FEATURE Quilting Connoisseur Where others might see a pile of fabric, you see a cherished heirloom to gift to friends and family, providing warmth and comfort even on the coldest, darkest days. (Bonus: Those quilt projects are sure to occupy plenty of free time with all that cutting, assembling, and sewing.) But when you’re ready to take a break from your fat quarters, get some new ideas for your next quilt design on the Stitches in Time Franklin County Barn Quilt Trail . These THIS PAGE: TOP TO BOTTOM: DISCOVERLANCASTER.COM; J. FUSCO FOR VISIT PHILADELPHIA®; FACING PAGE: TOP TO BOTTOM: JIN WU; GO LAUREL HIGHLANDS/LAUREL HIGHLANDS VISITORS BUREAU painted patterns on barns throughout the countryside feature traditional and historic family quilt designs. Then, marvel at the handiwork of Pennsylvanians throughout generations at the quilt collection at The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg, featuring nearly 200 pieces from the 1800s to present-day. Inspired to pick up new supplies? Make your way to the Log Cabin Quilt Shop in Bird-in-Hand for patterns, fabric, and notions—even hand-stitched quilts by local Amish and Mennonite crafters. Handmade quilt Lancaster County Plant Person Maybe it started with a succulent. Or a Monstera. Before you knew it, your home was a veritable jungle. Give your green thumb a rest (but pick up some new inspiration) at Pennsylvania’s plant paradises. Start at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square where you’ll find 1,100 acres of perfectly curated gardens, water fountains, and seasonal floral displays in the glass-encased Exhibition Hall. At Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve in New Hope, stroll 4.5 miles of nature trails through forests and meadows to see native plants, wildflowers, and trees, Longwood Gardens Kennett Square plus birds and butterflies. Or explore the herb and flower gardens at Goodell Gardens & Homestead in Edinboro and learn some skills at the weekly programs. Philadelphia’s Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers workshops (virtual and in-person), from ornamental gardening to food cultivation. When you’re ready to shop for some new plant babies or gardening supplies, stop by the comprehensive Miller Plant Farm in York. For more trip ideas and technical tips from Pennsylvania’s expert gardeners, don’t miss visitPA.com/ bulbandbloom . visitPA.com 53
Pennsylvania Happy Traveler Guide 2022: Page 53
