Outside of Tartu, in the village district of Ülenurme, the Estonian Agricultural museum, housed in a 17th century manor, can be visited in spring and summer and it is a lovely place for both young and not so young alike. It's a popular place for school outings because of the fantastic range of exhibitions presenting everything from details of local wildflowers, animal skeletons, old household implements, old horse carts, and different kinds of grain.
The main draw of the museum though is its superb collection of old combine harversters, vegetable machines (potato pickers and the like) steam engines, tractors, and mills. You can view a an old style blacksmith at work in his workshop, (built 1886) view the traditional style of Estonian bread making, enjoy a tour of the buidlings and exhibitions, and a detailed talk on the native flora.
As well as the amazing set of beautifully restored old steamers, combines, and machines that kids love so much, there's a play area with swings, slides, seasaws and climbing frames. There's so much land to explore too, and pretty picnic areas, with a covered section of picnic tables too. You can bring a packed lunch and enjoy being outdoors.
A lovely way to spend an afternoon if you are looking for something different to do in Tartu.
From journal The Spirit of Tartu