Utah has some interesting history - we’re part of the Wild West, after all. From pioneer settlers to mountain men, you can learn a lot and have fun too when you visit these historic villages.

1. American West Heritage Center, Wellsville

Historic daily adventures at the American West Heritage Center include fun at many different venues. Learn about Native American culture at the Native American Encampment. Visit the Mountain Man Camp to learn about the fur trade. Visit a dugout and try pulling a handcart at the Pioneer Settlement, and learn about life on a farm at the Jensen Historical Farm. Baby Animal Days is coming up soon. Prices vary. 4029 S. Hwy 89-21 in Wellsville.

2. Benson Grist Mill, Stansbury Park

Tour the 150-year-old grist mill, the Bolinder Blacksmith Shop and the Forsyth Pioneer Cabin. The mill is open from May to October, Thursday through Saturday. 325 State Road 138, Stansbury Park.

3. Bluff Fort, Bluff

The fort includes a visitor’s center, Relief Society Buildings, crafts building, Navajo hogan, several residences, a meeting house and more. Open March through October. Admission is free; donations are appreciated. Take a free guided tour.

4. Cove Fort, near Beaver

The fort was built in 1867 and has now been restored for the public to enjoy. Tour 12 rooms with authentic furnishings and antiques. Free to the public. Near the intersection of I-70 and I-15, 24 miles north of Beaver.

5. Fort Buenaventura State Park, Ogden

This reconstructed fort includes a stockade, trading post and replica cabins. Mountain Man events are held throughout the year. 2450 A Avenue, Ogden.

6. Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, Cedar City

See the Native American Village, a 19th century printing press, a 100-year-old loom, a pioneer cabin and more. Open May through September. Admission is $3 per person.

7. Provo Pioneer Village, Provo

Provo Pioneer Village has three pioneer homes and their gardens, a blacksmith shop, school, wood shop, granary and more. Docents educate visitors about the reality of pioneer life in Provo. Admission is free! 600 N. 500 W. in Provo.

8. This is the Place Heritage Park, Salt Lake City

Located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, This is the Place Heritage Park has three trains for visitors to ride. Docents in period dress teach you about blacksmithing, caring for animals, weaving, etc. You can also ride ponies, visit the Indian Village and buy tasty treats at the Z.C.M.I Mercantile. $5 for adults; $3 for seniors and children. 2601 E. Sunnyside Avenue in Salt Lake City.

9. Wheeler Farm, Salt Lake City

Take a wagon ride, tour the historic house and milk a cow. Admission is free; activities have a small fee. 6351 S. 900 E., Salt Lake City.

You’ll find more historical buildings and home throughout the state. For instance, the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers maintains dozens of historical cabins and pioneer homes all across Utah. Most are open only by appointment; check with your local chapter to see what’s available.

Have you visited any of these villages?