The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan stands apart from typical history museums. Across 250 acres, this cultural campus houses the actual bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, the chair where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, and the limousine in which President Kennedy was killed. These aren’t replicas—they’re the real artifacts, preserved and displayed alongside 26 million other pieces of American history.
Planning a visit to The Henry Ford requires knowing what you’re getting into. Three distinct attractions—Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour—offer vastly different experiences. This guide covers 2026 ticket prices, must-see exhibits, time-saving itineraries, and practical tips that official resources often overlook.
Quick Facts: What You Need to Know
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Campus Size | 250 acres |
| Artifacts in Collection | 26+ million |
| Year Founded | 1929 (opened to public 1933) |
| Number of Attractions | 3 (Museum, Village, Factory Tour) |
| Adult Ticket (Museum) | $34 (2026) |
| Time Needed | 4-10+ hours depending on attractions |
| National Historic Landmark | Designated 1981 |
Best for: History enthusiasts, families with school-age children, automotive fans, and anyone interested in American innovation and presidential history.
Budget tip: Membership pays for itself in 2-3 visits with free admission and parking. The Museums for All program offers $3 admission for SNAP/EBT cardholders.
What is The Henry Ford? Three Attractions in One Campus
Henry Ford opened his museum complex in 1929 with a specific vision: documenting the evolution of American agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation. Today, The Henry Ford has grown into one of the nation’s largest indoor-outdoor museum complexes, drawing over 1.8 million visitors annually.
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
The indoor museum spans 12 acres under one roof—roughly the size of nine football fields. Collections focus on transportation, presidential history, and American innovation. Walking through the museum, you’ll encounter vehicles ranging from horse-drawn carriages to early automobiles to a massive Allegheny steam locomotive that visitors can climb aboard.
The museum’s strength lies in its ability to present history through tangible objects. Rather than reading about the civil rights movement, visitors stand before the actual Montgomery bus where Rosa Parks made her stand. The museum acquired this bus at auction in 2001, outbidding the Smithsonian Institution with a $492,000 offer.
Greenfield Village
Greenfield Village operates as an 80-acre outdoor living history museum with over 80 historic structures organized into seven districts. Henry Ford didn’t just collect artifacts—he relocated entire buildings. Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park laboratory, the Wright Brothers’ bicycle shop, and Noah Webster’s home all stand in the village, transported from their original locations and meticulously reconstructed.
Unlike static museum displays, Greenfield Village offers hands-on experiences. Visitors can ride in an authentic Model T, take a steam-powered train around the property, and watch skilled artisans create pottery and glassware using period techniques.
Ford Rouge Factory Tour
The Rouge Factory Tour provides a window into modern automotive manufacturing. Visitors walk along an elevated observation deck above the actual assembly line where Ford builds F-150 trucks. The tour includes the Legacy Gallery showcasing Ford’s manufacturing history and the world’s largest living roof—a 10-acre green roof covering the Dearborn Truck Plant.
Note that the factory follows Ford Motor Company’s production schedule. Active assembly doesn’t occur on weekends, during plant shutdowns, or shift changes. The experience remains worthwhile even without active production, but visitors hoping to see trucks being built should plan weekday visits.
Attraction Comparison: Which Should You Visit?
| Attraction | Type | Best For | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Henry Ford Museum | Indoor | History buffs, car enthusiasts, all ages | 3-5 hours |
| Greenfield Village | Outdoor | Families, hands-on learners, good weather | 4-6 hours |
| Ford Rouge Factory | Tour | Manufacturing enthusiasts, Ford fans | 2-3 hours |
Must-See Exhibits and Experiences
With 26 million artifacts spread across three attractions, deciding what to prioritize can overwhelm first-time visitors. The following highlights represent items you won’t find anywhere else—artifacts that justify the trip regardless of your specific interests.
Henry Ford Museum Highlights
Rosa Parks Bus: This 1948 General Motors bus served Montgomery, Alabama’s public transit system. On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to surrender her seat to a white passenger, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Visitors can board the bus and sit in the seats. Location: With Liberty and Justice for All exhibit.
The Lincoln Chair: President Abraham Lincoln sat in this rocking chair at Ford’s Theatre on April 14, 1865—the night John Wilkes Booth assassinated him. The chair remains as it was that evening, including visible bloodstains on the upholstery. Location: With Liberty and Justice for All exhibit.
Kennedy Presidential Limousine: Secret Service code name “X-100,” this 1961 Lincoln Continental carried President Kennedy through Dallas on November 22, 1963. After the assassination, the vehicle was modified with a permanent roof and continued serving presidents until 1977. Location: Presidential Vehicles display.
Dymaxion House: Architect Buckminster Fuller designed this aluminum prefabricated home in 1946, envisioning mass-produced housing sold through department stores like automobiles. Only two prototypes were ever built. Location: Made in America exhibit.
Allegheny Steam Locomotive: This massive C&O Railway locomotive, built in 1941, represents the pinnacle of steam technology. Visitors can climb into the cab. Location: Transportation area.
Greenfield Village Highlights
Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park Laboratory: Henry Ford reconstructed Edison’s New Jersey research facility piece by piece in 1928, relocating original materials where possible. Edison himself visited for the 1929 Light’s Golden Jubilee celebration and re-enacted his 1879 lightbulb demonstration. Location: Edison at Work district.
Wright Brothers Cycle Shop: Orville and Wilbur Wright operated this Dayton, Ohio bicycle business while developing their flying machine. The building was relocated to Greenfield Village and contains original equipment. Location: Near Edison at Work district.
Model T Rides: Visitors can experience early automobile travel firsthand with rides in authentic Ford Model T vehicles operated by costumed interpreters. Rides operate seasonally and may have additional fees.
Steam-Powered Railroad: The Weiser Railroad circles Greenfield Village using authentic steam locomotives. The ride provides transportation between village sections while offering a 19th-century travel experience.
2026 Ticket Prices and How to Save Money
Current Ticket Prices (January 2026)
| Category | Museum | Village | Rouge Tour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (12-61) | $34.00 | $37.00 | $24.00 |
| Senior (62+) | $30.50 | $33.25 | $21.50 |
| Youth (5-11) | $25.50 | $27.75 | $18.00 |
| Child (4 & under) | Free | Free | Free |
| Members | Free | Free | $20.50 |
Additional fees: $9 parking fee per vehicle, $3 service fee for online/phone orders. Prices reflect online rates—purchasing at the door costs more. Source: The Henry Ford official website, January 2026.
Best Ways to Save
Membership: Annual membership starts around $85 for individuals and provides unlimited free admission to the museum, Greenfield Village, and Giant Screen Experience, plus free parking. A family visiting both museum and village pays roughly $142 for two adults—membership covers itself in a single comprehensive visit.
Museums for All: SNAP/EBT and WIC cardholders receive $3 admission per person to any venue, with parking fees waived. This program extends to four guests per card, making The Henry Ford accessible regardless of budget constraints.
Military Discounts: Active U.S. military personnel receive free admission year-round to either the museum or Greenfield Village. The Blue Star Museums program (May through September) extends free admission to active military plus five family members.
For visitors combining their trip with outdoor adventures, camping in Michigan offers plenty of options near the Dearborn area.
Hours of Operation and Best Times to Visit
Current Hours (2026)
| Venue | Days Open | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Henry Ford Museum | Daily | 9:30am – 5:00pm | Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas |
| Greenfield Village | Friday – Sunday | 9:30am – 5:00pm | Seasonal; check calendar |
| Ford Rouge Factory | Monday – Saturday | 9:30am – 5:00pm | Last tour at 3pm; closed Sundays |
Best Seasons to Visit
Late Spring (May-June): Greenfield Village opens for full operations with pleasant weather for outdoor exploration. Gardens bloom, and the village feels alive with seasonal activities. Crowds remain manageable before summer vacation peaks.
Fall (September-October): Fall Flavor events bring harvest activities to Greenfield Village. Temperatures suit walking, and crowds thin after Labor Day. The village’s historic buildings photograph beautifully against autumn foliage.
Winter (December-February): Focus on the indoor museum during Michigan winters. Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village (seasonal event) transforms the village with lights and decorations, though this requires separate tickets.
Weekday vs. Weekend: Tuesday through Thursday see the lightest crowds. Weekend visitors face longer waits for popular experiences like Model T rides. School field trip season (April-May, September-October) brings weekday crowds to the museum.
Planning Your Visit: Sample Itineraries
Half-Day Itinerary (4-5 hours) — Museum Focus
For visitors with limited time, concentrate on the indoor museum’s highlights.
| Time | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 9:30am | Arrive, park, enter museum | 30 min |
| 10:00am | With Liberty and Justice for All (Rosa Parks Bus, Lincoln Chair) | 1 hour |
| 11:00am | Presidential Vehicles (Kennedy Limousine) | 45 min |
| 11:45am | Driving America (classic cars, Model T) | 1 hour |
| 12:45pm | Lunch at museum dining | 45 min |
| 1:30pm | Allegheny Locomotive and transportation exhibits | 1 hour |
Full-Day Itinerary (8-10 hours) — Museum + Village
Combining both major attractions requires early arrival and good stamina.
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9:30am | Museum opening – head to With Liberty and Justice | Museum |
| 11:30am | Transportation exhibits, Presidential Vehicles | Museum |
| 1:00pm | Lunch break | Museum |
| 2:00pm | Walk to Greenfield Village | Transition |
| 2:15pm | Edison at Work district, Menlo Park Lab | Village |
| 3:30pm | Model T ride, Wright Brothers shop | Village |
| 4:30pm | Main Street, craftsmen demonstrations | Village |
Two-Day Itinerary — Complete Experience
Day 1: Museum in the morning (4 hours), lunch, Ford Rouge Factory Tour (2.5 hours).
Day 2: Full day at Greenfield Village (6+ hours) with time to explore all seven districts, enjoy rides, and watch craftsmen work.
Planning a multi-day visit? Our family camping tips can help you organize a memorable outdoor vacation that includes The Henry Ford.
Visiting with Kids: Family Guide
The Henry Ford caters to families across age groups, though certain exhibits appeal to specific ages.
Under 6: Young children gravitate toward the trains, cars, and interactive elements. The Allegheny Locomotive lets kids climb into a real engineer’s cab. In Greenfield Village, farm animals, wagon rides, and the playground provide age-appropriate engagement.
Ages 6-12: School-age children connect with hands-on history. The Rosa Parks Bus experience becomes meaningful, Model T rides create lasting memories, and watching glassblowers work fascinates this age group. Tinkering for Tots programs run monthly for preschoolers.
Teens: The Kennedy Limousine and assassination-related history engage older students studying American history. The Rouge Factory Tour appeals to teens interested in engineering and manufacturing. Giants Screen films provide modern entertainment breaks.
Practical notes: Stroller rental available. The museum is fully accessible. Pack snacks—food options exist but lines can be long. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for Greenfield Village.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, MI 48124
From Detroit Metro Airport (DTW): 15 miles, approximately 20-25 minutes via Michigan Avenue or I-94.
From Downtown Detroit: 10 miles west, approximately 20 minutes via Michigan Avenue.
Parking: Large on-site parking lots accommodate standard vehicles and RVs. The $9 parking fee covers all-day access. Members park free. Drop-off areas near entrances accommodate mobility needs.
Where to Stay Near The Henry Ford
Partner Hotels
The Henry Ford maintains partnerships with several Dearborn-area hotels offering packages that include admission tickets. Check the official website for current overnight package deals combining lodging with attraction access.
Nearby Campgrounds and RV Parks
For travelers preferring outdoor accommodations, several campgrounds serve the Dearborn area.
| Campground | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Camp Dearborn (Milford, MI) | ~35 miles (1 hour) | 626 acres, beach, cabins, tent/RV sites |
| Detroit Greenfield RV Park (Ypsilanti) | ~20 miles (30 min) | Lake, playground, waterslide, full hookups |
| Sterling State Park (Monroe) | ~30 miles (35 min) | State park, beach, reservations recommended |
| Proud Lake Recreation Area | ~30 miles (45 min) | Lake views, spacious sites, near metro Detroit |
Camp Dearborn, operated by the City of Dearborn, spans 626 acres in Milford and offers the closest camping experience with municipal backing. Reserve early for summer weekends.
RV travelers heading to The Henry Ford should review our RV camping essentials before hitting the road.
Historical Significance: Why The Henry Ford Matters
Beyond its collection, The Henry Ford holds significance as a pioneering institution. The National Park Service designated it a National Historic Landmark in 1981, recognizing four distinct contributions to American culture.
Henry Ford’s Vision: Ford conceived his museum as a tribute to American material progress—specifically the development of agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation. Understanding Ford’s intentions provides context for the collection’s scope and organization.
Americana Collection: The museum houses one of the most important collections of American artifacts in the nation, serving as an educational resource that influenced how subsequent generations understood their heritage.
Open-Air Museum Pioneer: Greenfield Village, established in 1929, served as a model for open-air museums across the United States. The concept of relocating and preserving historic buildings in a village setting spread from Dearborn to institutions nationwide.
Preservation Movement Influence: The Henry Ford pioneered a type of historic preservation centered on moving and interpreting buildings in recreated settings. This approach eventually sparked a counter-movement emphasizing preservation of buildings in their original locations—both philosophies now coexist in modern preservation practice.
For more outdoor exploration in the area, check out our guide to Michigan state parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I spend at The Henry Ford?
Plan 3-5 hours for the museum alone, 4-6 hours for Greenfield Village, and 2-3 hours for the Rouge Factory Tour. A comprehensive visit covering all three attractions requires two full days.
Is The Henry Ford worth the price?
For history enthusiasts, automotive fans, and families with school-age children, the collection justifies the admission cost. Artifacts like the Rosa Parks Bus and Kennedy Limousine exist nowhere else. Budget-conscious visitors should consider membership or the Museums for All program.
Can I see everything in one day?
Attempting all three attractions in one day means rushing through each. Most visitors choose either the museum or Greenfield Village for a single-day visit, returning another day for remaining attractions.
What’s the best age for kids to visit?
Children ages 6 and older engage meaningfully with most exhibits. Younger children enjoy trains, cars, and Greenfield Village activities but may not connect with historical significance. Teens studying American history find the civil rights and presidential exhibits particularly relevant.
Are there food options inside?
Multiple dining options operate within the museum and Greenfield Village, ranging from quick-service to sit-down restaurants. Prices reflect museum pricing. Outside food isn’t permitted in exhibition areas, but picnic areas exist on the grounds.
Is The Henry Ford wheelchair accessible?
Both the indoor museum and Greenfield Village accommodate wheelchairs. The museum is fully accessible. Village paths are mostly paved or hard-packed, though some historic buildings have stairs. Wheelchair and ECV rentals are available.
Can I take photos inside the museum?
Photography for personal use is permitted throughout the museum and village. Flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain areas. Some temporary exhibitions may have photography restrictions.
Do they still offer Model T rides?
Model T rides operate seasonally in Greenfield Village when the village is open. Rides may require an additional fee and operate on a first-come basis during busy periods.
Extend your trip with outdoor adventures—our camping gear guide covers the essentials.
Final Thoughts
The Henry Ford delivers an experience that transcends typical museum visits. Standing before the Rosa Parks Bus or Lincoln’s assassination chair connects visitors to pivotal moments in American history in ways that textbooks and documentaries cannot replicate. Greenfield Village extends this connection through tangible experiences—riding in a Model T or walking through Edison’s reconstructed laboratory.
Plan your visit based on your interests and available time. History buffs and automotive enthusiasts should prioritize the indoor museum. Families with children often prefer Greenfield Village’s hands-on activities. Manufacturing enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Rouge Factory Tour on a weekday when the assembly line runs.
Whether spending a half-day exploring museum highlights or dedicating a full weekend to all three attractions, The Henry Ford rewards visitors who arrive prepared with realistic expectations and comfortable walking shoes.
