Visit Wisconsin Museums and Historic Sites

Explore Wisconsin History!

We are thrilled to say ...

Welcome Back!

All 12 of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s sites and museums will soon be open to the public for the first time in almost two years. With plenty of warm weather left, we invite you to explore Wisconsin history across the state this summer, and adventure through sensory-rich, engaging, and immersive environments and exhibits where history comes alive.

Visit the sites to explore, ride, feel and see your way through history. And don't miss out! Keep checking this page as new programs and events are added.

The Wisconsin Historical Society is committed to prioritizing the health and safety of our guests, members, and staff. Read the information below to learn about our 2021 health and safety protocols.

Open Experiences

Black Point Estate & Gardens, Circus World, Old World Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Historical Museum are open for the season. Plan ahead for your visit to Old World Wisconsin and Circus World Museum by purchasing general admission tickets in advance. The fun doesn't stop there! Check back soon to find out what else is happening at our other locations.

Black Point Estate, a view of the tower and the rest of the building, the clouds are beautiful and really frame the building.

Black Point Estate & Gardens

A circus cart on a lawn, bright red, yellow, and orange colors.

Circus World

Wood cabin style building with antlers attached. A sign reads Museum

Madeline Island Museum

A group of people bail hay out of an old fashioned cart

Old World Wisconsin

Wisconsin Historical Museum

General Admission Special Experiences All Events

Opening Soon

An old fashioned camera is set up facing a dramatic photo backdrop

H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum

Pendarvis

Stonefield

Villa Louis

Wade House

Reed School

The two historical buildings of Wisconsin's First Capital

First Capitol

Don’t forget!

The best way to explore Society sites and museums is by becoming a member. Members are admitted for free, receive two free guest passes, get a 10% discount onsite events and store purchases, and more!

Become a member

For Your Health and Safety

Advance
Registration

Advance registration is required for some events

Face Mask
Policy

Continue to wear face masks if you are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19

Daily Cleaning and Sanitizing

Daily cleaning & sanitizing enhanced at all facilities

Social Distancing Guidelines

Please practice social distancing while on-site

2021 Site Protocols

Effective June 1, in accordance with current state guidelines

To protect your safety and ours, if you are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 please continue to wear face masks while on-site at our historic sites and museums.
Please practice social distancing at our historic sites and museums.
Disposable masks will be available on-site.
All facilities will adhere to increased daily cleaning and sanitation requirements and there will be cleaning stations in each building.
Each location will follow strict guest engagement protocols, including parking, food preparation, and the use of shared facilities such as a public restroom.
Staff and guests, per CDC guidance, are asked to stay home if they have tested positive for COVID-19, are waiting for COVID-19 test results, have COVID-19 symptoms, or if they have had close contact with a person who has tested positive for or who has symptoms of COVID-19.
As we continue to monitor the spread of COVID-19 our hours and guidelines for access may change. Please continue to check this page for the most up-to-date information.

Shop the Sites!

Shop our online store for merchandise related to our historic sites. 100% of the proceeds support the Society.

Online Store

Seipp's Beer Stein

Old World Wisconsin Yarn

Old World Wisconsin Oxen

Villa Louis Stained Glass Window Silk Scarf

Museum Nerd Mug

Pendarvis Mug

Wisconsin Dells Puzzle

H.H. Bennett "Water Ski Pyramid" Trivet

Learn More About our Historic Sites and Museums

All 12 of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s sites and museums will soon be open to the public for the first time in almost two years. With plenty of warm weather left, we invite you to explore Wisconsin history across the state this summer, and adventure through sensory-rich, engaging, and immersive environments and exhibits where history comes alive.

Visit the sites to explore, ride, feel and see your way through history. And don't miss out! Keep checking this page as new programs and events are added.