Divided into three districts—a Village, Mills neighborhood, and Countryside area—Old Sturbridge comprises 40 vintage buildings furnished as they would have been in the 19th century. Explore houses, mills, shops, a blacksmith’s, schoolhouse, and more, and interact with the actor-guides to learn about bygone life. Other attractions include heritage-breed animals, craft classes, cooking demos, heirloom gardens, and nature trails, as well as shops, restaurants, and lodgings.
Popular with history buffs and families, Old Sturbridge Village makes for an ideal day trip from Boston. It’s included in the Go Boston Card, a money-saving sightseeing pass that offers free entry to 40 attractions in and around Boston.
Old Sturbridge Village is great for families and history fans of all ages.
Most visitors stay at the museum for about four hours.
Check the calendar of events on arrival to map out your visit.
Dress up warm if the weather’s cold: There’s a lot of walking outside.
The museum is wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available at the gate.
Old Sturbridge Village is located at the crossroads of the Massachusetts Turnpike 1-90 and the Connecticut 1-84 highway. Your easiest travel option is car—factor in about an hour’s journey from Boston. A daily bus runs between Boston and nearby Sturbridge town, but the bus schedule makes it necessary to stay overnight.
May to September, Old Sturbridge Village is open Wednesday–Sunday 9:30am–5pm, and 9:30am–4pm in winter. As a rule, it’s also open on US public holidays, some Saturdays, and daily during school vacations—check the website for details. School groups tend to visit in the mornings, so visit in the afternoon or midweek to avoid the busiest times.
Don’t miss Old Sturbridge’s demos, classes, and leisure activities—many visitors consider them highlights. See cabinetmakers in action, watch a butter-churning demo, book a basket-making class, or take a ride on a stagecoach or river boat and enjoy the scenery.
