Guided Tours are available on Sundays at 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM.
To schedule a weekday tour or unique program, please call our office at 815-962-7402 or email us at ehm1129@comcast.net.
Embracing our culture(s) and community is important, especially now, so we have extended our guided tour availability to better fit your schedule. Call our office for availability at 815-962-7402! Or email us at ehm1129@comcast.net.
All staff and volunteers will wear masks indoors, with masks optional outdoors for vaccinated staff and volunteers. All visitors who are fully vaccinated may choose not to wear a mask indoors and outdoors.
Honoring Our History
WELCOME CENTER FOR ALL TOURS: ETHNIC HERITAGE MUSEUM
1129 S. Main St. | CORNER S. MAIN ST. AND LOOMIS
$7 Individual, $5 student, or $15 Family. Members are free.
TOUR INFORMATION
Guided tours are available every Sunday at 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM (must schedule in advance) and during the week (the schedule varies). Each ticket allows entrance into the six Ethnic Heritage Museum Gallery Exhibits, the historic Graham-Ginestra House, and the Heritage Museum Park! Parking is available at the Morgan and Main Street parking lot and on the street near the Loomis Street flag entrance.
Private or additional group tours may be scheduled throughout the week by calling the museum at (815) 962-7402. School and Scouting groups welcome with pre-arranged scheduling by phone or emailing ehm1129@comcast.net.
WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE
During your tour of the six galleries, you will learn about the various ethnic galleries, the traditions and culture, and Rockford's early history.
Ethnic Heritage Museum
• African American
• Irish Gallery
• Italian Gallery
• Hispanic Gallery
• Lithuanian Gallery
• Polish Gallery
Graham-Ginestra House
Take a guided tour through this historic 1857 home. This beautiful landmark boasts of Greek Revival and Italianate architecture. The interior of the house still exhibits amazing artifacts and charm. Freeman Graham (b.1806) of Scott-English heritage had the house constructed before moving his family here from Connecticut. Later, Leo Ginestra, a Sicilian immigrant, marveled at the home's beauty and purchased it from the Graham family in 1927. Both families were involved in early Rockford history through their business empires and political enthusiasm. The interior of the house still exhibits amazing artifacts and charm.
Be sure to check out the Gift Shop, located inside the Welcome Center, for local treasures and gifts!