THE STORY OF WOODSTOCK AND THE '60s @THE MUSEUM AT BETHEL WOODS

Woodstock 1969 photo credit

With rain in the forecast during our family weekend in Livingston Manor, I was on the hunt for indoor amusements to entertain both the toddler and the 'other half.' On a whim, we visited the Museum at Bethel Woods, the site of the Woodstock music festival in August 1969. Stepping into the entryway, The Story of Woodstock and the '60s is as magical and noteworthy as the festival itself. Keep reading for a look inside... 

'Experiencing Woodstock' - Entryway to The Story of Woodstock and the '60s @The Museum at Bethel Woods

Walking into the exhibit, visitors become part of the crowd, purposefully included among floor-to-ceiling murals of concert-goers. The almost 7,000 square foot exhibit space is captivating, well-designed and fully embraces the essence of Woodstock--from planning to execution. Interactive elements invite visitors to learn more at every turn. In total, there are 20 films, 5 interactive productions and 164 artifacts!

'Music & History of the 1960s' installation view - quotes, photos and timeline

Visitors are first introduced to the context and history of the Woodstock Music and Art Fair in 'Music and History of the 1960s.' Here, I learned that after several changes in venue, Max Yasgur--a dairy farmer--rented his dairy farm in Bethel, New York for the event. Despite the planning that went into the event, traffic, floods and crowds sculpted an unforgettable experience that will be memorialized in history.

The exhibit space has cozy video enclaves 

The museum is located at the site of the 1969 Woodstock event and the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts continues to host live music events. This cultural gem serves as a poignant tribute to the spirit of Woodstock and the counterculture movement. A visit here is more than a journey through history--it's an immersive experience that invites us to reflect on the power of music, unity and the pursuit of peace. The Museum at Bethel Woods is a testament to the enduring legacy of a transformative era and a must-visit for those passing through.  

Exploring the history behind Woodstock

The way people listened to music changed as it became more portable.

Exploring the culture behind Woodstock

The VW beetle and bus--traditional icons of the hippie movement

The inside of that bus is by far my toddler's favorite part of the exhibit!

 

Fashion played a part in the Woodstock movement

History of Woodstock, illustrated

Inside the Aquarian Theater - My favorite part of the exhibit!

'The Festival Experience'

Videos of the planning of Woodstock

Kaftan and guitar as part of 'The Festival Experience'