Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum & Info Center

About

Our family-friendly Museum features eight exhibit buildings + a jail cell for visitors to explore at their own pace. Admission is good for the entire day. 

Our Gift Store features a variety of merchandise ranging from books, clothing, kids toys, locally made items + more.

Author Laura Ingalls Wilder lived on Plum Creek near Walnut Grove in the 1870's. Eight buildings make up the Museum grounds telling the history of the Ingalls Family and other pioneers to Walnut Grove. Life-sized Dugout is a great hands-on exhibit. 

Laura Ingalls Wilder arrived in Walnut Grove, Minnesota, with her family in the spring of 1874. Seeking a new beginning on the western frontier, the Ingalls family settled on the banks of Plum Creek, just outside the growing prairie town. During their time in Walnut Grove, Laura experienced the challenges and joys of pioneer life — attending school, making lasting friendships, and witnessing the strength and perseverance of her family in the face of hardship. These formative years became the inspiration for her beloved book On the Banks of Plum Creek, capturing the spirit of resilience and adventure that defined her time in the community.

When you arrive, please enter through the Gift Store Entrance. Our friendly staff will assist you in paying for your Museum admission and will direct you to the grounds & buildings to begin your self-guided tour. The museum is family-friendly. You can enjoy the museum at your own pace and your admission is good for the day. There are plenty of benches and grassy areas to relax while visiting. Kids will enjoy a fun hands-on experience in 'Grandma's Attic' by playing dress up, coloring, cooking in the play kitchen etc. as well as other fun opportunities throughout the buildings.

The Museum includes 7 exhibit buildings plus the old Walnut Grove jail cell. We are in the process of developing a plan for our Masters Store & Hall project. Visitors can see this building however it is not ready for tours at this time. Our Museum is home to several of Laura's belongings plus an original letter written by Laura that is framed in one of our buildings.

Check the website for times & dates.

Dates

Gift Store Open Year Round. Museum Buildings open April 1st - October 31st. April & Oct. Mon-Sat 10-4, Sun 12-4; May & Sept. Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5; June, July, & Aug. Mon-Sun 10-6. Nov-March please call for hours.

Rates

5 & under FREE, 5-12 years old $4, 13 & over $7. Free parking. Free Admittance to Gift Store.