• F.A.Q.’s

Frequently Asked Questions

We are open from the first Saturday in May until the third week of December, with outdoor historic building tours running from May-October.

In addition, we host several public events, both free and ticketed, between the months of November and January. These include Luciadagan, Annie’s Coffee Parties, and Vinterfest. So please, check our Instagram or Event Page to find the most updated information.

Our standard operation hours during open season are Wednesday – Saturday from 10am-4pm and Sunday from 1pm-4pm.

Historic buildings are open only during tours and large, public events.

Historic building signs and virtual tours provide information and a glimpse inside the buildings when the buildings are closed.

Holidays: We are closed on New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, 4th of July, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

Gammelgården is located in Scandia, Minnesota, at 20880 Olinda Trail North. Traveling by personal vehicles (car, motorcycle, or bike), chartered bus, or walking are ways to get to Gammelgården. There are no public bus or trains that are close to the museum.

  • Can I arrive by bicycle? 

Absolutely! Although Gammelgården does not have a bike rack, across the street at the Scandia Community Center there is a bike rack.  

After your visit to the museum, we encourage you to check out the two BIKE ROUTES that pass by the museum: Dala Horse Route (15 miles) and Sand Lake Route (7 miles).  

  • Is public transportation available? 

Unfortunately, there are no public bus lines or trains that come to Scandia or near Gammelgården.  

  • Can I charge my electric vehicle? 

At this time, Gammelgården does not have electric vehicle chargers. 

  • Can I park on the street during a major event (i.e., Midsommar)?

Yes, there is street parking along Olinda Trail, 209th Street, and Oakhill Road.  Additional overflow parking can be found directly across the street from the museum.

  • Is there wheelchair accessible parking? 

There are wheelchair parking spaces at the front of the parking lot nearest to the front door.

  • Can I be dropped off?

Cars or vans that carry 15 passengers or less may drop off passengers at the sidewalk leading to the Välkommen Hus (the main entrance to the museum). Larger vans and buses may drop off passengers by pulling alongside the entrance to the parking lot and putting hazard lights on. Larger van and bus parking can be found along Olinda Trail, 209th Street, and Oakhill Road.  

Prohibited Items:

Items That Are NOT Allowed On Site:

Smoking is not allowed anywhere at Gammelgården, including the parking lot, grounds, and in buildings. This includes cigars, pipes, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, vapor cigarettes, chewing tobacco, tobacco-related product, or any controlled substance. 

For the safety and protection of our staff, volunteers, visitors, and artifacts, the following items may not be brought into the museum’s buildings:

  • Weapons, including guns and ammunition
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Illegal items
  • Recreational equipment, including skates, skateboards and kick scooters
  • May I bring food and drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, but please enjoy them in designated areas. Picnicking is welcome on the grounds. Packaged food, snacks, and candy are available for purchase inside the Butik.

Please do not bring food and drinks into any of the historic buildings or exhibit rooms.

  • What is proper museum etiquette?

Visitors are expected to respect Gammelgården’s staff, volunteers, and other visitors. Behavior or language that is inappropriate, abusive, harassing, or threatening, including sexual harassment and racial or other slurs, will not be tolerated. Refusal to follow this Code of Conduct and any rules – whether on print materials or as directed by Gammelgården staff and volunteers – can result in removal from the site.

We also ask that our visitors refrain from touching the artifacts or works of art.

Courtesy to fellow visitors and protection of the artifacts and works of art is the goal.

  • Can I bring my stroller, scooter, walker, wheelchair, or any type of mobility device?

The museum’s Välkommen Hus – which includes the Butik (Gift Shop) and passage room (classroom with themed displays and artifacts) – all are accessible to visitors using strollers, scooters, walkers, wheelchairs, and mobility devices. There is an elevator available to visitors in this building.

Although the exterior doors of all the buildings do not have a button to open them, a museum staff person or volunteer will be happy to assist all visitors so they have access to the buildings.

  • May I bring my pet?

All task-trained service animals and guide dogs are permitted in buildings and on the museum grounds.  

Pets are allowed on the outdoor grounds if they are kept on a leash. All waste from pets must be picked up, bagged, and disposed of in the trash cans. Pets are not allowed inside the historic buildings.

  • Are wheelchairs available on site? 

At this time, Gammelgården has one wheelchair available. 

  • What are the restrooms like?

The main floor of the Welcome House has both male and female bathrooms, consisting of 3 stalls each. The second floor has 2 individual bathrooms for all genders, disabilities, and family purposes. These bathrooms have sinks, step stools, mirrors, and access to some sanitary products.

  • Is there an elevator? 

Yes, the Welcome House has an elevator to the second-floor exhibit room/classroom.

  • What if English isn’t my first language? (Are there Swedish resources on site?)

While we have no Swedish speakers in our direct staff, some volunteers and guides have limited Swedish skills. But all employees are happy to assist and speak with you through translation apps if needed (in any language!)

Gammelgården has signs by the exterior of each of its historic buildings that have a description in both English and Swedish. In addition to this, our upstairs non-lending library has a section for Swedish books. 

  • Is there an AED available on site?

At this time, Gammelgården does not have any Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on site.

For additional information regarding accessibility, please feel free to contact the museum.

  • Does the museum offer guided tours to see inside the historic buildings?

Yes! Please see the TOURS page for information about walk-in tours, group tours, and student field trips. Please note that walk-in guided tours that are not prebooked are only available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

  • How do I book a group visit to Gammelgården?

Special information, including pricing, is available for tour planners and groups on our TOURS page.

  • I live too far from the museum to go on a guided tour. Can I see the buildings any other way?

Yes! We have videos of our buildings with a short tours on our website under VIRTUAL TOURS.

  • How do I schedule a field trip to the museum?

If you’re affiliated with a school (public, private, or charter) or homeschool co-op, please visit our TOURS page for more information.

We do! We offer dozens of unique workshops, classes, activities, clubs, and events throughout the year. The best place to see what’s coming up is to look at the museum’s CALENDAR OF EVENTS.

  • When is the Butik open?

The Butik is open all hours that the museum is open. This includes during festivals, workshops, classes, and other events that are hosted by the museum.

  • Are there any discounts available in the Butik? 

There is a 10% discount in the Butik (Gift Shop) for Gammelgården members. Additional benefits for being a member – including free tickets – can be found on the MEMBERSHIP page.

  • What form of payment do you accept?

Gammelgården accepts cash, check, and credit/debit card payments. 

  • Do items go on sale? 

The Butik has a shelf for items of sale. You’ll likely find more on sale items towards the end of the year. In addition, we host a yearly Black Friday sale and a special Secondhand Swedish once a year. Check the Events Calendar to find more information for these events.

  • Are the items Swedish?

Many of our Butik items are Swedish or Nordic in nature or origin! Ask a staff member at the desk for more information.

  • Are children welcomed?

Yes! Children of all ages will find Gammelgården Museum to be a fun and fascinating place to explore. Plus, youth under age 12 always receive free admission for guided tours. Children 14 years of age and younger must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (age 18 years or older) at all times. We request one adult chaperone for every ten children under the age of 14.

  • What programs/activitys are available for children?

We offer a variety of programs for children of all ages. Visit the CALENDAR and search for “Children” in the search bar. All of the current youth programs will be listed. Our upstairs library includes a children’s section as well as a board game section. We have a small play area on the main floor of the Welcome House, and outside our facility is connected to a park/playground.

  • Photography Policy:

With all of the beautiful landscaping and variety of unique buildings, Gammelgården makes the ideal location for senior, family, engagement sessions, etc. While you do not need to make appointments to take photos outside of our buildings, we would appreciate you checking in at the Välkommen Hus when you are doing professional photography.

  1. Personal Photography
    Photography for personal use, taken with smartphones or small handheld devices, is permitted at no charge during regular open hours. We ask that guests remain respectful of the historic buildings, gardens, staff, volunteers, and other visitors while taking photos.
  2. Professional Photography
    Photography involving professional equipment, including detachable lenses, tripods, external lighting, reflectors, drones (must be pre-approved with permit), or staged/group sessions (e.g., engagement, wedding party, senior, family, branding, or commercial shoots) requires a $50 donation fee per session. This fee may be paid inside the main building during business hours. Your contribution directly supports the preservation of our historic structures, landscaped grounds, and professionally-curated gardens. These sessions must not interfere with other guests or tours.

Additional Guidelines:

  • Photography must not interfere with museum operations, scheduled programs, or private events.
  • Historic buildings, artifacts, and garden features may not be moved, climbed on, or altered for photos.
  • The museum reserves the right to restrict access to certain areas due to weather, preservation needs, or scheduled activities.
  • Photographers are responsible for obtaining any necessary model releases from their clients.

Additional Photgraphy Questions:

  • Drone Policy:

For safety and security reasons, drones are not permitted at Gammelgården Museum.

  • Museum Filming and Video Notice:

Gammelgården Museum may photograph, film, or videotape visitors for educational and promotional purposes. By visiting Gammelgården, you consent to the use of your likeness, voice, and/or video image for these purposes.

  • Can I film or take photos of artifacts?

Handheld cameras, video cameras, and camera phones are welcome in all public outdoor spaces as well as in the historic buildings, subject to the following:

  • Photographs and videos are for personal use only and may not be sold.
  • Professional shoots, including wedding, engagement, and modeling, must be arranged with Gammelgården’s executive director prior to the photo shoot.
  • Natural light only; no flash or other supplemental light within the historic buildings or around objects.
  • Selfie sticks are welcome in public outdoor spaces only. To protect the art and for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, selfie sticks are not allowed inside the historic buildings.
  • Tripods, monopods, handheld microphones, and other external equipment are not permitted in historic buildings during tours or events.
  • A safe distance must be maintained from all artifacts, cases, platforms, and pedestals. Cameras must be kept a minimum of 18 inches away from artwork and artifacts, and may never be held over an artwork or artifact.
  • Live-streaming video apps such as Instagram and Facebook Live are permitted on the grounds (but not in the buildings or on tours), subject to the same conditions described above. We ask that live broadcasts respect the privacy of other visitors, and that museum volunteers and staff not be interviewed or otherwise engaged in a way that takes them away from their primary job duties.

Questions & Advance Contact:

If you have questions about equipment, scheduling, group sessions, commercial photography, or would like to confirm availability on a specific date, please contact the museum in advance. Reaching out ahead of time helps ensure a smooth experience and allows staff to inform you of any closures, events, or preservation-related restrictions.

Although, membership to our museum is not a requirement to use the grounds, we suggest that you consider becoming a member before using our facilities and grounds for your session. Learn more on our MEMBERSHIP page.

  • My question about photography isn’t answered here. Who can I contact?

Please call 651-433-5053, e-mail director@gammelgardenmuseum.org, or DM Instagram @gammelgarden_museum

  • How do I sign up to volunteer?

Volunteers play an essential role in inspiring and engaging visitors. If you are interested in volunteering with Gammelgården, please visit our VOLUNTEER page. We offer individual volunteer opportunities as well as committed volunteer activities. Becoming a regular volunteer will earn you museum benefits and invitations to volunteer appreciation events.

All skills and talents are welcome to apply or ask about volunteer opportunities from construction, to landscaping, artists, hosts, guides, history lovers/students, and more. 

  • Are internships available? 

Yes, each summer Gammelgården has 1-2 interns who helps with programming, museum administration, social media, and giving tours. Each intern will additionally have one of more projects they will be expected to pitch and develop with the staff. This can be anything as long as it is relevant and discussed with the proper staff. Past examples include everything from historical dress making to inclusive game design and archival bookkeeping.

Please contact the museum director at director@gammelgardenmuseum.org if you are a high school graduate going into your freshman year of college, a current college student, or looking for relevant field experience. Further information and direction will be provided from here.

A paid stipend is available for the intern thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. (Also, teens are invited to help with a variety of ongoing VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES.)

To become a Member, complete an APPLICATION FORM and mail it along with your dues to Gammelgården Museum, P.O. Box 62, Scandia, MN  55073. 

As a Member, you’ll enjoy a 10% discount in the Butik, free guided tours of museum, an invitation to Membership Appreciation Day, plus so much more. For more information, visit our MEMBERSHIP page or email membership@gammelgardenmuseum.org.

There are many ways to support the museum – through MEMBERSHIPS, GET INVOLVED, and DONATIONS. Gammelgården welcomes financial support from individuals, small businesses, corporations, foundations, and other organizations. Financial gifts sustain the museum and ensure that its programs and services are affordable to the public.

Gammelgarden also welcomes support of IN-KIND DONATIONS, ARTIFACT DONATIONS, MEMORIAL DONATIONS, and VOLUNTEERING.

  • How do I make monetary donations?

Thank you for supporting Gammelgården Museum. You’re welcome to make a secure, fully tax-deductible donation ONLINE or by mailing a check made payable to Gammelgården Museum to P.O. Box 62, Scandia, MN 55073.

  • How do I donate art or artifacts to the museum?

Since its founding, Gammelgården has benefited from the public’s generosity in building our collection, and we continue to welcome gifts. However, not every object is right for our collection. If we already have an identical work, or if a work would not be exhibited, we prefer not to add it to the collection. Therefore, we have a careful process for reviewing all gift offers.

If you wish to offer an artwork or historical artifact to the museum, please send images, object information (such as the artist, title, dimensions, medium, and history), and a letter outlining your intentions to the museum director at director@gammelgardenmuseum.org. We appreciate your generosity!

To keep up with the latest news from Gammelgården, use the contact form for Kul News at the STAY INFORMED page.

The Museum is proud to support the non-profit community within Washington County, and we will donate tour passes for most fundraisers, benefit events, and galas. Please contact director@gammelgardenmuseum.org to make a request.

Lost items are held for 30 days before being donated. If you lost personal items (e.g., clothing,  toys, water bottle), inquire at the welcome desk in the Välkommen Hus or contact 651-433-5053 or director@gammelgardenmuseum.org.

If you lost valuables (e.g., wallet, phone, jewelry), please tell the Gammelgården Greeter or Butik Manager on the first floor of the Välkommen Hus.

Any commercial or other unauthorized use of any transmission, picture, film/type, writing, drawing, or other depiction or description of any Gammelgården name, mark, or logo is prohibited without prior specific written approval of the museum. Please contact at director@gammelgardenmuseum.org for more information.