Under $100: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

For rural charms and great dining just outside of Philadelphia, look to Lancaster. While many travelers peg Lancaster as an Amish-centric community, though the Amish do contribute significantly to the county and town by the same name, there’s more to Lancaster than just horses and buggies.

Start your day in downtown Lancaster, where you can find several historic and boutique properties for an affordable per-room nightly rate. Grab breakfast at Anita’s on Walnut, where the Italian baked goods and fresh coffee are the perfect thing to start your day on the right note.

Then, move on to Strasburg Rail Road, where a museum outlines the history of rail in the area. After you’ve seen some historic artifacts, explore the working train station itself. You can book a simple and affordable scenic ride out into rural Pennsylvania, or even hop aboard the dining cart to enjoy a snack and a drink while you watch the views.

While you’re outside of the downtown area, stop by an Amish dining haven, Plain & Fancy Farm Restaurant.

Even though you’ll likely be filled to the brim, you can’t miss the Turkey Hill Experience at Turkey Hill Dairy. See where this famed regional brand churns out delicious ice cream, make your own flavor varieties and sample as much as you like.

In the evening, head back into downtown Lancaster. The streets are uncrowded no matter when you visit, so enjoy a leisurely stroll to dinner at Cork & Cap Restaurant. If you can still hold a little more ice cream for dessert, don’t miss Rolled Cold Creamery.