If a 70-mile ride north of Baltimore promised to relieve stress like a long cool glass of lemonade or a gentle soak in a hot tub, most of us would take the journey. If the journey's end placed us in a land that decidedly bypassed 21st-century technology, the time travel would almost seem too juicy to pass up.

Such is the case in Lancaster County, Pa., commonly and endearingly referred to as Pennsylvania Dutch Country. From the horse-and-buggy activity of the Amish countryside to picturesque towns with the unusual names of Ephrata, Bird-In-Hand and Intercourse, the area beckons to the world-weary as well as to the culture conscious, history fanatics, fine-dining connoisseurs and discriminating shoppers.

And for families, the possibilities loom large for an excitement-filled, late summer fling.

“We have numerous attractions that appeal to families,” said Chris Barrett, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention and Visitors Bureau. “[There is] Dutch Wonderland amusement park, buggy rides through Amish country, the Strasburg Railroad, Lancaster Barnstormers baseball, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, Kitchen Kettle Village and the Lancaster Science Factory.”

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Barrett notes that the bureau is running a gas card promotion with current member properties also offering a variety of vacation packages, discount coupons to attractions and member hotel rooms at about $99 per night. All of these bargains can be found on their Web site.

“Moreover, many of our attractions offer adult tickets under $15 with youth tickets about half the price,” he continued. “Add that to the bargains at our famous outlet shopping and numerous free summertime events, and it's no wonder that tourism dollars go about 10 percent further in Lancaster than they do in D.C., Philadelphia or Boston.”

Downtown Lancaster's quaint streets showcase art galleries along Prince Street, which is affectionately labeled “Gallery Row”, as well as antiques shopping, dining and museums.

Central Market at Penn Square in the heart of the city is America's oldest farmers' market building, dating to 1730. In this historic site farmers bring meats and vegetables for sale to local residents.

“There is such local flavor here,” said Ken Clark a resident of Columbia, who grew up in Lancaster County and returns home often. “We love to go to the Green Dragon Farmers Market for its local flavor, the homemade root beer, cheese, bread and sticky buns.”

Amid the historic landmarks, the art, attractions and night life, there is, of course, the presence of the Amish, who, in their horse-and-buggy world, coexist with their contemporary neighbors. Perhaps this delightful feature of rural life, more than any other historic or commercial attraction, defines the landscape of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

IF YOU GO

  • What: Lancaster County, Pa.
  • Where: Pennsylvania Dutch Visitors Center, 501 Greenfield Road in Lancaster (1-800-PA-Dutch)
  • Distance: 70 miles from Baltimore; 105 miles from D.C.
  • Special events: Long’s Park Summer Entertainment Series through August; Crafts Festival on Labor Day weekend