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World Famous Crochet Museum: A Whimsical Desert Oasis

Discover a quirky collection of crocheted wonders at the World Famous Crochet Museum in Joshua Tree, a unique roadside art installation.

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The World Famous Crochet Museum in Joshua Tree is a quirky roadside attraction housed in a former photo-processing booth, showcasing an impressive collection of crocheted creatures and objects curated by artist Shari Elf. It's a vibrant celebration of the craft and a testament to the charm of found-object art.

A brief summary to World Famous Crochet Museum

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • The museum is small; plan for a short but sweet visit, soaking in the quirky atmosphere and unique collection.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the adjacent Art Queen complex to explore more art installations and galleries.
  • Bring a camera! The vibrant colors and whimsical displays make for great photo opportunities.
  • The museum is free, but donations are welcome to support the artist and maintain this unique attraction.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The World Famous Crochet Museum is located at 61855 CA-62, Joshua Tree, just east of the Joshua Tree Saloon. If you're already in Joshua Tree, it's easily accessible on foot. From the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, it's a short walk east along Highway 62. The museum is located within the Art Queen complex, behind the Beauty Bubble Salon. Look for the bright green building!

  • Driving

    If you're driving to the World Famous Crochet Museum, head to 61855 CA-62, Joshua Tree. It's located on the main highway through town, just east of the Joshua Tree Saloon. The museum is part of the Art Queen complex. Parking is free and available in the adjacent lot. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist season or special events. From the main gate, head towards the back of the lot.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation options in Joshua Tree are limited, the Morongo Basin Transit Authority (MBTA) does provide bus service in the area. Check the MBTA website for routes and schedules to see if there's a convenient stop near the Crochet Museum. From the nearest bus stop, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the museum. A single ride fare on MBTA is approximately $1.75. Exact change may be required.

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Discover more about World Famous Crochet Museum

Tucked away in the eclectic Art Queen complex in Joshua Tree, California, the World Famous Crochet Museum is a vibrant testament to the charm of crochet and the allure of roadside attractions. Housed in a former lime-green painted fiberglass drive-through photo kiosk, this tiny museum, established in 2006 by artist Shari Elf, is packed with an unbelievable collection of crocheted items. Shari Elf, a recycle artist, began collecting crocheted poodles in the mid-1990s. Over time, her collection grew, leading her to acquire the old photo hut and transform it into a museum. Elf doesn't crochet herself; instead, she curates the museum with items found on eBay and through donations from crochet enthusiasts. Inside, visitors will discover an array of crocheted animals, abstract designs, and familiar objects, showcasing the breadth and creativity of the craft. The museum itself is a work of art, reflecting Elf's whimsical style and passion for transforming unloved items into treasured pieces. Despite its small size—fitting only a couple of people comfortably—the World Famous Crochet Museum has garnered attention worldwide, even appearing in international ad campaigns. A strong windstorm once knocked the building over, scattering the collection, but the museum was quickly restored and remains a beloved stop for tourists and art enthusiasts alike. Located just east of the Joshua Tree Saloon, the museum is open daily and offers free admission, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a cozy, colorful world of crochet. It's a celebration of creativity, community, and the enduring appeal of handmade art.

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