging Options
For those looking to extend their stay in Lancaster County, there are several lodging options near Kitchen Kettle Village. Many visitors choose to stay at The Inn at Kitchen Kettle Village, a charming bed and breakfast located right in the village, offering comfortable accommodations and a convenient location. Other nearby options include hotels, inns, and vacation rentals.
Conclusion: Why Kitchen Kettle Village Should Be on Your Travel List
Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or someone looking to immerse yourself in Pennsylvania Dutch culture, Kitchen Kettle Village is a must-visit destination in Lancaster County. From its delicious homemade foods to its artisan shops and family-friendly activities, the village offers something for everyone.
With a history rooted in tradition and a commitment to showcasing local craftsmanship, Kitchen Kettle Village is more than just a shopping experience—it’s a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Lancaster County. So the next time you find yourself in Amish Country, be sure to stop by and experience the charm and hospitality of this unique village.
