In Lancaster County, quilting is appreciated as a true art form. And those who share the feeling can pass a pleasant few hours at the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The museum itself was recently expanded and is lovely, with a grand entrance that introduces the visitor to the art of quilts as they pass in to the exhibitions. With the area being at the heart of Amish country, it's not a surprise to learn that part of the restoration included the 1912 Beaux Art room, with it's vaulted ceiling and home to the museum's permanent collection of original Amish quilts from Lancaster County itself.
The museum is located in the historic district of Lancaster, in the Lancaster Trust Building on Market Street. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm, with the exception of some major holidays or holiday eves. For those who prefer an evening visit, plan the trip for the first Friday of the month, when admission is free and the visiting hours are extended to 9pm.
Admission prices are low, and discounts are applied for students (with a valid student or school i.d.), and for groups of over 15 members when arrangements are made in advance. Children under the age of 17 are always free, and the teachers and chaperones of visiting school groups are given free admission as well when the visit is arranged ahead of time. Tours of the museum are self-guided, but groups who are interested in a guided tour or one of the museum's educational programs can contact the museum for information.
