Historic Markets of Lancaster County

Discover America's oldest continuously operated farmers markets and Pennsylvania's historic trading centers dating back to 1730.

America's Oldest Market Tradition

Lancaster County is home to some of America's most historic markets, with trading traditions that span nearly three centuries. These markets have served as community gathering places where local farmers, craftspeople, and merchants have sold their goods to generations of families.

Historic Market Timeline

  • 1730: Lancaster Central Market established - America's oldest continuously operated farmers market
  • 1889: Current Central Market building constructed
  • 1925: Root's Country Market begins operation
  • 1960s: Green Dragon Market expands to current 60-acre site

Did You Know?

Lancaster Central Market has operated continuously for over 290 years, making it older than the United States itself!

Featured Historic Markets

Lancaster Central Market

Historic

Public market; local farmers and Amish vendors sell meats, produce, baked goods etc.; America's oldest continuously operated public market

23 N. Market St., Lancaster, PA 17603
717-735-6890
Tuesday, Friday & Saturday 6 am – 3 pm
Operating since 1730

Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market

Historic

Indoor farmers market with Amish stands selling meats, cheeses, produce, baked goods and crafts

2710 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
717-393-9674
Fri & Sat year-round; Wed (Apr–Nov); Thurs (Jul–Oct)
Operating since 1911

Root's Old Mill Flea Market

Historic

Outdoor flea market; vendors sell antiques, produce, snacks and baked goods

705 Graystone Road, Manheim, PA 17545
717-898-7811
Every Tuesday 6 am – dusk; Saturday (Apr–Nov) 8 am – 2 pm
Operating since 1925

Shady Maple Farm Market & Smorgasbord

Amish-owned complex; farm market sells groceries, deli and bakery items; smorgasbord offers buffet meals

1324 Main St., East Earl, PA 17519
717-354-4981 (market), 717-354-8222 (smorgasbord)
Farm Market Mon–Sat 7 am – 8 pm; Smorgasbord Mon–Sat 7 am – 7:30 pm
Operating since 1962

Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction

Historic

Large Amish-focused market with farm stands, auctions and food vendors

955 N State St., Ephrata, PA 17522
717-738-1117
Every Friday 8 am – 8 pm
Operating since 1932

Brook Lawn Farm Market

Seasonal farm market with pick-your-own strawberries, sweet corn, peaches, heirloom tomatoes, and pumpkin patch

2325 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601
717-569-0002
Seasonal: Mon–Fri 10 am – 5:30 pm, Sat 9 am – 3 pm
Operating since 1967

Kauffman's Fruit Farm & Market

Historic

Apple cider, cider donuts, fresh apples, and Amish bulk foods from working orchard

3097 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
717-768-7112
Mon–Sat 8 am – 6 pm
Operating since 1956

Cherry Hill Orchard

Pick-your-own fruit orchard with farm stand featuring vegetables and home-canned goods

312 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17603
717-872-9311
Seasonal: Daily 9 am – 6 pm
Operating since 1964

What to Expect at Historic Markets

  • Fresh local produce: Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs from local farms
  • Authentic Pennsylvania Dutch foods: Whoopie pies, shoofly pie, and fresh breads
  • Handmade crafts: Quilts, woodwork, and traditional Amish goods
  • Antiques and collectibles: Historic items and vintage finds
  • Live entertainment: Traditional music and community events

Visiting Tips

  • Arrive early: Best selection available in morning hours
  • Bring cash: Many vendors prefer cash payments
  • Seasonal hours: Some markets have different winter schedules
  • Parking: Popular markets fill up quickly on weekends
  • Respect traditions: No photography of Amish vendors