Friendly Reminder: We sell the last admission at 4:30 p.m.
Please refer to our Museum Hours page for more information.
How the Museum began
From about the time Walnut Grove found out about its Laura Ingalls Wilder connection in 1947 the Walnut Grove Tribune office sold copies of Laura’s books. Charles Lantz, owner of the newspaper at this time, even put together an informational brochure for visitors. On September 11, 1974 𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑃𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑟𝑖𝑒 premiered on NBC. The interest in the small town of Walnut Grove increased resulting in the formation of the Wilder Committee on October 10, 1974 and the Museum business began. In 2024, our Museum celebrated 50 years!
Laura’s History
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.
Welcome
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.
Download our new Kids Activity Guide! Young explorers can put their observation skills to the test with a scavenger hunt, I Spy challenges, trivia questions, and coloring pages as they make their way through our Museum. The best part? Kids who complete their activities and show them to our Gift Store staff will receive a special surprise. *Note: coloring pages don't have to be completed.
We can't wait to see you in Walnut Grove!
Great question! It really depends on how much you like to read and observe. We recommend allowing at least 45 minutes to not feel rushed. That doesn’t include time to browse our Gift Store. Your admission is good for the entire day. Take your time and enjoy!
The dugout site is located 1.5 miles North of Walnut Grove on County Road 5. Look for the sign at the end of the driveway. If you arrive at the monument, you’ve gone past the driveway to enter the dugout site. Go through the yard (please stay on the road) and follow the instructions for payment ($10 per car, $50 per tour bus). Follow the road and enjoy the beautiful view as you drive next to Plum Creek before arriving in the parking area.
Yes. There is plenty of street and road parking.
Refer to our Facebook page for updates on upcoming events.
Out of the respect of others, we do not allow pets on our grounds or in the buildings.
Recognized service animals are allowed per ADA regulations.
Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals, per the ADA.
Yes except for the upstairs of Grandma’s House (Grandma’s Attic that includes kids activities).
We do not have automatic doors. However, our staff is willing to help if needed. Please let us know when you arrive if we can help you with this.
Yes! Our Gift Store is available for 24/7 shopping! We ship throughout the United States. International shipping is not available.
Click HERE to shop.
Respectfully, no. We sell our last admission to enter our Museum buildings 30 minutes prior to closing time, no exceptions. Please be respectful of our Museum hours which are readily available to view prior to your visit both on our website and social media pages.