Old World Wisconsin with kids was one of the most unforgettable stops on our summer road trip, which took us from South Dakota to Wisconsin and eventually back home to Colorado via Nebraska. Just a few days before, we visited 1880s Town in South Dakota. While much of the history and preservation was similar, 1880s Town is much more touristy and much smaller than Old World Wisconsin. As part of our mission to explore Wisconsin’s best attractions, Old World Wisconsin stood out as a unique and enriching experience, especially for families with kids. It’s an expansive open-air museum that offers an interactive glimpse into the state’s pioneer past, making history come alive for visitors of all ages.
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What is Old World Wisconsin?
Old World Wisconsin is a living history museum located in Eagle, Wisconsin, operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society. Spanning over 600 acres, it’s a re-creation of 19th and early 20th-century rural life, featuring historical buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities. The museum is organized into several “historic areas” representing different ethnic groups and communities that shaped Wisconsin’s history. From Scandinavian settlers to German farmers, each section provides a fascinating insight into the challenges and triumphs of early immigrant life.
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Location
Why Visit Old World Wisconsin with Kids?
For families, Old World Wisconsin is a perfect blend of education and entertainment. It’s not just about walking through historical buildings; it’s about experiencing history. Kids can try their hand at old-fashioned chores, watch skilled artisans at work, and even attend a class in a one-room schoolhouse. The interactive nature of the museum keeps children engaged while also teaching them about history in a fun and memorable way.
A Day in the Past: Our Family’s Experience
Our visit to Old World Wisconsin turned into a full-day adventure. Despite spending nearly the entire day there, we still didn’t manage to see everything—the place is enormous! It’s divided into different historic areas, each offering unique insights into Wisconsin’s cultural and agricultural heritage. Thankfully, the museum provides shuttle buses that transport visitors from one area to another, which was a lifesaver for our family with three young kids. Even so, there’s still plenty of walking involved, so we highly recommend bringing a stroller or wagon for little ones.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the highlights:
1. The Crossroads Village
Our journey began at the Crossroads Village, a bustling hub that re-creates a small Wisconsin town from the late 19th century. This area is full of charm, with buildings like a general store, blacksmith shop, and a working print shop. The kids were fascinated by the blacksmiths at work, watching sparks fly as they forged tools and horseshoes. It was a hands-on learning experience, and the blacksmiths were great at explaining their craft in an engaging way.
2. The Schoolhouse
One of the most memorable parts of our visit was the one-room schoolhouse. A costumed schoolteacher invited our kids inside for a mini-lesson, complete with slate boards and old-fashioned desks. Our 6- and 8-year-olds loved practicing their penmanship and imagining what school might have been like in the past. This interactive experience was both educational and fun, and it gave us parents a newfound appreciation for modern classrooms!
3. International Farmsteads
Old World Wisconsin features several farmsteads, each highlighting the unique contributions of different immigrant groups. We visited the Scandinavian homesteads, which included the Norwegians, Danes, and Finns. Later, we explored the Life on the Farms area but did not make it through this entire section. Our kids loved seeing the chickens and learning about how settlers grew their own food and cared for their livestock. The costumed interpreters added an extra layer of authenticity, answering questions and demonstrating traditional farming techniques.
4. The 1880s Cycling Experience
Our kids were thrilled to try riding old-fashioned bicycles at the Wheelmen’s Club, a unique feature at Old World Wisconsin. These large-wheeled bikes, also known as penny-farthings, provided plenty of entertainment (and a few wobbly starts). It was a hit with both our older boys and our youngest. This activity was a perfect example of how Old World Wisconsin makes history interactive and fun.
5. Artisan Demonstrations
Throughout the museum, skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like woodworking, weaving, and baking. We especially enjoyed the beer brewing at the brewhouse near the entrance. These demonstrations are not only fascinating but also offer a chance to ask questions and learn more about the skills that were essential to pioneer life.
Tips for Visiting with Old World Wisconsin With Kids
- Plan for a Full Day: With so much to see and do, you’ll want to dedicate an entire day to exploring Old World Wisconsin. Arrive early to make the most of your visit.
- Use the Shuttles: The museum’s shuttle buses are a fantastic way to save little legs from too much walking. Stops are conveniently located near major areas.
- Bring a Stroller or Wagon: Even with the shuttles, you’ll do a fair bit of walking. A stroller or wagon is a great option for younger kids.
- Pack Snacks and Water: While there are dining options on-site, it’s always a good idea to have snacks and water on hand, especially for kids.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as most of the museum is outdoors.
The Setting and Surrounding Area
The picturesque setting of Old World Wisconsin adds to its charm. Nestled in the rolling hills of Eagle, the museum’s sprawling grounds are dotted with beautiful historic buildings, gardens, and farmland. We visited in the summer, and the lush greenery made the experience even more enjoyable. After our visit, we continued our road trip, which also included stops at Cave of the Mounds, Discovery World, and other Wisconsin highlights before heading back to Colorado.
Why We’d Go Back
Old World Wisconsin exceeded our expectations as a family-friendly destination. The combination of interactive exhibits, beautiful surroundings, and engaging activities made it a standout experience on our road trip. Our kids came away with a deeper understanding of history and plenty of stories to share. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Old World Wisconsin with kids is a destination worth visiting. We’re already planning a return trip to see the parts we missed!
