Greenfield Village Michigan: Turn Back the Clock to when Model T's, Thomas Edison and the Wright Brothers Were Making History
Greenfield Village | By Sherry Trautman | Traveling Michigan
Ride on a steam train or in a model T, see Thomas Edison's lab, peek into the Wright Brother's bicycle shop and home, watch tinsmiths create their craft, see glassblowing and historic cooking, and discover engineering firsts at Greenfield Village!
This place is seriously cool. Run, don't walk to be transported to a time long, long ago.
When is Greenfield Village Open?
Greenfield Village is open seven days a week from mid April to the end of October. Open select days November through December.
What to See at Greenfield Village
- Stroll through 4 working farms and imagine how your life would be different if you lived on a busy farm.
- Craftworks-Be inspired by artisans working with early American techniques.
- Check out the Model T district and catch a ride on one of the iconic vehicles!
- Discover the history of America's railroads.
- Check out Thomas Edison's lab and experience his "light bulb moment."
- Tour a famous poet's home and stroll through a plantation.
- Ever ridden in a horse-drawn carriage? Now is your chance!!
Embark on the Weiser Railroad Ride for an incredible experience!
Discover the Railroad Turntable produced in 1901. This turntable allowed workers to easily move very heavy locomotives. As you can see, if you are lucky, you can help move the turntable for a hands-on learning experience!
Ride the Edison Steam Train for an amazing experience!
How Long Does it Take to Visit Greenfield Village?
We would recommend about five hours to tour, take photos, ride the train (Weiser Railroad Ride shown above), explore the buildings, grab lunch and learn.
Can you Bring Food and Drinks Into the Village?
Yes, you may bring bottled waters and snacks. There are places to eat there also.
Cool Factor! You can tour the Wright Brothers' home and bicycle shop at Green field Village!
Per the sign in front of the Wright Brothers' shop, "Starting in 1899, Wilbur and Orville Write performed much of the research, experimentation, design and construction of the first successful airplane, the "Wright Flyer," in this building."
"The brothers closed their bicycle business in 1904 to concentrate full-time on airplanes, and continued to build improved models here through 1909. Orville Wright maintained his office on the second floor until 1916."
"The original "Wright Flyer" was built here in sections and shipped, unassembled, to Kitty Hawk, North Caroline. The first flight took place there on December 17, 1903."
See the Thomas Edison's Lab and Tour the Numerous Buildings
Greenfield VillageI loved touring Thomas Edison's shop and learning so much along the way. All the beakers, bottles, measuring devices and tools were fascinating to see.
There are presentations throughout the day to facilitate learning and interpreters are present in all of the buildings to answer any of your questions.
Hungry? There is a tavern with an 1830's menu! Snacks are available for purchase throughout Greenfield Village.
Planning to shop? Then you won't want to miss the Craftworks store for special items created by Greenfield Village's artisans.
How to Get Henry Ford Tickets
Consider package pricing if you are interested in visiting more than one location. It's definitely a better value.
For more information on visiting, the attractions and to purchase tickets on The Henry Ford website, click here: Henry Ford Tickets. We highly recommend not trying to see everything in one day.
We toured the Ford Factory Plant which took about three hours+ and started running out of steam after a couple hours at Greenfield Village. These two together are probably too much for small children.
Also Visit: The Ford Factory Tour
Visit the Ford Rouge Factory Tour for an insider view on how America’s most iconic truck, the Ford F-150 is produced. Immerse yourself in modern manufacturing’s most innovative concepts.
If you love factory tours, the Rouge Ford Factory Tour will amaze and delight you!
Also Visit: The Henry Ford Museum
Location: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124
Tip, Photos and Must-See's at the Henry Ford Museum.
FYI Holiday Events at Greenfield Village
Halloween in Greenfield Village in October
Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village in December
This December Go To Greenfield Village Holiday Nights!
For an absolutely magical (and different) experience, visit Greenfield Village's Holiday Nights!
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The Ultimate Detroit Day Trip Itinerary
OMG! We had an amazing day exploring a small slice of the city when we were there for the International Auto Show.
We explored the Guardian Building, the Renaissance Building and a restaurant you are definitely going to want to check out for yourself.
We have lots of tips to help you make the bet of your Detroit Day Trip!
Click here for the nitty gritty details!
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