The Historic Ephrata Cloister, 632 W. Main St., Ephrata, will have extended visiting hours on Saturdays, July 2, Aug. 13, and Oct. 8. Members of the public may tour the site between 4 and 7 p.m. on those dates. Situated on 28 acres along the Cocalico Creek in northern Lancaster County, the Historic Ephrata Cloister holds architecture, art, music, and more.

Guided tours at 4, 5, and 6 p.m. each day will explore the lives of the early community residents with visits to the Sisters' House and Meetinghouse. In Colonial times, it was common to find guests at the Ephrata Cloister during these early evening hours, as the community was known for offering free lodging and meals to visitors.

Tour goers will hear stories of dedication, betrayal, sacrifice, and human nature played out on the edge of the early frontier. Visitors may stop at the museum store to browse locally handcrafted items, books, and mementos of the Ephrata Cloister and the region.

Separate admission fees have been set for adults, for seniors, and for children ages 3 to 11. Ephrata Cloister Associate Members receive free admission. Visitors may bring a picnic dinner and a blanket; picnic tables are also available.

Historic Ephrata Cloister, the place where Ephrata began, is a National Historic Landmark administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission with support from the Ephrata Cloister Associates.