The New Oxford Dictionary defines nostalgia as a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations. We all feel a little nostalgic at times. For me, it’s when a reel pops up on social media portraying life as a kid in the 70s and 80s. Luckily, there are places throughout Pennsylvania where we can experience a flicker of another time and place we miss. I put together a retro road trip through parts of Lebanon, Lancaster, and York Counties that’s sure to deliver a good dose of misty-eyed nostalgia.

Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach, Mt. Gretna, PA

Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach

130 Lakeview Drive Lebanon, PA 17042

 717.964.3130 | mtgretnalake.com

Since 1885, when Conewago Creek was dammed to form what was then named Conewago Lake, Mount Gretna has been a destination for recreation and relaxation. Ladies with their parasols and gentlemen in hats would take romantic canoe rides on the lake. Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach, as it is known today, welcomes families to enjoy a time-honored American pastime of canoeing, swimming, and picnicking lakeside. From the high dive out in the center of the water to the beach and picnic area, Gretna Lake continues to bring outstanding summer recreation to families. Mt. Gretna’s history as a summer retreat is evident as you stroll through the hamlet, where you’ll find shops, eateries, and theater alongside predominantly Queen Anne and Gothic Revival-style cottages surrounded by a lush forest.  For information and accommodations, log onto visitlebanonvalley.com

Photo by the Pretzel Hut

The Pretzel Hut

2224 Furnace Hills Pike, Newmanstown, PA 17073

717-627-4887 | pretzelhut.com

Going to the Pretzel Hut as a kid was a treat, not just for the food but for the experience. The roadside restaurant opened in the late 1950’s and sold fresh soft pretzels and ice cream. The petting zoo and play area behind the restaurant made The Pretzel Hut a destination. Over the years, the restaurant started offering a full menu of delicious choices.

Last spring Dwight and Kathi Zimmerman purchased The Pretzel Hut and made improvements to the property while honoring the tradition of the popular eatery. The petting zoo is still home to goats, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, and pigs. Last spring, baby piglets Buttercup and Oreo were a massive hit with visitors.

Photo by Candyology, Lititz

Candyology

69 East Main Street, Lititz, PA 17543

717-626-9949 | candyologylititz.com

About 5 miles south on Route 501 is Lititz, a historic town filled with shops of all kinds. There’s one shop on Main Street that has nostalgia written all over it. Candyology is a kid’s dream come true. But, it’s perhaps the parents and grandparents that truly appreciate this unique candy shop. In addition to modern favorites, you will find candy cigarettes, Bit’O Honey, Baby Ruth, Charleston Chews, Chunky, and Clark Bars, to name a few. All the candy you grew up craving is here. From Pop Rocks to Moon Pies, Candyology has got you covered.

The large soda wall in the shop has over 100 flavors, including Orange Dreamsicle, Apple Pie, and even a Bacon-flavored soda. The shop also carries stuffies, puzzles, and games. Needless to say, a stop at Candyology is a must for the young and young at heart.

Pinball at Decades. Photo by Jocelyn Engle

Decades

438 N Queen St., Lancaster, PA 17603

717-282-1421 | decadeslancaster.com

Decades Arcade in Lancaster is a retro-style arcade specializing in classic video games from the ’80s and ’90s. It’s a throwback to the golden era of arcade gaming, featuring a mix of vintage games like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Street Fighter, Frogger, and Pinball machines.

Decades also sports a 6-line bowling alley that is full service, so players can enjoy food and drinks while they bowl. That’s right; Decades has a full menu with everything from pasta and salads to wings and burgers. The place has a fun, nostalgic vibe, with neon lights, an old-school atmosphere, and a focus on creating a community space for gamers of all ages. Some people visit just for the games, while others enjoy the social experience and the retro culture. Families will love the reasonable prices.

The Shack Restaurant & Mini Golf, Manheim, PA

The Shack Restaurant & Mini Golf

662 South Oak Street Manheim, PA 17545

717-664-2250 | theshackmanheim.com

In 1869, Abram Kauffman gifted three acres of woods to the borough of Manheim. He wanted the land to be used as a public grove and park. The borough honored Kauffman’s request, and the area was known as Kauffman’s Park. In 1989, the property was leased and developed for a mini golf course and restaurant. Today, The Shack boasts one of the most challenging mini golf courses in Lancaster County. The 19-hole course winds around mature trees and over a spring-fed stream lined with lush perennials. Though difficult for some, the course offers a red-cup option for younger and less-skilled players. Everything about The Shack screams nostalgia. From the restaurant to the wooden deck that overlooks the course and play area.

Changes and improvements have been made over the decades, but one thing has remained constant. The merry-go-round at the Shack is 100 years old this year. There will be a celebration to commemorate the event this summer.

The menu has many delicious options, but their broasted chicken may be the most popular. Other favorites include char-broiled burgers, wraps, and fresh-cut fries. A trip to The Shack would not be complete without ice cream. Sundaes, milkshakes, floats, and shaved ice will satisfy any sweet tooth. The Shack opens for the season in early April. Check the website for hours of operation.

Photo by Haars Drive In, Dillsburg, PA

Haar’s Drive-In Theater

185 Logan Rd., Dillsburg, PA

717-432-3011 | haars.com

With 25, PA has more drive-in movie theaters than any other state except New York. Drive-ins peaked in the late 1950s and decreased in popularity over the years, causing most to close. Haar’s Drive-In, in Dillsburg, York County, has stood the test of time. They’ve welcomed movie-goers for over 70 years. The third generation of the Haar family is running the drive-in today.

In addition to first-run films, Haar’s hosts special movie nights with old favorites. The annual screening of Grease is a one-night event that draws viewers, young and old. Preshow activities for the event include a dress-up contest, games, and a DJ.

The snack bar offers sought-after movie fare like nachos, sandwiches, burgers, fries, and popcorn. I can’t think of another weekend activity that induces a connection to yesteryear more than a date night at a drive-in theater. When the day turns to twilight, the screen comes alive, and the story begins. Haar’s typically opens for the season in early May.