History Exploration
Today you can uncover the life and times of a legendary wilderness guide or follow a family of immigrants on their long journey to Minnesota. Investigate the farmstead that transformed the Upper Midwest into America’s Dairy Belt, or relax lakeside on a Gilded Age estate whose majestic gardens have been inspiring guests for over a century. By exploring history, you’ll unlock the stories of life on this land and see how it still influences us today.
Where to Explore History
In Three Rivers, having fun doesn't have to cost a thing. From free parking to free activities to free programs and events, find your adventure!
All Programs and Events
Upcoming history exploration programs and events.
The Wandering Naturalist
Episodes 41–43: The Rivers That Shape Us
Tune in to learn how the Mississippi River was shaped, how humans have interacted with it throughout history, why it's important for migrating birds and more.
The Three Rivers Blog
Winter Solstice: Stories and Traditions From Around the World
By: Michelle Bierma Tim Reese
Winter solstice falls on December 21 and marks the shortest day of the year. Discover solstice stories told around the world and explore ancient celebrations honoring this magical time of year.
A Tale of Twin Cities: Nature's Starring Role in the Founding of Minneapolis and St. Paul
By: Bill Walker
Did you know that nature is at the very heart of the story of how the Twin Cities came to be? Like this year’s spring floods, it all started with an extreme buildup of snow and ice. Learn about the series of events that led to the founding of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Ice Harvesting
By: Tim Graf
Have you ever wondered how food and drinks were kept cold in the years before electric refrigeration? Learn more about the history of the ice harvesting industry and try it out for yourself at Ice Harvesting Day on January 26.
Other Things To Do
Educational Farming
At Three Rivers, those who might not have an opportunity to see the ins and outs of a real working farm get a chance to learn where their food comes from, meet some animals and explore farm life at Gale Woods.
Formal Gardens
Take in the beauty of the colorful blooms. Smell the sweet, fragrant flowers. Breathe in the fresh air. Relax to the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Our formal gardens at Noerenberg are meticulously maintained to offer visitors a spot of breathtaking beauty and serenity.
Nature Education
If you want to get up close and personal or learn a little more, try visiting one of our nature centers. At Eastman, Lowry, or Richardson Nature Centers, you can hike the trails, interact with seasonal exhibits, observe up close the unique characteristics of different wildlife species, conduct your own science experiment and meet a live animal.
Play Areas
Create new memories at our play areas. Three Rivers has multiple areas designed for varying ages and abilities where toddlers to teens can let their imagination run wild. Monkey business never sounded so fun.
Art Education
Archery
Stationary ranges at Elm Creek and Carver Park Reserve offer targets at a variety of distances, as well as a shooting tower. Or test your marksmanship with a walk-through range featuring multiple shooting stations. Open year-round.
