Ephrata Cloister wasn't a high priority for us but every single travel guide we consulted graded it as a must see. It proved to be fascinating, a journey to a different era, a different mind set, a different world. The introductory film was well produced and moving. The state of Pennsylvania deserves a great deal of praise for the way... more

This is an excellent museum. Another early religious community with a facinating history. I cannot add more to the previous post other than perhaps that it has a great giftshop. But in terms of those short doorways....I think their main purpose may have been to help retain the precious heat during the winter. more

Lower your head as you enter Saron, one of the large "houses" on the grounds of The Ephrata Cloister in Ephrata PA. The ceilings inside are only a few inches higher than 6 feet, and the doorways between rooms are several inches lower. Just why is one of the intriguing mysteries of this historic but now abandoned experimental religious community... more

I really enjoyed the Ephrata Cloister. It was cold & somewhat foggy, which for me enhanced the knowledge that there were some very difficult times for the earliest settlers of Pennsylvania. I also sense the joy they had in being able to worship God without state intervention. Very informative guide, staff very friendly. more

Had a great tour with our guide who was one of the last descendants of one of the former housekeeper families. Ever so interesting and touching. more