Living History Farms

Living History Farms, located in Urbandale, Iowa, is an interactive outdoor museum that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of life in rural America during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Spanning over 500 acres of rolling countryside, this living history museum features historic buildings, working farms, and immersive exhibits that bring the past to life.

One of the highlights of Living History Farms is its collection of historic sites and period-authentic buildings, which include a working farmstead from the 1700s, a pioneer farm from the 1850s, an 1875 town, and a horse-powered farm from the early 1900s. Visitors can explore these sites at their own pace, interacting with costumed interpreters who demonstrate traditional farming techniques, crafts, and daily activities from the era.

In addition to its historic sites, Living History Farms offers a variety of hands-on activities and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Guests can try their hand at farm chores, participate in cooking demonstrations, attend blacksmithing workshops, or take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon or vintage steam train. Special events, festivals, and reenactments throughout the year provide additional opportunities for learning and entertainment.

Living History Farms is committed to preserving and interpreting the agricultural heritage of Iowa and the Midwest, as well as exploring broader themes of rural life, technology, and social change. The museum's exhibits and programs highlight the contributions of farmers, pioneers, and immigrants to the development of American agriculture and society, while also addressing contemporary issues related to food, sustainability, and rural life.

Whether you're interested in history, or agriculture, or simply enjoy stepping back in time, Living History Farms offers a fascinating and immersive experience that transports visitors to another era. With its authentic settings, engaging activities, and knowledgeable interpreters, the museum provides a memorable journey through the past that is both educational and entertaining.