If tourists won’t go to the countryside, let’s bring the countryside to them. That's the modus operandi of this excellent, sprawling complex, where historic buildings have been plucked and transplanted among the tall trees. In summer the time-warping effect is highlighted by staff in period costume performing traditional activities among the wooden farmhouses and windmills.
There’s a chapel dating from 1699 and an old wooden tavern, Kolu Kõrts, serving traditional Estonian cuisine. Kids love the horse-and-carriage rides (adult/child €5/3) and bikes can be hired (per hour €3). If you find yourself in Tallinn on Midsummer Eve (23 June), come here to witness the traditional celebrations, bonfire and all.
To get here from the centre, take Paldiski mnt. When the road nears the water, veer right onto Vabaõhumuuseumi tee. Bus 21 (departing from the railway station at least hourly) stops right out front. Combined family ticket combos are available including Tallinn Zoo, which is a 20-minute walk away.
