LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — A hidden gem in Lancaster County that's been around for over 250 years is another must-add to the summer bucket list.
Sickman's Mill in Conestoga Township has been around since 1752 and has had many different businesses operating at the location over the years. Today, it's the perfect destination for summer activities.
"It is a unique experience as it is a small business and it's very family-friendly," said Dana Paparo, one of the current owners of Sickman's Mill. "It's great that we can introduce [to people] southern Lancaster County, a beautiful part of the county. It's really serene and it feels really special that people can come and enjoy the space."
Sickman's Mill sits right off the shores of Pequea Creek and is best known for creek tubing. However, it also offers good eats and plenty of summer events such as karaoke and live music, making it a great place to kick back and enjoy the dog days of summer.
"It is a nice place to unwind and unplug," said Paparo. "People can come together with their family and wind down after a busy week of work."
Visitors from Central Pennsylvania and beyond travel to Sickman's for the chance to disconnect. Allyssa Lopez and Kennedi Wertz traveled from South Jersey on the Fourth of July after they heard about the unique spot.
"It just seemed a lot cooler," said Lopez. "There's food, there's a bar and hanging out on the river all day... can't really beat that!”
In addition to disconnecting, it's an opportunity to enjoy quality time with the ones that you love and make everlasting summer memories.
"I just really want people to have a great time. It's been one of my favorite things to do as a Lancaster County native is to go creek tubing. So, for people that are coming from out of the area that they get to experience like a Lancaster County gem. is really special," said Paparo.
And take it from the first-timers themselves, it's a place you won't want to miss out on.
"You only live life once so have a great time while you're here," said Wertz. "The people are great, the water [is] amazing. So just do it. Come do it. And if you don't, you don't know what you're missing."
More information on Sickman's Mill, its activities and upcoming events can be found on their website.