Are you interested in exploring historic homes? Here are the must-see historic houses in Minnesota:
1Minnesota State Capitol
St. Paul, MNThe Minnesota State Capitol, located in Saint Paul, serves as the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate of Minnesota. This significant building is not only a hub of political activity but also a symbol of the state's history and governance. Visitors can explore the grand architecture and gain insights into the workings of the state's legislative bodies. 2Edna S. Purcell House
Minneapolis, MNThe Purcell-Cutts House, originally known as the Edna S. Purcell house, is a significant example of Prairie School architecture located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The house was designed in 1913 by the architectural firm of Purcell, Feick and Elmslie for the architect William Purcell and his family. The design of the house is notable for its long, narrow floor plan that breaks away from traditional Victorian concepts about room divisions. 3American Swedish Institute
Minneapolis, MNThe American Swedish Institute (ASI) is a museum and cultural center located in the Phillips West neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The institute is dedicated to preserving and studying the historic role that Sweden and Swedish Americans have played in US culture and history. It serves as a gathering place for people to share experiences around themes of culture, migration, the environment, and the arts, all informed by enduring links to Sweden. 4Alexander Ramsey House
St. Paul, MNThe Alexander Ramsey House, located in Saint Paul, the capital of Minnesota, is a historic house museum. It offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the Ramsey family who were prominent figures in Minnesota's history. The house is a significant landmark, not only for its architectural beauty but also for its historical significance. 5Split Rock Lighthouse
Two Harbors, MNSplit Rock Lighthouse is a historic landmark situated near Silver Bay on the north shore of Lake Superior, in Minnesota, United States. It is a central building of the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and has been a part of the National Register of Historic Places since June 23, 1969. The lighthouse was built in response to the significant loss of ships during the famous Mataafa Storm of 1905, during which 29 ships were lost on Lake Superior. 6Mill City Museum
Minneapolis, MNIn 1878, the mill complex was destroyed by an explosion that killed 18 people. Despite this tragic event, the mill was later rebuilt and continued to operate until 1965. Today, the Mill City Museum stands as a testament to the resilience and industrial spirit of the city. 7Two Harbors Lighthouse
Two Harbors, MNThe Two Harbors Light, located in Two Harbors, Minnesota, is the oldest operating lighthouse in the state. It overlooks the beautiful Lake Superior's Agate Bay, providing a picturesque view for visitors. The lighthouse has been in operation since 1892, making it a significant historical landmark in the region. 8James J. Hill House
St. Paul, MNThe James J. Hill House, a significant historical landmark, was built by railroad magnate James J. Hill and completed in 1891. It is conveniently located near the eastern end of Summit Avenue, close to the Cathedral of Saint Paul. This location offers a commanding view of downtown St. Paul and the Mississippi River area, making it a highly desirable location for tourists. 9The Depot
Duluth, MNThe St. Louis County Depot, also known as The Depot, is a historic railroad station located in Duluth, Minnesota. It was constructed in 1892 and at its peak, it served seven different railroads. This makes it a significant part of the region's transportation history. 10Hill Annex Mine State Park
Calumet, MBHill-Annex Mine State Park is a significant location in Minnesota, United States. The park is dedicated to interpreting the open-pit mining heritage of the Mesabi Range. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and impact of mining in the region. 11Hubbard House
Mankato, MNThe Hubbard House, located in Mankato, Minnesota, is a historic site that was built in 1871. It was the home of Rensselaer D. Hubbard, a successful businessman of the time. The house stands as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the era, making it a point of interest for those interested in history and architecture. 12Lower Sioux Agency
Morton, MNToday, the Lower Sioux Agency is a historic site managed by the Lower Sioux Community in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society. In February 2021, ownership of half of the site was transferred from the historical society to the Lower Sioux Community. This partnership and ownership transfer demonstrate the ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the history of the Lower Sioux Indian Reservation. 13Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
Little Falls, MNCharles A. Lindbergh State Park, located on the outskirts of Little Falls, Minnesota, spans 569 acres. The park was once the farm of Congressman Charles August Lindbergh and his son, the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh. This historical connection adds a unique layer of interest to the park's natural beauty. 14LeDuc Historic Estate
Hastings, MBThe LeDuc Historic Estate, also known as the William G. LeDuc House, is a significant historical site located at 1629 Vermillion Street in Hastings, Minnesota, United States. This estate is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, indicating its national significance in American history. 15Forestville Mystery Cave State Park
Preston, MBForestville Mystery Cave State Park is a unique destination in Minnesota. It is home to the restored 19th-century village of Forestville and the state's longest cave, Mystery Cave. The Minnesota Historical Society operates the village as a historic site, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. The Mystery Cave, open to the public, offers an exciting underground adventure. 16Ames-Florida-Stork House Museum
Rockford, MBThe Ames–Florida–Stork House is a historic house museum located in Rockford, Minnesota, United States, situated on the Crow River. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural and historical significance of the house. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history, the people who lived there, and the role it played in the local community. 17Gideon and Agnes Pond House
Bloomington, MNThe Gideon H. Pond House, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a historic site that forms part of the Pond-Dakota Mission Park. This park also encompasses the Oak Grove Mission site, which was active from 1843 to 1852, a cemetery, and the remnants of the Pond family farm and orchards. This site offers a glimpse into the history of the area and the lives of the Pond family. 18Historic Landmark Center
St. Paul, MNThe Landmark Center in St. Paul, which was completed in 1902, has a rich history as it originally served as the United States Post Office, Courthouse, and Custom House for the state of Minnesota. This gives visitors a unique insight into the building's past and its importance in the state's history. 19W. W. Mayo House
Le Sueur, MNThe Dr. William W. Mayo House, a significant historical site, is situated at 118 North Main Street in Le Sueur, Minnesota, United States. This house is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), indicating its national significance and historical value. 20Pickwick Mill
Winona, MNPickwick Mill, located in the unincorporated community of Pickwick, Minnesota, near the city of Winona, is a historic gristmill. Constructed in the mid-1850s, it now operates as a milling museum, offering a glimpse into the past. The mill's history and its transformation into a museum make it a significant point of interest for visitors. 21Alexander Faribault House - Rice County Historical Society
Faribault, MNThe Alexander Faribault House, located in Faribault, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1853 by fur trader Alexander Faribault, the house is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. This style, popular in the mid-19th century, is characterized by its symmetrical shape, columned porticoes, and heavy cornices. The house stands as a testament to Faribault's influence and affluence during his time. 22Hormel Historic Home
Austin, MNThe Hormel Historic Home, also known as the Cook-Hormel House or simply The Hormel Home, is a significant historical site in Austin, Minnesota. This Italianate style home with a Classical Revival facade was built in 1871 and was recognized for its historical significance by being added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The home offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of the time and the history of the Hormel family. 23Christie House Museum
Long Prairie, MNThe Dr. George R. Christie House, located in Long Prairie, Minnesota, United States, is a historic house museum. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the life and times of Dr. George R. Christie and his family. 24E. St. Julien Cox House
St. Peter, MNThe E. St. Julien Cox House, located in St. Peter, Minnesota, is a unique example of Carpenter Gothic-style architecture. This style is characterized by its ornate wooden elements that mimic the intricate designs typically found in stone Gothic architecture. The house stands as a testament to the architectural tastes of the late 19th century. 25Kashubian Cultural Institute & Polish Museum
Winona, MNThe Kashubian Cultural Institute & Polish Museum, located in Winona, Minnesota, is a cultural and historical museum. It was established in 1979 with the aim of preserving the Polish and Kashubian heritage of the region. The museum is a testament to the rich cultural history of the area and offers a unique insight into the lives and traditions of the Polish and Kashubian communities. 26Hay Lake School And Erickson Log Home
Marine on St Croix, MBThe Hay Lake School, a historic schoolhouse located in Scandia, Minnesota, was in operation from 1896 to 1963. Today, it is managed by the Washington County Historical Society and serves as a museum. It shares its location with the 1868 Johannes Erickson House, creating a unique historical complex for visitors to explore. 27Andrew J. Volstead House Museum
Granite Falls, MNThe Andrew John Volstead House, located in Granite Falls, Minnesota, is a historic site that was once the home of ten-term United States Congressman Andrew Volstead (1860–1947). This house is not just a building, but a piece of American history, as it was the residence of a significant political figure who played a crucial role in the country's legislative history. 28Charles H. Burwell House
Minnetonka, MBThe Charles H. Burwell House, located in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that was constructed in 1883. This house offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and history of the late 19th century. 29Henderson Community Building
Henderson, MNThe Henderson Community Building, also known as the Old Sibley County Courthouse, is a historic government building located in Henderson, Minnesota. This building holds significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the area. 30Holz Farm Park
Eagan, MBThe Holz Family Farmstead, located in Eagan, Minnesota, is a significant part of the city's history. Established in the 1870s, the farmstead was a thriving 80-acre family farm that produced livestock, crops, fruits, and vegetables. It provides a glimpse into the agricultural past of the region. 31Fillebrown House
White Bear Lake, MNThe Fillebrown House is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, signifying its importance in American history. The house is a rare example of American Picturesque architecture, a style that was popular in the late 19th century when White Bear Lake was a bustling resort town. Visitors can appreciate the unique architectural style and the historical context in which it was built. 32Glensheen Mansion - Historic Congdon Estate
Duluth, MNGlensheen, the Historic Congdon Estate, is a significant historic house museum located in Duluth, Minnesota. The mansion, which spans 20,000 square feet, is managed by the University of Minnesota Duluth. This grand estate offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the opulence and architectural prowess of the early 20th century. 33Minnesota State School Orphanage Museum
Owatonna, MNThe Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children, located in Owatonna, Minnesota, served as a residential and educational facility for wards of the state from 1886 to 1945. The school was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1885 to provide safe transitional housing for orphaned, abandoned, and abused children. Over its 60-year operation, the school was home to a total of 10,635 children. 34Spam Museum
Austin, MNThe Spam Museum, located in Austin, Minnesota, is a unique institution dedicated to the history and impact of Spam, a brand of canned precooked meat products. The museum is admission-free, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. It provides an in-depth look into the Hormel Foods Corporation, the creators of Spam, and the product's place in world culture. 35Comstock House
Moorhead, MNThe Comstock House, located in Moorhead, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that was constructed for Solomon Comstock and his family between 1882 and 1883. The architectural style of the house is a blend of Queen Anne and Eastlake, making it a unique representation of the period's design aesthetics. 36Minnesota History Center
St. Paul, MNThe Minnesota History Center, located near downtown Saint Paul, serves as the headquarters of the Minnesota Historical Society. This museum and library is recognized as one of Minnesota's finest public buildings, offering a rich insight into the state's history and culture. 37Forest History Center
Grand Rapids, MNThe Forest History Center offers a variety of learning experiences about forests, the logging industry, and forest conservation. These experiences include exhibits and films, demonstrations, a living history lumber camp, an original 1934 fire tower, and nature trails. These diverse offerings allow visitors to engage with the history and conservation of forests in multiple ways. 38Crow Wing County Historical Society
Brainerd, MNThe interior of the Crow Wing Historic County Courthouse is as impressive as its exterior. It features polished marble floors and walls, and a rotunda surrounded by a balcony. The dome of the courthouse is adorned with a colored glass skylight and a fine brass electrolier, adding to the overall grandeur of the building. 39Meeker County Historical Society Museum and G.A.R. Hall
Litchfield, MNThe Grand Army of the Republic Hall, located in Litchfield, Minnesota, is a significant historical site. Constructed in 1885, it is one of only four remaining GAR halls in the state of Minnesota. This hall stands as a testament to the history and heritage of the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. 40Dorothy Molter Museum
Ely, MNDorothy Louise Molter, also known as Knife Lake Dorothy or the Root Beer Lady, lived for 56 years on Knife Lake in the Boundary Waters area of northern Minnesota. She gained national prominence due to her unique lifestyle and the root beer she made and sold to thousands of passing canoeists in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) near Ely, Minnesota. Her life and her place in the public eye were significantly influenced by the evolution of the area where she lived into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 41Cahill School
Edina, MNCahill School, a one-room schoolhouse, is currently situated in Tupa Park, near Minnesota State Highway 100 and Eden Avenue in Edina, Minnesota, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique glimpse into the educational history of the region. 423M Birthplace Museum
Two Harbors, MNThe John Dwan Office Building, situated at 201 Waterfront Drive in Two Harbors, Minnesota, serves as a historical landmark and is currently a museum dedicated to 3M. This building holds significant historical value as it was the location where the incorporation papers for the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, now known as 3M, were drawn up in 1902. 43Spring Valley Methodist Church Museum
Spring Valley, MNThe Spring Valley Methodist Episcopal Church, also known as the First Methodist Church and Spring Valley Community Historical Society Museum, is a historic church building situated at 221 W. Courtland Street in Spring Valley, Minnesota. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. 44Pipestone National Monument - U.S. National Park Service
Pipestone, MNPipestone National Monument is situated in the southwestern region of Minnesota. It is conveniently accessible via several highways, including U.S. Route 75, Minnesota State Highway 23, and Minnesota State Highway 30. This makes it an easy destination to reach for those traveling by road. 45Gibbs Museum of Pioneer and Dakotah Life
Falcon Heights, MNThe Gibbs Farm, located in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, is a museum that was originally the farmstead of Heman Gibbs and Jane DeBow. The farm was first established in 1854 and has since been transformed into a museum that provides a glimpse into the lives of the pioneers who lived there. 46Sibley County Historical Society and Museum
Henderson, MNThe August F. Poehler House, located in Henderson, Minnesota, is a historic site that dates back to 1884. It was originally built for August and Emilie Poehler, who were shop owners, and their six children. This house provides a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of a successful entrepreneurial family in the late 19th century. 47Kandiyohi County Historical Society
Willmar, MNThe Kandiyohi County Historical Society (KCHS) is a local history museum located in Willmar, Minnesota. Established in 1897, the museum's mission is to discover, preserve, and share the story of Kandiyohi County and its people. 48Moose Lake Depot and Fires of 1918 Museum
Moose Lake, MNThe Moose Lake station, located in Moose Lake, Minnesota, is a historic depot constructed in 1907 by the Soo Line Railroad. This building stands as a testament to the rich history of the area and the significant role railroads played in its development. Visitors to the museum can learn about the history of the railroad and its impact on the local community. 49Soo Line Depot Museum
Crosby, MNThe Crosby station, now known as the Soo Line Depot Museum, is a historic former train station located in Crosby, Minnesota. Established in 1910, the station has a rich history that reflects the growth and development of the region. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. 50Cross River Heritage Center
Schroeder, MNThe Cross River Heritage Center, located in Schroeder, Minnesota, is a museum that is managed by the Schroeder Area Historical Society. The center is dedicated to collecting and interpreting the history of the local area and the greater North Shore of Lake Superior. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage. 51The Bunnell House
Homer, MNThe Willard Bunnell House, located in Homer, Minnesota, is a historic house museum. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and history of the region. The house is a significant landmark, having been listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. 52Cokato Museum
Cokato, MNThe Cokato Museum & Gust Akerlund Studio is a local history museum located in Cokato, Minnesota. The museum's focus is on the history of the city of Cokato and the surrounding townships of southwest Wright County. This provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's past. 53Grand Portage National Monument Heritage Cente
Grand Portage, MNThe Grand Portage National Monument is a significant historical site located in a boreal forest on the north shore of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. The monument was established with the aim of preserving a vital center of the fur trade, which played a crucial role in the region's history. Additionally, the monument also serves as a testament to the rich heritage of the local Ojibwe culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. 54Cannon Falls Museum
Cannon Falls, MNThe Firemen's Hall, located at 206 W. Mill St. in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, is a historic building that was constructed in 1888. It has been recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. This building is a testament to the town's history and resilience, having been built after two devastating fires in the town's business district. 55Folsom House
Taylors Falls, MNThe Folsom House, located at 272 West Government Street in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, is a historic house museum. This location offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of Minnesota's rich history. 56Harkin Store
New Ulm, MNHarkin's General Store stands as a testament to the once thriving town of West Newton in Nicollet County, Minnesota. As the only remaining structure of the town, it offers a unique glimpse into the past and the history of the area. Visitors can explore the store and get a sense of what life was like in the late 19th century. 57John H. Stevens House Museum
Minneapolis, MNThe John Harrington Stevens House holds a significant place in the history of Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was the first authorized house to be built on the west bank of the Mississippi River in the area that would later become the city of Minneapolis. This historic structure provides a glimpse into the early settlement and development of the city. 58Minnehaha Depot
Minneapolis, MNThe Minnesota Transportation Museum (MTM) is a unique institution located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It operates several heritage transportation sites across Minnesota and even one in Wisconsin. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of local transportation, including railroads, buses, and streetcars. It's a great place for tourists interested in transportation history to explore. 59Hennepin History Museum
Minneapolis, MNThe Hennepin History Museum is a unique institution that focuses on the history, people, and communities of Hennepin County, Minnesota. It provides a comprehensive look into the past of this region, offering visitors a chance to understand the area's history and its impact on the present day. 60Redwood County Historic Society
Redwood Falls, MNToday, the former Redwood County Poor Farm building is home to the Redwood County Museum. Operated by the Redwood County Historical Society, the museum features 30 rooms filled with local history and cultural exhibits. Visitors can explore period rooms such as a living room, dining room, kitchen, general store, military room, and doctor's office, each offering a unique glimpse into the past. 61Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum - Duluth, MN
Duluth, MNDiscover history firsthand at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museums, founded by David and Marsha Karpeles. Our museums across the United States preserve and showcase a diverse range of original manuscripts and historical documents, from handwritten letters and historical treaties to scientific pap- 62
Oliver Kelley Farm - Minnesota Historical Society
Elk River, MNOperated by the Minnesota Historical Society, the Oliver Kelley Farm is recognized as a historic site of national significance. In 1964, it was declared a National Historic Landmark and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm is recognized for its importance in the themes of agriculture and social history, making it a valuable destination for those interested in these aspects of American history.