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International Quilt Museum

4.7
·418 reviews·Lincoln, United States

Home to the world's largest publicly held quilt collection, this museum showcases intricate artistry from across centuries and continents.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Central Asian Furnishings for a nomadic Yurt, 20th century

International Quilt Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to the world's largest publicly held quilt collection, this museum showcases intricate artistry from across centuries and continents.

4.7
(418 reviews)

"A definite destination for anyone into sewing, quilting, or interested in fiber arts!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Exhibit Schedule

Not all quilts are displayed at once; rotations happen. Plan your visit around current exhibits!

Explore the Library

Don't miss the third-floor library for bargain books and patterns.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Exhibitions

Rotating Exhibitions

Main Galleries

Discover a diverse array of historical and contemporary quilts from around the globe.

Instagram+1
Interactive Children's Room

Interactive Children's Room

Third Floor

Engage young minds with hands-on displays about quilt making and its rich history.

Reddit
Vast Quilt Library

Vast Quilt Library

Third Floor

Explore a comprehensive collection of quilt books and patterns, many at affordable prices.

Reddit
Artistic and Traditional Pieces

Artistic and Traditional Pieces

Main Galleries

Admire both intricate, restored historical quilts and modern, artistic fiber art creations.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Quilt Viewing

While the International Quilt Museum boasts a vast collection, not all quilts are on display simultaneously. Exhibits rotate to preserve these delicate textiles. Check their website for current exhibitions to ensure you see what interests you most. Instagram+1

Beyond the Quilts: A Rich Resource

This museum is more than just a display space; it houses a significant library of quilt-related books and patterns, often available at bargain prices on the third floor. Reddit It's a treasure trove for enthusiasts and researchers alike. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During Special Exhibitions
Why
See unique, curated collections
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, family-friendly
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We are making own bits of Black History! How cool is that?! #blackhistorymonth #thankful #quilt #quilting #quiltedpanelpainting #harriettubman
@jameslaurenbeauty
6.4K likes • 27.6K views

Check Exhibit Schedule

Not all quilts are displayed at once; rotations happen. Plan your visit around current exhibits! Instagram+1

Explore the Library

Don't miss the third-floor library for bargain books and patterns. Reddit

We are so excited to announce our fall exhibition, 𝘈𝘯 𝘌𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘘𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘵𝘴: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘏𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘈𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘛𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘴, opening September 26, 2025 🪡 This exhibition brings together approximately 30 examples, spanning the 18th to 20th centuries, from the Museum’s rich collection of more than 600 quilts and presents them from an ecological perspective, tracing patterns of relationships between the enviro...
@folkartmuseum
4.6K likes • 32.1K views
Now through July 12 at the International Quilt Museum!
friends_iqm
21 likes • 209 views

Take an Informative Tour

Docent-led tours offer deep insights into quilt history and artistry. Reddit

Kid-Friendly Fun

The third floor has an interactive room perfect for children. Reddit

Have you been to this one-of-a-kind museum??? ‌ The International Quilt Museum in Lincoln holds the largest publicly held quilt collection in the world. You’ll find intricate artistry from all over the planet and reaching hundreds of years into the past. The museum has a fantastic selection of temporary and traveling exhibits for all to see.
visit_nebraska
218 likes • 4.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Exhibit Schedule

Not all quilts are displayed at once; rotations happen. Plan your visit around current exhibits! Instagram+1

Explore the Library

Don't miss the third-floor library for bargain books and patterns. Reddit

Take an Informative Tour

Docent-led tours offer deep insights into quilt history and artistry. Reddit

Kid-Friendly Fun

The third floor has an interactive room perfect for children. Reddit

Free Parking Available

Convenient free parking is located just north of the museum building. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(418 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the International Quilt Museum for its impressive collection of diverse quilts, knowledgeable staff, and the valuable library resources. While some note that not all quilts are on display due to preservation efforts, the quality of the exhibits and the interactive children's area are consistently highlighted as positives. The museum is considered a significant cultural attraction for Lincoln.

"The staff are all very nice and helpful. We were just a bit disappointed to find that there are not many quilts on display. The majority are put in storage and they rotate out their collections. I understand the reason behind this so that they can better preserve their valuable collection. Also, one of their rooms was being redone and was closed, so we did not get to see very many quilts. The ones that we did see were nice, though."

J. Champagne

"Hosts several galleries showcasing quilts from around the world, including more modern artistic display pieces alongside traditional restored pieces. This institution serves to curate an important and artistic aspect of our history.

Easily accessible location and very friendly staff. The top floor holds a kid-friendly room with interactive displays on quilt making and it's history. A fantastic place to spend 1-2 hours!"

Matthew Norris

"Excellent and informative local Nebraska attraction!
Well informed docents! Beautiful fixed and rotating fiber arts exhibits! So many beautiful quilts! A great library of quilt related books on upper floor! A definite destination for anyone into sewing or quilting or in any way interested in the fiber arts! Everything is beautifully presented and clean like a national art gallery! They even do restorations on historical quilts. Great gift shop!"

T. W.

What People Like

Beautiful and diverse quilts
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Extensive library resources

What People Dislike

Limited quilts on display
Rotating exhibits can disappoint

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The International Quilt Museum is located in Lincoln, Nebraska. It's easily accessible by car, and free parking is available immediately north of the building. Reddit For those flying in, Lincoln Airport (LNK) is nearby. Instagram

Information on public transportation routes to the museum can be found on the City of Lincoln's transit website. It's recommended to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The museum is typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Instagram It's always a good idea to check their official website for any changes or holiday closures before your visit.

Absolutely! The International Quilt Museum is a popular destination for visitors to Lincoln. Instagram+1 Many travelers make it a key stop on their Nebraska itinerary. Reddit

The museum is designed to be accessible. Please check their official website or contact them directly for specific accessibility details regarding ramps, elevators, and other facilities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website for the most current pricing information for adults, seniors, and students. Instagram

While advance booking might not always be required, it's recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to guarantee your entry. Check their website for online ticket options. Instagram

The museum may offer discounts for seniors, students, or group visits. Information on potential discounts and membership benefits can usually be found on their website. Reddit

Refund policies typically depend on the ticket type and when you purchased them. Review the terms and conditions on the museum's ticketing page or contact them directly for clarification.

Yes, the museum often offers membership programs that provide benefits like free admission, discounts in the gift shop, and invitations to special events. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse range, from historical, traditional quilts to contemporary, artistic fiber art pieces. Instagram+1 Exhibits rotate, so there's always something new to discover. Instagram

Most visitors find 1-2 hours to be sufficient to explore the main exhibits and the library. Reddit If you're a dedicated quilter or art enthusiast, you might want to allocate more time. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers informative tours led by knowledgeable docents, which are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the quilts. Reddit

Yes, there's a well-stocked gift shop offering a variety of quilt-related items, books, and souvenirs. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but always check signage or ask staff for specific guidelines. TikTok

🎫 📚 Library & Resources

The third floor houses a fantastic library with a vast collection of quilt-related books and patterns, often available at bargain prices. Reddit

The library primarily serves as a resource for visitors to browse and purchase books. Specific borrowing policies may apply, so it's best to inquire with museum staff. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum's collection, library, and knowledgeable staff provide extensive resources for learning about the history and evolution of quilting. Reddit

The museum is known for its restoration work on historical quilts. You can inquire with staff or look for information in their library resources regarding their conservation efforts. Reddit

While not always advertised, the museum may occasionally host workshops or talks related to quilting and fiber arts. Check their events calendar or inquire directly for any upcoming opportunities. Instagram

🎫 👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Kids

Yes, the museum has a dedicated kid-friendly room on the third floor with interactive displays about quilt making. Reddit

Children can enjoy hands-on exhibits that teach them about the history and process of creating quilts. Reddit

While the area is designed for children, there are typically no strict age restrictions. It's a space for families to explore together. Reddit

The museum is generally stroller-friendly, with elevators providing access to all floors. Reddit

Keep an eye on the museum's events calendar for special family days or programs that might be scheduled throughout the year. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The International Quilt Museum is a surprisingly engaging destination for families. The third floor features a dedicated kid-friendly room with interactive displays that make learning about quilt making fun and accessible for younger visitors. Reddit It's a great way to introduce children to art, history, and hands-on creativity in a welcoming environment. Instagram

Beyond the dedicated children's area, the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the quilts themselves can capture a child's imagination. Encourage them to spot shapes, colors, and tell stories about what they see in the quilts. The museum's accessible layout and the availability of tours can also help make the visit more enjoyable for the whole family. Reddit

🎨 Art & Textile Enthusiasts

For those with a deep appreciation for fiber arts and intricate craftsmanship, the International Quilt Museum is a must-visit. You'll be captivated by the breadth and depth of the collection, featuring everything from historical masterpieces to avant-garde contemporary pieces. Instagram+1 The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions in quilting ensures a rich and inspiring experience. Instagram

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the extensive library on the third floor, a treasure trove of quilt-related literature and patterns. Reddit Engaging with the knowledgeable docents during a tour can also provide invaluable insights into the techniques, history, and cultural significance of the displayed works. Reddit

📚 Researchers & Students

The International Quilt Museum is an unparalleled resource for anyone conducting research on quilts, textile history, or American folk art. Its vast collection and comprehensive library offer a wealth of primary and secondary source materials. Reddit The museum's commitment to acquiring not just quilts but also accompanying documentation, such as letters and artist statements, provides crucial context for scholarly work. Instagram

Researchers can benefit from the museum's expertise in quilt preservation and conservation, offering insights into best practices for handling and maintaining delicate textile artifacts. Reddit Inquiring about access to specific archival materials or consulting with museum staff can greatly enhance any research project related to quilting history. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Quilts: More Than Fabric

The International Quilt Museum is a testament to the fact that quilts are far more than just functional bedding; they are intricate works of art. The museum showcases a breathtaking spectrum of quilts, from centuries-old traditional pieces that tell stories of domestic life and historical events, to cutting-edge contemporary creations that push the boundaries of fiber art. Instagram+1 Visitors can marvel at the meticulous handiwork, the vibrant color palettes, and the innovative designs that demonstrate incredible skill and creativity. Reddit

Many quilts displayed are not just aesthetically pleasing but also carry significant cultural and historical weight. They represent the artistry of diverse communities and individuals, including important contributions from African American quilters. TikTokInstagram The museum actively works to preserve and present these pieces, ensuring that this vital aspect of our heritage is appreciated and understood for generations to come. Reddit

Whether you're a seasoned quilter or a curious newcomer, the sheer variety and quality of the quilts on display are sure to inspire. The museum's commitment to showcasing both historical significance and artistic innovation makes it a unique destination for anyone interested in textiles, art, and history. Instagram+1

A Hub for Quilt Enthusiasts and Researchers

Beyond its stunning exhibitions, the International Quilt Museum serves as a vital resource for those deeply passionate about quilting. The museum houses an extensive library filled with thousands of books, patterns, and research materials related to quilts and textile arts. Reddit This collection is invaluable for researchers, students, and hobbyists looking to delve deeper into specific techniques, historical periods, or artists. Reddit

Many of these library resources are available for purchase at bargain rates, making it an accessible place for enthusiasts to expand their personal collections or research materials. Reddit This dedication to providing access to knowledge solidifies the museum's role as a central hub for the quilting community, fostering learning and appreciation for this rich art form. Instagram

For those interested in the academic side of quilting, the museum also actively acquires significant quilts and accompanying documentation, such as letters and artist statements, ensuring that the context and stories behind the art are preserved for future study. TikTokInstagram This comprehensive approach makes the International Quilt Museum a truly exceptional institution for anyone looking to explore the world of quilts.

The Preservation and Acquisition Process

The International Quilt Museum takes its role as a custodian of textile heritage very seriously. Due to the delicate nature of antique fabrics, many quilts are not on permanent display but are carefully stored and rotated through exhibitions to ensure their longevity. Reddit This meticulous approach to preservation allows the museum to safeguard its vast collection for future generations. Reddit

The museum is also actively involved in acquiring new pieces that represent the evolving landscape of quilting. They have acquired works from renowned quilt artists, recognizing their contributions to the art form. Instagram+2 This commitment to both preservation and acquisition ensures that the museum's collection remains dynamic and representative of quilting's rich history and its vibrant future. Instagram+1

Visitors can appreciate that the quilts they see are not only beautiful but also carefully managed and curated, reflecting a deep respect for the artistry and history they embody. Reddit

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