The Oley Valley’s picturesque landscape makes it a popular destination for Sunday drives. Why wait for Sunday when there are shops, restaurants, and interesting places to explore every day of the week? It’s time to see what you’re missing!
Ice Cream for breakfast sounds delicious, but the Oley Turnpike Dairy also serves breakfast lunch and dinner. Start your day at the dairy, followed by a visit to their small zoo. Feed the goats, donkeys, llamas, sheep and other animals. If you are traveling with kids, not only will they love the zoo, they’ll enjoy the play area that’s perfect for a quick romp. Depending on the time of day, a quick ice cream cone might be in order before you continue on your way.
Not far from the dairy is the Pleasantville Covered Bridge, one of the five remaining covered bridges in Berks County. Cross the bridge slowly with your windows down. You don’t want to miss the sound of your tires on the wooden floor boards as you make your way through this delightful structure.
While on Covered Bridge Road, stop at the Covered Bridge Farm Stand, home of the Valley Milkhouse Cheesemaker. The artisan creamery handcrafts fresh, soft-ripened and aged cheeses in traditional European styles at this centuries-old location. The Farm Stand is open daily, 10 am – 6 pm from March through December and also sells locally cultivated mushrooms and pastured meats and eggs in the shop.
A visit to the Oley Valley would not be complete without a visit to Evelyn & Harriett’s. The shop’s owners believe nice things don’t have to be expensive, and they strive to offer products that tell a story – “otherwise they’re just things.” On the first floor explore items from around the world and pieces made by local artisans. The second floor is filled with toys that stimulate imagination and creativity because play is learning!
When hunger strikes, head to Bella Italia for everyone’ favorite — pizza and hoagies. The Italian-themed décor and ample portions make for a cozy and filling stop.
Clay on Main is a non-profit clay studio where artists can come to create their art. They also offer workshops and 6-week classes, but if you are not sure that working with clay is for you, you can try out a drop-in class for 2 hours and just $30! This is a great way to try something new, if you aren’t already making your own clay artwork.
Take time to explore all the interesting foods sold at Oley Valley Organics, Berks County’s premier source for local organic and natural foods. The family-owned market features organic produce from their own farm and provides an outlet for 60+ local farmers and producers to sell their products. If you’re not sure what to buy, grab something to drink from the Espresso & Coffee Bar and make a mental note to be prepared for your next visit to OVO.
If you’re looking for something sweet to nibble on while sipping your warm beverage, Reppert’s Candies is a quick drive from the market. Talk about a candy lover’s dream! You’ll find an unbelievable variety of chocolates, including sugar-free, and other sweet delights too. It’s no wonder Reppert’s is a gift-giving favorite.
Some of Oley’s earliest settlers made their way to the valley from Germany. Perhaps that is why Ernst Licht decided to locate in this area of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. The shop specializes in traditional Bavarian German clothing and offers a full range of Oktoberfest accessories and costumes, as well as gifts. If you ever wondered how you would look in a dirndl or lederhosen, here’s your chance!
While in Oley, dine at The Bridge Inn Pleasantville. Once you sample The Bridge Inn’s incredible cuisine and relaxing atmosphere you know you’ll be back for more. It’s also a perfect way to end a day in the Oley Valley.