Historic Ephrata Cloister will be CLOSED for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26. Don’t miss the Candlelight Open House on Saturday, November 26.

The Ephrata Cloister is OPEN Thursday – Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 12-4.

The Cloister is open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm with the first tour at 10:30 and Sunday from 12 to 4 with the first tour at 12:30. The last tour everyday is at 3:30. We are no longer requiring tour reservations. However, tour sizes are limited, and you could choose to guarantee your tour time by making a reservation in advance by calling 717-733-6600. Otherwise, tours will be first come first served with a maximum of 15 people. Self-Guide tours continue to be available at any time.

Per Commonwealth policy, staff and volunteers are masked while inside the buildings. Visitors are encouraged to help us protect those that cannot be vaccinated by wearing a mask. Free masks are available in the Visitor Center.

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.