Conestoga House & Gardens is one of Lancaster’s most treasured historic properties, with roots dating back to the early 1700s. Originally serving as a tavern along the Conestoga wagon trade route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the property later became an inn in the 1840s, welcoming travelers and traders passing through the region.

The estate was first owned by Christian Hershey, the earliest member of the Hershey family to settle in America. In 1927, the property was purchased and thoughtfully remodeled by James Hale Steinman and Louise McClure (Tinsley) Steinman, transforming it into the three-story Colonial Revival mansion that stands today. Designed by architect Frank J. Everts, the home retains the elegance, craftsmanship, and grandeur of the early 20th century.

Today, the 12-bedroom, nearly 10,000-square-foot estate remains a beloved landmark—not only for those who visit, but for the Lancaster community as a whole. Set on 7.8 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, the grounds feature thousands of seasonal plantings, including annuals, tropical plants, perennials, and rose gardens, creating a timeless backdrop for visitors, events, and photoshoots alike.