Central Market is hidden by the nearby buildings

No discussion of the food scene in Lancaster would be complete without the Central Market. Established in 1730, the establishment is the oldest continously running farmer’s market in the country. It brings together all aspects of Lancastrian culture, encompassing Amish, Italian, Puerto Rican, and many more cuisines. Of course, tourists are most excited for the Amish specialties, perhaps what the area is most famous for. However, if Amish food isn’t your thing, one of the other 65 stands will be sure to satiate your cravings.

Central Market is located in a rather unique spot. Due to being surrounded by other city buildings, it is not easily visible from any major roads. However, there are two easy ways to access the building. One way is to park on Prince Street or the neighboring lot across from The Ware Center. Upon parking there, a quick look for signs will lead you in the right direction. Another way is to enter from Penn Square on the side opposite the Marriott.

Central Market exterior

Upon reaching the building, you will probably feel like you are looking into the past. The building resembles a two-story red brick sandcastle, clearly built centuries ago. It feels just slightly out of place, sandwiched by modern buildings and establishments. The cobblestone paving completes the historical feel, but the interior is truly where the charm lies.

Central Market interior

When stepping inside, you will be graced with the aroma of freshly baked goods. Endless rows of stands fill the building, with just enough room to walk through. Walking by the desserts, you will smell chocolate, cinnamon, and caramel. Passing by the breads, you will smell banana, walnut and lemon. At any point in the building, the aromas meet to form an incredibly unique yet distinctive scent. Perhaps, the most pervasive scent is that of the fresh produce. After all, Central Market began with the farmers! If you’re a tourist, it would be a mistake to come to market without at least trying one of the local Amish or Mennonite foods. The food doesn’t follow a strict cuisine per se, but it largely extrapolates from German and Dutch tradition.

Just describing the market in words on this blog feels like a disservice- the market is truly someting you have to experience first hand! I would say that in terms of historical/”old” Lancaster, it doesn’t get much better than market. While the city is becoming increasingly modern and trendy, there is nothing like the classic Central Market.