Your Ultimate Guide to Old World Wisconsin: A Family-Friendly Day Trip from Milwaukee

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🏠 What is Old World Wisconsin?

Old World Wisconsin is a living history museum that immerses visitors in the daily life of immigrants and settlers who came to Wisconsin between the 1840s and 1910s. With 60+ authentically restored historic homes, shops, and farms spread out over rolling hills and woods, families can walk, play, explore, and learn in an interactive and unforgettable way.

⚖️ What You’ll See & Do

Crossroads Village

Start your journey at Crossroads Village, where you’ll find:

• A working Blacksmith Shop with live forging demonstrations
• A General Store where kids can use “Time Travel Tokens”
• The beautiful St. Peter’s Church
• A historic shoe shop where kids can try on old-time shoes
• The Four Mile House Inn and other preserved buildings

Don’t miss:

• Old-fashioned soda in the Four Mile House
• Vintage baseball games on the green (no gloves allowed!)

Hands-On History

• Ride high-wheel bicycles at the 1890s Wheelmen’s Clubhouse
• Attend class in a real 1900s Raspberry Schoolhouse
• Try your hand at farm chores: churn butter, split wood, wash clothes, knead dough
• Meet heritage breed animals like cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens
• Explore Scandinavian and German homesteads via complimentary trams

Time Travel Tokens

Buy tokens for $5 each to:

• Make a stamped leather keychain
• Buy an old-fashioned souvenir
• Get a treat at the General Store or Creamery

Food & Drink

• Clausing Barn Café offers lunch, cold drinks, and ice cream
• Brewhouse and Grill at the entrance sells local beer and casual eats
• You’re welcome to bring a picnic – there are plenty of shady tables

Accessibility & Amenities

• Modern restrooms throughout the property
• Complimentary trams to get you between areas (recommended, especially with young kids)
• Most paths are gravel or dirt – bring sturdy shoes and strollers with good wheels

🌍 Seasonal Events

Old World Wisconsin offers themed weekends and special events year-round. Some favorites include:

🌺 Mother’s Day Weekend

Moms get free admission and enjoy special programming throughout the property. Expect spring blooms, historic cooking, and gift-worthy moments.

🎃 Halloween Legends & Lore

Held in October, this spooky after-hours event features ghost stories, lantern-lit walks, and a touch of Wisconsin folklore.

❄️ Home for the Holidays

Celebrate winter traditions from different cultures with cozy holiday programming, hot drinks, and festive decorations in December.

🎓 Pro Tips for Visiting

• Arrive early – you can easily spend a full day here
• Bring sunscreen and water – there’s not much shade
• Take the tram to save your legs (and your kids’ moods!)
• Buy Time Travel Tokens at the entrance to enhance your experience
• Consider a Wisconsin Historical Society membership for free admission year-round

🌐 Need to Know

• Website: oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org
• Location: W372 S9727 Hwy 67, Eagle, WI 53119
• Phone: (262) 594-6301
• Parking: Free
• Tram: Included with admission

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🌏 Related Guides:

• Free Milwaukee Museums
• 25 Milwaukee Museums Your Kids Will Love
• Best Day Trips From Milwaukee
• 25 Wisconsin Children’s Museums Worth Visiting

Old World Wisconsin is one of the most immersive and enriching day trips for families in Southeast Wisconsin. Whether you’re churning butter, playing 19th-century recess games, or just soaking in the scenery, it’s a place where the past comes vividly to life.

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