Lancaster History Museum - a large brick building with a clock on the front of it
1 / 10

Lancaster History Museum

4.6
·147 reviews·Lancaster, United States

Explore local history and tour President Buchanan's authentic 19th-century home, Wheatland.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Lancaster History Museum - a large brick building with a clock on the front of it

Lancaster History Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore local history and tour President Buchanan's authentic 19th-century home, Wheatland.

4.6
(147 reviews)

"The house and its furnishings are almost entirely original to Buchanan's time there."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy Combined Tickets

Tickets for the museum and President Buchanan's Wheatland are sold together. Plan accordingly!

🎬 Watch the Buchanan Film

The film before the mansion tour offers excellent context on Buchanan's presidency.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

President James Buchanan's Wheatland

President James Buchanan's Wheatland

Adjacent to the museum

Tour the authentically furnished home of Pennsylvania's only U.S. President, James Buchanan.

Local History Exhibits

Local History Exhibits

Museum galleries

Explore exhibits detailing the rich history of Lancaster and its notable figures.

Joseph O’Connell’s “Superbloom!”

Joseph O’Connell’s “Superbloom!”

Public art installation

Experience this innovative public art installation, a vibrant addition to the community.

m\other Exhibition

m\other Exhibition

Museum galleries

Engage with themes of motherhood beyond the traditional nuclear family.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Tickets & Presidential Home Access

While the Lancaster History Museum offers insights into local heritage, the primary draw for many is the adjacent President James Buchanan's Wheatland. Ensure you purchase your tickets here for both the museum and the homestead tour, as they are a combined experience. Check operating hours in advance, especially for the library and specific exhibits.

Exhibit Focus & Research

The museum's exhibits offer a historical perspective, with some visitors noting that deeper historical details might be geared towards researchers. For those interested in President Buchanan, the mansion tour and accompanying film provide a comprehensive look at his life and the nation's history during his presidency.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
First Thursday of the month
Why
Young Artist Workshops for kids
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Arianna Boulanger #ghost #paranormal #creepy #museum #lancaster #pennsylvania #history #historytok #museummoment
@lmh_museum
355 likes • 5.3K views

🎟️ Buy Combined Tickets

Tickets for the museum and President Buchanan's Wheatland are sold together. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🎬 Watch the Buchanan Film

The film before the mansion tour offers excellent context on Buchanan's presidency. Reddit

Exciting news! The Young Artist Workshops have returned to the Lancaster Museum of Art and History (MOAH)! Mark your calendars for the first Thursday of every month, as children aged 3 and above are invited to join us for these engaging workshops. This Drop-in event features a variety of different craft opportunities for children accompanied by an adult. For more information about YAWS, please...
theblvdlancaster
78 likes • 4.9K views
Opening at the museum of art and history Lancaster on 5/10/2025 @moahlancaster @waltermacielgallery
nikeschroeder
42 likes • 971 views

🌳 Explore the Gardens

The gardens at Wheatland are beautiful and add to the historical experience. Reddit

🎨 Check for Art Exhibits

MOAH frequently hosts diverse art exhibitions, like 'm\other' and works by Elyse Pignolet. Instagram+1

The Lancaster Museum of Art and History (MOAH) @moahlancaster and City of Lancaster, CA – Government @cityoflancasterca, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony, on the morning of Wednesday, August 2, to honor Joseph O’Connell’s public art installation “Superbloom!” We are proud to introduce this innovative artwork to the community as part of the City’s Art in Public Places Program. You can now visit the n...
moahlancaster
187 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy Combined Tickets

Tickets for the museum and President Buchanan's Wheatland are sold together. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🎬 Watch the Buchanan Film

The film before the mansion tour offers excellent context on Buchanan's presidency. Reddit

🌳 Explore the Gardens

The gardens at Wheatland are beautiful and add to the historical experience. Reddit

🎨 Check for Art Exhibits

MOAH frequently hosts diverse art exhibitions, like 'm\other' and works by Elyse Pignolet. Instagram+1

🧒 Kid-Friendly Art Workshops

Young Artist Workshops are held on the first Thursday of the month for children aged 3+. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(147 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Lancaster History Museum to be a pleasant facility, with the adjacent President James Buchanan's Wheatland being a significant draw. While some note the museum's exhibits are more geared towards researchers, the historical insights and authentic tours of the presidential home are consistently praised. The gardens and art installations also add to the overall positive experience.

"A nice facility. As far as being a museum, there is not much in the way as far as exhibits go. The history aspect we suspect is for researchers eyes only. The real draw is the fact that this is where you must buy the tickets to see the adjacent presidential home."

WV Almost Heaven (Montani Semper Liberi)

"Nice historical look into the life of Pennsylvania's first president and his homestead."

JD

"What a nice day at the Lancaster Museum. Excellent perspective on the last 300 years of history. I learned about the past presidents and some of the people who I’ve heard of, but did not know how they contributed. I’m looking forward to coming back while the library is open."

Baron “Wholesale Nuts” Matthew

What People Like

Authentic presidential home tour
Knowledgeable tour guides
Beautiful gardens

What People Dislike

Limited museum exhibits for general public

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lancaster History Museum is located in Lancaster, PA. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method. Parking information should be confirmed on their official website or by contacting them directly. Reddit

Parking availability can vary. It's best to check the official Lancaster History Museum website or call ahead to confirm parking options for visitors. Reddit

Yes, the museum and President Buchanan's Wheatland are part of the same venue, and tickets are typically purchased together for access to both. Reddit

Lancaster, PA is accessible by car. If coming from further afield, consider Amtrak train services to Lancaster Station, followed by a short taxi or rideshare to the museum. Reddit

The museum is centrally located, making it easy to explore other historical sites and downtown Lancaster attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission typically includes access to both the museum and President James Buchanan's Wheatland. Pricing details are best confirmed on the official Lancaster History Museum website. Reddit

While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or for specific tours, to ensure availability. Reddit

Operating hours can vary by season and day of the week. It's essential to check the official Lancaster History Museum website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

Information on discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel is usually available on the museum's official website. Inquire directly for details. Reddit

Typically, tickets are sold as a combined package for both the Lancaster History Museum and President Buchanan's Wheatland. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The museum features exhibits on local history and often hosts rotating art installations. The main draw is often the adjacent President Buchanan's Wheatland. TikTokReddit

The tour of Wheatland, including the introductory film, generally takes about an hour to an hour and a half. Reddit

Guided tours are primarily offered for President Buchanan's Wheatland. Information on guided tours for specific museum exhibits should be checked on their website. Reddit

Accessibility information for the museum and Wheatland should be confirmed directly with the venue. It's advisable to call ahead to discuss specific needs. Reddit

This is a public art installation by Joseph O’Connell, celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a welcome addition to the community's art scene. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, but there are often cafes or snack bars. Check their website for current offerings. Reddit

Lancaster city center offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Popular spots include The Modern Tearoom and Boss Chick Coffee Bar. Instagram

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries. Picnic areas might be available on the grounds. Reddit

Yes, Lancaster has many family-friendly restaurants. Ask museum staff for recommendations or explore options in the downtown area. Reddit

Lancaster offers a diverse culinary scene, including traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare, American comfort food, and international options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted in exhibit areas, but check signage or ask staff for specific rules. Reddit

Photography inside historic homes like Wheatland is often restricted to protect the artifacts. It's best to confirm the policy with your tour guide. Reddit

The exterior of Wheatland, the gardens, and any outdoor art installations like 'Superbloom!' offer great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Exhibitions like 'm\other' or specific pieces like Elyse Pignolet's pottery can be visually striking for photographers. Instagram+1

Tripods, professional equipment, and flash photography are often discouraged or prohibited to protect exhibits and avoid disturbing other visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Lancaster History Museum will find engaging activities, particularly the Young Artist Workshops held on the first Thursday of each month for children aged 3 and up. TikTok While the main historical exhibits and the Buchanan home tour might appeal more to older children and adults, the art installations and the expansive grounds of Wheatland offer visual interest. InstagramReddit

Consider focusing on the art aspects of MOAH and the outdoor spaces at Wheatland for younger visitors. The introductory film for the Wheatland tour is also quite informative and can be engaging for children who enjoy history. Packing snacks and drinks for younger ones is advisable, as on-site dining options might be limited. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Researchers

For dedicated history enthusiasts, the Lancaster History Museum and President James Buchanan's Wheatland offer a deep dive into 19th-century American history and local heritage. The meticulously preserved Wheatland provides an authentic glimpse into the life of a U.S. President during a tumultuous period. Reddit The accompanying film and guided tour are highly regarded for their historical accuracy and engaging narratives. Reddit

Researchers may find the museum's library a valuable resource for in-depth study. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to inquire about research access, hours, and any specific collections that align with your interests. Reddit

🎨 Art Lovers

The Lancaster Museum of Art and History (MOAH) is a key destination for art enthusiasts. Keep an eye on their schedule for rotating exhibitions, such as the thought-provoking 'm\other' show or the unique ceramic works by Elyse Pignolet. Instagram+1 The museum also features public art, like Joseph O’Connell’s “Superbloom!”, adding an artistic dimension to the city landscape. Instagram

Beyond the museum walls, the vibrant murals on The Blvd offer further artistic exploration, making Lancaster a destination for those who appreciate visual arts. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring President James Buchanan's Wheatland

The Lancaster History Museum serves as the gateway to President James Buchanan's Wheatland, the only U.S. President from Pennsylvania. Visitors consistently praise the authenticity of the house and its furnishings, which are largely original to Buchanan's time. The experience begins with an informative film that delves into Buchanan's complex political career and his role in the events leading up to the Civil War. This film provides crucial context before you step into the meticulously preserved home. Reddit

During the guided tour of Wheatland, knowledgeable guides share insights into Buchanan's personal life and the historical significance of the estate. The house itself offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century domestic life and the political atmosphere of the era. The gardens surrounding Wheatland are also a highlight, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting for a stroll. Reddit

Many visitors find the tour to be a deeply educational and engaging experience, offering a nuanced perspective on a pivotal figure in American history. It's recommended to allocate ample time for both the film and the house tour to fully appreciate the historical depth of Wheatland. Reddit

Art at the Lancaster Museum of Art and History (MOAH)

Beyond its historical focus, the Lancaster Museum of Art and History (MOAH) is a vibrant hub for contemporary art. The museum regularly hosts diverse exhibitions, showcasing a range of artistic styles and themes. Recent exhibitions have included 'm\other,' which explores motherhood through various lenses, featuring artists like Tanya Aguiñiga and Gina Herrera, and works by ceramic artist Elyse Pignolet, known for her striking pottery. Instagram+1

MOAH also features public art installations, such as Joseph O’Connell’s “Superbloom!”, which adds a dynamic visual element to the community. These installations are often celebrated with public events, like ribbon-cutting ceremonies, highlighting the city's commitment to public art. Instagram

Furthermore, MOAH offers engaging programs like the Young Artist Workshops, held on the first Thursday of each month. These drop-in sessions provide creative craft opportunities for children aged 3 and above, making the museum a destination for families interested in art education. TikTok

Understanding Lancaster's Local History

The Lancaster History Museum provides a window into the rich tapestry of local history. While some visitors note that deeper historical research might be reserved for dedicated archives, the accessible exhibits offer a valuable overview of the region's past. These displays often highlight significant figures and events that have shaped Lancaster over the centuries. Reddit

Visitors can learn about the contributions of various individuals and families who have played a role in the development of Lancaster. The museum aims to connect the present with the past, offering context for the community's evolution. It's a place where you can gain a broader understanding of the historical forces that have influenced the area. Reddit

For those with a keen interest in genealogical research or specific historical topics, the museum's library facilities may be of particular interest. Checking the library's open hours and research policies in advance is recommended for those planning a research-focused visit. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2