Growing up, I was a huge fan of Laura Ingalls Wilder. I read all the Little House books, watched the series and did as many book reports as I possibly could on her. Total nerd. :) So, it's a no-brainer that I would want to visit Walnut Grove, MN and see the museum.
Now, the town of Walnut Grove is home to 534 people--give or take. It's small and, unfortunately, there isn't too much to do besides visit the museum. That aside, the museum itself is fun, especially for kids.
It's set up like a little town with a handful of buildings to explore. There's even a room filled with interactive stations for kids--like learning to wash clothes using a washboard. Fun, right? There's a covered wagon that can actually be climbed on and a room filled with memorabilia from the television series.
The well-stocked gift shop has everything from peppermint sticks and bonnets to books and series DVDs. What else does a prairie fan need? :)
If you do want to make the drive to Walnut Grove, my main recommendation would be to pack a lunch, because I'm serious when I say there isn't much else. They do have a Nellie's Cafe, but it seems to close early (at least it's was closed when we went). Besides, it might be more fun to have a picnic along the banks of Plum Creek.
sod house replica
schoolhouse replica
a letter written by Laura Ingalls Wilder
