About Living History Farms

Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, tells the amazing story of how Iowans transformed the fertile prairies of the Midwest into the most productive farmland in the world. While at the 500-acre open-air museum, visitors travel at their own pace through five historical time periods spanning 300 years. On-site interpreters provide a unique learning environment of seasonal activities and demonstrations. A complete visit lasts three to four hours.  Click here to download a map of the Farms.

 

Recognition

Living History Farms is named in Patricia Schultz’ book, “1,000 Places To See in the USA and Canada Before You Die.”

 

Agricultural Significance

Nationally, only 2% of all Americans are actively engaged in farming. Even in Iowa, a world leader in agriculture, farm families account for about only 9% of the work force, although agri-business is a major component of the state's economy. LHF is nationally recognized for its interpretation of the development of agriculture. Multi-national corporations based in Iowa bring people from around the world to Living History Farms to learn the history of Midwestern agriculture. The strength of Living History Farms programming is that it can interpret change through time. While it is a uniquely Iowa institution, Living History Farms, as a representative of an agricultural heritage common to many areas, also has a universal appeal.