Will any transportation be provided?
Yes! A shuttle (Shultz Transportation Co.) will be running from two hotels before and after the wedding. The ceremony and reception are at the same venue. There will be two pickup times & drop-off times at each location. Please refer to the "Accommodations" page for more details on the hotels and shuttle schedule.
Where to stay?
We have reserved several different hotels in the area, all very close to the venue. However, the shuttle will only be running between two of the hotels. Please refer to the "Accommodations" page for more details. There are also a variety of Airbnbs in the area.
How to travel to Lewistown, PA?
There are several airports you can use to get to Lewistown, PA. State College University Park Airport (SCE) is 45 minutes away and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is 1 hour away. Altoona-Blair County (AOO) is 1.5 hours away, but the State College University Park and Altoona airports are smaller and do not have many direct flight options. Harrisburg International Airport has several non-stop flights from major airports such as Fort Lauderdale, Boston, Charlotte, Newark, and Philadelphia.
Lewistown is 2.5 hours from the Baltimore (BWI) airport and 3 hours from the Philadelphia (PHL) airport, both larger cities/airports with more flight options.
We also recommend traveling via Amtrak train with drop-off at The Lewistown, PA - Amtrak Station (LEW) as another method of travel.
Many of our guests will likely be driving up or down the East coast as well. Please refer to the "Travel" page for more details on getting to the Farm.
What is the history of Shade Mountain Farm?
Shade Mountain Farm has been in Laura's family for generations. Her great-grandparents purchased the land in 1927, when it was a working dairy farm. Growing up, Laura had the pleasure of visiting her grandparents along with the cows, horses, and more! The farm is no longer an active dairy farm, but is still farmed for corn, soy beans, wheat, and other crops. It remains a staple of the Kauffman family which now includes Ali (shout out to her new green family SMF shirt), used for holidays, celebrations, and most importantly, weddings. It is an amazing and nostalgic location. The family has done a phenomenal job keeping the farm up to date and beautiful. Major additions have been made to keep up with the growing family. We are both thrilled for you to experience this wonderful place and hope you love it as much as we do.
What is the weather in Lewistown, PA in September?
If mother nature agrees, the weather should be sunny and about 70°F. The weather in Lewistown in September is pleasantly warm, humid but cool, with average highs of 79°F and lows of 56°F . It is overcast approximately 36% of the time. No matter rain, shine or unexpected cold front, we will have shade, heat, and fans available.
What's so special about the beer?
Laura's "Uncle Jabes" has been brewing beer for decades, and it has become a rite of passage to have some home-brewed kegs at your wedding. Enjoy a flight during cocktail hour of JB's proprietary Shade Mountain Farm (SMF) Kölsch, IPA, and Brown Ale.
What are some things to do in the area?
Downtown Lewistown
Lewistown is rich in farming, but there are ample things to experience while visiting. The downtown area is home to many historic structures including the historic courthouse in Monument Square, Embassy Theatre, McCoy House, and the Stone Arch Bridge. Grab a latte at East End Coffee Co. and wander the downtown to spot as many painted geese as you can as part of the Wild Geese Flock Together public art project recognizing the unique Juniata River Valley tradition of Goose Day.
Restaurant recommendations in the area: Hungry Run Wine Bistro, Honey Creek Inn, Shy Bear Brewing (reservation needed if eating there Friday evening).
Penn State Main Campus
Located just off of Route 322, Lewistown is situated a short distance (40 minutes) from Happy Valley's Penn State University Park campus. Get a cone or cup (one size only = extra large) of ice cream at the Creamery, see Beaver Stadium, stroll College Avenue's shops and restaurants, take a photo on the Lion statue, or walk the lawn at Old Main.
Big Valley of Mifflin County
Notable for its variety of Amish and Mennonite groups, immerse yourself in the culture of Big Valley. Visit farm stands and try the various jams and produce they offer. Plan a scenic drive, likely with horse and buggies along the roads. Or, schedule an Amish buggy ride in the Amish Country with Dayze Gone By Carriage Rides at (814) 553-5149.
