Winter Opportunities with the Minnesota Historical Society

ST. PAUL, Minn (December 9, 2024) – Meet Santa at Split Rock Lighthouse or enjoy a farmers’ Christmas celebration at Oliver Kelley Farm. Throughout Minnesota, holiday history and hurrah will be happening at Minnesota Historical Society historical sites and museums! Check out the events calendar to see the list of activities, tours, lectures and other wintery experiences offered near you!

Winter Free Admissions Day, Select MNHS Sites, January 11

Take advantage of a fantastic opportunity to discover the beauty and history of Minnesota with free admission to several of the Minnesota Historical Society’s historic sites and museums! This is a unique chance to explore some of the state’s most beautiful buildings and significant sites —all at no cost to you. Immerse yourself in Minnesota's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Holiday Sleigh Rides, Forest History Center, Through December 30

Visit the Forest History Center for a magical horse drawn sleigh ride around the site. This is the perfect time to get together with friends and family around the fire here and sip hot chocolate while taking in the beauty and charm of Grand Rapids. $20 for adults, $18 for children, and MNHS members save 20%.

Winter Sleigh Ride, Forest History Center, January 4 - March 28

Horse drawn sleigh rides continue in 2025 at the Forest History Center. Enjoy the time with family and friends while taking a ride around the area. Warm up with some hot cocoa and stand near the bonfire while taking in all that winter has to offer. Winter sleigh rides run Fridays and Saturdays at 11:30 am and 2 pm. $20 for adults, $18 for children, and MNHS members save 20%.

Christmas at the Logging Camp, Forest History Center, December 14

Embark on a delightful adventure – a day filled with enchanting music, captivating stories, and magical experiences that will transport you to another world. Enjoy a whimsical horse-drawn sleigh ride through the scenic landscape, sip on rich and sweet hot chocolate, and gather around crackling bonfires for warmth and camaraderie. Immerse yourself in the charm of the logging camp with more wonderful activities awaiting you. This experience is included with regular site admission and free for MNHS members.

Winter Lecture Series, Forest History Center, January - March

Join us at the Forest History Center in Grand Rapids for a variety of engaging programs and lectures. Explore the wonders of the night sky and learn about its connection to the cosmos through fascinating stories. Hear the legendary tales of Paul Bunyan, Minnesota's iconic lumberjack, and discover how his adventures shaped local folklore. These programs offer a unique opportunity to connect with our state’s rich history and culture. These lectures are included with the regular site admission.

Farmers' Christmas Celebration, Oliver Kelley Farm, December 14 and 21

Take a trip to the Oliver Kelley Farm and experience how 19th century farm families celebrated the Christmas holiday. Enjoy the delicious Christmas time treat while enjoying the beautifully decorated historic home. Enjoy a horse-drawn trolley ride, create your own ornament to take home, and sip on the seasonal refreshments offered in the visitor center. Tickets for these experiences are priced at $12 for adults, $8 for children, and children under 5 are free. 

Santa at the Lighthouse, Split Rock Lighthouse, December 14 and 15

Get ready for a festive holiday experience as Santa makes a special visit back to Split Rock Lighthouse this year! Santa will be here from 11am to 2pm on both days, ready to meet children and families. Kids aged 17 and under can enjoy this magical experience for free, including the opportunity to take a picture with Santa. Adults can pay regular site admission or gain free admission by making a donation to the Silver Bay Veterans Home, making this a wonderful occasion to spread holiday cheer while supporting local heroes. 

Winter Frolic, Snake River Fur Post, January 25

Learn about the winter travel experiences of those who participated in the fur trade. Engage in fun activities like tossing curling stones, playing Ojibwe snow snakes, and snowshoeing around the site. You can also visit the historic ice fishing tent to discover more about this important aspect of winter life. This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the fur trade era. Join us for a memorable day of learning and adventure! Admission is $5, and MNHS members save 20%.

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.