Welcome to Historic Ephrata Cloister

Preserving a Legacy of William Penn’s Holy Experiment

Since its start in 1732, the Historic Ephrata Cloister has attracted visitors fascinated by the community’s unique lifestyle that allowed the creation of incredible architecture, original music, significant publications, and remarkable art. Originally, Ephrata was a retreat from worldly distractions where devoted members followed a disciplined life designed to prepare them for a heavenly existence. Today, you can explore the surviving historic site and discover the history and culture of an intriguing story in the nation’s past. 

Historic Ephrata Cloister is open Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm for self-guided tours, guided tours are offered Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Thursday self-guided tours do not provide access to the two largest buildings on site, but a QR code available at the time of ticket purchase offers a video of the interior of these buildings. Friday and Saturday the first tour begins at 10:30 with other tours offered throughout the day. Sunday the first tour begins at 12:30 with other tours offered throughout the day.  Admission is the same price for self-guided and guided tours. 

Visitors, staff, and volunteers may continue to wear masks on our properties if they so wish, but it is no longer a requirement.

Groups of 10 or more people are asked to make a reservation by calling the site at least 2 weeks in advance. Groups interested in visiting outside public hours can call the historic site to discuss their needs.