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Overland Trail Museum: A Journey into Colorado's Past

Discover pioneer life and local heritage at Sterling's Overland Trail Museum, exploring exhibits and historical buildings from Colorado's past.

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The Overland Trail Museum in Sterling, Colorado, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of pioneers and the history of the American West. With diverse exhibits and historical buildings, visitors can explore the region's rich heritage and the stories of those who traversed the Overland Trail.

A brief summary to Overland Trail Park and Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter, more personalized experience.
  • Check the museum's website or Facebook page for information on special events and programs.
  • Explore the village behind the museum to see historical buildings dating back to pre-1915.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and its grounds.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Overland Trail Museum is located at 110 Overland Trail, Sterling, CO 80751. From I-76, take US-6 E towards Sterling. Turn onto Overland Trail, and the museum will be on your right. On-site parking is available.

  • Public Transport

    Sterling offers public transportation via Prairie Express. Check local bus routes for service to the city center, then transfer to a route with a stop near Overland Trail. From the nearest bus stop, it's approximately a 10-minute walk north on 3rd St, then a left onto Overland Trail. The museum is located at 110 Overland Trail. A single ride on Prairie Express costs $1.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Taxi and rideshare services like Uber and Dashabout Taxi are available in Sterling. From downtown Sterling, a short taxi ride to the museum will cost approximately $5-$10, depending on the company and any surge pricing. Uber provides fare estimates through their app.

  • Walking

    If you are near downtown Sterling, you can walk to the museum. Head northwest on Main St toward 2nd St, then turn right onto 2nd St. Continue straight until you reach Overland Trail and turn left. The Overland Trail Museum will be a short walk down the road on your right.

Unlock the Best of Overland Trail Park and Museum

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Discover more about Overland Trail Park and Museum

Step back in time at the Overland Trail Museum, a treasure trove of history located in Sterling, Colorado. Opened in 1936, the museum commemorates the Overland Trail, a vital route for westward-bound emigrants in the 19th century. The museum's original building, constructed from native rock in the style of early trading forts, now serves as the front lobby. Explore a fascinating village behind the main museum, featuring several buildings dating back to pre-1915. These include the Stoney Buttes one-room schoolhouse, the Evangelical Lutheran Concordia Church, and the Dailey Cash Store. Visitors can also view a granary barn with a collection of branding irons, saddles, and farm equipment, as well as a replica barbershop. Beyond the village, discover the stone block O'Connell House, a 1930s-era Conoco filling station, the Karg Barn, a caboose, a boxcar depot, and the Print Shop/Media Center. The High Plains Education Center, built in 2011, offers exhibit space, a classroom, and banquet facilities. The David Hamil/REA building highlights the impact of rural electrification and features a military exhibit and a 1950s-era diner. Two machine sheds display an extensive collection of farm machinery, enhanced by murals by local artist Nate Laybourn. The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including Prairie School, the July 4th Heritage Festival, and Christmas on the Prairie. The museum also presents a monthly History Café.

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