Chambersburg & Biglerville

We're starting this trek down the Lincoln Highway (also known as Route 30) in charming Chambersburg, which saw a lot of action during the Civil War. Stroll around and check out the markers and monuments, then head out to Bender's Potato and Produce Barn. Shop, taste, and enjoy the country scenery. You should also visit Shatzer's Fruit Market, which boasts a 900-acre fruit orchard! And if you happen to be making this roadtrip in December, don't miss Pine Haven Christmas Tree Farm, where you can choose and cut your own Christmas tree. So very traditional!

To the east and a bit north of the Lincoln Highway, in the town of Biglerville, you'll find Barbour's Fruit Market, which is a wonderful place to sample the naturally sweet treats we produce right here in the State of Independence. Boyer Nursery and Orchards is another excellent stop for homegrown delicacies. This comprehensive garden center lets you pick your own cherries, blueberries, and apples. And the Caprine Delight Goat Dairy is different taste altogether! The goat milk and cheese are to die for, and you might even make some new furry friends.

Gettysburg

Today, you'll be driving into Gettysburg, site of the biggest and bloodiest battle ever fought on American soil. Be sure to leave yourself enough time to tour the battlefields you can even take an audio tour in your very own car, which seems especially appropriate on a roadtrip.

After you've had your fill of history, satisfy your hunger for sweets with a visit to Garrahy's Fudge Kitchen or, if you're watching your waistline, to An Apple a Day Farm Market. Actually, this market sells everything from flowers and fruits to honey, jams, and maple syrup, so you'll still have to exercise a little willpower! If you're in the mood to combine history and gastronomy, check out Monfort Farmhouse, a pub and brewery in what used to be the second-largest field hospital for the Confederate Army.

On the way out of Gettysburg, be sure to take a side trip south to Brownvalley Farms for another dose of downhome goodness.

Farm Fun on the Lincoln Highway PHOTO GALLERY:

Click the above image to see a full-size version.

Lancaster County

Once you cross the mighty Susquehanna, you're in the very heart of Dutch Country. The Victorian riverside town of Columbia is the first stop; the historic Columbia Market House is the is the oldest market house in Lancaster County and features fresh produce from local farms along with a dizzying array of other goodies. Your next stop, the Lancaster Central Market, is an absolute must-do. Voted the fourth-best market in the U.S. by USA Today and recognized as the oldest farmers' market in the country, this National Historic Landmark occupies a century-old building in downtown Lancaster. If you're looking for Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies, this is the place to find them.

Next up is the family-owned Lancaster County Winery, where you can relax and taste the products of some of Pennsylvania's best vintners. Don't sample too much, though you still have some driving to do! The town of Paradise is where you'll find Jacob Zook's Hex Shop, where you can purchase the colorful round signs that decorate so many barns and homes in the area. And in nearby Ronks, you'll want to stop by the Blue Gate Farm to pick up some fresh produce for the ride home.

Farm Fun on the Lincoln Highway PHOTO GALLERY:

Click the above image to see a full-size version.