Old Sturbridge Village: A Step Back in Time
Experience 1830s New England at this living history museum with costumed historians, antique buildings, and traditional craft demonstrations.
Old Sturbridge Village, the largest outdoor history museum in New England, offers a captivating journey into the past, specifically the rural New England of the 1830s. This living museum spans over 200 acres and features more than 40 original buildings that have been meticulously preserved and relocated to create an authentic 19th-century town. Visitors can explore homes, trade shops, a district school, meetinghouses, and even a working farm. Costumed historians bring the village to life, demonstrating traditional crafts, sharing stories, and answering questions about daily life in the 1830s. Witness the blacksmith at his forge, the potter at the wheel, and the miller grinding grain at the water-powered gristmill. The village also showcases heritage breed farm animals and heirloom gardens, providing a glimpse into the agricultural practices of the era. Old Sturbridge Village is more than just a collection of buildings and artifacts; it's an immersive experience that engages all the senses and offers a deeper understanding of early 19th-century New England life. Founded by the Wells family, whose collection of antiques from the 1800s grew into a vision for a live village, Old Sturbridge Village opened in 1946. Today, it continues to evolve, offering diverse programs, exhibits, and events that explore the complexities of the past and connect them to the present.
Local tips
- Check the daily schedule for demonstrations and activities to make the most of your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
- Visit during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save $3 per ticket.
A brief summary to Old Sturbridge Village
- 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, Massachusetts, 01566, US
- +1800-733-1830
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Driving
Old Sturbridge Village is located just off I-84. From I-84, take Exit 3B and merge onto Route 20 West. Follow the signs to Old Sturbridge Village. There is plenty of free parking available on-site. During overnight programs, parking is located at the Museum Education parking lot.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Old Sturbridge Village, you can take a bus to Sturbridge and then a taxi or ride-sharing service to the village. From the center of Sturbridge, a taxi would cost approximately $10-$15. Check local taxi services for accurate fares.
