Are you interested in experiencing history firsthand? These are the best open air museums in Minnesota:
1Charles 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. 2National Eagle Center
Wabasha, MNThe National Eagle Center, situated on the banks of the Mississippi River in Wabasha, Minnesota, is a nonprofit educational center. Its primary focus is on providing education about eagles and the Upper Mississippi River watershed. This location offers a unique opportunity to learn about these majestic birds and their natural habitat. 3Forestville 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. 4Holz 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. 5Forest 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. 6Gibbs 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. 7Kandiyohi 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. 8Grand 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. 9Finn Creek Open Air Museum
Deer Creek, MNThe Finn Creek Open Air Museum is a Finnish-American open-air museum situated about six miles southeast of New York Mills, Minnesota. This museum is a testament to the early Finnish immigrants' lifestyles and experiences in the New York Mills area, providing a unique insight into their history and culture.- 10
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.