Mount Hope Estate is one of the most intriguing destinations in Lancaster County, combining centuries of history with lively entertainment and culinary experiences. Set on beautiful grounds just outside Lancaster, this historic property is best known for the famous Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, seasonal festivals, and the Mount Hope Estate and Winery. Visitors often arrive expecting a single attraction and quickly discover an entire world of events, tastings, performances, and themed gatherings throughout the year. From wine tastings at Mount Hope Winery to immersive experiences like the Pennsylvania Renaissance Festival, the estate has become a year-round hub for entertainment in the region and one of the most talked-about things to do near Lancaster, PA.
Visitors exploring Mount Hope often discover that the surrounding region offers just as much to see and do. There are plenty of things to do near Reading, PA, from scenic countryside drives to charming small towns filled with boutiques, markets, and historic landmarks. The nearby wineries and farmers’ markets showcase the best of southeastern Pennsylvania. The area offers culture, outdoor recreation, and events that make it easy to turn a visit to Mount Hope Estate into a full weekend getaway.
After an afternoon enjoying Mount Hope Estate or the many attractions near Reading, finding the right place is the best complement to your getaway. The South Mountain Inn offers a refined Bed and Breakfast in Pennsylvania set on private acreage overlooking rolling hills. Guests enjoy our thoughtful touches like freshly baked cookies each afternoon, morning coffee delivered right to their room, and warm hospitality. With peaceful surroundings and convenient access to Mount Hope Estate, our Bed and Breakfast is the ideal place to unwind after exploring one of Pennsylvania’s most popular attractions. Book your stay today!
The History of Mount Hope Estate & Best Things to Do
Mount Hope Estate is a historic property with more than 200 years of American history woven into its grounds. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the estate began as the summer residence of the Grubb family, an influential ironmaster family who left England in search of opportunity in the United States.
During its early years, the estate served as the center of operations for the powerful Grubb iron dynasty, which once controlled more than 2,500 acres in Lancaster County. What remains today is the heart of that original property: a 19th-century mansion and 35 acres that once served as a thriving industrial headquarters and small village, with a general store, post office, railroad station, school, church, worker housing, and a grist mill.
The centerpiece of the estate is the impressive Federal-style mansion, constructed from locally quarried red sandstone, reflecting the craftsmanship of early Lancaster County builders. The mansion still anchors the property and offers visitors a striking glimpse of early-1800s architecture. Surrounding the home are beautifully maintained grounds that preserve the estate’s original layout, giving guests the rare opportunity to walk through a setting that has remained connected to its historic roots for generations.
One of the most remarkable features of Mount Hope Estate is its formal garden, which follows a design inspired by traditional English gardens. The layout of the garden dates back to the original construction between 1800 and 1805, making it one of the few documented American formal gardens from that era that still exists largely intact. Later additions, such as ornamental urns, flower beds, and the round fountain placed in front of the mansion during a 1895 renovation, enhanced the space while preserving the original design. Today, the gardens create a beautiful setting for visitors exploring the grounds.
Mount Hope Estate is also home to several craft beverage producers. Mount Hope Winery offers tastings of locally produced wines, while Swashbuckler Brewing Company creates small-batch craft beers inspired by the property’s playful spirit. Lancaster County Cider produces crisp hard ciders, and Spirits Distilling Company crafts small batch spirits that reflect the region’s growing distilling tradition. Together, these producers make the estate a destination for guests who enjoy sampling local beverages while exploring one of the most historic properties in Lancaster County.
Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire at Mount Hope Estate
Mount Hope Estate is also known for its lively calendar of entertainment, which has made it one of the most unique attractions in Lancaster County. The most famous of these experiences is the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, which transforms the estate into a vibrant 16th-century village each fall. Costumed performers, artisan vendors, stage shows, and jousting tournaments fill the grounds with energy and humor during the PA Ren Faire. Guests wander through the village streets enjoying music, comedy acts, and theatrical storytelling that unfolds throughout the day. For many visitors, attending the Pennsylvania Renaissance Festival is a yearly tradition and easily one of the most memorable things to do near Lancaster PA.
Beyond the Renaissance faire, Mount Hope Estate events continue throughout the year with celebrations that bring different cultures and themes to life. The Celtic Fling and Highland Games is a favorite summer gathering that celebrates Scottish and Irish heritage with athletic competitions, traditional music, and cultural performances. The estate grounds come alive with bagpipes, dancing, and demonstrations that highlight centuries of Celtic tradition. Visitors often spend hours exploring the festival, enjoying the lively atmosphere while sampling food, beverages, and entertainment across the property.
Inside the historic barn at Mount Hope Estate, guests can experience a completely different side of Mount Hope through its dinner theater productions. Theater in the Mansion combines a multi-course meal with live performances that unfold around the audience, creating an interactive experience that feels both theatrical and intimate. Productions such as Murder at Mount Hope invite guests to step into a comedic mystery where the story unfolds throughout the evening, and the audience becomes part of the fun. For those who enjoy humor with their evening out, Full Moon Comedy brings nationally touring comedians to the estate for nights filled with laughter inside the mansion setting.
With so many Mount Hope Estate and Winery experiences throughout the year, many visitors plan their trips around these signature events. From the excitement of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire to themed festivals and theatrical dinners, the estate continues to offer entertainment that feels unlike anything else near Reading PA. Reserve your room now!
