Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request a reservation?

Choose K-12 Schools or Homeschooling Programs to see the programs and excursions available for your group. From there, click on the link for the program or excursion you would like to reserve and fill out the request form at the bottom of the page, or call the Education Department at 515-278-5286. Office hours are Monday – Friday 8:30am-4:30pm.  Reservations must be made at least three weeks in advance and are subject to availability. Please be ready to provide the following information:

The tour or program you would like
Desired date (with alternatives)
Anticipated arrival and departure times
Name of teacher in charge
Complete mailing address, telephone number  and email address
Grade and number of students or any special needs of your students
If you would like to participate in the Worry Free Lunch Program

How do I pay for my tour or program?

If you have scheduled a tour during the general visitor season from May – October, you may pay one of three ways: with a check from your school or organization, with a credit card, or by bringing a purchase order. Have further questions about payment? Contact our finance department at finance@lhf.org.

Are your programs and tours backed by standards and benchmarks?

Yes! All programs and tours support the Iowa Core Curriculum.

I am a member of a homeschool group. What can I do?

All programs and tours can be adapted for groups of homeschool families. Because some programs are by reservation only, you need to have a minimum number of participating students. Also, some programs require that students be a minimum age in order to participate. Check out the programs we offer for Homeschool groups.

I represent a youth organization, such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, or a youth camp. What can I do?

Check out the programs we offer for Youth Groups.

I’ve requested a reservation. What’s next?

Shortly after you have requested a reservation, you will receive an automatically-generated email confirmation. Note: your program is not finalized until you receive a follow up email from Living History Farms. Approximately three weeks before your visit, you will receive a pre-visit packet of information about your program or tour.

How do I prepare for the program or tour?

You will receive pre-visit information via email a few weeks before your program. This material will contain activities and information to help prepare your group for your visit. Keep in mind that Living History Farms is an outdoor museum on 500 acres. Dress appropriately for the weather, for being on a farm, and for being outside.

What is expected of my group in terms of behavior?

In 2011, Living History farms adopted Character Counts! as an organization. We will model the 6 Pillars of Character during your visit, and ask that you do the same. Please review the Character Counts section in the Program Policies for more information. All visitors also agree to abide by Living History Farms’ Code of Conduct.

What do you offer for adults and/or teachers?

Living History Farms offers adult education classes throughout the year. Also, Living History Farms periodically partners with Heartland AEA 11 to offer teacher workshops.