
Living History Farms
Step back in time at Living History Farms, exploring Iowa's agricultural past through immersive 19th and 20th-century farmsteads and villages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

Living History Farms
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Living History Farms, exploring Iowa's agricultural past through immersive 19th and 20th-century farmsteads and villages.
"The interpreters truly embody the time period and teach people about their professions."

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Check the Schedule :calendar:
Demonstrations and activities vary daily. Plan your visit around what you want to see most.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

1875 Pioneer Village
Village Area
Step back in time to experience life in a 19th-century Iowa farming community. Interact with costumed interpreters.

1900 Farm
Farm Area
Witness early 20th-century farming practices and daily life. See demonstrations of traditional chores and crafts.

Ioway & Fur Trade Camp
Camp Area
Discover the history of the Ioway people and the fur trade era. Learn about their culture and survival skills.

Printing Shop Demonstration
Village Area
See a working 19th-century printing press in action and learn about historical communication methods. You might even make a souvenir!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Dress for the Farm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Check the Schedule :calendar:
Demonstrations and activities vary daily. Plan your visit around what you want to see most.
Engage with Interpreters :speech_balloon:
The costumed staff are knowledgeable and eager to share. Ask questions to truly immerse yourself in the history.
Scavenger Hunt Fun :magnifying_glass:
Ask for a scavenger hunt sheet to make your visit interactive, especially for kids.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Check the Schedule :calendar:
Demonstrations and activities vary daily. Plan your visit around what you want to see most.
Engage with Interpreters :speech_balloon:
The costumed staff are knowledgeable and eager to share. Ask questions to truly immerse yourself in the history.
Scavenger Hunt Fun :magnifying_glass:
Ask for a scavenger hunt sheet to make your visit interactive, especially for kids.
Mind the Weather :sun_behind_cloud:
It's an outdoor farm, so dress appropriately for the conditions. Layers are key!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Living History Farms for its immersive historical experience and educational value, with many highlighting the knowledgeable interpreters. Some reviews suggest areas for improvement in site upkeep and a desire for more lively atmosphere during non-event days.
"We had a wonderful time visiting the farm but the best part was Kirk in the printing shop. He was very educational and walked us through all the features of the shop and presses and we made a printed recipe.
He really did what a “living history” place should do: embody the time period and teach people about the profession."
Jackie Beltaine
"It was a fun day out with kids from school. I've been here many times over the years. They should do a few things to make it a more lively. Throw a banjo player or just something to keep spirits a little more up there."
Cassandra Rena
"I enjoyed the didfrent era houses, and town. It made me remember why I was grateful to live in the present day!"
Lisa Christensen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Living History Farms is located in Urbandale, Iowa, a suburb of Des Moines. The address is 11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Many visitors arrive by personal vehicle or ride-sharing services.
Public transportation options to Living History Farms are limited. While Des Moines has a bus system, direct routes to the farm may not be convenient. It's generally recommended to drive or use a ride-sharing service for the easiest access.
The farm is quite spread out. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking between different historical periods. A tractor ride is available to transport visitors between sections of the farm, which can be helpful.
Yes, Urbandale and the surrounding Des Moines area offer a wide range of hotels and lodging options to suit various budgets. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons or special events.
Absolutely! Living History Farms is a perfect destination for a day trip from Des Moines or surrounding areas. You can easily spend several hours exploring the different historical periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by age and season. It's best to check the official Living History Farms website for the most current admission fees and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for special events, to save time and guarantee entry. Check their website for online ticketing options.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Typically, the farm is open from late spring through fall. Always consult the official Living History Farms website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and military personnel. Keep an eye out for special promotions or group rates on their website.
No, Living History Farms is generally open seasonally, typically from May through October. They may host special events outside of these months, such as their Christmas light display.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore different historical periods, from the Ioway and Fur Trade Camp to the 1875 Pioneer Village and the 1900 Farm. Costumed interpreters demonstrate daily life, crafts, and farming techniques.
Yes, Living History Farms is very family-friendly! Kids can participate in hands-on activities, scavenger hunts, and interact with the historical interpreters.
The farm features various farm animals like cows, chickens, and horses, reflecting the historical periods. You can observe them and learn about their role in historical farming.
Expect demonstrations on blacksmithing, printing, cooking, gardening, animal husbandry, and various crafts relevant to each historical period.
While the historical nature of the site presents some challenges, efforts are made to ensure accessibility. Some areas may have uneven terrain. It's advisable to contact the farm directly for specific accessibility information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are typically food vendors or a cafe on-site offering snacks, meals, and drinks. The offerings usually reflect a historical theme.
Picnic areas are often available, so you can bring your own food and beverages. Check the farm's policy on outside food and drinks before your visit.
Food options often include classic American fare, sandwiches, and seasonal treats. Some vendors might offer historically inspired dishes.
Options can vary. It's a good idea to inquire with the food vendors on-site about specific dietary accommodations.
While there isn't a formal sit-down restaurant, there are usually food stands or a cafe offering a range of food and beverage options.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a photo opportunity! The 1875 Village, the 1900 Farm, and the Ioway Camp provide picturesque backdrops. The costumed interpreters also make for great subjects.
Yes, you are encouraged to take photos! However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up shots of interpreters, especially if they are engaged in a demonstration.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the integrity of the exhibits and for visitor safety. It's best to check their official policy regarding drones.
Visitors often capture candid moments of daily life, historical reenactments, farm animals, and the charming architecture of the different periods.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always adhere to posted signage and staff instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving early to avoid the biggest crowds and take advantage of the tractor ride to cover more ground. Pack snacks and drinks, or plan to visit the on-site food vendors. The variety of historical periods ensures there's something to capture the imagination of children of all ages, making it an educational and memorable outing.
📚 History Buffs & Educators
The farm serves as an excellent resource for educators looking for field trip opportunities or for anyone wanting to understand the evolution of Iowa's agricultural landscape. The ability to see and interact with historical tools, crafts, and living conditions provides a much richer understanding than reading from a textbook.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Content creators will find plenty of material for engaging videos and posts, showcasing the immersive nature of the experience. Remember to be respectful of the interpreters and other visitors while capturing your shots. The changing seasons can also offer different lighting and atmospheric conditions, making it a great location for repeat visits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Living History Experience
From the indigenous Ioway people and the fur trade era to the bustling 1875 Pioneer Village and the early 20th-century 1900 Farm, each section provides a window into different facets of Iowa's heritage. Visitors can witness blacksmiths at work, observe traditional cooking methods, learn about crop cultivation, and understand the social dynamics of these past communities. The attention to detail in recreating these environments is remarkable, offering a truly educational and entertaining visit.
It's important to remember that this is a 'living' history site, meaning the interpreters are not just actors but are knowledgeable individuals who can answer questions and provide context. Engaging with them is key to unlocking the full potential of your visit. They can explain the tools, the customs, and the everyday realities of life in these bygone times, making the experience far richer than simply observing exhibits.
Navigating the Farm and Its Eras
To help visitors traverse the expansive grounds, a tractor-pulled wagon ride is often available, providing a convenient way to move between the main historical areas. This is particularly useful for families with young children or those who may have mobility concerns. However, walking allows for a more intimate exploration and the discovery of smaller details within each area.
When planning your visit, it's highly recommended to check the daily schedule upon arrival or online. This will inform you about specific demonstrations, interpreter talks, and activities happening in each area. Prioritizing these scheduled events can help you make the most of your time and ensure you don't miss out on key historical insights.
Community and Conservation at Living History Farms
There have been some concerns raised by visitors regarding the upkeep of the grounds, with one TikTok user specifically mentioning litter and landscape netting issues that could potentially harm wildlife. This feedback underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and conservation efforts to ensure the farm remains a safe and beautiful environment for both visitors and the local ecosystem.
Despite these isolated concerns, the farm's mission is to educate and preserve Iowa's agricultural heritage. They often host educational programs and events aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of farming and rural life, contributing to the broader community's appreciation for its history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit