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Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum museum in Doylestown, PA
Photo: Adam Roberts
View of Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum in Doylestown, PA
Photo: Kathy Malatesta
View of Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum in Doylestown, PA
Photo: Kellie Rush

Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum

4.7(519 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1-1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 6 and up. School-age children and tweens are most engaged by the tile-making demonstrations and can appreciate the craftsmanship and history. Younger children (4-5) may enjoy it for shorter visits, though the museum requires walking and observation rather than hands-on activities.

About

Step back in time at this fascinating working museum where kids can watch skilled artisans hand-craft colorful tiles using the same techniques from over a century ago. The historic building itself is a wonder to explore, with its unique architecture and kiln room, while live demonstrations captivate children as they see clay transform into beautiful decorative tiles right before their eyes.

Highlights

  • Watching artisans hand-press tiles using century-old techniques and molds
  • Exploring the unique Spanish-style building with its cathedral-like kiln room
  • Seeing hundreds of intricate tile designs featuring animals, medieval scenes, and nature motifs
  • Learning about Henry Mercer, the eccentric artist and historian who founded the tileworks
  • The gift shop filled with authentic handmade tiles perfect for young collectors

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Time your visit to catch a live demonstration - call ahead or check their website for the demonstration schedule to maximize the experience
  2. 2.Visit the gift shop where kids can pick out an affordable handmade tile as a special souvenir from their trip
  3. 3.Pair this with nearby Fonthill Castle (Henry Mercer's home, covered in tiles) for a full day exploring Mercer's unique legacy
  4. 4.The museum involves stairs and uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to supervise younger children closely
  5. 5.Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, making it easier for kids to get close to demonstrations and ask artisans questions

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM) offer smaller crowds and better opportunities for kids to interact with artisans. Avoid weekend afternoons when tour groups are most common.

What to Know

Tours are self-guided or docent-led (check for tour times). Admission fees apply (typically under $10 for adults, children rates available). Limited food options on-site, so plan to eat before or after in downtown Doylestown, a short drive away.

Seasonal Notes

Closed Mondays year-round. The museum is indoors, making it an excellent rainy day activity. Special holiday-themed tiles are sometimes featured seasonally. Note that the building can be warm in summer and cool in winter due to its historic nature.

Nearby Eats

Head to downtown Doylestown (5 minutes away) for family-friendly options like Empanada Mama for casual Latin fare or Stacks Pub for burgers and comfort food with a kids' menu.

More Activities Near Doylestown

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Fonthill Castle

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Step into a real-life castle that feels like something from a fairytale! Fonthill Castle is an architectural marvel where kids can explore 44 unique rooms filled with stunning handmade tiles from around the world, winding staircases, and secret passages. Henry Mercer's eccentric creation sparks imagination and curiosity in children who love castles, mysteries, and exploring unusual spaces.

Museum

Mercer Museum

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Step into a towering concrete castle filled with thousands of fascinating early American tools, toys, and everyday objects suspended from walls and ceilings! The Mercer Museum's unique architecture feels like exploring a medieval fortress, while kids are captivated by the whaling boats hanging overhead, antique fire engines, and authentic Conestoga wagon,making history come alive in an unforgettable way.

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Peace Valley Park is a sprawling 1,500-acre natural playground surrounding the scenic Lake Galena that offers something for every family member. With multiple playgrounds, a hands-on nature center, miles of paved and unpaved trails perfect for strollers and bikes, fishing spots, and wide-open spaces for picnics and kite flying, this Bucks County gem provides hours of outdoor fun and exploration for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

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