In the 1700s the Historic Ephrata Cloister was home to a German-based monastic religious group called a cloister, and today stands as a glimpse into the past of a unique community’s history and culture. The Cloister is open Thursday through Sunday, with self-guided tours on Thursday and guided tours on Friday through Sunday.
The 1719 Museum provides an engaging tour (primarily geared towards older children and adults, as there is about half a mile of walking) of a variety of historical Lancaster-based sites, including the Hans Herr House and the Lancaster Longhouse (a to-scale reproduction of a Native longhouse). Also included in this tour are other historical buildings including farmhouses, barns, shops and a smokehouse. This is sure to be an educational experience for the whole family!
Historic Rock Ford allows you and your family to tour the home of Edward Hand and to learn about the interesting history of his family, as well as the enslaved and free servants and laborers who lived on his property. There are guided tours provided for you to view the rooms of the 1794 mansion and the John J. Snyder, Jr. Gallery. This is the perfect place to learn more about art, history and nature.
The Landis Valley Museum is a collection of historical artifacts designed to educate and preserve Pennsylvania German culture. This includes a vast collection of historical buildings such as a schoolhouse, tin shop and textile barn, collections of various artifacts like farm machinery, as well as an animal barn and a garden. Your family can enjoy many hours of wandering the premise and learning more about the rich history of Pennsylvania Germans.
The Strasburg Railroad offers a different kind of historical experience! Why not take your family on a train ride through picturesque Lancaster County while learning more about America’s oldest operating railroad? Enjoy a 45-minute narrated ride with a real steam locomotive on an authentic passenger car, perfect for a family day out.
Find additional Lancaster County adventures at discoverlancaster.com.