Frequently Asked Questions
How do I redeem my free admission benefits or museum store discount?
Friends of Esherick members receive two promo codes in their membership materials which are sent by both mail and email. One promo code can be used for booking a tour and the other to redeem your museum store discount.
What is the difference between a donor and a Friend of Esherick member?
There are two ways that you can support the museum financially — through a Friends of Esherick membership or through a donation. We are grateful for both! In short, if you want to receive free admission and other benefits become a Friend of Esherick member. If you prefer, you can waive those benefits to make a donation that is fully tax-deductible. You can also support the museum by becoming a volunteer!
Is Friends of Esherick a membership program?
Yes! We call our newly-designed membership program Friends of Esherick to recognize that so many of you in our community are supporters from across the country and even the globe united by our appreciation for Esherick’s legacy. Furthermore, a membership here is not just transactional — through your support you are celebrating Esherick’s creative spirit and the values embodied in his handcrafted studio home, and actively ensuring the preservation of his legacy for generations to come.
How do I purchase tickets?
Tour tickets must be reserved and purchased in advance. Make your reservation here. Walk-in visitors will NOT be accommodated.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my tour?
Any changes to your tour, including cancellations or rescheduling, can be made up to 24 hours in advance of your scheduled tour. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled tour to receive a full refund. If you need to cancel your tour, please call 610-644-5822 or email us at [email protected]. To reschedule your tour, please refer to the link provided in your Tour Confirmation email. Please note that some special event tickets may not be refundable.
How many people will be allowed in the museum at any one time?
In order to maintain a safe capacity within the close, intimate nature of Esherick’s Studio, tours are currently limited to a maximum of 8 guests.
Do members get in to the museum for free?
Yes! Members always receive free admission to the Wharton Esherick Museum for the Experiencing Esherick Tour. Learn more about membership here. Members must still make reservations for their visit.
Do members need to make reservations to visit?
Yes, members must still make a reservation to take a tour. We do also offer members our Member Sundays in the Studios, a member-only hour on the first Sunday the month where reservations are not required! Check out the details on our event calendar.
I have limited mobility and use a cane, walker, or wheelchair. Can I tour the museum?
Due to the historic, hand-built nature of the building and multiple staircases that connect upper and lower levels, significant portions of the Studio are not accessible for individuals who use wheelchairs, walkers, or have other mobility needs. In lieu of navigating through these spaces physically, we provide printed or digital material as a way of exploring these spaces. A detailed outline of the physical elements of the site terrain, pathways, and buildings can be found HERE. Please email [email protected] if you have questions or to request accommodations for your visit.
Are their restrooms at the museum?
Yes, an ADA accessible bathroom is available in the Visitor Center.
When is the museum store open?
The Museum Store is open during tour days and hours only (Wed – Sun 10am – 3pm, March through December). The museum accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You can shop at our online store anytime.
I am interested to see an exhibition in the Visitor Center. Do I need a reservation?
Guests may visit exhibitions in the Visitor Center during our current tour days and hours (Thurs – Sun 10am – 3pm) without making reservations. Please note, however, that our Visitor Center shop and exhibition area is a very small space, housed in Esherick’s Expressionist one-car garage. If you haven’t visited before you will definitely want to book a tour! Learn more about visiting here.
Are group tours available?
We are pleased to offer the immersive experience of the general tour to larger groups. Groups must have a minimum of 9 guests to be considered for a group tour. By rotating through the Studio and grounds we can accommodate up to 16 guests on a group tour. All group tours must have advance reservations. We reserve Wednesdays to accommodate group tours, but Thursdays and Fridays may be available on a case-by-case basis. We encourage group tours to contact us at least 6 weeks in advance of when they hope to visit to help us accommodate their preferred date. Learn more and submit a group tour request form here.
Does the museum offer private rentals for weddings or other events?
No, we do not offer private rentals of our facilities.
I am unable to visit right now. Are there virtual ways to experience the Wharton Esherick Museum?
Yes! We encourage you to stay connected to the optimism and warmth of Esherick’s Studio through the resources listed on the Explore page of our website. Special features focus on Collection Highlights, Online Resources for Educators, Activities for K-12 students, and our Notes from the Studio blog. We’re hosting online events and you can find those listings on the Explore page as well. If you are an educator and would like to host a virtual guest lecture or special program on Esherick for your students, contact the museum using the information on the Online Resources for Educators page.
I want to support the museum’s work. How do I do that?
Thank you! As a donor-dependent organization, we’re so grateful for your support; it keeps Esherick’s legacy thriving, and preserves his joyful, handcrafted Studio for future generations. Please consider making a donation today, or joining the museum as a member!
Can I take photographs inside the museum?
Yes, casual photography is allowed on our guided tours. Tripods are not allowed on the guided tour. Professional photo shoots, commercial or otherwise, must be scheduled in advance. Videography is not permitted on tour.
Do you have a cafe at the museum?
No, there is no food or drink for sale at the Museum.
What kind of volunteer opportunities are available at the Museum?
Our greatest volunteer needs are for Museum docents, though we are always eager to put helping hands to work. Please visit our Volunteer page for details or contact [email protected] to see how you can get involved.
I have a Wharton Esherick piece that I’m thinking about donating to the museum. How should I connect with you?
We are always glad to connect with you around a potential donation to the Esherick Museum. Please email [email protected] to talk in further depth. Do keep in mind that the museum primarily collects works by Esherick that have either a close connection to the Studio space and WEM campus or are works of particular importance.
I have a piece by Wharton Esherick in my personal collection. Can you authenticate my work, provide me with a valuation, or advise me on conserving my piece?
WEM is restricted by law from providing appraisals. If you need a verification or valuation of your art or possessions for tax, insurance, or sales purposes, we can share resources related to auction houses that have experience with Wharton Esherick’s work. We also advise consulting the website for the American Society of Appraisers to find valuation professionals in your area. Similarly, we do not provide conservation advice but suggest you consult the website for the American Institute for Conservation.
I am hosting a fundraiser! Would WEM be able to donate guests passes or other items?
We are proud to further our mission of providing transformative experiences with the Esherick campus, collection, and archive by donating general admission passes to fellow not-for-profit educational and cultural organizations looking to meet fundraising goals. Due to the high volume of requests, priority is given to those in our immediate community, from local schools and arts-related non-profit organizations. Details and guidelines for requests can be found here.