Tours
The Washington County Historic Courthouse offers guided public tours, self-guided tours, and a variety of themed tours throughout the year. Learn more details about the history of the St. Croix Valley, hear tales of the people who lived and worked at the courthouse, tour areas not typically open to the public, or enjoy a walking tour of the neighborhood.
For the full calendar of Parks programs & events, click here.
CHANGES IN SERVICE UNDER COVID-19
Public tours are offered on a limited basis and all participants must register in advance. Please see the schedule below for details. Large group tours will not be scheduled at this time. Special tours, including the Nooks & Crannies Tours, History Strolls, and Courthouse by Candlelight Tours are by registration only.
| 2021 Schedule | Day | Time | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Hours / Self-guided Tours | The Historic Courthouse is temporarily closed | Free; donations accepted | |
| Public Guided Tours | Saturdays January 16 January 23 January 30 February 6 February 13 February 20 February 27 | 1 p.m. Please call 651-275-7075 to reserve your tour space. | Free; donations appreciated |
| Private/Group Tours | Please call to schedule | $2 per person | |
| Virtual Outdoor Tour of the Historic Courthouse grounds | Ongoing | Use your personal cell phone or electronic device to tour Historic Courthouse Grounds | Begin the Tour |
| Virtual Holiday Tour | Ongoing | Click the link to for a photo tour of the Historic Courthouse during the holiday season | Begin the Tour |
To ensure the best tour experience, public tours are limited to 15 participants per tour guide. Large groups will be divided for a tour rotation. If you are visiting with a large group of 10 or more, please call 651-275-7075 to make arrangements. Unscheduled tour groups may be asked to tour the building without a guide.
The Historic Courthouse may be closed on certain holidays. Please call ahead.
Are you afraid of the dark? Join us for a unique experience as we walk the halls of the Historic Courthouse at night by candlelight. Explore the areas typically closed to the public, including the basement, sheriff’s residence and the old 1900’s county jail. Learn the history behind this historic site and listen to some fun, slightly spooky stories along the way.
Tours recommended for ages 12 and older. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that there will be dim lighting, low-hanging objects and uneven terrain. Due to the nature of the tour, it is not handicapped accessible.
$10 per person.
Advance reservations required.
Reservations are nonrefundable within 14 days of the program date.
Tours are limited to 6 participants and one tour guide.
| Tour Date | Time | Reservations |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 Schedule TBD |
- This tour is not handicapped accessible. Routes will include uneven staircases, pavement and sidewalks, traversing light terrain. Please dress for the weather and wear athletic shoes.
- Please register online and check in at the Parks office upon arrival. Walk-ins welcome based on availability.
- $5 per person. Proceeds benefit the Historic Courthouse Restoration Fund.
- Reservations are nonrefundable within 14 days of the program date.
- Face masks are required and participants are asked to maintain the recommended six feet of social distance.
- Tours are limited to 14 participants and one tour guide.
| Tour Date | Time | Name | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Schedule TBD |
Explore the areas of the Historic Courthouse that are typically closed off to the public, including the basement, dome, and step inside the 1870’s jail that housed women and juveniles! The history exhibits will be open for viewing at your own pace. Nooks & Crannies tours are held on the first Saturday of the month, May through October.
This tour is not handicap accessible and will require bending, stepping over/under low-hanging objects, stair climbing, and walking on uneven floor surfaces.
$10 per person
Face masks are required and participants are asked to maintain the recommended six feet of social distance.
Ages 8 and older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Tours are limited to 6 participants and one tour guide.
Reserve online or call 651-275-7075. Walk-ins welcome based on availability.
Reservations are nonrefundable within 14 days of the program date.
Proceeds benefit the Historic Courthouse Restoration Fund.
| Tour Date | Time | Reservations |
|---|---|---|
| May 1, 2021 | 11 a.m. | Opening January 2021 |
| June 5, 2021 | 11 a.m. | |
| July 5, 2021 | 11 a.m. | |
| August 7, 2021 | 11 a.m. | |
| September 4, 2021 | 11 a.m. | |
| October 2, 2021 | 11 a.m. |