Take a closer look at the historical places and people of Winona with a walking tour! Brush up on your local trivia for prizes. All tours are an hour long and cost $10 per person, $6 for members. Sign up by calling 507.454.2723 ext. 0. Each tour leaves from and returns to the Winona County History Center.
Summer Saturday Walking Tours, May 27 to September 2
10:30 Windom Park Historic District Explore the architecture of the Windom Park Historic District with one of our local guides. Learn more about the era when Winona had the most millionaires per capita in the U.S. as we examine the architecture and lives lived in the grand homes of this neighborhood. Centered in Windom Park is the statue of We-no-nah. Hear about the mystery and history surrounding this legendary figure and the many meanings she holds. 12:00 Historic Downtown Winona Come along on a walk through the heart of Winona's downtown. The tour highlights "lost Winona" buildings and the historic and architecturally significant treasures that still stand.
Tour the History Center
We welcome group tours of all ages! From bus groups to class field trips we can help you have a great experience that is both educational and entertaining. Guided or On Your Own: We provide a Museum Docent for your group at no extra charge with admission. Groups who do not wish to have a guide do not need to call in advance, but it is encouraged so we at least know you are coming, and can meet any needs your group might have.
Group Admission Rates for the History Center
Adult Groups of 15 or more, $4 each, bus driver and tour leader are free. (Regular Adult admission is $5 ea.)
Student Groups, $3 per student, Teachers and limited number of chaperones are free.
Preschool Groups, Children $2 each, Adults free (please have at least one adult per 3-4 children).
Field Trips
Spring Field Trips to the History Center will be offered during the week of May 1 - 5.
We welcome students of all levels - Pre-school to College! Our museum docents will lead your students back in time to explore our local history and community. Groups rotate to various topic stations and activities throughout the museum exhibits.
A Special Note: We are in an exciting stage of updating the main exhibit hall. Some exhibits will be moving around or closed over the next several years as we work on this large project. During construction we will be offering Field Trip weeks in the Fall and Spring only. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Local Learning Luggage
Bring the museum to your classroom or group meeting! Sign out a piece of Local Learning Luggage filled with educational materials for classrooms, nursing home activities and more. Free to use! Stop in the History Center or call 507.454.2723 ext. 0 to reserve or check out a piece. Topics available: 1. Native American and Dakota Heritage: We have complied educational resources from local Indigenous Nations, the Minnesota Historical Society and our own materials. 2. Artifact Activities: Use a variety of artifacts to hone reasoning skills and concepts of time. Learn about how objects and inventions change over time and what makes something an artifact. Also explore Related Online Resources to pair with luggage materials and activities.
Winona County Historical Society local guides provide authentic experiences exploring architecture, landmarks, history, folklore, and more. Book directly with us or with Visit Winona for even more group tour options & Winona experiences. Winona Bus Tour - Step-on Guide Cost: $16 per person (includes Step-on guide and History Center Admission) + any additional attraction admissions & local coach rental if needed Time: Up to 3.5 hours Min. 25 – Max. full bus A look at Winona from all angles! Step-on guides take you to the city’s hot spots, get a view of the river valley from atop the bluffs, tour museums and much more. Customized to fit your group’s interests.
Also ask about our Local Loop Tour for shuttle transportation around Winona for guests to explore what they wish.