Upcoming Museum Closures

​The museum WILL BE CLOSED December 24-January 1 for the winter holidays.
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Tinker Swiss Cottage may close during the winter months due to weather conditions.
The museum is closed on Mondays. We apologize for any inconvenience.

#You Belong in a Museum

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​In 2024, Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens continues our You Belong in a Museum campaign!
 
Throughout the year, we will have lectures, workshops, open houses, family game days, members only night tours, and free admission dates for you to explore what is it like to be a part of the Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum!

Join us for these upcoming free admission dates:

December: 3rd, 17th
 
Don’t miss out! Keep your eyes peeled for announcements for these events and so much more on Facebook or Twitter using the hashtags #youbelonginamuseum and #ibelonginamuseum

Check out our segment from 
Dean on the Streets! 

New Museum Merch!
Visit the Online Gift Shop

Support Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum by purchasing an "80th Anniversary" or "Spooky Season" sweatshirt or "80th Anniversary" t-shirt HERE! 

Sweatshirts are $42 each. T-shirts are $15 each. Tax will be added at checkout. There is no shipping option and pick up is in the Barn Gift Shop. You must include your name and phone number when placing your order online. 

Upcoming Museum Events

Storytime at Tinker Cottage!
December 10th  10:30am

Sign up HERE!

A Victorian Christmas Murder Mystery Game Night
December 14th  6-8pm

The halls are decked, and Rose is hosting her first Victorian Light party!
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The first house in town to have electricity, all of Rockford's elite are in attendance. Known for her flair for over-the-top events, everyone has decided to attend, either out of respect for the hostess, curiosity of electricity, or for the chance to socialize with the upper echelon of Rockford society. 

Unfortunately for the happy party goers, no one knows that there is a killer in their midst who plans to strike tonight!

*Please note: This is an interactive game where YOU are the characters! No dinner will be served. 

Ghosts of Christmas Past 
Paranormal Tour w/ Haunted Rockford
December 7th  7-10pm

Join us for spooky holiday tales from the Haunted Rockford crew, followed by a tour with the chance to have your own paranormal encounter. 

You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own equipment (cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, emf). Each event begins in the Barn.

SOLD OUT!
​Paranormal Investigation w/ Haunted Rockford
December 13th  7-11pm

Celebrate Friday the 13th Haunted Rockford style! 

​Did you ever want to see what a real paranormal investigation is all about? This is your chance to find out! 

Join TWO teams as we investigate the historic Tinker Swiss Cottage. We will be joined by Midwest Ghost Investigators and Bartel & Henson Paranormal for the last paranormal event of 2024. 

This exciting event will let you be the paranormal investigator! Guests will be in small groups as you join the staff in the most active locations in the Cottage. You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own equipment (cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, emf). Each event begins in the Barn.
Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum            411 Kent St. Rockford, IL 61102              P: (815)964-2424              [email protected] 
*All header images provided by © Rockford Park District - Photo by Jesse Fox

Contact Us

Have questions? Want to check in before you arrive? Ask us here!