Historic Adventures Await this Summer

ST. PAUL, Minn (June 7, 2024) – There is no summer vacation when it comes to learning about history! The Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) is hosting entertaining and educational events and activities at its various sites across the state all season long. With new events being added regularly, be sure to check out the MNHS events calendar to stay updated on all the offerings throughout the season. 

Historic Walking Tours, June – October, Minneapolis and St. Paul

There is so much to see and learn through the various walking tours available this summer. Discover stories of the women who worked in downtown Minneapolis; uncover the historic gems of downtown St. Paul; even pedal through time on a bicycle tour at Historic Fort Snelling. These tours showcase what makes Minnesota unique.

Mississippi River Kayak Tours, June – August, Forest History Center

Take a guided kayak tour of the Mississippi River. Visitors will hear stories of the Mississippi River's environmental history while paddling on a very calm section of the river. Participants will see several natural features including an eagle's nest and beaver lodge.

Great Northern Forest History Tours, June – August, Forest History Center

These horse-drawn trolley tours are narrated by interpreters presenting a robust history of the Forest History Center. Guests will learn about the transformation of the Mississippi River, logging and forest management, and early people of the region.

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides, June 30th - October 19th, Historic Forestville 

Experience the charm of Historic Forestville with a 30-minute horse-drawn wagon ride provided by Doubletree Carriage Co., complemented by self-guided activities and opportunities to enjoy lawn games or indulge in ice cream treats while waiting.

Interpreter Guided Tours, June – October, Historic Forestville

Become immersed in the Historic Forestville experience by joining an interpreter on a guided tour. Visitors will hear the stories of people who lived in the town and travel through the town’s outdoor and indoor spaces, including the residence, historic general store, and barns.

Sunrise Tours, June – August, Jeffers Petroglyphs

Embark on an expert-led tour of ancient petroglyphs, among the oldest in the Midwest,  offering a rare opportunity to view the carvings up close in the morning sun. Gain insight into the archaeology of the region's earliest inhabitants and the environmental conditions of their era. 

Life on the Prairie: Travois Experience, June 8th, Jeffers Petroglyphs

Visitors will engage in interpreter-guided experiences exploring the tools of daily life on the prairie. This program focuses on the travois, a horse or dog-pulled tool used to carry items like sewing kits, food supplies, games, and toys. You will learn how these tools were used and adapted to the unique prairie landscape. 

Summer Family Days, June – August, Historic Fort Snelling

Bring the whole family for a special day of family-friendly activities at the fort. Families will have the opportunity to play historic games, attend a one-room school lesson, help build a log cabin, learn how to load a canon, and make their own sundial. 

Trivia Nights on the Bluff, July 12 & August 9, Historic Fort Snelling

Families can participate in free outdoor trivia events while enjoying some of the best views of the Twin Cities. The river bluff looks north along the Mississippi River to downtown Minneapolis. There will be prizes and an available food truck for snacks, dinner, and refreshments.

Arts and Artists of the State Capitol, June 15th, Minnesota State Capitol 

View grand murals, paintings, sculptures and lavish decorations while touring legislative chambers, historic spaces, and corridors of the Minnesota State Capitol. Find out details about the art and hear stories about the artists who painted them. Learn about recent conservation work completed to bring the works of art back to their original appearance.

Increased Access to History

• All summer and throughout 2024, visitors will receive free admission and free parking to the Minnesota History Center on Thursday evenings from 4 pm–8 pm. 
• MNHS is hosting one free admission day per season to our entire network of sites and museums. The first free day will be June 22, 2024. (Upcoming free days are scheduled for September 21, 2024; January 11, 2025; and April 26, 2025.)
• Through Museums for All, qualifying individuals and families will receive free admission to MNHS sites all year. 

Free Thursdays at the Minnesota History Center are made possible by the State of Minnesota's Legacy Amendment, through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008.

About the Minnesota Historical Society

The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.