Preservation Month is a great time to get out and discover old places that are new to you. Whether it’s a charming diner with delicious eats or an evocative house museum with stories to tell, this is the perfect time of year to support the places that matter to you.

Here are a few ideas for how you can get involved:

  • Shop at local businesses. These small businesses are often the ones that are most invested in preserving historic buildings and communities. When you shop at local businesses, you’re not only supporting the economy, you’re also helping to keep history alive.
  • Dine at historic restaurants. There’s nothing like enjoying a meal in a historic setting. Many historic restaurants have been serving up delicious food for generations, and they’re a great way to experience a piece of history.
  • Visit museums and historical societies. Museums and historical societies are treasure troves of information about our past. They’re a great place to learn about the history of your community and the people who lived there.
  • Become a member of a preservation organization. There are many organizations that are working to preserve historic buildings and communities. By becoming a member, you can support the work and help make a difference.

If you’re looking for some fresh ideas for a road trip, check out our webinar with Mod Betty of Retro Roadmap. Mod Betty is an expert on “cool vintage places, good eats, and retro fun.” She offers up a whirlwind tour of the top stops across Pennsylvania, from Adams County to York County.

Feeling a bit hungry? Mod Betty recommends specialities at diners including the Village Diner in Milford County and the Wellsboro Diner in Tioga County. If you love vintage shops, she’s got you covered (Queen Street in Lancaster is a fave destination).

As Mod Betty says “when you spend your time (and money) where your heart is, you’re investing in the kind of world you want to live in.”

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!

Watch the video below and when you’re ready to plan a trip, we’ve compiled Mod Bettys’ suggestions (and filled in a few of the blank counties!) and download your copy  for future reference. (You might also enjoy the Mod Betty edition of our travel newsletter. Click here.)

Please note: Before you plan a visit, we recommend that you confirm places remain open and in business!

Video not showing? Click here to watch on YouTube.


What to know about #LEGACYLOVEPA

A Legacy Business is defined as “owned by three or more generations of a family and/or in the same location for 50+ years.”

We started using the hashtag #LegacyLovePA to help spread the word about these places. When you visit a legacy business, post it on social media. Be sure to include the location and county. Tell people why you love it. Use the hashtag #LegacyLovePA, Together, we can help ensure success for these small businesses.

samples from social media illustrate the Legacy Love PA hashtag

Follow #LegacyLovePA on Instagram to discover new places!

CROWD-SOURCED RECOMMENDATIONS

an ornate building facade supports a vertical neon sign
The Ambler Theater, Ambler, Montgomery County, PA

We invited attendees to chime in and share other places they love. Here are their suggestions!

To discover all of Pennsylvania’s Works Progress Administration post office murals, check the Wikipedia list.

FULTON COUNTY

Johnnies Motel and Diner right on the Lincoln Highway

JUNIATA COUNTY

Try the Midway Theater

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Ambler offers a WPA post office mural and a vintage movie theater

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

Knoebels Amusement Park, Elysburg: “It’s where old rides go to retire, 50’s, 60’s vintage! They have so many wooden roller coasters that they have a lumberyard next door. Camping and cottages available.” The Knoebels Family moved to the site in 1880 and the amusement park was established in 1926 with the Crystal Pool, a merry-go-round, and a few food stands.

SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY

Montrose Theatre

Have more recommendations? Share them in the comments!