Explore Lancaster’s Hidden Architectural Gems this Holiday Season!
On Saturday, December 7th, from 10 AM to 4 PM, step back in time and explore some of Lancaster’s most cherished and historic buildings on the Northwest Lancaster Architectural Tour. This unique event, hosted by the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County in collaboration with LancasterHistory, offers an exclusive glimpse into Lancaster’s architectural heritage while supporting local preservation efforts.
Check-in & Yuletide at Wheatland: Christmas in the 1800s
Begin your journey at LancasterHistory, located at 230 N President Ave, where you’ll receive your tour materials. Included with your ticket is a self-guided tour of Yuletide at Wheatland, an enchanting experience valued at $20. Step into the holiday traditions of the late 1800s, where you’ll see how James Buchanan’s niece and nephew, Harriet Lane Johnson and James Buchanan Henry, celebrated Christmas amid the excitement of the Second Industrial Revolution.
Enjoy refreshments before you set off for a day of exploration!
Meet Local Architect Gregory J. Scott, FAIA, and Discover Urban Alphabet
While at LancasterHistory, stop by for a special book signing by local architect Gregory J. Scott, FAIA, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Scott’s new book, Urban Alphabet, is an illustrated dictionary celebrating the architectural contributions of C. Emlen Urban, Lancaster’s own architectural legend. Each letter of the alphabet highlights a distinct architectural detail or style found in Urban’s works. With 50 years of experience in innovation and design, Scott—recognized as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects—offers readers a unique lens on Lancaster’s architectural heritage.
Exclusive Access to Northwest Lancaster’s Architectural Treasures
This tour goes beyond the ordinary by offering access to several sites that are rarely open to the public. Highlights include West Art and the beautiful Trust46 (between 3 to 4 PM only), a remarkable example of adaptive reuse. Other stops include:
- Lancaster Arts Hotel
- West Art
- Unitarian Universalist Church of Lancaster
- St. John’s Episcopal Church
- Mulberry Art Gallery
- Lancaster Theological Seminary (Full campus guided tours available at 11 AM and 1 PM)
You’ll also enjoy exterior views of additional landmarks, such as the Griest Building, Conestoga House and Gardens, Stevens School, Wolf Museum, and West Lawn. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Lancaster’s Northwest neighborhood through a fresh lens.
Ticket Information
Tickets are $40 per person for non-members, $35 for members (of either LancasterHistory or the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County), $25 for ages 6-13, and free for children under 5. Secure your spot today — purchase tickets below.
Join us for a festive day of architectural exploration and holiday history that promises something for everyone, from families to history enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on this rare chance to experience Lancaster’s historic architecture decked out in its holiday best!