Many museums have had to reinvent themselves during this time of social distancing and have found ways to safely keep people engaged.  These living history  properties are taking great care to employ all safety standards for their visitors and have opened their doors for the rest of the summer. More importantly, they are all mainly outdoor exhibitions and activities.  Should you not feel taking your family out, they each offer online videos and tours that are thoroughly captivating.

Sturbridge Village

One of our favorite living history villages, Sturbridge Village, a recreation of 19th century village in New England is open again.  All visitors will have to purchase or reserve tickets online in order to visit. Children are free during July.  See what accommodations are available here.

“We are happy to welcome back members (July 1-3) and the public (starting July 4). As we reopen, our goals are to provide a safe environment for all staff and visitors, use our unique outdoor environment to expand our stories of early New England life, and to deliver the engaging, educational experiences you’ve come to expect at Old Sturbridge Village.

Our costumed historians will be interpreting throughout the Village. Many of our visitors’ favorite programs have been adapted for viewing outside of the buildings, while new programming has been developed to feature additional outdoor activities at the households and trade shops – allowing us to tell even more stories about life in the 1830s.

For those who aren’t able to visit us just yet, we will continue our Virtual Village programming that we have been providing throughout our closure.”

Mystic Seaport

Mystic Seaport Museum has all outdoor spaces open, including the top decks of the historic vessels.  Several exhibits will be open in the north part of the village; the Whaling and Figure Head exhibits, as well as outdoor activities at the planetarium.

Is it worth the trip?  Yes!  The village is a step back into the past.  Pack a lunch, bring a blanket and spend a day back in the past.

Where to stay?  Check out these spots.  Our favorite restaurant for dinner – Engine Room.

“Mystic Seaport Museum is currently OPEN as we gradually return to our regular operational schedule. Along with our reduced admission prices, guests can explore all of our outdoor spaces like the Henry B. Dupont Preservation Shipyard where we are completing work on the Mayflower II or our 19th Century Maritime Village with sweeping views of the Mystic River. Starting May 30th we are opening access to the decks of 3 historic vessels including the Charles W. Morgan- the world’s last authentic wooden whaling ship. Exhibit buildings and boat cabins remained closed per state and federal guidelines but will open as state restrictions ease. Grounds open 11:30a.m. 5p.m. weekdays, 10a.m.-5p.m.weekends)”

Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth, Ma.

Just south of Boston lies Plimoth Plantation, is one of the best known living history villages.  If you are not quite ready to venture away from home, they offer great online events that you will enjoy including; Native Song & Dance, and  Cocktails & Conversations.

Should you decide to go, please make reservations online to insure you have tickets.

“With more than 30 acres to stroll, outdoor living history exhibits, gardens, and rare breeds animals to enjoy (and don’t forget our llama Hyacinth!), a visit to Plimoth is sure to bring you good cheer! Our creative and talented staff will meet physical distancing requirements while still providing engaging programs, presentations and conversations. We appreciate your understanding of the new measures we’re taking to support visitor and staff safety.”

What’s Open?

The Historic Patuxet Wampanoag Homesite
The 17th-Century English Village
The Nye Barn and other animal pastures
The Hornblower Garden
The Waterfront Exhibit
Museum shops at the Visitor Center, the Craft Center, and the Waterfront

The weather is warm and we are all anxious to get out of the house.  Please practice safe social distancing, wear masks and if you or anyone in your family feels ill, please stay home.