A living history village and farm, Landis Valley Museum allows you to step back in time as costumed tour guides take you on a journey through the crossroads village. From interpretations and demonstrations of the historical surroundings, to the creation and exploration of the museum’s collection of unique artifacts, relive many of the daily activities experienced by farmers, craftsmen, tradesmen and merchants and discover what is considered by many as ‘the best kept secret in Pennsylvania’ during your two and a half tour of Landis Valley Museum and Village.
Start with an Award Winning Video
Start your time in Landis Valley Museum with a 13-minute, award winning video. From the Pennsylvania German culture to the history of Landis Valley over the years, the video will give you a brief background that will help you to have a better understanding of what you will seeing during your time in Landis Valley.
See the History of Lancaster Come to Life
After your introductory video, head outdoors and discover what a day in the life of a settler would have been like during the Victorian era. Landis Valley Museum’s living history presentations will give you a better understanding of the past by allowing you to witness it for yourself. At the Tavern see kitchens, hearths and bake ovens used by the women of the17th and 18th centuries and learn about Pennsylvania Dutch food. Visit the Old Country Store and even see the homes of the Landis Brothers and other important German settlers. At the 1856 Landis Valley House Hotel you can indulge in samples of traditional sticky buns, snitz and cider.
The Farming Community at Landis
As you visit the historic village you will learn about the first members of the Landis family and see how they grew their food. Historic agricultural equipment and animal breeds as well as traditional 17th and 18th century farming methods are used to this day to grow crops authentic to the period. Don’t forget to ask about the Heirloom Seed Project. This unique project proudly preserves over 240 varieties of seeds, the same seeds that would have been found in the pockets of the German settlers two centuries ago.
Shopping at the WeatherVane
After you’ve explored the dirt roads of the historic village and uncovered the history and culture of its people, stop by the WeatherVane. From quality handcrafted goods to a selection of traditional 17th and 18th century books, toys and games, you can find the perfect keepsake to remember your time at Landis Valley Museum, or that special gift for a loved one.