National Watch and Clock Museum
Explore centuries of horological artistry and history, from intricate pocket watches to groundbreaking American timepieces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
National Watch and Clock Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of horological artistry and history, from intricate pocket watches to groundbreaking American timepieces.
"One of the best museums I ever visited, great for clock lovers and history buffs alike!"
Amtrak to Lancaster
Take Amtrak to Lancaster, then a city bus to Columbia for easy access. :train:
Allow ample time
Plan for at least 1.5 hours to explore the extensive exhibits. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hamilton & Bulova Exhibits
Dedicated Galleries
Explore the rich history and craftsmanship of iconic American watchmakers, including rare serial numbers.
Marine Chronometers
Naval Timekeeping Section
Marvel at precision instruments crucial for seafaring, showcasing incredible mechanical ingenuity.
Automotive Clock Gallery
Transportation Exhibit
Discover the fascinating evolution of timekeeping in vehicles, from early portable watches to dashboard clocks.
Rare & Vault Collection
Secure Display Area
Glimpse once-in-a-lifetime pieces, including experimental complications and historic prototypes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Ticking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Amtrak to Lancaster
Take Amtrak to Lancaster, then a city bus to Columbia for easy access. :train:
Allow ample time
Plan for at least 1.5 hours to explore the extensive exhibits. :clock:
Kid-friendly scavenger hunt
Engage younger visitors with a fun scavenger hunt designed for children. :child:
Explore the bookstore
Discover a great selection of books on horology and related history. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Amtrak to Lancaster
Take Amtrak to Lancaster, then a city bus to Columbia for easy access. :train:
Allow ample time
Plan for at least 1.5 hours to explore the extensive exhibits. :clock:
Kid-friendly scavenger hunt
Engage younger visitors with a fun scavenger hunt designed for children. :child:
Explore the bookstore
Discover a great selection of books on horology and related history. :books:
Don't miss rare pieces
Seek out the vault collection for truly unique and irreplaceable timepieces. :gem:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Watch and Clock Museum for its extensive and fascinating collection of antique clocks and watches, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship and historical context. The staff are noted as great, and the museum offers a wonderful learning opportunity for all ages, though some feel it's best suited for those with a keen interest in detail. +1
"Wonderful experience at the NWAC Museum. Extensive collection of unique antique clocks and watches. Beautiful exhibits showcases the history of time pieces. Great staff, book store, and outstanding opportunity to learn about clocks and watches. Plan to spend 1.5 hours touring this museum in one of the the most lovely towns in Eastern PA."
Theresa Clarke
"My family and I had a great time at the National Watch and Clock Museum. The museum is not just about clocks and watches but also about World and American history. The craftsmanship and design put into these exhibits are exceptional. They even had a scavenger hunt for the kids. 10/10 and we will be visiting again!!"
Nathan m
"Great place to visit and see the history of watches and clocks. I was amazed at all the makers that were in CT back in the day as that is my home state. I was actually surprised to see all the Seth Thomas clocks as I remember the factory in Thomaston CT."
Chris Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Columbia, PA. For those traveling by train, Amtrak to Lancaster is a good option, followed by a city bus to Columbia. Driving is also straightforward, with ample parking available.
Yes, there is parking available near the National Watch and Clock Museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, you can take Amtrak to Lancaster and then a city bus to Columbia, which is where the museum is located.
Columbia, PA, is accessible by car and also via Amtrak to the nearby Lancaster station, followed by local transit.
Columbia itself is a lovely town in Eastern PA, and the museum is a great addition to a visit to the Lancaster area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum's hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees can vary. It's recommended to check the museum's official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can sometimes save time, especially during peak visiting periods. Check the museum's website for online booking options.
The museum often hosts special exhibits and events. Following their social media or website will keep you informed about upcoming happenings.
The museum strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact them directly or check their website for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find an extensive collection of antique clocks and watches from around the world, showcasing history, craftsmanship, and design. Highlights include American watchmakers like Hamilton and Bulova, marine chronometers, and automotive clocks. +2
Most visitors find that 1.5 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly.
While the detailed exhibits are more suited for adults and history enthusiasts, the museum offers a scavenger hunt for children to make the visit more engaging.
Information on guided tours is not widely available, but the exhibits are well-curated with informative displays.
Its vast collection of timepieces, including rare and historically significant items, combined with its focus on the intersection of horology and history, makes it a standout destination. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant, but there may be vending machines or a small cafe area. It's best to check their website for current amenities.
Columbia and the surrounding Lancaster area offer various dining options, from casual cafes to local restaurants.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries. Check the museum's policy for specifics.
Yes, the Lancaster area has many family-friendly dining establishments. Ask museum staff for local recommendations.
You can find a range of American cuisine and local specialties in Columbia and the greater Lancaster region.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for posted signs or ask staff.
The intricate details of the watches and clocks, especially the rare pieces and historical exhibits like the Hamilton and Bulova sections, make for excellent photo opportunities. +1
Video recording for personal use is often permitted, but similar to photography, flash should be avoided.
Commercial photography or filming typically requires prior permission from the museum.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a macro lens can be beneficial for capturing the fine details of the timepieces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕰️ Horology Enthusiasts & Collectors
🚗 History Buffs & Road Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Science of Timekeeping
Beyond the sheer number of artifacts, the museum excels at contextualizing these objects. Exhibits delve into the historical significance of timekeeping, explaining how advancements in clocks and watches influenced navigation, industry, and daily life. The Hamilton and Bulova exhibits, for instance, highlight the impact of American watchmaking on the world stage, featuring rare serial numbers and technical milestones.
Navigating the Collection: Must-See Exhibits
Don't miss the museum's vault collection, which houses exceptionally rare and often irreplaceable pieces that are rarely seen elsewhere. This section offers a glimpse into the cutting edge of horological innovation throughout history, featuring experimental complications and unique prototypes.
Community Insights and Visitor Experiences
Social media content often highlights specific pieces, such as the 17th-century astro watch or the Hamilton serial numbers 1 and 2, showcasing the museum's commitment to displaying historically significant items.
While some reviews suggest it might be more geared towards adults interested in detail and craftsmanship, the inclusion of a scavenger hunt for kids indicates an effort to make the experience enjoyable for families. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit