Our regular History Tour gives you a solid overview of New Harmony's history, but sometimes you want to dig deeper into a specific topic, see things not usually on the tour or experience New Harmony in a different way.
That's what specialty tours and programs are for. They're opportunities to explore particular aspects of New Harmony's story in more depth, get behind-the-scenes access or engage with the history through different lenses.
Not all specialty programs are available year-round. Some happen seasonally. Others are offered when we have staff capacity or special circumstances make them possible. Check our events calendar to see what's currently available or contact us if you're interested in something specific.
Ever wonder what's in collections storage? Want to see historic objects up close? Curious about parts of buildings visitors don't usually access?
Behind-the-scenes tours take you into spaces and work areas not included in regular tours. You'll see how we care for collections, what's involved in preserving historic buildings and get access to artifacts, documents or places that aren't part of the standard visitor experience.
These tours are limited in frequency and group size because they require special staff time and access to working areas. When they're available, they fill up quickly.
Occasional, check our events calendar
Varies, typically 60-90 minutes
New Harmony's history is complex enough that you could spend days exploring different angles. Themed tours focus on specific aspects of the story.
Varies by theme and season
90 minutes to 2 hours depending on theme
Some experiences only make sense at certain times of year:
Special programming around holidays that explores how different communities celebrated (or didn't), historical traditions and the role of seasonal observances in community life.
Programs marking significant dates in New Harmony's history, including founding anniversaries, important arrivals or departures or other meaningful moments.
Seasonal
Varies
We develop programs specifically for learners, whether that's K-12 school groups, college classes or adult education groups. These tours are designed to meet specific learning objectives, align with curriculum standards when appropriate and engage participants in ways that fit how they learn best.
Age-appropriate programs that connect New Harmony's history to curriculum in social studies, science, literature or other subjects. Hands-on activities when possible. Materials for teachers to use before and after the visit.
In-depth explorations of primary sources, historiographical questions, public history methods or other topics relevant to college-level study. Can be customized for specific courses or research interests.
Programs for elder hostel groups, lifelong learning programs or other adult education contexts. These tend to be more in-depth than general tours, with more time for questions and discussion.
By arrangement
Flexible based on group needs
Sometimes the best way to explore a topic is sitting down and thinking deeply about it. We occasionally screen documentary films about communal societies, utopian experiments or related topics, followed by discussions. We also host lectures by scholars, authors and experts on subjects connected to New Harmony's history.
Check our events calendar for current offerings
Programs developed in partnership with local organizations or designed specifically for New Harmony residents, including workshops, discussions or events that connect historical themes to contemporary community life.
Check our events calendar
Our events calendar lists all currently scheduled specialty programs, including dates, times, descriptions and how to register.
The best way to hear about new specialty tours and programs is our First Look newsletter. We announce upcoming offerings, special events and unique opportunities.
Interested in a specialty tour or program that isn't currently scheduled? Contact us. If there's enough interest or the timing works, we might be able to make it happen.
Planning a visit with an organization, class or group? We can often customize specialty programs for groups. Contact David Angel at dwangel@usi.edu or 812-682-3168 to discuss options.
Specialty programs have different pricing depending on what's involved: staff time, materials, access to special spaces or program length. Some are included with regular tour admission. Others have separate fees.
Check individual program listings for specific pricing or contact us with questions.
Want to know more about specialty tours and programs? Have an idea for something you'd like to see offered? Contact David Angel at dwangel@usi.edu or 812-682-3168.