Explore Education at Historic Ephrata Cloister
We offer engaging and immersive educational experiences tailored for students of all ages. Our two main programs—Discovery School Tours and Community School Day—provide opportunities to connect with history in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Planning a Field Trip? Get more from your visit!
If you’re considering a field trip to Historic Ephrata Cloister, make the most of your visit by attending Community School Day on Friday, May 9, 2025. For the same cost as a regular school tour, your students will enjoy extra hands-on experiences, interactive learning stations, and access to multiple historic buildings with interpreters bringing history to life. They’ll have the chance to write with a quill pen, try on 18th-century clothing, sample apple butter, and more! Continue reading for more information on this event.
Community School Day
This annual event transforms the historic site into an open house featuring a dozen interactive learning stations. Students can experience hands-on activities like writing with a quill pen, getting dressed in the 1700s, or building a chair. Historic buildings will also be open with interpreters sharing stories and demonstrations.
- Date: May 9, 2025
- Time: 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM
- Cost: $8.00 per student; $9.00 per adult; 1 free adult per 10 students
- Registration: Register by May 7, 2025, by calling 717-733-6600 or emailing Museum Educator Sophie Walters at sowalters@pa.gov.
Discovery School Tours
Perfect for students ages 7 to 13, Discovery Tours offer a fascinating glimpse into everyday life at Ephrata Cloister. Students will visit the Sisters’ House and Meetinghouse before participating in two interactive activities of your choice:
- A Visit to the Print Shop: Learn about setting type and using a press to print, as was done at Ephrata Cloister.
- Writing with a Quill Pen: Try your own hand at writing using a feather quill pen and ink.
- Going to School in 1842: Experience what it would have been like to go to school in a typical one-room schoolhouse in the 19th century.
Each tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a well-rounded and engaging field trip for your class.
- Availability: Wednesdays through Fridays, April–October
- Start Times: Suggested times are 9:00 or 9:30 AM (flexible upon registration)
- Cost: $8.00 per student; $9.00 per adult; 1 free adult per 10 students
- Group Size: Minimum of 10 students
- Reservations: Call 717-733-6600 or email Museum Educator Sophie Walters at sowalters@pa.gov to book your school tour today!
Additional Information:
- Our programs are designed for grade 3 and above, but we’re happy to discuss accommodations for younger students or special needs.
- Educators are encouraged to visit in advance and connect with our education staff to plan their visit.
- Memberships, library passes, and Access Cards are not eligible for school program discounts.
Plan Ahead:
April and May are our busiest months, so we recommend reserving your spot early. Discovery Tours are available Wednesday through Friday during open hours. Contact us today to bring history to life for your students!
