Landis Valley, a Civil War village, is now a small area within the city of Lancaster, PA. As a nod to its historical importance, there are many activities related to the war that draw tourists to hotels in Lancaster throughout the year. You'll find military re-enactors dressed in authentic period garb, participating in drills with bayonets, as well as a military camp that can be toured during an annual event held in the valley. Musket firing demonstrations, as well as demonstrations of various crafts including tavern coking, blacksmithing, gunsmithing, and tinsmithing are featured. This is what visitors often decide is the best part of touring the valley.
Most of the activity is part of the tour of the Landis Valley Museum, which is perhaps the best way for visitors to Lancaster hotels to experience the history of the valley, once owned by George and Henry Landis. In the museum, you'll find a number of artifacts related to the Civil War and the occupation of the area by Union Troops. However, you'll also see everyday household and farm items from the same period, as well as dating back to the 18th century, donated by the Landis's. You will also get a chance to visit the other buildings on the grounds, including an old hotel from 1856, two log buildings, two brick buildings, an 1890's school house, and a blacksmith workshop. Tourists are also intrigued to find that the Landis Valley Museum is a German museum and the largest such in Pennsylvania. After your tour, don't forget to stop in the museum store and pick up your souvenir or more information on the history of the Civil War village.
