I’ve lived less than an hour away from Old Sturbridge Village for more than ten years. But it wasn’t until chaperoning for my son’s school field trip that I finally visited this amazing showcase of New England history.

The visionary living museum transplanted 60 New England buildings dating from the 1830s to its 200 acres of beautiful grounds. While there, you can explore the buildings and watch tinsmiths, potters, blacksmiths, and more ply their trades. The artisans and other townspeople are dressed in historical clothing, but they’ll happily answer your questions in contemporary English. After that, hop aboard the stagecoach for a tour around the village.

The Village also has waterways you can tour by boat, a covered bridge you can walk across, and playgrounds that weave history into the fun. Fall foliage is a special bonus this time of year.

After your visit, Sturbridge has a host of good restaurants. My family loves the Cedar Street Grille. They have small plates, sliders, and seasonal specials.

Since my family’s first visit to Old Sturbridge Village, we’ve already been back to share it with friends, so we’re catching up on history, and loving it. I think your family will, too.