Families coming to 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, as well as Vesterheim members. The museum is scheduled to be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The offer gives qualifying visitors several ways to experience Vesterheim during the busy Family Weekend, including two scheduled guided tours and the option to explore independently. The event is centered on Vesterheim’s museum campus in Decorah.
What Vesterheim visitors can do
Vesterheim has planned two guided tours for the day. The first begins at 11 a.m. and focuses on the Museum Building. A second tour is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. and will highlight Heritage Park.
- 11 a.m.: Museum Building tour
- 1:30 p.m.: Heritage Park tour
Because the tours are scheduled separately, families may be able to attend one or both, depending on their Family Weekend plans. Visitors who would rather move at their own pace can choose a self-guided visit during the museum’s regular Saturday hours.
Independent visitors can see Vesterheim’s collection, heritage spaces and Vesterheim Commons. Guests may select a guided tour, a self-guided visit or a combination of both, giving families flexibility around other activities in Decorah.
Who qualifies for free admission
Vesterheim’s complimentary-admission offer is limited to the eligible groups identified in the event information: Luther College students, faculty and staff, and Vesterheim members. The offer does not automatically extend to every relative or guest accompanying someone who qualifies.
The event information does not list a separate admission price for other visitors or explain whether additional family or group members qualify for a discount. 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.
A long Luther College connection
Vesterheim’s event information says the museum’s relationship with Luther College dates to 1877, when the collection began at Luther. For eligible visitors attending Family Weekend, the Sept. 19 schedule offers a morning Museum Building tour, an afternoon Heritage Park tour or independent exploration anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.