Families visiting Decorah for Luther College Family Weekend 2026 will have a free opportunity to explore Vesterheim on Saturday, Sept. 19, when the museum opens its campus for admission, exhibits and two scheduled guided tours.
The free-admission offer is available to Luther College students, faculty and staff, along with Vesterheim museum members. The program is intended for Luther-connected visitors and members taking part in local Family Weekend activities.
What visitors can do at Vesterheim
Vesterheim will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving eligible visitors most of the day to explore the museum’s collection, heritage spaces and Vesterheim Commons. Guests can visit the museum, attend a guided tour or combine both activities during their time on campus.
The museum’s event information says its collection began at Luther in 1877. That history provides additional context for a Family Weekend visit, particularly for families connected to Luther College and interested in the relationship between the college and Vesterheim.
Two guided tours are scheduled
Visitors can choose between two tour opportunities during the day:
- Museum Building tour: 11 a.m.
- Heritage Park tour: 1:30 p.m.
The scheduled tours offer visitors a way to explore different parts of the Decorah campus while leaving time before or after the programs to view the collection and stop at Vesterheim Commons.
Who should confirm admission details
People who are not Luther College students, faculty or staff and are not Vesterheim members should confirm admission details with Vesterheim before making plans. The supplied event information specifically identifies those groups as covered by the free offer.
The Sept. 19 program is part of the local Family Weekend experience for Luther College families visiting Decorah. With the museum open throughout the day and tours scheduled at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., eligible guests can plan a visit around other Family Weekend activities.