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Located along U.S. Highway 12 in Ortonville, Minnesota, the Big Stone County Museum is a fascinating and easy stop for anyone traveling through western Minnesota or visiting nearby Big Stone Lake State Park. Operated by the Big Stone County Historical Society, this museum offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history, from early settlement and agriculture to local wildlife and community life along the Minnesota–South Dakota border.

The museum sits on spacious, well-kept grounds dotted with historic log cabins, a one-room schoolhouse, vintage machinery, and outdoor exhibits that make it enjoyable to explore even before stepping inside. It’s an ideal rest stop for travelers who want to stretch their legs and see something meaningful rather than just another roadside attraction. The outdoor displays are spread across open lawns, making it a pleasant stroll, especially on warm days or during fall when the leaves around Ortonville turn golden.

Inside the museum, visitors will find a remarkable collection of taxidermy featuring hundreds of bird species gathered by early naturalist Charles Hanson, as well as artifacts telling the story of pioneer life in Big Stone County. Exhibits include antique farm tools, household items, photographs, and even the “Muskegon” boat—a restored piece of local river history. The museum also houses interpretive displays explaining the glacial formation of Big Stone Lake and the early Dakota presence in the region.

Because it’s located right on the Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway, the Big Stone County Museum pairs perfectly with nearby attractions like Big Stone Lake State Park and Hartford Beach State Park across the border in South Dakota. Its combination of indoor exhibits and outdoor walking areas makes it both educational and relaxing—whether you have ten minutes or an hour to spare.

Open most weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the museum offers free or low-cost admission and plenty of easy parking for cars, RVs, and campervans. For travelers exploring Minnesota’s western prairie region, it’s a great stop to learn, stretch, and enjoy small-town hospitality before continuing your journey.

Happy Travels!

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