Just 20 minutes outside Rochester, it is the largest living history museum in New York State and the 3rd largest in the United States. The Genesee Country Village and Museum comprises 68 buildings dating from 1790 through 1900, set within three different areas to represent distinct periods of history. This museum is a living representation of life in New York 200 years ago. The staff performs jobs and maintains the grounds, gardens,
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This is one of our favorite museums to visit, in particular, when our children was little. This museum is fully immersive, and you really feel like you have stepped back in time. The attention to detail is astonishing, and the staff is friendly, well-versed in their subject matter, and excited to share with visitors.
The Pioneer Settlement (1790-1820)
The buildings at the Genesee Country Village and Museum are from various parts of the state and were transported to the museum to demonstrate what life was like during the earliest settlement in Western New York. One of the homes in this area belonged to the founder of the City of Rochester, Colonel Nathaniel Rochester. Visitors can tour each home, where staff dress in period clothing and often demonstrate crafts and trades from the period. Buildings in this section include a blacksmith’s shop, A farm, a hop house, and a brewery, where staff performs demonstrations for visitors.
Center Village (1830-1860)
This is the village square within the museum. There are not just homes in this section; there are also many businesses that show everyday life during the mid-1800s. Each building has staff demonstrating trades and living the lifestyle of the people from this time period.
Gas Light District (1860-1900)
Guests will be aware of the noticeable increase in opulence and elegance. The houses, buildings, and gardens in this section reflect the change in America and its
Some of the museum’s most beautiful buildings are within this area, such as the Davis Opera House and the Hyde House (octagon house). These beautiful structures are beautiful examples of life in America around the turn of the century.
Inside the Houses
What really brings the magic to this museum is the elaborately decorated homes. Each house or building is carefully decorated authentically for the period. The docines, dressed in period garments, are well versed on the house they work in as well as the family who owned and lived in the house during this period.
Guests have the opportunity to see first hand what life was really like, the hardships, and as well as the successes. The Genesee Country Village and Museum devels into every aspect of life, and shows visitors how those who lived in the 19th Century lived, worked, played, and enjoy life.
We always seem to find ourselves visiting on rainy days, but have to tell you, despite being wet and a tad uncomfortable, these days are the best for visiting. We always have the place to ourselves, the docines are super excited to interact with us and it gives us more explore. If you don’t mind getting wet, this is really the way to go.
Animals at The Genesee Country Village & Museum
Animals were an important part of life in New York. They played a vital part in everything from farming to transportation. The Genesee Country Village and Museum is home to many animals such as sheep, cows, horses, oxen, chickens, ducks, pigs, and geese. Guests can see how these animals were raised, worked, and were housed in the 1700 and 1800s. These animals can be seen throughout the museum and sometimes walking through the streets “on their way to work.” Children love to view and sometimes even pet these lovely creatures.
The Nature Center
Visitors can enjoy woodlands, meadows, old fields, geologic formations, ponds, and streams. The Genesee Country Village & Museum also has a nature center with five miles of trails and 175 acres of wildlife habitat.
Hours and Admission
• OPEN Wednesday through Sunday from May 8th – September 2nd
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Admission:
Adult: $18 online, $19.50 at the door
Senior (62+): $15 online, $16.50 at the door
Student (13-18): $15 online, $16.50 at the door
Youth (3-12): $12 online, $13.50 at the door
Children under 3: FREE
Senior Visitor Discount
Every Wednesday (May – August) is Senior Day at GCV&M! Visitors ages 62+ can enjoy $10 admission.
Address: 1410 Flint Hill Road., Mumford, NY