A 300-Year Journey with Historic Lancaster Walking Tours
In the 300 years since it was founded, Lancaster County has etched itself a place in American history. From the American Revolution to the Industrial Revolution, the streets of downtown Lancaster have a lot of stories to tell. Those stories come to life for modern-day visitors thanks to the Historic Lancaster Walking Tours. These tours offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore nearly three centuries of captivating history with expert guides who are as passionate as they are knowledgeable. During your next stay with us at After Eight Bed and Breakfast, immerse yourself in the city's fascinating history by taking a walk back in time.
Historic Lancaster Walking Tours has been sharing the stories of Lancaster's past since its first tours in 1976. Offered April through October, tours begin at the Lancaster City Welcome Center at Penn Square at the intersection of King and Queen streets. Tours run Tuesday through Saturday at 1 p.m., and an additional tour is offered at 10 a.m. on market days (Tuesday, Friday and Saturday). No reservations are needed or accepted; simply arrive 10 minutes before the tour to buy your tickets. For just $10, visitors will enjoy a 90-minute walking tour led by experienced guides in period costumes. Best of all, Historic Lancaster Walking Tours is a not-for-profit organization, and all proceeds benefit Lancaster City-based charities and nonprofits.
Engaging, informative and intriguing are just a few words to describe these historic walking tours. As you embark on your pleasant stroll through the city streets, your knowledgeable tour guide with share more than 50 points of interest that have helped shape Lancaster to what it is today. Among the stops are Lancaster Central Market, the country's oldest continuously operated public farmers' market; Holy Trinity Church, the city's oldest surviving house of worship; and the Fulton Theatre, said to be the oldest working theater in the U.S.
Your tour will be filled with accounts and anecdotes spanning Lancaster's 300-year history — from colonial times through present day. You'll learn about Lancaster's significance during the American Revolution as you explore sites tied to this pivotal period in history. You'll hear stories of the Underground Railroad and how Lancaster residents helped enslaved people find freedom. You'll dive into the city's industrial past, from its role in the iron industry to its contributions to the transportation revolution. The tour will also shine a light on Lancaster's architectural treasures, as you'll see buildings, both public and private, that represent Georgian, Federal, Victorian, Beaux Arts and Modern styles.
What makes the Historic Lancaster Walking Tours top-notch is the dedication of the experiences guides who are helping to preserve Lancaster's legacy for future generations. Some of them have been giving historical tours for decades. Questions are encouraged, and discussions are lively. You'll feel like you're having a conversation with a passionate historian rather than just listening to a rehearsed script.
Historic Lancaster Walking Tours offer an unparalleled experience that helps visitors connect to Lancaster's history, culture and vibrant community spirit. Be sure to add this enriching experience to your vacation itinerary when you stay at our charming bed-and-breakfast. Your visit to Lancaster will be incomplete without it.
