Intercourse, Lancaster County, PA.
Amish and Mennonite Tourist Information Center
The friendly town of Intercourse, tucked into Amish countryside at the junction of Routes 340 and 772, was historically known as a destination where locals, Amish farmers and craftsmen conducted business and socialized. Founded in 1754, the town was originally named after an old tavern, the Cross Keys, and did not become known as Intercourse until 1814.
Much speculation went into the origin of the town’s name, but none of the claims have been validated. It’s possible the town was named after an old race track on Old Philadelphia Pike called Entercourse, which later evolved into Intercourse. Another theory pertains of the use of language in the early days of the village, in which the term “intercourse” was commonly used to describe fellowship, social interaction and support – the same values on which the town is still based today.
Intercourse remains a place where locals, visitors and Amish farmers meet and socialize. It offers a glimpse into the traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch with its cultural experiences, shops, homemade goods and family-friendly events. Just a few miles from Route 30 and its sister villages of Bird-in-Hand and Strasburg, Intercourse is fondly dubbed a “foodie town” for its culinary attractions and is part of the Country Towns Mural Trail.
