Red Wing Shoe Company Museum — Red Wing, Minnesota

Discover the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum in Minnesota

Located in downtown Red Wing, Minnesota, the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum offers visitors an immersive look into the history, craftsmanship, and cultural impact of one of America’s most iconic footwear brands. While this is not a factory tour, the museum provides deep insight into how Red Wing boots were designed, made, and worn by generations of workers, soldiers, and explorers.

Why it’s special:
Red Wing Shoe is synonymous with American workwear. The museum combines historic artifacts, interactive exhibits, and storytelling to showcase over a century of bootmaking heritage—right next to the company’s flagship retail store.

History/Story of Red Wing Shoe Company

Red Wing Shoe Company was founded in 1905 and grew into a global leader in durable work and heritage footwear. Headquartered in Red Wing, Minnesota, the company supplied boots to farmers, miners, factory workers, and U.S. soldiers. While most manufacturing has moved elsewhere, Red Wing continues to produce select footwear in the U.S. and remains deeply tied to its hometown. The museum preserves this legacy through original tools, footwear, and archival materials.

What You’ll See & Do at the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum

• Explore exhibits covering the evolution of Red Wing boots and shoes

• Learn how footwear was traditionally designed and manufactured

• See historic machinery, lasts, tools, and leatherworking equipment

• Discover Red Wing’s role in military, industrial, and outdoor history

• Visit the world’s largest Red Wing boot display

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits and multimedia displays
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout the museum
Souvenirs & Extras: Access to the Red Wing flagship store next door

Pricing at the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum

Museum admission is free of charge.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 45–75 minutes
Format: Self-guided museum visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round
Audience: Families, history enthusiasts, footwear fans, tourists
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Safety & Restrictions: Standard museum guidelines apply
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group visits welcome; advance notice recommended
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable walking shoes
Facilities: Museum exhibits, restrooms, nearby parking, retail store
Closures & Downtime: Closed select holidays
Working hours:

• Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Nearby

• Pottery Museum of Red Wing

• Mississippi River bluff trails

• Downtown Red Wing historic district

FAQs About Visiting the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum

Is this a factory tour?
No. This is a museum experience focused on brand history and craftsmanship, not active production.

Are Red Wing boots still made in Minnesota?
Some Red Wing footwear is still made in the USA, but not at the museum location.

Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The exhibits are family-friendly and educational.

Can I shop for boots after visiting?
Yes. The flagship Red Wing Shoe Store is located adjacent to the museum.

How long should I plan to spend here?
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the museum.