Learn about the county's wildlife and Native Americans. Discover who first came to Otter Tail County in the 1850s and why they settled here. See what life was like during the 1900s and walk down the mainstreet of a typical 1916 small town. Visit the agriculture wing and view farming practices from 1850 to the present. Don't miss our temporary exhibit area which features changing exhibits throughout the year.
How to Visit the Museum:
The Museum is located in Van Dyk Park on the west end of Fergus Falls on Lincoln Avenue. Space in the park in available for picnic lunches. We are handicapped accessible. Strollers and wheelchairs are available. Food and drink are not allowed in exhibit areas. We operate in a smoke free environment.
Gift Shop:
Take a part of Otter Tail County home with you. Our gift shop offers items for every age group. Children will discover arrowheads, paper dolls, twig crayons, farm animals and wildlife figures. Adults will find local history books, jewelry, unique hand-carved otter letter openers and may hand-crafted items. If group members wish to shop, allow a few extra minutes before you leave the museum.
Museum Hours:
The Otter Tail County Historical Museum is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays form 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. It is also open on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in June, July, and August.
Membership:
As a member of the Museum, you receive free admission every day; invitations to special events; previews of special exhibits; and subscriptions to the Society's publications, The Record, and bi-monthy newsletter. Most importantly, you become part of a special team of people dedicated to preserving the history of this county.
Admission:
Admission rates are subject to change. Contact us for more information.
Museum Lessons:
The museum can come to you. A fee of $20 plus milage is charged to non-member schools outside Otter Tail County. There is no charge to Otter Tail County schools and member schools. Contact us for more information.
Photography:
Cameras and video recorders are not allowed in exhibit areas for conservation and security reasons.
