By Michele Emenheiser, Executive Director, Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce
A feature piece from our Summer 2026 issue of the Lancaster Thriving Publication.
Mount Joy’s downtown includes historic buildings that connect visitors to the community’s past. The Mount Joy Area Historical Society has created a self-guided walking tour with brochures available at the Chamber office. Beginning this summer, guided tours will also be offered through the Historical Society.
Along the route are historical markers that were installed in 2024 as an Eagle Scout project by Tristan Bair, junior member of the Historical Society. Each marker includes QR codes that provide additional information about the site and its history.
While many downtown buildings have been thoughtfully repurposed over the years, Bube’s Brewery remains one of the community’s most distinctive landmarks. It is the only surviving “lager era” brewery in the United States that remains in nearly intact condition and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, Bube’s offers four unique dining experiences to suit a variety of tastes, including the Catacombs Restaurant, where guests dine several stories below the street in the aging cellars, along with tours available by appointment.
Today, Mount Joy’s Main Street is increasingly shaped by locally owned specialty businesses that focus on creating experiences and fostering community, in addition to retail. The Dice Goblin and Mystic Table Hobby & Game Emporium are each husband-and-wife-owned businesses that have helped establish Mount Joy as a welcoming destination for tabletop gamers. These businesses offer everything from beginner-friendly game nights to tournaments, roleplaying campaigns, hobby workshops, and community events that bring people downtown.
Adding to the growing gaming and hobby scene are specialty retailers like Dave’s Toy Box, with vintage toys, collectibles, and retro games. Other Main Street businesses have created experiences for visitors and residents alike. Guitars on Main offers music lessons and free live performances, while businesses such as Moon Raven Alley, Succulents by ShelNe, and 2Fab Fitness host workshops and classes that encourage creativity and community connection. Together with retailers like Time After Time Clocks, Ladybug Crossing, The Joy of Sweets and Treats, and Sloan’s Gift Shop, these businesses are helping shape a downtown that feels creative and welcoming while attracting visitors who continue exploring Mount Joy’s restaurants and other Main Street shops.
Supporting those businesses is a strong network of community partnerships. The Chamber has built a supportive network for both new and established businesses through events, networking opportunities, and business outreach. The Chamber also works closely with the Borough’s Community & Economic Development Department to help businesses connect with resources, guidance, and support that encourage growth and long-term success.
Community events continue to bring visitors to Main Street throughout the year. The Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Spooktacular on the fourth Friday in October, when Main Street is closed to traffic so children can safely trick-or-treat with local businesses and organizations.
The Chamber is also part of a coalition of Mount Joy civic organizations responsible for longtime favorites, the Taste of Mount Joy Cruisin’ Cuisine Car Show and Winterfest. Now in its 23rd year, the car show brings a wide variety of vehicles and local food trucks to Main Street each July. Winterfest, now celebrating its 28th year, features music, food, children’s activities, visits with Santa, and a tree lighting ceremony.
Other signature events include The Fresh Brews of Mount Joy, hosted by Voyage Mount Joy, which draws craft beer enthusiasts from across the region to sample pours from more than 50 breweries, and Summer Solstice, hosted by the Summer Solstice Collective, which welcomes the first day of summer with local artisans, wellness vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Looking ahead, Mount Joy has available space that is ideal for both startups and established businesses looking to grow. Its convenient location between Lancaster and Harrisburg, combined with a train station located one block off Main Street and multiple RRTA bus stops along Main Street, provides easy access for commuters, visitors, and tourists while helping connect people to local businesses and community events.
The Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce has been supporting Mount Joy area businesses and organizations since 1939. For more information about the Chamber, visit mountjoychamber.com, or call 717-653-0773, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
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