
Step back in time and experience life as it was for Wisconsin’s early immigrants at Old World Wisconsin, the state’s largest living history museum. Located just 45-50 minutes from Milwaukee in Eagle, WI, this 600-acre open-air museum brings history to life with original 19th-century structures, costumed interpreters, hands-on experiences, and plenty of wide-open space for kids to explore.
🏠 What is Old World Wisconsin?
Old World Wisconsin is a living history museum that immerses visitors in the daily life of immigrants and settlers who came to Wisconsin between the 1840s and 1910s. With 60+ authentically restored historic homes, shops, and farms spread out over rolling hills and woods, families can walk, play, explore, and learn in an interactive and unforgettable way.
⚖️ What You’ll See & Do
Crossroads Village
Start your journey at Crossroads Village, where you’ll find:
- A working Blacksmith Shop with live forging demonstrations
- A General Store where kids can use “Time Travel Tokens”
- The beautiful St. Peter’s Church
- A historic shoe shop where kids can try on old-time shoes
- The Four Mile House Inn and other preserved buildings
Don’t miss:
- Old-fashioned soda in the Four Mile House
- Vintage baseball games on the green (no gloves allowed!)
Hands-On History
- Ride high-wheel bicycles at the 1890s Wheelmen’s Clubhouse
- Attend class in a real 1900s Raspberry Schoolhouse
- Try your hand at farm chores: churn butter, split wood, wash clothes, knead dough
- Meet heritage breed animals like cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens
- Explore Scandinavian and German homesteads via complimentary trams
Time Travel Tokens
Buy tokens for $5 each to:
- Make a stamped leather keychain
- Buy an old-fashioned souvenir
- Get a treat at the General Store or Creamery
Food & Drink
- Clausing Barn Café offers lunch, cold drinks, and ice cream
- Brewhouse and Grill at the entrance sells local beer and casual eats
- You’re welcome to bring a picnic – there are plenty of shady tables
Accessibility & Amenities
- Modern restrooms throughout the property
- Complimentary trams to get you between areas (recommended, especially with young kids)
- Most paths are gravel or dirt – bring sturdy shoes and strollers with good wheels
🌍 Seasonal Events
Old World Wisconsin offers themed weekends and special events year-round. Some favorites include:
🌺 Mother’s Day Weekend
Moms get free admission and enjoy special programming throughout the property. Expect spring blooms, historic cooking, and gift-worthy moments.
🎃 Halloween Legends & Lore
Held in October, this spooky after-hours event features ghost stories, lantern-lit walks, and a touch of Wisconsin folklore.
❄️ Home for the Holidays
Celebrate winter traditions from different cultures with cozy holiday programming, hot drinks, and festive decorations in December.
🎓 Pro Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early – you can easily spend a full day here
- Bring sunscreen and water – there’s not much shade
- Take the tram to save your legs (and your kids’ moods!)
- Buy Time Travel Tokens at the entrance to enhance your experience
- Consider a Wisconsin Historical Society membership for free admission year-round
🌐 Need to Know
- Website: oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org
- Location: W372 S9727 Hwy 67, Eagle, WI 53119
- Phone: (262) 594-6301
- Parking: Free
- Tram: Included with admission
🌏 Related Guides:
- Free Milwaukee Museums
- 25 Milwaukee Museums Your Kids Will Love
- Best Day Trips From Milwaukee
- 25 Wisconsin Children’s Museums Worth Visiting
Old World Wisconsin is one of the most immersive and enriching day trips for families in Southeast Wisconsin. Whether you’re churning butter, playing 19th-century recess games, or just soaking in the scenery, it’s a place where the past comes vividly to life.
Pin it, bookmark it, or share it with a friend – and step into the past on your next adventure!