World Famous Crochet Museum in Joshua Tree

After months of working to launch my new website, I took a much needed day trip with my partner to Joshua Tree National Park. It was a hot day but with hats, lots of water, and sunblock we had a great time hiking and bouldering across the beautiful desert landscape.

Once we were wiped out we hopped over to the World Famous Crochet Museum. Created by owner Shari Elf, from an old photo-processing stand, this mini museum houses her collection of crochet dolls she picked up from varies places. The museum is in an art village about 5 miles from the park’s western entrance, across from the park’s visitor center.

The art village continues to grow and evolve to this day.  A few years ago, after learning of the museum, I planned a solo camping trip to the national park and stopped at the museum along the way. At the time the art village was smaller and included the Art Queen shop and studio, co-founded by Elf, which sold unique crochet clothing and items by local artists. During this visit I learned about their plans to expand the area, so I knew I had to come back and check it out again.

This time I was excited to see they had added many new art installations around the museum. Many of these pieces were created using recycled items that otherwise would have ended up as trash. Here they have been given new life and enhance the character of this artistic place. The first new feature I noticed was an old trailer repurposed to house a large collection of crochet blankets for purchase. Inside the ceiling was draped in large blankets with more stacked along shelved walls. Outside of the Art Queen was an old bike that had been completely yarn bombed in many colors leaning against a table with more blankets and crochet items. Other areas of the village are now shops and art galleries by local artists repurposed from old housing. I look forward to returning in the future to see what new things this lovely place has added. If you love art and crochet, I suggest you stop by next time you visit Joshua Tree.

Learn more at  www.artqueen.org

There is no charge to enter, but feel free to leave a donation in the jar. 

Hours: Sunday - Saturday, 10am – 6pm*

*Double check hours before visiting as times may vary with the season. Other artists in the village have more limited hours with some only open on weekends.

Address: 61855 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

Located off 29 Palms Highway between Park Blvd and El Reposo Cir.

Parking is available along 29 Palms Highway and at the opposite end on Division Street.