Discover the Rich Tapestry of Iowa's Past at Living History Farms
Explore Iowa's agricultural past at Living History Farms, an immersive outdoor museum with engaging exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Living History Farms is an extraordinary outdoor museum located in Urbandale, Iowa, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the agricultural history of the region. Spanning over 500 acres, this immersive experience invites visitors to step back in time and explore a meticulously recreated 19th-century rural community. The site features a variety of historical structures, including a pioneer farm, a 1900s farmstead, and a Native American village, each presenting unique aspects of life in different eras. As you wander through the scenic grounds, you'll encounter costumed interpreters who bring history to life with engaging stories and hands-on activities. One of the highlights of Living History Farms is its focus on interactive learning. Visitors can participate in traditional farming activities, from planting and harvesting crops to caring for livestock, giving a firsthand experience of agricultural practices from centuries past. Additionally, the museum hosts seasonal events and festivals that celebrate Iowa's cultural heritage, making it a vibrant hub of activity throughout the year. Families will find a plethora of engaging programs tailored for children, ensuring that younger visitors are captivated by history. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, Living History Farms offers something for everyone. Its picturesque landscapes and captivating exhibits provide a fantastic backdrop for a day of exploration and discovery. Be sure to set aside ample time to fully enjoy all that this unique museum has to offer.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot on uneven terrain.
- Check the event calendar before your visit to catch special programs or demonstrations.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots throughout the grounds.
- Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience all areas of the farm.
A brief summary to Living History Farms
- 11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, Iowa, 50322, US
- +1515-278-5286
Getting There
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Bus
From downtown Des Moines, head to the nearest bus stop to catch the DART bus route 4 or 5. Board the bus heading towards Urbandale. After approximately 30 minutes, disembark at the Hickman Rd and 86th St stop. From there, walk northeast on Hickman Rd for about 0.5 miles until you reach Living History Farms at 11121 Hickman Rd. The total travel time will be around 40-50 minutes, including walking.
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Bicycle
If you're comfortable biking, rent a bike from a local bike-sharing program. Start from downtown Des Moines and head northwest on the bike path that follows the river. Continue on to the Des Moines River Trail, then follow the signs for the trail leading towards the Urbandale area. Once you reach Hickman Rd, turn left and bike for about 1.5 miles until you arrive at Living History Farms at 11121 Hickman Rd. The bike ride should take around 30-40 minutes.
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Walking
For those who prefer to walk, start from downtown Des Moines and head west on Walnut St. Continue straight as Walnut turns into Hickman Rd. The walk is approximately 6 miles and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Be sure to follow pedestrian paths and crosswalks safely as you make your way to Living History Farms located at 11121 Hickman Rd.
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Rideshare
Download a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft on your smartphone. Set your pickup location to your current address in Des Moines and enter 'Living History Farms' or the address '11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322' as your destination. A rideshare vehicle will pick you up and take you directly to Living History Farms. The ride should take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Living History Farms
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Jackaline Baldwin Dunlap Park and Arboretum
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Pump It Up Urbandale Kids Birthdays and More
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Walker Johnston Park
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Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Garden
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Des Moines Children's Museum
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Breakout Games - Des Moines
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Get Air Trampoline Park
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Paragon Prairie Tower
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Bestland Park
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The Operating Room West Des Moines
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Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines
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Jordan House
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Terra Park
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Taste of the Junction Music Festival
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Raccoon River Park
Landmarks nearby to Living History Farms
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Machine Shed Restaurant Urbandale
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Church of the Land
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Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry by Hilton
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Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
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Girl Scouts
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Life Time
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HIRTA Public Transit
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Hidalgo Mexican Bar and Grill
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John Boyt Industrial Sewing
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Spice Pot - Breads & Biryani
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Hungry Boyz
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Color Works Tattoo
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Verti-GO Athletics
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Coaches Kolaches
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Changing Places