The Genesee Country Village & Museum is a living history museum with 68 structures on 700 acres. It is the state’s largest and most comprehensive museum, and the third-largest in the country.
The 19th-century village features a range of buildings that were relocated to the museum starting in 1966, including frontier homesteads, Victorian mansions, churches, schools, shops, and taverns. Visitors can learn about the history of each building and participate in events such as the Celtic Faire, the Civil War in the Genesee Valley, Independence Day, and the Fiddle & Folk Festival. The village also hosts the Agricultural Fair and Spirits of the Past in October, as well as Yuletide in the Country storytelling tours in December.
18th Century History Lessons
As you explore, knowledgeable museum interpreters dressed in period attire will share the history behind each home or activity. This experience is captivating because the houses originate from various cultural periods. You can witness the transition from pioneer homes to grand mansions. Each family, merchant, or heritage has a unique story that adds to the diversity of the experience.
The Lay of the Land
A trolley makes various stops around the village. Most key events and activities occur in the Village Square or the Great Meadow.
Genesee Country Village Square
The village square, located at the heart of the complex, is surrounded by homes, businesses, and churches. It hosts activities such as parades around the square, games, and performances.
Genesee Country Village homes and businesses
Over many years, various structures have been relocated to the village from different places throughout the Genesee Valley. For instance, single structures, such as the Livingston-Backus House, were relocated from the City of Rochester’s Third Ward, while multiple structures were moved from Brooks Grove, located just south of Mount Morris. All these structures have been brought together with dozens of others to form an 18th-century village that may have existed at the time.
As you explore the village, you’ll experience the passage of time and a diverse range of socio-economic backgrounds. The town has a rich and fascinating history, from small homestead farms to grand octagonal mansions and from German immigrants to Spiritualists.
In 1901, Nathaniel Rochester’s last city home was demolished to construct the Bevier Memorial Building at the intersection of Spring and Washington Streets. However, his Dansville home was moved to the Genesee Country Village & Museum, which is currently located near George Eastman’s childhood home.
Authentic interiors
The interiors of each home and business are filled with period decor and, in some cases, authentic pieces from the original owner! The stories of each family are diverse and fascinating.
The Great Meadow
Surrounded by restaurants (former train depots), an art gallery, a gift shop, and other buildings, the Great Meadow features a gazebo and hosts activities, including major Civil War battle reenactments.
The John L. Wehle Gallery
Located near the village entrance, the Gallery boasts an impressive collection of sporting and wildlife art, making it an ideal spot to escape the summer heat.
Genesee Country Nature Center
Five miles of trails are available, suitable for families, and marked with different colors. These trails will take you through the woodlands and wetlands. You can find theme-based educational activities and guided walks throughout the year. For instance, you can participate in the maple syrup processing event in late March, salamander walks during the first warm rainy nights of spring, or nighttime owl walks during summer. The trail system is privately owned but open to visitors during the museum’s regular hours.
Special Events
The Genesee Country Village & Museum offers a wide range of themed weekend events throughout the year. During the summer, events such as History on Tap, a Celtic Faire, and a Fiddler’s Fair are held. In the fall, the harvest arrives, and spooky events begin, eventually culminating in preparations for winter. Visitors can enjoy the candlelit Yuletide in the Country tours in December and take a quiet weekend stroll from January through March. In the spring, fresh maple syrup is available.
During the weekdays of summer, everything remains normal in the village. These days are my favorite as they offer a peaceful environment to enjoy. However, around 700 summer campers sometimes explore the village for the first time, which can be equally wonderful.
Naturalization Ceremony on the 4th of July
Held each year on July 4th, the Genesee Country Village & Museum hosts a moving Naturalization Ceremony. Individuals from countries all around the world will take their oath and be sworn in as new American citizens by United States Judge Honorable Frank P. Geraci.
In addition to the ceremony, enjoy a day-long celebration of all things Americana, featuring a pie-eating contest, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and a parade. Stop by the air-conditioned John L. Wehle Gallery to experience Voices and Votes: Democracy in America, a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, which highlights pivotal moments in our nation’s democratic journey.
Yuletide in the Country
Experience the magic of Christmas by joining a guided tour through the village. Listen to enchanting tales of Christmases past while witnessing families come together to prepare a traditional meal, sing carols, and get ready for the long winter ahead. Several exciting events are available for you to enjoy in December, including the candlelit Yuletide in the Country Tours, Breakfast with St. Nick, Holiday Afternoon Tea, and the Holiday Open House. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in these festivities and create unforgettable moments.
More information
The Genesee Country Village and Museum website states that its 700-acre complex comprises 68 historic structures. These structures are furnished with 15,000 artifacts to create an authentic 19th-century environment. Visitors can interact with knowledgeable third-person historic interpreters dressed in period-appropriate costumes. The interpreters guide visitors through engaging and enjoyable encounters with the stories, objects, buildings, and environments of Western New York. This experience helps visitors understand how life in small towns has changed.
Cost: There is a fee for general admission and special events
Located in Mumford, roughly 35 minutes / 25 miles from Rochester (get directions)
Website: gcv.org
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When is your favorite time of year to visit the Genesee Country Village & Museum?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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Why isn’t the price of admission listed? Also the hours.
The price of admission and hours are on the Genesee Country Village and Museum’s website. It would be impossible for me to document them all here.