Journey Through Time at Old Sturbridge Village
Explore the rich history of early America at Old Sturbridge Village, a captivating living history museum filled with engaging experiences.
A brief summary to Old Sturbridge Village
- 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, Massachusetts, 01566, US
- +1800-733-1830
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Old Sturbridge Village offers a unique glimpse into early 19th-century American life, nestled in the scenic countryside of Massachusetts. This living history museum spans over 200 acres and features over 40 historic buildings, including homes, a schoolhouse, and a working farm, all of which have been meticulously reconstructed to reflect the time period. Visitors can wander the charming streets, interact with skilled artisans, and participate in hands-on activities that illustrate the trades and crafts of the era, such as blacksmithing, pottery, and textile weaving. As you explore the village, you'll encounter costumed interpreters who share fascinating stories of daily life in the 1830s, providing insights into the customs, challenges, and triumphs of the time. Seasonal events enhance the experience, from festive holiday celebrations to agricultural fairs, ensuring that there's always something new to discover. The immersive nature of Old Sturbridge Village makes it an ideal destination for families, educators, and anyone with a passion for history. In addition to the interactive exhibits, visitors can enjoy a delightful meal at the village's on-site restaurant, which offers traditional fare inspired by historical recipes. The beautiful grounds also provide a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll or a scenic picnic. With its engaging programs and rich historical context, Old Sturbridge Village promises a memorable experience for all its guests, transporting them to a bygone era in a way that is both educational and entertaining.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during special events for unique experiences like craft fairs and seasonal celebrations.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking a lot on varied terrain throughout the village.
- Don't miss the demonstrations; they provide a fascinating insight into the skills and trades of the 1830s.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, especially during the summer months.
- Check the website for operating hours and any special programming before your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transit (Bus)
From central Worcester, head to the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) bus terminal located at 60 Foster Street. Take the WRTA bus route 21 towards Sturbridge. The journey will take approximately 50 minutes. Get off the bus at the stop closest to Old Sturbridge Village, which is 'Old Sturbridge Village Rd'. Walk about 5 minutes down Old Sturbridge Village Rd to reach the entrance at 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Open your rideshare app (Uber or Lyft) and enter 'Old Sturbridge Village' as your destination. The approximate distance from Worcester to Old Sturbridge Village is about 25 miles, and the ride should take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm the pickup location in Worcester before beginning your journey.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, consider biking! Start from downtown Worcester and head east on Park Avenue, which will turn into Route 20. Follow Route 20 for about 25 miles. You will pass through several small towns along the way, so ensure you have a map or GPS. When you reach Sturbridge, look for signs directing you to Old Sturbridge Village. The entrance is located at 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd.
Attractions Nearby to Old Sturbridge Village
- Deed Rock
- Coes Park
- Hadwen Arboretum at Clark University
- University Park
- Cascading Waters
- Quabbin Park
- Quabbin Observation Tower
- Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center at Worcester
- Hanks Meadow
- Crompton Park
- Iron Bridge
- Elm Park
- Worcester Market Building
- Oxford-Crown Historic District
- Enfield Lookout
Landmarks nearby to Old Sturbridge Village
- Roseland Cottage
- Washburn Square–Leicester Common Historic District
- Woodland Street Historic District
- Perry Avenue Historic District
- Polar Park
- Crompton Collective
- WWII Memorial
- Slater Building
- Worcester Common Burial Ground
- George Washington Plaque
- Far Shot Worcester - Axe Throwing / Knife / Archery
- Discover Central Massachusetts
- Palladium
- Massachusetts Avenue Historic District
- The Central Massachusetts Korean War Memorial