Visitor FAQ

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

You may buy General Admission tickets online in advance or at the door. We recommend advance tickets for special events such as Applefest and Family Halloween.

Is this a guided tour?

Guests visit on their own, at their own pace. While we do not have tour guides, you will meet historic interpreters at many of the sites you visit.

Where do we start?

You will begin at the Visitor Center, where you decide whether to start by riding the tractor cart to our farm sites or by exploring the 1876 town of Walnut Hill. The farm sites are a one-way route beginning at the 1700 Ioway Farm, progressing through the 1850 Pioneer Farm, and ending at the 1900 Horse-Powered Farm, where you will catch the tractor cart back to the town and Visitor Center. Last tractor cart leaves daily at 2:30.

Is there a lot of walking?

Yes. The trail between farm sites is about half a mile. You can cut out a quarter-mile of woodland trail by requesting a Step Saver tour and riding the tractor cart from 1700 to 1900. You don’t need to make any advance arrangements; just tell the driver that’s what you want. If you visit every building in the 1876 town of Walnut Hill, you’ll cover a little more than three-quarters of a mile. That’s a combination of boardwalk and dirt/gravel path.

Can we bring our dog?

Living History Farms welcomes well-behaved dogs. They must remain on a standard length, non-retractable leash and must remain outside buildings and away from livestock.

What are general touring hours in 2024?

April 30 through October 30, 2024: Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.