Travel Through Time and the Stories of America’s Heartland
Old World Wisconsin includes 60 beautifully restored historic structures, relocated from throughout Wisconsin, on over 600 acres of picturesque landscape. Through stories of perseverance, you explore the lives of those who came before us – connecting people and inspiring understanding. Your day will be fun, engaging, enriching, and authentic as you encounter history by exploring sensory-rich spaces, stories, and hands-on activities.
Each area at Old World Wisconsin showcases different stories. As you travel through time from the 1840s to the 1910s, you will find historic spaces to explore, gardens and trails to wander through, and costumed staff ready to help you get hands on with history. You will also meet a variety of animals that helped our ancestors survive and thrive in America’s Heartland. Experience the daily life of the people who called these buildings home as you help with chores and cooking, try your hand at crafts and trades, and play – yes, even the grownups!
Save Time, Skip the Line!
We love history, but waiting in long lines is so last year! Purchase your admission tickets today to save time during your next visit.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
The Brewhouse
Grand Opening June 18
From large breweries to corner bars, big labels to modern microbrews, beermaking is a huge part of Wisconsin’s culture and heritage. The new Brewing Experience presented by the Cleary-Kumm Family taps into into the state’s brewing past by creating immersive environments where you can see, smell, feel, and — of course — taste this history. You’ll get hands-on, see how beer is made, engage with beermakers and bartenders, and relax with a few cold ones on your own.
Summer Saturdays
June 4 | July 2 | August 6
Cool off and #ExploreWisconsinHistory with us!
Get a free coozie or water bottle when you visit Old World Wisconsin on the first Saturday in June, July or August. Free gift can be picked up at the admission counter upon arrival. One gift per household.
Visit early – offer valid while supplies last!
NEW ARRIVALS: A CAMPAIGN
CREATING AN IMMERSIVE WELCOME EXPERIENCE AT OLD WORLD WISCONSIN
The Wisconsin Historical Society is excited to open the brand new Brewhouse at Old World Wisconsin in 2022. This building is just the first new structure completed as part of a $5.5 million project that represents the first two phases of a larger, multi-year master plan to transform the site’s entry area with a reimagined Welcome Experience.
Best Deal in History!
Becoming a member is the best way to explore Wisconsin history. Members get free admission to our historic sites and discounts on special events!
Old World Wisconsin
Stories of early immigrant settlers come to life as you explore homes, farms, and gardens at this hands on living history experience.
When we open the Brewhouse in a few weeks, we will unveil our new “Delicious Root Beer.” This nonalcoholic brew is crafted for Old World Wisconsin by Twig’s Beverage of Shawano, Wisconsin, and the label is inspired by early root beer labels from the late 19th and early 20th century. Delicious Root Beer will be exclusively available at Old World Wisconsin. oldworldwisconsin.org ... See MoreSee Less
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Definitely gonna have to try this!
Yummy 😋😋😋
Albertine Swendsen we have to go try!
Discover the story of Wisconsin’s Norwegian immigrants during the American Civil War during “For Liberty and Union” on June 4-5 from 10 AM to 4 PM. Included with general admission, this living history experience features a simulated camp of the 15th Wisconsin Infantry, also known as the Scandinavian Regiment, and an exploration of the Civil War Homefront experience on our 1860s Norwegian Immigrant Farm. For more information and to purchase tickets in advance, visit oldworldwisconsin.org ... See MoreSee Less
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We just completed our special behind-the-scenes tour in which guests explored the real-life architectural inspiration behind Kathleen Ernst’s book “Lies of Omission.” The program included tours of the 1860s and 1880s Pomeranian Immigrant Farms led by Ernst and Alan Pape, the director of restoration during Old World Wisconsin’s formative years. oldworldwisconsin.org ... See MoreSee Less
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Will there be more of these?? I love these books and can’t believe I missed this!
We really enjoyed the program and seeing the sites this morning. Thank you!
Glad Alan is still with us! Hope his family is well.