In the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, there was an explosion of Lancaster County Bed and Breakfasts. Amid this uptick, a group of innkeepers decided to join forces in advertising and tourism reach, as well as skill sharing, recipe exchange, and help with repairs. This group is known today as the Lancaster County Bed & Breakfast Inns Association.  

The association was initially focused on finding places for advertisements but following the rise of the internet, its focus on marketing has shifted to digital platforms.  

“We’re not competing with each other, we’re a collective voice of the industry,” said Rick Waller, the president of the association, which now has fifteen members across the county.  

These Bed & Breakfasts have a vast geographical coverage all over the Lancaster County map, from Ephrata, to the Susquehanna in the west, to the Maryland border in the south, and close to Chester County in the east.  

Waller says that the Bed & Breakfasts have an eclectic mix of style, location, and years of service. He and his wife have been in the industry for 25 years and own the Limestone Inn B&B in Strasburg.  

Each innkeeper takes the time to curate the guest’s experience based on their personal flair and knowledge. As active members of the community, Bed & Breakfast hosts all across Lancaster County often suggest nearby restaurants, shops, or attractions.  

The diverse array of Bed & Breakfasts in Lancaster is a testament to the abundance of options available for tourists, or locals looking for the perfect getaway.  

An example of a Bed & Breakfast a little off the beaten path is The Artist’s Inn, located in Terre Hill. The boutique inn is decorated with whimsical work in a downstairs gallery painted by host Bruce Garrabrandt himself.  

All three guest rooms have a private bathroom, flat screen TV, and gas stove/fireplace. The Garden Suite has a two-person whirlpool tub and a massage shower, as well as a private porch/entrance. It is also attached to a sitting room with a day bed.  

An original barn on the property has also been converted into the perfect getaway for families and large groups. Split between two units, each house three beds, two bathrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, a living room, and a sunroom.  

Surrounded by gardens, fresh herbs and flowers are abundant. Much like the antiques displayed throughout the inn, the menu leans French. Crepes, scones, and even veggies adorn the breakfast tables. Host Jan Garrabrandt says she likes to keep the produce in season and that she always serves dessert as part of the four-course breakfast.  

“Once guests find us, they just come back again and again,” she said.  

Learn more about the flourishing Bed & Breakfast scene in Lancaster County from the Lancaster County Bed & Breakfast Inns Association, as well as more information about The Artist’s Inn.  

Remarkable Experiences in Lancaster County!