Embarking on an RV trip across the US is an incredible way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. It’s a chance to create unforgettable memories, discover new places, and meet interesting people. If you’re also a quilting enthusiast, then you’re in for a real treat. The US is home to a vibrant quilting community, and the country’s quilting trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the art form in depth. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at RVing the Quilt Trail.
What is the Quilting Trail?
The US Quilting trail is a network of locations across the country where you can learn about the art of quilting, see historic quilts, and discover contemporary designs. The trail has grown in popularity over the years, and today there are hundreds of locations to visit, from museums and galleries to historic homes and quilting shops.
The quilting trail provides a fascinating insight into the history of quilting in the US. Quilting has a long tradition in American culture, dating back to the colonial era. In the 19th century, quilting became an important part of the home and family life, with women gathering to quilt together and share their stories. Today, quilting is still a vibrant art form, and the quilting trail celebrates its rich history and modern innovations.
Why RV the Quilting Trail?
RVing is the perfect way to explore the quilting trail. With an RV, you have the flexibility to travel at your own pace, stay in comfortable accommodations, and enjoy the freedom to explore different locations without worrying about packing and unpacking.
By RVing the quilting trail, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the experience. You’ll be able to take your time and explore each location at your leisure, spend time chatting with local quilters, and even participate in quilting workshops or classes. With an RV, you’ll have the freedom to create a custom itinerary, choosing the locations that interest you the most and skipping those that don’t.
Getting Started on Your RV Quilt Trip
Before you hit the road, it’s important to do your research and plan your route. The quilting trail is vast, and there are hundreds of locations to choose from. Start by selecting the regions or states that you’d like to explore, and then use online resources like the Quilt Index or the Quilt Alliance to find the locations that interest you the most.
Once you have a rough idea of your itinerary, it’s time to start planning your RV trip. You’ll need to decide on the type of RV that’s right for you, and then research campgrounds or RV parks that are conveniently located near the locations you want to visit. Make sure to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak travel season.
Top Destinations While RVing Quilt Trail
There are countless locations on the quilting trail, but here are a few of the top destinations to consider.
- Paducah, Kentucky – Paducah is known as the quilting capital of the world, and for good reason. The city is home to the National Quilt Museum, which showcases both historic and contemporary quilts from around the world. Paducah also hosts the annual AQS QuiltWeek, which draws thousands of quilters to the city each year.
- Lancaster County, Pennsylvania – Lancaster County is a hub of Amish quilting, and there are several locations where you can see traditional Amish quilts and learn about the art form. The Old Country Store and the People’s Place Quilt Museum are two top destinations.
- Taos, New Mexico – Taos is home to the Taos Wool Festival, which celebrates traditional fiber arts like quilting, spinning, and weaving. The city is also home to the Taos Quilting and Needlecraft Guild, which hosts regular meetings and workshops for quilters of all levels.
- San Francisco, California – The San Francisco Quilters Guild is one of the oldest and largest guilds in the country, and they host an annual show each year that showcases the work of local quilters. San Francisco is also home to the Quilt Art Museum, which has a collection of over 400 quilts from around the world.
- Shipshewana, Indiana – Shipshewana is a small town in northern Indiana that is home to several quilting shops and studios. The Shipshewana Quilt Festival is held each June and draws quilters from around the country.
Tips for RVing the Quilting Trail
- Research your RV options – There are many types of RVs to choose from, including motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels. Consider the size and layout that will work best for your travel style.
- Plan your route in advance – The quilting trail is vast, so it’s important to plan your route in advance to ensure that you can see all of the locations you’re interested in. Use online resources like the Quilt Index or the Quilt Alliance to find the locations that interest you the most.
- Book accommodations in advance – During peak travel season, campgrounds and RV parks can fill up quickly. Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance to ensure that you have a place to stay.
- Attend a quilting workshop or class – Many of the locations on the quilting trail offer quilting workshops or classes, which can be a fun and educational way to learn more about the art form.
- Don’t forget to take breaks – RVing can be tiring, so be sure to take breaks along the way to rest and recharge. Explore local attractions, try new foods, and take in the scenery to make the most of your trip.
5 Best Places RVing the Quilt Trail
RVing the US Quilting trail is a unique and rewarding way to explore the history and art of quilting in the US. With an RV, you have the flexibility to travel at your own pace, stay in comfortable accommodations, and fully immerse yourself in the experience. By researching your route, planning your accommodations, and attending quilting workshops or classes, you can create an unforgettable trip that will inspire and delight you. So pack your sewing machine and hit the road – the quilting trail is waiting!
Looking for other fun RV trip ideas? Don’t miss reading about Guided RV Tours.