America 250 History Trail testing

America 250 Lebanon PA

Celebrating Centuries of Community and Country

In 2026, the United States will celebrate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Lebanon County is preparing to mark this milestone with pride.

From grassroots projects to large scale celebrations, Lebanon County’s journey to the Semiquincentennial is a testament to the Valley’s enduring pride in its heritage. Visitors can expect a rich calendar of events, historical programs, and opportunities to join the celebration this year. Visit and learn how the Lebanon Valley’s culture, natural beauty, and long standing traditions have contributed to the nation’s story from its earliest days to now.

Map your adventure and discover the Lebanon Valley’s legacy at every turn.

History Trail Events

American 250 Lebanon County

Digging Deeper

Digging Deeper

Digging Deeper into the Hessian Ditch by Dan Snyder Tuesday, April 14|  7:00 – 8:00pm Cornwall Iron Furnace, 94 Rexmont Rd, Cornwall, PA 17016, USA...

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250th Get Together

250th Get Together

North Annville Get Together Sunday, April 19, 1:00 – 4:00pm St John's Evangelical Congregational Church, 683 Steelstown Rd, Annville, PA 17003, USA...

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Wooden Nickel History Trail

To make exploration even more engaging, the Lebanon County Wooden Nickel History Trail invites travelers to discover key historic and cultural sites throughout the Valley. At twelve participating locations—including museums, heritage attractions, and local businesses—visitors can collect free commemorative wooden nickels, each featuring one of five exclusive America250 designs. The trail provides a fun, interactive way for families and history lovers to learn about the people and places that helped shape Lebanon County while celebrating this once in a generation milestone.

Art and History

Lebanon County’s preparations for America’s 250th anniversary are inspiring creative collaborations across the community. Residents have come together to produce meaningful commemorative artworks—most notably a colorful mosaic made from roughly 1,100 individual tiles on view at the Lebanon Valley Expo Center and a patriotic quilt crafted by over 500 community hands. These pieces celebrate local talent and symbolize the Valley’s strong sense of connection and shared heritage.

Visitors can also experience a special piece of the celebration at Visit Lebanon Valley, where a custom America250 Liberty Bell sculpture is on display. Hand painted by local artist Jim Rudegeair, the bell features scenes drawn from Lebanon County’s agricultural and historic landscapes, offering guests an up close look at one of the region’s signature Semiquincentennial artworks.
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Dining with a Dash of History

Blue Bird Inn

Cornwall, PA - Built in 1859, and fully renovated in 2009, the historic Blue Bird Inn boasts traditional dining and a classic pub atmosphere.

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Boyer’s Tavern

Rexmont, PA - Enjoy delicious food and cold brews in a historic building at Boyer's Tavern. Built in 1887, the Tavern maintains the unique charm of its past while offering modern pub fare and live entertainment.

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Colebrook Tavern

Lebanon, PA - The Colebrook Tavern opened in late 2023 with a carefully curated menu and beautifully refurbished interior that unite for a dining experience to remember. Located beside the babbling Conewago Creek, the tavern offer a variety of dishes, almost all of which are made completely inhouse, using locally sourced meats and produce.

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DoGood’s Tavern

Myerstown, PA - From the old world charm of the tavern's restored interior to their impressive menu of American cuisine, DoGood's is a must-visit when you're in Myerstown!

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Fredericksburg Eagle Hotel

Fredericksburg, PA - In a casual, fun, and friendly environment, the Fredericksburg Eagle Hotel serves American classics including burgers, wings, and a variety of entrees. With options for the kiddos and a dining area fit for small and large groups, the Hotel is the place to be in Fredericksburg!

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Gin Mill

Lebanon, PA - The Gin Mill is a locally owned and operated family restaurant and tavern featuring 24 beers on draft and a great wine selection.

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Harper’s Tavern

Annville, PA - Harper’s Tavern offers casual dining with a touch of history to great food for an unmatched combination.

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Jigger Shop

Mount Gretna, PA - Nestled in the heart of Mt. Gretna for over 100 years, The Jigger Shop is not only an attraction, but a tradition!

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K-Ville Hotel & Tavern

Kleinfeltersville, PA - Enjoy weekly specials and friendly service at the K-ville. A staple of the Kleinfeltersville community, this tavern was once a hotel back in the 1800's and now serves as the perfect place for a meal after a trip to the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area.

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Lebanon Valley Craft Brewery

Lebanon, PA - Lebanon Valley Craft Brewery offers five flagships brews made from quality, locally sourced ingredients. Also found at the brewery are seasonal specialty brews and a full kitchen for dining-in.

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Misago Bistro Sushi

Lebanon, PA - Misago offers a variety of Japanese dishes including sushi, hibachi, teriyaki, shashimi, chicken and pork katsu, and much more. Located on Cumberland Street, they are open for lunch and dinner, whether takeout, dine-in, or delivery.

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Quentin Tavern

Quentin, PA - The Quentin Tavern offers a place where you can come to enjoy a drink with friends or a family meal. Stop by, pull up a chair, and welcome home.

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Rising Sun Bar & Kitchen

Campbelltown, PA - The Rising Sun started life as a hotel more than 200 years ago. In the years since, it's also been a farmhouse, a bar, and a classic eatery.

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Union House Taproom & Livery

Richland, PA - Family-owned since 1994, The Union Taproom offers all the features of modern dining, like live entertainment, weekly specials, and a wide variety of wine & spirits and beers, all in a historic building from the late 1800's.

Shopping with a Side of History

Black Swan Antiquities

Palmyra, PA – Black Swan is a co-op of dozens of dealers selling anything from collectibles to antiques.

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Brandt’s Mill Specialty Pet Store

Lebanon, PA - For over 75 years Brandt’s Mill has been in business, family owned and operated. They strive to bring the best equine nutrition and pet supplies to the Lebanon area.

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Butcher Block Antiques

Annville, PA - Butcher Blocks Antiques is a charming shop featuring a curated selection of primitives, vintage collectibles, art, furniture, and unique finds. Discover timeless treasures for your home and collection.

Carriage House Collective

Lebanon, PA - Local artisan created vintage and up-cycled home decor, furniture, jewelry, pottery and hand sewn gifts featuring farmhouse and bohemian styles.

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Laudermilch Meats & Howards Produce

Annville, PA - This family-owned market always features local, quality goods and produce. Get meat straight from their butcher, enjoy homemade baked goods, and grab fresh produce from Howard's outside. With hours Tuesday - Saturday, Laudermilch's is open year round, Howard's Produce is May through October.

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Lebanon Farmers Market

Lebanon, PA - This original 1892 Farm Market Building is beautifully preserved and bustles with various vendors from seafood, sushi, and poultry to soft pretzels and homemade baked goods. Open Thursday through Saturday year round.

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MG Mercantile

Mt. Gretna, PA - Located in Mount Gretna’s historic bank building, MG Mercantile is a welcoming spot for curated goods, groceries, and gifts.

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Millbach Homestead

Newmanstown, PA - Millbach Homestead features antique furnishings, folk art, lighting, and decor, all in their charming 1800s barn.

Primitive Haus

Myerstown, PA - This little shop offers wonderfully unique antiques, primitives, and handmade items, with seasonal decor for the holidays.

Revive Cafe & Craft

Quentin, PA - This adorable little cafe on Main Street in Quentin serves up both coffees and teas, as well as a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and pastry favorites. Revive also features an on-site marketplace with home decor, soaps, jewelry, and more!

Schoolhouse Antiques

Palmyra, PA - Schoolhouse Antiques offers a unique blend of valuable antiques & collectibles supplied by local vendors with live entertainment, events, & a cozy cafe.

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Shuey’s Pretzels Bakery

Lebanon, PA - Since 1927, this family-owned pretzel company has providing the Lebanon Valley with crunchy coal-roasted pretzels. Get to their storefront early on Saturday mornings for their soft pretzels.

The Tweed Weasel Folk Art & Primitives

Schaefferstown, PA - The Tweed Weasel Folk Art & Primitives showcases handmade original work that includes seasonal folk art, primitive antiques, garden designs, hooked wool pieces, and unique gifts.

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Twig & Twine

Myerstown, PA - Twig & Twine is home to tons of local and regional vendors offering everything from jewelry and clothing to repainted furniture and home decor.

Wertz Candies

Lebanon, PA - Wertz Candies is a family-owned candy shop that was founded in 1931. Their handmade candies include favorites like opera fudge, chocolate-covered bacon, and tons of different fudges.

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Check In to the Past

1825 Inn Bed & Breakfast

Palmyra, PA - This charming inn is located just three miles from Hershey Park and offers eight uniquely decorated guest rooms with private baths, Jacuzzis, and all-season fireplaces. Relax in two acres of gardens, enjoy breakfast on the porch, and sleep soundly at this quiet inn.

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Brasenhill Mansion

Lebanon, PA - Bright, serene spaces, unmatched architectural craftsmanship, majestic grounds & lavish appointments await you. Enjoy a short vacation or plan an event or small intimate wedding.

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Carriage Stop Bed & Breakfast

Palmyra, PA - Carriage Stop B&B offers charming Victorian hospitality and is located just miles off of I-81- a short drive to farmers markets, historic sites, and top Central PA restaurants. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast, relax by the pool, or unwind on the porch swing.

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The Cornwall Inn

Cornwall, PA - The historic Cornwall Inn offers a stunning setting for weddings, events, and short-term rentals. With elegant historic charm, modern amenities, and picturesque grounds, it’s the perfect destination for unforgettable celebrations and getaways.

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The Londonderry Inn & Estate

Palmyra, PA - The Londonderry Inn & Estate is a luxurious triple diamond, 4-star bed and breakfast set in a beautifully restored 1840s pre-Civil War building. Featuring six spacious rooms with private baths and a full gourmet breakfast, it’s also an ideal venue for special events. The inn offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration.

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Step Into Stories at Every Stop

Alden Villa Wedding & Event Venue

Lebanon, PA - This beautifully restored 1881 estate provides a timeless setting with modern amenities for weddings, receptions, meetings, showers, and much more!

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Annville Historic District

Annville-SidewalkAnnville, PA - Founded and developed between 1763 and 1764, the well preserved buildings reflect the area’s architectural and historic heritage.

Bindnagle Evangelical Lutheran Church

Palmyra, PA - Since its construction in 1803, this historic church has changed little and features Federal-style architecture, arched doors and windows, and a sanctuary laid out in the form of a Greek cross.

Chestnut Street Log House

Lebanon, PA - Explore the historic Chestnut Street Log House, a beautifully restored 1772 log house offers a glimpse into colonial life and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

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Colebrook Iron Master’s House

Lebanon, PA - Colebrook Iron Master's House, also known as the Colebrook Mansion and Colebrook Estate, is a historic home located at South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania.

Light’s Fort

Lebanon, PA - Light's Fort, built in 1742 on the Quittapahilla Creek, is a historic landmark in Lebanon County. Originally part of a 274-acre tract, it has seen generations of the Light family, Revolutionary War service, and prosperous farming. Today, the site stands as a testament to Lebanon's rich heritage and community spirit.

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Monroe Valley Chapel

Jonestown, PA - In the Monroe Valley near Lickdale, early settlers built a small, one-story fieldstone chapel between 1760 and 1800. Known as the Monroe Valley Chapel, this building was once the only place of worship in the four-mile-long Valley, and historical research about it is still ongoing.

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Salem Walmer Church

Salem-Walmer-ChurchJonestown, PA - First established as a German Reformed Church in 1750, the church combined both Lutheran and UCC denominations.

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Tulpehocken Manor

Myerstown, PA - Tulpehocken Manor in Myerstown, PA offers a stunning 16-acre estate for weddings and private events. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it features elegant outdoor settings for any wedding style.

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Waterville Bridge

Waterville-BridgeJonestown, PA - The Waterville Bridge is a lenticular truss bridge designed and manufactured by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co.
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