Elk River History Museum
Step back to the 1860s at this living history farm! Meet animals, explore historic buildings, and walk scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy nature and animals
Elk River History Museum
Best Time
Enjoy nature and animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back to the 1860s at this living history farm! Meet animals, explore historic buildings, and walk scenic trails.
"A wonderful place to visit with children. They will learn something new about farm."
Meet Blaze the Ox!
Don't miss meeting Blaze, the friendly ox! A highlight for many visitors. :cow:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be walking on trails and farm grounds, so good footwear is key. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Farmhouse
Main Farm Area
See traditional cooking and daily life from the 1860s. A glimpse into the past.
Farm Animals
Animal Pens and Pastures
Meet and learn about heritage breeds of livestock. Blaze the ox is a must-see!
Educational Lab & Kitchen
Adjacent to Farmhouse
Discover historical farming techniques and food preparation methods.
Walking Trails
Surrounding Grounds
Explore scenic paths offering beautiful views of nature and the farm.
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Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Meet Blaze the Ox!
Don't miss meeting Blaze, the friendly ox! A highlight for many visitors. :cow:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be walking on trails and farm grounds, so good footwear is key. :athletic_shoe:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Kids love the hands-on experience and interacting with the animals. :child:
Friendly Staff
The costumed staff are knowledgeable and happy to chat about farm life. :smiley:
Tips
from all over the internet
Meet Blaze the Ox!
Don't miss meeting Blaze, the friendly ox! A highlight for many visitors. :cow:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be walking on trails and farm grounds, so good footwear is key. :athletic_shoe:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Kids love the hands-on experience and interacting with the animals. :child:
Friendly Staff
The costumed staff are knowledgeable and happy to chat about farm life. :smiley:
Explore the Trails
Discover hidden paths and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the farm. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Elk River History Museum for its authentic living history experience and friendly staff. It's highlighted as a wonderful, educational outing for families, with many appreciating the chance to interact with farm animals and learn about the past in a beautiful setting. Some visitors noted the potential for corn mazes in the fall and expressed a desire to return to explore the trails more thoroughly.
"Beautiful and informative. A great outing for the family
There's something for everyone. It's a peak into the past in a Beautiful setting. Animals, gardens, buildings. You need to meet Blaze the ox."
Rich Remick
"Wonderful place to visit with children. They will learn something new about farm. Animals are very good to watch ad pet. Staffs are very friendly and helpful. They have some clean restrooms. If you can make it on summer then able to see the beauty of nature with lots of flowers and others things. We enjoyed a lot ."
Ruplekha Biswas
"Pretty nice farm. Didn't even know that they had a trails so walking around it was pretty awesome. Would be cool if they use some of the empty fields to build a corn maze for the fall."
Shocker The Pro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Elk River, Minnesota. Specific driving directions can be found on their official website. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often recommended.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available for visitors at the Elk River History Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, and it's best to check the official website for the most current pricing. Some historical sites in Minnesota offer free admission on specific days, so it's worth checking for those opportunities.
Operating hours are often seasonal. It's highly recommended to check the museum's official website for their current hours of operation before planning your visit.
While advance ticket purchase might not always be necessary, checking the museum's website for online booking options is a good idea, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a traditional 1860s farm, interact with farm animals, visit the educational lab and kitchen, and walk on scenic trails. It's a hands-on, living history experience. +1
Absolutely! Children often enjoy interacting with the animals, seeing the historical farm life, and the hands-on nature of the exhibits. It's a wonderful family outing. +1
Accessibility information can vary. It's best to contact the museum directly or check their website for details on accessible pathways and facilities.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially inside buildings.
The museum often has costumed staff who are happy to share information and answer questions, providing an informal guided experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum may have a visitor center or store that offers snacks or drinks. Bringing your own picnic to enjoy on the grounds is also a popular option.
Elk River has several local dining options. You can find various restaurants in the town center, offering different cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic buildings, farm animals, and scenic trails offer great photo opportunities. The farmhouse and animal pens are particularly popular.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and parks. It's essential to check the museum's policy on drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for plenty of walking on the farm grounds and trails, so comfortable shoes are a must. Consider packing snacks or a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings. It's a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about agriculture and history in a dynamic, engaging way.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Educators
The costumed interpreters are a valuable resource, offering in-depth knowledge and personal anecdotes that bring the history to life. Exploring the farm buildings and walking the surrounding trails allows for a deeper appreciation of the historical landscape and the self-sufficient lifestyle of the era.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living History Experience
Visitors can expect to see a variety of heritage breeds of animals, including oxen, sheep, and pigs, often roaming freely in their enclosures. The farm's educational lab and kitchen provide insights into traditional food preservation and preparation methods, offering a sensory experience that goes beyond just looking.
Beyond the main farm buildings, the museum also features walking trails that wind through the surrounding natural landscape. These trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate the environment as it might have been centuries ago.
Family-Friendly Adventures
Kids often delight in meeting Blaze the ox, a particular favorite among visitors. The costumed staff are adept at engaging younger visitors, answering their questions, and making history come alive. The open spaces and trails also provide room for children to explore and burn off energy in a safe environment.
Parents appreciate that the museum offers a screen-free, educational experience that sparks curiosity and learning. It's a chance for children to learn about where their food comes from, the importance of agriculture, and the history of their local area in a fun and accessible way.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit