Flynn House, Living History Farms
A 550-acre open air museum, Living History Farms tells the historic tale of Midwestern agriculture and rural life. With the help of guides dressed in period garb, this award-winning museum transports visitors through five historical time periods spanning 300 years. Visitors stroll along walking trails or hitch a ride on a tractor-pulled cart to exhibits such as 1700 Indian Ioway Farm. Here, visitors participate in early farming practices such as scraping animal hides, grinding corn and playing Ioway Indian games. At the1850 Pioneer Farm Exhibit, visitors see what life was like in a log cabin and witness how oxen were used to plow fields. Guests can join in the fun with hands-on activities such as cattle grooming, candle dipping and rail splitting.
In addition to the authentically farmed exhibits, the museum also features lush gardens and the Henry A. Wallace Exhibit Center, which showcases the history of crops from native grasses to modern hybrid corn. After enjoying the exhibits, visitors can top off their day by sitting down for a lantern-lit meal at one of the special Historic Dinners offered by Living History Farms.
For an unforgettable event, Living History Farms offers several serene spaces for up to 200 people. The museum is open daily, May 1 to September 1, from 9 AM to 5 PM and Wednesday through Sunday, September 3 to October 19, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $6 for children ages 2-4, $11 for adults and $10 for seniors ages 60 and older. For more information: 515-278-5286
