Families visiting Decorah for Luther College Family Weekend will have a museum option on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, when Vesterheim plans to offer complimentary admission to eligible Luther College students, faculty and staff, along with Vesterheim members. The museum is scheduled to be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The admission offer is limited to the eligible groups identified by Vesterheim. It does not automatically extend to every relative or guest accompanying an eligible visitor. Vesterheim’s event information does not list a separate admission price for other visitors or explain whether additional family or group members qualify for a discount.
Two guided tours planned
Vesterheim will offer two guided tours during the day, each highlighting a different part of the museum campus:
- 11 a.m.: Museum Building tour
- 1:30 p.m.: Heritage Park tour
The morning tour will focus on the Museum Building, while the afternoon tour will center on Heritage Park. Since the programs are scheduled separately, families may be able to attend one or both, depending on their Family Weekend plans.
Self-guided visits also available
Visitors who prefer to explore independently can use Vesterheim’s regular Saturday hours to see the museum’s collection, heritage spaces and Vesterheim Commons. Guests may select a guided tour, a self-guided visit or a combination of the two.
Vesterheim’s event information says the museum’s relationship with Luther College dates to 1877, when the collection began at Luther. For eligible visitors, the Family Weekend schedule provides several ways to include the museum in a day in Decorah: a morning tour of the Museum Building, an afternoon tour of Heritage Park or independent exploration between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Families planning to attend with guests who are not Luther College students, faculty or staff or Vesterheim members should contact Vesterheim before traveling to Decorah. The museum can provide current admission information and explain any arrangements that may be available for those visitors.