Old Sturbridge Village

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Hours:	Hours Vary see below
Ages:	Toddlers, Kids, Teens, Adults
In/Outdoor:	Indoor, Outdoor
Cost:	$$ see below
Category:	Museums

Other Ideas: Discovery Museum; Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum (for kids and adults); Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; Paul Revere House; Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House - Home of the Alcotts

old sturbridge village photo

Old Sturbridge Village, the largest history museum in the Northeast, is located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. The museum re-creates the daily work activities and community celebrations of a rural 19th-century town in authentic -- living history -- fashion.

It's fun to dwell in the past! Explore early New England in the company of farmers, craftsmen, and fascinating characters. Celebrate yesterday's proud traditions on your remarkable journey into America's past.

Be sure to check out Kidstory, a new learning gallery in the Visitor Center. Kids ages 3 to 10 can try on period costumes and imagine life in a 19th-century house, on an early New England farm, or shopping at a country store. The 1600-square foot space, which also includes books, games, and puzzles, is designed to help younger kids make the connection to the re-created Village.

Don’t forget to stop by the farm – where each spring there are new lambs to visit with. Piglets and calves make an appearance each year as well...check the Village's Critter Counter at www.osv.org for details on the latest arrivals.

There's also a team of oxen to meet, and watch at work. Every season brings a special reason to visit, with sleigh rides on winter weekends and an ice skating area on the Common (bring your skates!).

This is a fun hands-on experience for families. You'll enjoy watching and participating in farm chores and learning about the lifestyle of yesteryear. The one-room school house is a favorite spot for kids. Be sure to plan a full day at Old Sturbridge Village as there is a lot to see and do. Best for ages 3 and up. They also offer a great Birthday Party Package as well.

Looking for more fun daytrips near Boston? Check out our handy guide for some great ideas of places to go within an hour or two of Boston.

HOURS

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December Open 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday for Christmas by Candlelight Program, Closed December 20-25, 2010, Open 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. during school vacation week December 26 - January 2.
January-April: Open Wednesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Also open on Monday, January 17 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) and Monday and Tuesday, February 21 and 22, 2011 (School Vacation Week)
April-October: Open daily 9:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m.
November: Open Wednesday-Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., open Thanksgiving Day

COST

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Adults $24.00
Seniors (55 and over) $22.00
Youths (3-17) $8.00
Children age 2 and under Admitted Free
All admissions are good for a second visit within a 10-day period. Any guests of second-day visitors receive a 25% discount on their admission.

WEBSITE

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www.osv.org

LOCATION

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Route 20, Sturbridge, MA map
Phone: 800-SEE-1830

Old Sturbridge Village is located just off Route 20 in Sturbridge, near Exit 9 off the Mass Pike (I-90) and Exit 2 of I- 84.

TIPS

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Buy the fudge at the general store!!!

REVIEWS

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Educational fun

OSV is a great immersion experience where kids get to see the nitty-gritty of another century (like chamber pots!) A new playspace provides a good change when younger kids are maxed out from looking and listening (though it seemed like stuff there had gone missing...) Another good place to collapse is the beautiful and large bookstore at the exit -- it's cool, comfortable and interesting. Recession alerts: There are fewer 'citizens' walking around, making the place seem a bit quiet, and you have to pay to make crafts. Food is reasonable, but no one frowns on picnics so bring sandwiches.

Love This Place

I admit to being fascinated with Colonial America, but my kids love OSV too. I first went as a child and attended frequently growing up. I had not been for about 5 years, and there have been great additions and improvements. My kids would spend hours in Kidstory if we'd let them. And they love talking to the docents, who do their jobs in character. We have been in every season it is always fun. Just dress appropriately (including BOOTS in winter, early spring and after rain - Colonial Americans did NOT have paved roadways!).