Families visiting Decorah for Luther College Family Weekend will have a full-day museum option on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Vesterheim is scheduled to welcome eligible Luther College students, faculty and staff, along with Vesterheim members, free of charge.
The museum plans to remain open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing visitors to fit a visit around other Family Weekend activities. Guests may join a guided tour, explore independently or combine both options during the day.
Two tours are planned
Vesterheim has scheduled guided tours at two locations. The first is planned for 11 a.m. in the Museum Building. The second is set for 1:30 p.m. at Heritage Park.
- 11 a.m.: Museum Building tour
- 1:30 p.m.: Heritage Park tour
The schedule may allow visitors to attend both programs. A group could begin with the Museum Building tour, spend time exploring the museum’s exhibits and collection, and then continue to Heritage Park for the afternoon program.
Visitors who prefer to set their own pace can plan a self-guided visit. That option may be useful for families working Vesterheim into a busy Luther Family Weekend schedule. Saturday access is scheduled to include the museum’s collection, heritage spaces and Vesterheim Commons.
Who qualifies for free admission?
The free-admission offer is specifically listed for Luther College students, faculty and staff, as well as Vesterheim members. It does not automatically extend to every relative or guest accompanying someone who qualifies.
The event information does not list a separate admission price for visitors outside those categories, and it does not say whether additional family or group members will receive a discount. Families bringing guests who are not eligible Luther College students, faculty and staff or Vesterheim members should contact Vesterheim before traveling to Decorah.
The museum recommends confirming current admission details and asking whether other arrangements are available. Visitors should also verify tour availability before finalizing plans, particularly when a group includes guests who do not qualify for free admission.
A Luther connection dating to 1877
The Family Weekend program reflects Vesterheim’s longstanding relationship with Luther College. According to the event information, that connection dates to 1877, when the collection began at the college.
Vesterheim published the plans Aug. 23, 2026, and updated them Aug. 24. Because eligibility, pricing for additional guests and tour availability may require confirmation, visitors should check with the museum before making the trip.